A system and method for multi-stage antenna training of beamforming vectors is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises a method of acquiring a beamforming pattern in a wireless communication system, the method comprising receiving a first plurality of signals having different transceiver sector patterns, measuring first indicators of link quality corresponding to the first plurality of signals, selecting at least one transceiver sector pattern based on the first indicators of link quality, receiving a second plurality of signals having different transceiver beam patterns, each transceiver beam pattern associated with the selected at least one transceiver sector pattern, measuring second indicators of link quality corresponding to the second plurality of signals, and selecting at least one transceiver beam pattern based on the second measures of link quality.