The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) are common requirements for enrollment in MBA programs and are standardized tests. However, there are prestigious MBA programs that do not require the GMAT or GRE, and these programs provide a great option for potential applicants who may not have taken the test or did not receive a high score.
In this post, I will show you the best MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT or GRE and the advantages of getting an MBA without taking the test.
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Table of Contents
Top 10 MBA Programs in the USA Without GMAT or GRE Requirements
#1. University of Massachusetts Amherst – Isenberg School of Management:
At the Isenberg School of Management, they give professional accomplishments weight and conduct a comprehensive evaluation of all applications. Although having a high GMAT or GRE score improves any application, students can still gain admission based only on their academic record and work experience.
When a candidate satisfies any of the following requirements, they automatically waive the GMAT and GRE:
- Doctorate Degree: JD, PhD, PharmD, MD/DO, or international medical graduate with an ECFMG or Fifth Pathway.
- 10 years of professional work experience.
- 3 years of professional work experience with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Don’t fill in the application test score field when you finish your application. After receiving your application, their office will get in touch with you with more details. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected].
Read Also: List of Annual MBA Scholarships for International Students 2024
#2. Babson College – F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business
Transcripts from previous courses must be submitted with your application to Babson. Your transcripts must be translated before being submitted if they are not in English. You must have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree from the United States.
After you are accepted and decide to enroll at Babson, you must finish your admissions file before beginning your graduate program. This paperwork must indicate your degree attained and the date it was conferred. Examine each program’s criteria carefully by clicking on it.
You just have to submit your transcripts, CV, completed online application, one letter of recommendation from an MBA, and answers to the MBA essay questions. Candidates who qualify may be able to forgo the test.
#3. Loyola University Chicago – Quinlan School of Business
Quinlan MBA offers a flexible, part-time program with experiential learning, ethical leadership, and a global focus.
Application Requirements: Undergraduate degree, transcripts, personal statement, two recommendation letters, and resume.
Note that every student accepted into the Next Generation MBA and MS programs at Quinlan School of Business is automatically considered for a Dean’s Merit Scholarship. At the time of admission, eligibility is ascertained by a comprehensive review.
Additionally, graduate students at Quinlan University who can establish their academic achievement and financial need, as assessed by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), are eligible to receive scholarships from the Graduate Programs Office at Loyola University Chicago.
Read Also: Apply for the 2024-25 Cambridge University MBA Scholarship in the UK
#4. Wake Forest University – School of Business
Applications with a track record of academic success, professional experience, and community service can apply to the School of Business. They search for individuals who share the same values as Wake Forest University School of Business, are driven and motivated, and function effectively in teams.
For 2024 enrollment, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university (open to all majors).
- Preference given to candidates with 2 years of full-time work experience prior to the program start date. (Exception: the work requirement is waived for PhD/MBA candidates.) Other exceptions are considered on an individual basis.
- Applicants not employed full time must receive approval from the program director or associate dean.
#5. University of Miami – Herbert Business School
The University of Miami Herbert Business School invites applications from anyone pursuing an undergraduate degree at an authorized institution or university, or who have already achieved one. Each applicant is evaluated by the Admission Committee based on several factors, such as professional leadership experience and academic standing.
Furthermore, they look for students who will thrive academically, who have the leadership potential to flourish, and who can contribute both intellectually and interpersonally to the classroom environment.
Application Requirements: Online application, academic transcripts, resume, one recommendation letter, and an interview.
#6. University of San Francisco – School of Management
The test score requirements at the School of Management at the University of San Francisco are:
- The GRE/GMAT Exam is not required for School of Management Graduate Programs.
- You may submit test scores in your application, and you may include a copy of your exam.
- Should you wish to include your GRE/GMAT scores: GMAT Code: 91M-7L-48, GRE Code: 4850 (optional)
Application Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, two recommendation letters, and an invitation-based interview.
#7. Rollins College – Crummer Graduate School of Business
Crummer offers a curriculum for everyone, whether you’re a new graduate hoping to make an impression on the job market or an experienced professional wishing to advance in your career. With convenient and adaptable course forms and a rich, personalized learning atmosphere, you can have a life-changing graduate business experience.
Executive MBA Program:
No GMAT required.
Flex MBA Program:
No GMAT required. However, students with less than a year of experience may be required to take the GMAT.
Early Advantage MBA Program:
No GMAT is required.
Executive Doctorate in Business Administration Program:
No GMAT required.
#8. University of Delaware – Lerner College of Business and Economics:
Universities have been using the GMAT and GRE as sorting methods to expedite their admissions teams’ application screening process for years. At Lerner, every application is taken into account in its entirety. They think that significantly more information about you may be found in your academic background, CV, and recommendation letters than in your exam results.
The typical Lerner MBA applicant has:
- The equivalent of a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills through their prior academic work and/or recent professional experiences
- Mid-level professional work experience
#9. Northeastern University – D’Amore-McKim School of Business
You do not need a GMAT or GRE score to apply for admission to Northeastern. However, English proficiency, both written and verbal, is necessary for success in D’Amore-McKim classrooms. If you are not a native English speaker, they require a standardized test of English language proficiency unless you completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree at an accredited institution where English is the language of instruction or you have worked full-time for two years in the United States or other native English-speaking environment.
#10. St. John’s University – Peter J. Tobin College of Business
GMAT/GRE waivers will be automatically considered for applicants to graduate programs at The Tobin College of Business. Strong GMAT/GRE results can be used to support applications with a GPA below 3.25. If you have any queries about the GMAT or GRE, please get in touch with the Office of Graduate Admission.
If you have any questions or would like to speak with someone in their admissions office, please contact us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
8000 Utopia Parkway
Queens, NY, 11439
Tel: 718-990-1345
[email protected]
Other Additions:
University of Colorado Denver, Business School
Rutgers University – Rutgers Business School
Case Western Reserve University, Weatherhead School of Management
Lehigh University, College of Business
University of San Diego, School of Business
Chapman University, Argyros School of Business and Economics
Pepperdine University – Graziadio Business School
University of Hartford—Barney School of Business
San Diego State University, Fowler College of Business
University of St. Thomas, Opus College of Business
The University of Tulsa – Collins College of Business
Georgia State University, J. Mack Robinson College of Business
Kansas State University, College of Business Administration
Louisiana State University, E.J. Ourso College of Business
Clemson University, College of Business
University of Louisville, College of Business
Top 5 MBA Programs That Do Not Require GMAT or GRE in Canada
#1. HEC Montréal: Executive MBA (EMBA McGill-HEC Montréal)
Applications to the McGill-HEC Montréal EMBA program are encouraged from executives, professionals, and entrepreneurs, as well as from senior and mid-level managers. The program is intended for seasoned managers who have significant leadership potential and have high achievement targets. The admissions committee will evaluate each applicant’s qualifications.
The admission criteria include:
- Work Experience: A minimum of 10 years
- Management Experience: A minimum of 5 years
- Education: An undergraduate degree Candidates without undergraduate degrees but with substantial managerial experience are encouraged to apply, as exceptional candidates may be admitted to the program.
- Languages: English and French Candidates must be able to speak and write in either English or French and must understand and be able to read the other language. Language test(s) may be required. Applicants will be informed directly if this is the case.
- Other Candidate Requirements: demonstrated capacity for leadership, curiosity, and ability to reflect
If you are interested in this program but do not necessarily fit all the criteria mentioned above, please complete the Pre-Application Assessment Form. Their directors will evaluate your profile and respond to you as soon as possible regarding your possible application to the program.
#2. DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University: Executive MBA in Digital Transformation
The DeGroote School of Business thoroughly examines each applicant’s background and credentials to make sure they fulfill the requirements of the program.
- 4-year bachelor’s degree in any discipline
- B average (73-77%) in the two most recent years of university study
- Considerable work experience, including a significant amount in a managerial capacity (7+ years),
- Demonstration of English proficiency (written and oral)
- Exceptions: DeGroote will consider non-degree applicants if they have a minimum of 12 years of managerial experience. If candidates fall short on work experience or degree requirements, they will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be required to write a GMAT.
If you fulfill their usual eligibility standards, which include seven or more years of management experience and a four-year undergraduate degree with a B average in the last two years of study, you won’t need a GMAT. A GMAT may be required if a candidate doesn’t meet the requirements for job experience or degree.
#3. Athabasca University: Online MBA for Executives
Candidates must verify they have access to a computer system that satisfies the program’s criteria and be fluent in the English language. Generally speaking, an MBA admissions committee may request a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score if they feel it is necessary. The faculty website has comprehensive guidelines for putting together an application packet.
#4. Royal Roads University: MBA in Executive Management
GMAT/GRE is not required.
But candidates must meet the following requirements:
Standard admission
- Completion of a four-year (or comparable) undergraduate degree in a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution.
- Normally, at least seven years of full-time relevant work experience are required, with three years at a management* level and increasing levels of responsibility.
Flexible admission
- Under flexible admission, the combination of work experience, education, and professional development is assessed. Applicants must show evidence of having sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to complete a demanding academic course of study at a master’s level and have significant business-related experience.
- Applicants under flexible admission would normally require at least 10 years of full-time relevant work experience, with five years at a management level and increasing levels of responsibility.
English-language proficiency
- If English is not your primary language, please review our English language requirements.
#5. Vancouver Island University: MBA
Applicants to the Vancouver Island MBA School must meet the following requirements:
- University Bachelor degree from a business or non-business discipline.
- A minimum “B” average in the last two years of undergraduate degree.
- Letter of introduction explaining how the MBA will contribute to career plans.
- A résumé describing education, work, and volunteer experience.
- Two letters of recommendation from past employers or professors.
- A one-year minimum of work experience is required.
- No GMAT (entrance examination) score required.
- Applicants whose previous degree was obtained in a country where English is not the primary/official language and from a university where English was not the language of instruction must meet one of VIU’s English Language requirements for Graduate Programs.
- Additional Admission Requirements for International students:
- Certified copy of all educational documents (enclose one copy in the original language and a certified copy translated into English, if applicable).
Note that under special conditions, a candidate with less formal education may be admitted if they have substantial work experience in a field related to the proposed scholarship.
Please note that these programs’ requirements and availability are subject to change at any time. To get the most recent information about application requirements and deadlines, it is imperative that you visit the website of each institution and get in touch with their admissions office.
Benefits of MBA Programs that don’t require GMAT
The following are the top 5 advantages of getting an MBA without taking the GMAT:
#1. It saves time and money.
Students can save money on test-taking fees, materials, and preparation costs by enrolling in an MBA program that does not require the GMAT. They can also save time by preparing for and taking the test. Students may be able to concentrate more on other components of their application, such as their work experience, letters of recommendation, and essays, as a result.
#2. It encourages diversity:
Colleges that don’t demand the GMAT could draw a more varied applicant base. This is a result of the fact that not everyone has access to the materials required to ace standardized examinations or be ready for the GMAT.
#3. Easy access to prestigious MBA schools:
Without the GMAT requirement, MBA programs can be more accessible to students who would not have had the chance to study or take the test, or who might not have done well on it.
#4. Emphasis on soft skills:
MBA programs that do not require the GMAT could give more weight to soft abilities like collaboration, leadership, and communication. These abilities are crucial for success in the corporate sector but can be challenging to gauge with a standardized exam.
#5. It offers flexible learning options:
Numerous MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT have flexible scheduling choices, such as part-time or online courses. Additionally, it can give students who would not be able to enroll in a full-time, on-campus program better access to MBA programs.
For many students, enrolling in MBA programs that waive the GMAT can be a wise decision. In addition to attracting a wide pool of applicants and fostering a more inclusive learning environment, it can save time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still submit my GMAT or GRE scores to programs that do not require them?
Yes, if you think your GMAT or GRE results will improve your application, you can still submit them to these institutions. Based on your test results, some programs might take these into account as part of their overall evaluation process, while others might give scholarships or other rewards.
Will not having GMAT or GRE scores affect my chances of getting financial aid?
Financial aid packages for many MBA programs that do not require GMAT or GRE scores are determined by various factors, including leadership potential, work experience, and academic performance. However, some scholarships and grants may be contingent on these scores.
Are MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT easier to get into?
Not always. Even though these programs do not require the GMAT, they frequently have equally demanding standards for admission. For instance, they can demand a specific amount of professional experience or academic success.
How do I know if an MBA program requires the GMAT or not?
A program’s website or direct contact with the program will usually include information regarding admissions requirements, including the GMAT. Additionally, you can look at MBA schools online at places like MBA.com.
How can I prepare for an MBA program that doesn’t require the GMAT?
You should concentrate on honing your academic and professional talents, expanding your work experience, and highlighting your accomplishments in your application materials in order to get ready for an MBA program that doesn’t require the GMAT.
What MBA does not require a GMAT score?
A few MBA programs waive the GMAT or have different requirements for admission. It’s better to inquire about specific programs that do not require a GMAT score with individual colleges or business schools.
Can I get an MBA without a GMAT?
Yes, there are MBA programs by some colleges and business institutions that do not require a GMAT score. Alternative requirements include professional work experience, academic success, or results from other standardized tests.
Can I go to Harvard Business School without a GMAT?
To apply to Harvard Business School’s MBA program, candidates must submit their GMAT or GRE results. But in rare circumstances, they might take GMAT waivers into consideration. For comprehensive information, we advise that you get in touch with the Harvard Business School admissions office.
What is the lowest GMAT score accepted?
Universities and business schools may accept students with a lower minimum GMAT score than others. There isn’t a set minimum score because it varies depending on the program’s level of competition and the particular school. For many MBA programs, a score of 500 or above is often regarded as competitive.
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