• Prepare extensively to ensure that you get the highest score possible. This is not the time to cram.

• Buy a GMAT review book.

• Download sample tests.

• Try a practice test under conditions similar to the actual GMAT. Based on your practice score, devise a study plan to help you brush up on your verbal, quantitative, and writing skills.

• Plan to take the GMAT well in advance of application due dates. Try to take it the spring or summer before you apply to grad school. You can always retake the GMAT, but remember that you're allowed to take it only once per calendar month. Because all prior scores are sent to the institutions to which you're applying, never take the GMAT as practice. Get more info on the GMAT and register for it.