An MBA can be one of the most career-rewarding credentials for current and aspiring business professionals. According to the latest Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) survey, graduates with MBAs enjoyed higher employment rates and average salaries than any other business-related bachelor's or master's degree.
For many years, business schools have relied on the GMAT to evaluate applicants and assist in the admissions process. However, it's become increasingly common for schools to offer online MBAs with no GMAT requirements. Business schools have introduced GMAT waivers, test-optional policies, and other alternatives to the GMAT to make the application process easier and expand the pool of candidates.
Discover what this process might look like and where you can find the best online MBAs with no GMAT requirements in this helpful guide.
Popular Online MBA Programs
Best Online MBAs With No GMAT Requirement
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
This list has not been updated for 2025. Visit our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Applying to MBA Programs With No GMAT Requirement
Online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement often emphasize the following admission criteria:
Work Experience The best online MBA programs prefer applicants with a few years of professional experience. Programs that require GMAT scores often waive the standardized testing requirement for students with significant professional experience.
Advanced Degrees Similarly, many programs with GMAT requirements do not require applicants to possess master's or doctoral degrees to take the exam. Graduate degrees demonstrate that applicants can handle the academic rigor of top online MBA programs.
High GPA Business schools with no GMAT requirement may emphasize undergraduate academic performance. MBA programs use transcripts to evaluate a student's academic abilities. Programs that require the GMAT may waive test requirements for candidates with high GPAs.
Professional Licensure Earning a professional license or certification can help an aspiring business student to stand out from other applicants. Candidates can demonstrate skills and industry knowledge through project management, accounting, financial risk management, financial analysis, and human resources certifications.
Letters of Recommendation By reading recommendation letters from professors and supervisors, admissions staff can gauge an applicant's personality, work ethic, and dedication. Unlike test scores and grades, these letters speak to prospective students' intangible skills and qualities.
Essay or Personal Statement Most business schools require applicants to submit essays or personal statements. In these essays, prospective business students typically explain their reasons for pursuing a business degree and how the school's offerings align with these goals.
Interview Business schools may hold interviews with MBA candidates to ask specific questions and hear them speak about their experiences directly. Some schools find more value in these discussions than standardized test results.
Why Some MBAs Don't Require the GMAT
The GMAT assesses business-related skills and can help learners demonstrate their preparedness for graduate study. However, the test does not measure intangible qualities like leadership or teamwork. Some business schools consider applicants holistically, using information like work experience to gain insights into prospective students. Eliminating standardized test requirements can also attract more applicants to these schools.
Offering alternatives to the GMAT can benefit schools and applicants by limiting the hurdles that discourage students from applying. GMAT prep can be costly and time-consuming. Waivers remove these obstacles while making the programs more appealing to mid-career professionals who have been out of school for a few years. In return, the institutions gain more diverse applicant pools of experienced professionals.
When the GMAT is Needed for Your MBA Program
After researching all your options, you may find that your ideal MBA program does require GMAT or GRE scores — or that scholarships and other funding sources do. Though not everyone may excel at standardized tests, earning high scores can help you stand out and strengthen your application if, for example, your GPA is on the lower end of the spectrum.
To prepare for the GMAT or GRE, business school candidates can purchase study guides, enroll in prep courses, or work with tutors. Experts also stress the importance of starting the preparation process early and integrating multiple timed practice exams into your study routine.
Qualities to Look for in All MBA Programs
Keep an eye out for the following factors that could make or break your MBA program:
Program Details: Research program cost and length, as well as the admission and residency requirements. Go through the curriculum to see the courses, types of projects, and any available MBA specializations to make sure they align with your needs.
Accreditation: Though not mandatory, accreditation can help your education stand out to employers. Some of the most recognizable MBA accreditors include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Strength of Faculty: Business schools often recruit experienced business leaders to teach their MBA programs. Review the credentials and experience of your potential professors to see if they match your interests and professional goals.
Student Data and Outcomes: Many schools publish data on past and current cohorts, such as median age and experience levels, along with graduation rates and postgraduate salaries. This data can provide insight into the program's effectiveness and the amount of student support.
School Resources: Check out the resources each school offers its students (particularly online enrollees), such as career services and academic support. You can also review the extracurricular opportunities, such as networking events or mentorship programs.
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FAQ About Getting an Online MBA With No GMAT
Yes — many MBA programs offer GMAT waivers or test-optional admissions for applicants. Depending on the school, you may need to meet other requirements in place of submitting GMAT scores.
