In about a year I'd like to start my MBA and I'm trying to decide what date to take the GMAT. I just graduated from college and have a full-time job right now. I'd like to apply to some extremely competitive MBA programs, many in the top 30. I'm not sure when I should take the GMAT test, or even how often it is offered. I'll be applying for entry into the Fall 2008 MBA program. I want to allow as much time as possible to study for the test, however, also want to have enough time to get my applications in. When do most MBA programs have their application deadline? When should I take the GMAT?

Unless you have 5 years of work experience AFTER your bachelors, you will NOT be accepted to any top 30 MBA program. It doesn't matter if you graduated Summa C-u-m Laude with a double major in Rocket Science and Biochemical Engineering from Harvard. My uncle is a representative of Columbia MBA in Central America, and he has made that clear. In fact, he says that MOST applicants have 10 to 15 years under their belt before applying.Take your GMAT as soon as possible. Just know the scores will only last you 5 years. Good luck.

Take the GMAT within 1 year before your enrollment date. While it won't be detrimental to take it right now, generally, schools like to have fresh test scores.The previous answer does have a lot of merit to it, although, I would disagree with how many years of experience you need. For top 30 programs, you are going to need at least 4-6 years of professional experience (full time, not internships and summer jobs, etc). That's 4-6 years if you have a good undergraduate/graduate pedigree (meaning, you came from a top 10-20 university with excellent scores) and top GMAT scores. If you came from an unranked state school, then you probably will need at least 6-10 years of experience before you should apply to top MBA programs.