Pursuing an MBA without the GMAT or GRE has become more accessible in recent years as many business schools have lifted this requirement from their admissions process. For many prospective students, avoiding the stress and cost associated with standardized testing is a major advantage. Below is a list of reputable MBA programs that do not require GMAT or GRE scores, making them ideal for candidates who excel in other areas of their application, such as professional experience and academic achievements.
Quick List of MBA Programs Without GMAT or GRE:
- Babson College – F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business
- Georgia Tech – Scheller College of Business
- University of Michigan – Ross School of Business
- University of Rochester – Simon Business School
- Southern Methodist University – Cox School of Business
- University of California, Los Angeles – Anderson School of Management
- University of Washington – Foster School of Business
- Washington University in St. Louis – Olin Business School
Why Choose an MBA Without GMAT or GRE?
Choosing an MBA program that doesn’t require the GMAT or GRE can save you time and allow you to focus on highlighting your professional accomplishments and leadership potential. These programs often emphasize practical experience, which can be particularly appealing to working professionals who have been out of school for several years.
8 MBA Programs That Don’t Require the GMAT or GRE
Babson College – F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: Babson College offers a test-optional policy, allowing applicants to decide whether or not to submit GMAT or GRE scores. The admissions committee evaluates candidates based on their academic records, professional experience, leadership qualities, and personal essays. This approach makes the program accessible to those who may excel in areas outside of standardized testing.
Georgia Tech – Scheller College of Business
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: The Scheller College of Business at Georgia Tech offers a full-time MBA program where GMAT, GRE, and EA scores are not mandatory. Candidates who might consider this option are those who demonstrate success in their undergraduate coursework, have three or more years of professional experience, and possess quantitative or analytical skills gained through education or work. Additional considerations include holding professional certifications (such as CPA, CFA, PE), an advanced degree, or being a Georgia Tech undergrad with a strong academic record.
University of Michigan – Ross School of Business
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: Michigan Ross offers applicants the flexibility to apply without submitting standardized test scores, such as the GMAT, GRE, or others. Candidates who choose this route must submit a Statement of Academic Readiness, demonstrating their preparedness for the program’s rigor through alternative evidence, such as a master’s degree in an analytical or quantitative discipline, professional certifications (CPA, CFA), or significant experience in quantitative roles. The admissions committee will review this statement alongside other application components, such as academic records and professional achievements.
University of Rochester – Simon Business School
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: Simon Business School allows applicants to apply for their full-time MBA program without submitting a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score. The school encourages applicants to choose the option that best highlights their strengths. For those considering the test-optional pathway, Simon provides guidance to ensure that other parts of their application—such as academic history and professional experience—clearly demonstrate their readiness for the program’s rigor.
SMU – Cox School of Business
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: SMU Cox provides a full-time MBA program that does not require GMAT, GRE, or EA scores. The school places a strong emphasis on work experience, academic history, and leadership potential, making it a suitable option for professionals looking to advance their careers without standardized testing.
University of California, Los Angeles – Anderson School of Management
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: UCLA Anderson allows applicants the flexibility to apply to their full-time MBA program without submitting GMAT, GRE, or EA scores. While test scores can offer a valuable data point, especially for candidates lacking a strong quantitative background, they are not mandatory. Applicants who opt for the test-optional pathway should ensure that their academic and professional records sufficiently demonstrate their quantitative and analytical capabilities to present a compelling application.
University of Washington – Foster School of Business
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington allows applicants to choose a “Test Optional” pathway for their full-time MBA program. While all applicants are encouraged to take a standardized test (GMAT or GRE), it is not mandatory. Those opting out of submitting test scores must complete the “Test Optional Summary of Qualifications,” which includes a short answer prompt detailing their analytical and quantitative preparedness based on academic and professional experience. Foster evaluates applicants holistically, but submitting strong test scores can bolster an application.
Washington University in St. Louis – Olin Business School
Program: Full-Time MBA
Details: Washington U’s Olin Business School offers a full-time MBA program that does not mandate GMAT, GRE, or EA scores. The school looks for strong academic records, leadership experience, and a demonstrated ability to handle the program’s quantitative and analytical demands
