Online MBA Programs With No GMAT
Many reputable colleges and universities offering online MBA programs and executive MBA programs have removed the GMAT/GRE requirement, preferring instead to focus on other indicators of success.
Here are some top online MBA programs that don't require the GMAT or the GRE.
Interesting No-GMAT MBA Programs
What Is the GMAT?
The GMAT — or Graduate Management Admission Test — is a standardized, multiple-choice exam used to measure readiness for graduate-level work. Many graduate business schools and MBA programs require it.
How Much Does the GMAT Cost?
As of 2022, it costs $275 to take the GMAT at an in-person testing location in the U.S. and $300 to take it online. Pricing and regulations vary by country.
How Long Does the GMAT Take?
Sitting for the GMAT typically takes 3.5 hours, including optional breaks. Students who qualify for accommodations may take longer.
The test is broken into four sections.
- Quantitative (62 minutes)
- Verbal (65 minutes)
- Integrated Reasoning (30 minutes)
- Analytical Writing (30 minutes)
According to Kaplan, most people spend 2-5 months studying for the GMAT — and those who score in the top 10% typically put in over 120 hours of study time.
How Many Times Can You Take the GMAT?
- Candidates can take the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period.
- Candidates can take the GMAT a lifetime maximum of eight times.
Who Cares About GMAT scores?
For many (but not all) business schools, GMAT scores can be an important factor in admission decisions.
Historically, law firms have considered GMAT scores, as well as some large businesses. But recently, a growing number of schools and employers are
rejecting standardized test scores as an essential indicator of talent.
A survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) found that in 2021, 45% of business programs waived test score requirements. The same year, the Wall Street Journal reported that major firms like Bain, McKinsey, and Goldman Sachs were "putting less emphasis on standardized tests as part of their recruiting in recent years."
What Is the GRE?
The GRE — or Graduate Record Examination — is a more generalized graduate-level standardized test used by graduate, business, and law schools worldwide.
How Much Does the GRE Cost?
As of 2022, in most areas of the world, the GRE costs $220 to take. Test fees in India and China are slightly higher. Some people may qualify for a fee reduction voucher.
How Long Does the GRE Take?
Overall testing time lasts about three hours and 45 minutes, plus a 10-minute break.
The test covers three subjects broken into six sections.
- Analytical Writing
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
Kaplan recommends 1-3 months of study time for the GRE. Top performers typically study over 100 hours before taking the exam.
How Many Times Can You Take the GRE?
You can take the GRE up to five times within any rolling 12-month period. There must be at least 21 days between each test.
Who Cares About GRE Scores?
Business schools that require test scores may accept either GMAT and GRE scores from applicants.
But for most prospective MBA students, the GMAT is the test of choice. According to GMAC, the GMAT is submitted four times more than the GRE.
What Is AACSB Accreditation?
The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) provides a rigorous review of institutional and business program quality. It's one of the world's most recognized accreditations for business programs.
According to the AACSB, programs that hold its accreditation have:
- Better programs
- Better faculty
- Better students with higher overall GPAs
- More international students
- More employers that recruit from them
The Best Online MBA Programs, No GMAT Required
#1 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers an online master of business administration that encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business management. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a background in business management may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,580
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,204
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Coral Gables, Florida, the University of Miami hosts a top-rated online master of business administration.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in business management before applying to the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
University of Miami at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 27%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Graduate Tuition In State: $37,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,800
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Johnson University
- Knoxville, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Knoxville, Tennessee, Johnson University hosts a top-ranked master of business administration designed to strengthen industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Johnson University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,350
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- Durant, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Durant, Oklahoma, Southeastern Oklahoma State University hosts a top-ranked master of business administration in general business program with a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a degree in business management or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,716
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,872
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Dallas, Texas, Southern Methodist University hosts a top-rated online master of business administration that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in business management. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in business management or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Southern Methodist University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 47%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Graduate Tuition In State: $40,896
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $40,896
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Missouri Baptist University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Saint Louis, Missouri Baptist University offers an online master of business administration program that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in business management. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Missouri Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,197
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,197
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, Lincoln Memorial University hosts a top-ranked master in business administration. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to business administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in business administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Lincoln Memorial University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,093
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,093
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Bentley University
- Waltham, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online accelerated master of business administration at Bentley University, located in Waltham, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the business management field and related industries. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to business management. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Bentley University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 47%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Graduate Tuition In State: $38,400
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $38,400
Percent Online Enrollment
2%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#9 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online business management degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus. The master of business administration program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the business management field and related industries. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on prior business management experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,790
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,532
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online MBA Programs With No GMAT or GRE Placement Requirements
Point University
- West Point, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in West Point, Georgia, Point University hosts a top-ranked master of business administration degree. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants who majored in business management or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Point University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 29%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,360
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,360
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Are Schools Waiving or Not Requiring the GMAT?
Given that colleges and universities have used GMAT and GRE scores for decades to evaluate applicants, the fact that so many schools have removed testing in recent years may come as a surprise.
Scoring well on the GMAT shows that you can successfully learn how to ace an exam. But it does not necessarily predict how well you can perform in classes or whether you can become an effective business manager. It cannot gauge your interpersonal and networking skills or other important abilities required to succeed in the business world. As such, it makes sense for MBA programs to consider other indicators to evaluate applicants.
Admission Requirements in Place of GMAT Scores
In the absence of GMAT scores, what do online MBA program administrators look for in potential candidates? Below, we examine some of the top requirements for online MBA programs that do not require GMAT scores.
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Work experience shows admissions offices how candidates handle themselves in professional settings and whether they have progressed in their careers. Most programs require 2-8 years of professional work experience.
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Students who successfully navigated the rigors of graduate school are more likely to succeed in an MBA program. You can often bypass GMAT requirements if you already have a master's degree or doctorate.
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A high GPA demonstrates that you can handle challenging classes without letting your grades suffer. Many schools require a 3.0-3.5 GPA to waive GMAT requirements.
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Many business-related positions require licensure and/or certification (e.g., CFA, CPA, Six Sigma) to practice. Licensure demonstrates that candidates hold the skills and qualifications needed to pass industry exams. Some schools may use existing licenses and certifications to determine whether to waive GMAT scores.
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5
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation can help an admissions office decide whether or not to admit a student without GMAT scores. Choose recommenders who can speak well about your abilities and your potential.
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6
Essay or Personal Statement
The essay or personal statement provides you with a chance to demonstrate — in your own words — why you deserve a place in the program and how you plan to ensure your success. Use this document to highlight academic and professional accomplishments and clearly outline how you hope to use your MBA in meaningful ways.
If You Need to Take the GMAT or GRE
Even though many MBA programs no longer require applicants to take the GMAT or GRE, you may want to include your scores anyway — especially if parts of your application could be stronger.
If your undergraduate GPA is low or you lack work experience, an impressive GMAT score may help bolster your admission chances.
What if the School You Want Requires the GMAT or GRE?
Many programs continue to require standardized test scores for admission. Here's how to prepare for them:
- Figure out which schools on your list require test scores.
- Decide which test you should take — do the schools you're looking at accept both exams? Is preference given to one over the other?
- Set aside plenty of time to study and sit for your exam.
- Ideally, give yourself enough time to retake the exam at least once in case you want to improve your initial score.
Choosing a Quality Online MBA Program
Not all business programs are created equal. Make sure you're picking a top-notch online MBA program by considering the following:
Accreditation
Test scores might be optional — but picking an accredited school definitely isn't. If you're going to invest your time and money into business school, you want future employers to trust that your education is legit.
Accreditation matters for three reasons:
- It means the school has gone through a rigorous vetting process.
- It signals to employers that your degree is valuable.
- It indicates that the program does a good job of supporting students and preparing them to succeed in the workforce.
Some organizations that accredit MBA programs include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Affordability
Getting an MBA isn't cheap. Fortunately, the return on your investment is likely to be pretty good. Finding ways to keep your MBA costs down is one way to make sure of that.
Here are some helpful strategies to make your education more affordable:
- Attend a public university in your state. (For states that differentiate between in- and out-of-state graduate tuition, in-state tuition is typically the cheapest.)
- Attend a university that offers in-state tuition rates for out-of-state online learners.
- Pick an online program that can help you save on transportation and moving costs, as well as some on-campus fees.
- Apply for MBA scholarships, unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans, or grants.
- Apply for employer-funded tuition assistance if it's available.
- Consider part-time and online MBA programs that give you the flexibility to work while pursuing your degree, thus reducing lost wages and opportunity costs.
- Consider executive or accelerated MBA programs, which you can complete in a year.
Graduate Success
Strong student outcomes are a good indicator of a high-quality online MBA program.
Find out:
- How long does it take for graduates to land a job?
- What are their average earnings in the short and the long term?
- How active is the alumni network when it comes to helping new graduates make important connections and get interviews?
- What career resources does the program provide?
Robust Curriculum
MBA programs may offer several concentrations. Choosing a concentration allows you to learn specialized skills. Research your program offerings and select a concentration best suited for your long-term career goals.
Some of the more popular concentrations include:
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Entrepreneurship
If your goal is to operate your own small or large business, this concentration will equip you with the skills you need to get your company operational.
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Finance
This concentration prepares you for jobs in finance or risk management, such as financial analysts, investment bankers, or chief financial officers. You'll strengthen your strategy and decision-making skills.
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General Management
If you're looking to become a manager — people or operational — this concentration offers focused training in leadership, program-solving, and team building.
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Marketing
A focus on marketing is popular amongst those looking to become brand marketing managers, advertising managers, or chief brand officers. Learners build on data analytics skills and product development.
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Strategy
This concentration can prepare you for a broader variety of roles, including product managers, project managers, or general consultants. You'll learn analytical skills, how to make strategic decisions, and problem-solving skills.
Accreditation for Online MBA Programs With No GMAT Requirements
Enrolling in programs that lack accreditation can make it difficult or impossible for you to receive federal student aid, transfer credits, apply for licensure, or find a job. Schools can receive accreditation from one of several regional bodies. These bodies assess colleges and universities to ensure they provide meaningful support services, relevant curricula, and qualified faculty. Use the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to make sure your chosen school is accredited.
Programmatic accreditation matters because it ensures MBA programs meet industry expectations and teach students about relevant topics. Important organizations that accredit online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
MBA Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial professionals made a median annual wage of $76,570 in May 2021, far higher than the median annual salary of $45,760 for all jobs. A recent GMAC survey found that MBA graduates can earn a median salary of $115,000.
GMAC also reported that post-pandemic, demand for MBA graduates is more robust than ever: 91% of recruiters planned to hire MBA grads in 2021.
"Nine in ten corporate recruiters expect the demand for business school graduates to increase or remain stable in the next five years — an indicator that graduate management talent is integral to organizational growth plans."
– GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, 2021
Salary Opportunities for MBA Graduates
If you have ever wondered what you can do with a business degree, the table below describes popular specializations and jobs for online MBA graduates.
Sources: Payscale
Interesting MBA No-GMAT Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA Programs Without the GMAT
Do You Need GMAT Scores to Pursue an Online MBA?
You do not always need a GMAT score to pursue an online MBA. Some programs require standardized test scores, but many do not. See the list above for
online MBA programs that don't require a GMAT.
Can You Get an MBA Without Taking the GMAT?
Yes! Many schools — both online and in person — accept students without GMAT scores. Other schools require standardized test scores for admission but may accept the GRE in place of the GMAT.
Do All MBA Programs Require the GMAT?
No. Some MBA programs accept the GRE instead of the GMAT, and others do not require any standardized test scores for admission.
What Is the Best Online MBA Program?
TheBestSchools currently ranks the University of Southern California #1 out of the top 10 best online MBA programs.
But the best MBA program for you depends on your goals, your budget, and other personal factors.
How Much Does an Online MBA cost?
The total cost of tuition for the 10 best online MBA programs ranges from $7,500 (in state) to $89,550 (out of state).
