<p>I just finished my undergraduate program and at this point am unemployed. I'm looking for a job but was also thinking of taking this extra time to study for the gmat. First question, how long do most people take to prepare? And since scores are valid for only five years, do you think it's smart to take it this early? Is there a trend where work experience is increasing for acceptance?</p>
<p>if ure applying to one of the top MBA progs u need round 4 years of work experience</p>
<p>no MBA program you'll want to attend will let any but the most incredibly qualified candidates go straight from undergrad. You need work experience and demonstrated leadership in that work experience, the GMATs are only a small part of the task.</p>
<p>"I just finished my undergraduate program and at this point am unemployed. I'm looking for a job but was also thinking of taking this extra time to study for the gmat. First question, how long do most people take to prepare?"</p>
<p>-It really depends on how long you have and want to dedicate. I Harvard MBA grad I know spent two months studying roughly 2 hours a day and got a 730. I'm studying for it myself right now and spend maybe a half hour every other day. I'm taking it a week from tomorrow and started studying at the beginnnig of August. I would recommend giving yourself a couple of months if you have the time, but I wouldn't let it take precendence over your job search! </p>
<p>"And since scores are valid for only five years, do you think it's smart to take it this early?"</p>
<p>-I don't think it would hurt, but it's not necessary either. You can use it on your resume if you score well, say over 700 or so. </p>
<p>"Is there a trend where work experience is increasing for acceptance?"</p>
<p>-It seems to me that generally those who're accepted have at least two or more years of experience. I've heard multiple people on the web say that vast majority of Wharton MBA grads have 3 or more years. Or my friend who graduated from Harvard B-school had only two years of work (post-undergrad). I've been out of undergrad for just over a year now, am about to finish up one year of work and am taking the GMAT next week. I plan on working for probably another year and a half or more before I apply to any B-school. I'm only taking the GMAT now to hopefully score well enough to use it as a resume strengthener for getting a new job here soon. Plus, it get's it out of the way. I don't know if taking now is the best idea for me or not, I guess only time will tell! </p>
<p>I'd focus on getting the best job you can right now that provides enough for you to live and that you actually like. It's more important than the GMAT in the big scheme of things I feel.</p>