Business firms and government employers generally search for budget analysts who have a bachelor's degree in business administration. This degree is very useful because business courses put emphasis on the quantitative and analytical skills that employers search for. Educational suggestions include courses in business, management, economics, accounting, statistics and sociology.

Budget analysts should have strong analytical, organizational, mathematical, management and decision making skills. Budget analysis is now automated in nearly every organization. This means that being familiar with word processing and financial software packages is often a requirement. Additional skills that are helpful include evaluation, critical thinking, computer and overall communication skills.

The majority of budget analysts start in entry level positions. Employers think on the job training is the best way to gain experience. Entry level positions allow employees to work closely with professional budget analysts to compare proposed costs with previous expenditures and enter data prepared by others. After approximately one year of assistant work they will possess the skills needed to become a professional budget analyst.