The M.B.A. admission process inevitably starts off with an entrance test. This is basically a sieving process. This process is relative in nature rather than based on individual scores i.e., if the general level of performance in a particular test is very good a student who has done average may not be selected, whereas if the general performance level is fair the student who has turned in an average performance may be among the ones selected.

The format for the entrance test for the different schools/universities/ institutes varies. Each institute also changes its format frequently. However the overall range of abilities the entrance tests seek to test, remains more or less unchanged.

The aim of the entrance tests is to evaluate under stress, a candidate's general, verbal, mathematical and analytical abilities which are critical for the M.B.A. courses and a career in management. The management entrance tests calls for a superior hold on the English language, quantitative prowess and sharp perceptive mind. The entrance tests are constructed keeping the structure of the management course in mind. Since the management course is grounded in mathematical reasoning the test is designed to keep out those who are shaky with numbers. The importance of command over the English language is related to the factor of communication skills. Case studies have to be written, analysed and lectures have to be followed in English which calls for a good command of the language. The entrance tests seek to locate candidates who have the ability for creative and logical reasoning revealing a decisive and perceptive mind. The entrance test for an M.B.A. course is not in the nature of an IQ test devised by psychologists; they are more in the nature of aptitude tests. Although aptitude for something cannot really be created, at the same time it can definitely be built up an intelligent and concerted effort.

All entrance tests are objective-type multiple-choice tests. The following elements are generally included in an M.B.A. entrance test:

· Verbal ability & Comprehension in the English Language
· Mathematical/Quantitative Ability or Problem Solving
· Data Interpretation
· Analytical Reasoning

Of late, some management schools have introduced a section of analytical writing, usually for the specialised management programmes.

The time available for each question varies between 30-45 seconds. Although it is not expected that you would be able to answer all questions it is advisable to keep a goal of attempting all questions.

The key to success in the test is constant practice and sufficient exposure to the different types of questions. Systematic working for at least one year on the right lines is advisable.

Final Selection
Candidates who qualify the first round of selections or the written test are called for the final round of selections - Group Discussion and Personal Interview.

During the process of the group discussion, a candidate's leadership qualities are assessed, his/her interaction with the group is observed along with his confidence level and the quality of what he contributes to the discussion. A candidate appearing for the interview for the final selection for an M.B.A. course faces an interview board consisting of experts and specialists from the management institute and industry. Brush up your General Knowledge, be confident about your personal academic profile, likings, aspirations, strengths, goals and hobbies. Read a financial paper regularly some months before the interview so that you have information on the corporate world. If your opinion is sought try to give a balanced view.