planning your MBA

Applying to business school can be complex, but we'll break it down for you. Forté and our member schools provide several resources to guide you through the process. From the GMAT to MBA fairs to our MBALaunch program, discover what you need to plan your application and timeline. We’re excited for you to take this step in your career, and we want you to succeed.

MBALaunch

Get all the access to admissions experts, test prep experts, personal branding experts, and top schools with MBALaunch. Our concise curriculum teaches you the ins and outs of b-school admissions, provides you with a clear, focused plan for admissions, and gives you strategies for positioning yourself as a stand-out candidate.

The GMAT

Taking the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is one part of the business school application process. To ensure you’re prepared, start studying for the GMAT early. The GMAT is offered year-round and around the world, in test centers or online. There are three sections:

TEST SECTION	TIME	QUESTIONS	WHAT'S TESTED?
Quantitative Reasoning	45 min	21	– Fractions, percents, ratios – Algebra, Statistics – Number properties
Verbal Reasoning	45 min	23	– Critical / analytical thinking – Comprehension – Inference
Data Insights	45 min	20	– Data analysis – Logical reasoning

Taking practice tests will help you determine your current skill levels and where to focus your study efforts. To mitigate your weaknesses, consider taking one of the many GMAT prep courses available either online or in a live, group format. Most GMAT test takers start preparing three to six months before the actual test date.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GMAT

Master the basics

GMAC Business Fundamentals teaches you the critical and fundamental knowledge needed to succeed in business school. Brought to you by GMAC, the makers of the GMAT, in partnership with Kaplan, experts in online learning, show business schools that you are ready to start strong. Use code FORTEBF10 for 10% off your purchase.

FIND THE

RIGHT

MBA

PROGRAM

Although it is possible to research MBA programs from home, there is no substitute for meeting the community members of potential schools face-to-face. Connect with them during:

MBA Forums Campus Visits MBA Fairs

Make the most of an MBA Fair

MBA fairs provide potential students an opportunity to meet with admissions personnel from multiple schools over the course of the day. These events are a great way to get a feel for each school, as well as begin networking with alumni and key decision makers.

PREPARE

Do your homework and create a list of programs you believe will suit your goals, abilities, and circumstances. Come prepared with a list of questions to ask, such as teaching style, diversity of students, academic focus, areas of specialization, and future career options.

BE CONCISE

You won’t have much time with each school, so you want to make the most of it. Keep your questions focused and relevant. Prepare your elevator pitch to give the admissions personnel a quick snapshot of your background and goals.

CONNECT WITH ALUMNI ANd students

Schools may bring alumni or students to fairs alongside their admissions personnel. Ask for insights about the pros and cons of their b-school experience.

Look the part

While you certainly don’t need to show up in a suit, remember that this is your first opportunity to make a good impression. It makes sense to look and act like a professional.

ASK ABOUT FUNDING OPTIONS

Business school can be expensive. Find out what scholarships the school offers, if they have special loan opportunities with local financial institutions, and inquire about fellowship opportunities (like the Forté Fellowship).

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS

A lot of successful MBA students say they knew a school was right for them as soon as they talked to its representative, so trust your gut as much as your research. Make sure you assess the people you meet — are they interested in you and your questions? Do you feel a certain chemistry? Remember, this is your opportunity to interview them as much as it is a chance for them to get to know you.

MBA Application Timeline

Planning your MBA journey starts with understanding the timeline. Not sure where to begin? We can help with that. Our MBA application timeline provides clear steps and helpful tips – no matter where you are in the process. Let's get you to that admit letter!

DOWNLOAD TIMELINE (PDF)

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Equality

When you help someone take a step in their business career, you’re not just opening doors – you’re investing in access, opportunity, and a more equitable future for the workplace.

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planning your MBA

MBALaunch