MBA without GMAT
The GMAT is a standardized test that is used by many MBA programs in their admissions process. The GMAT Test serves a similar function to the GRE Tests in that both are used by institutions as a factor in admissions. Colleges and universities place different levels of importance on standardized tests, such as the GMAT, and use them along with other factors such as class rank, GPA, community service, recommendations and extracurricular activities. The GMAT is currently accepted by over 4,000 graduate programs across 1,800 schools.
Low Scores on GMAT – Can You Still Get Into An MBA Program
If you are interested in going to an MBA program that requires GMAT scores, you still may have options even if you have a low GMAT score. Other admissions criteria can sometimes overcome lower GMAT scores. For example, you may stand out for great undergraduate performance or you may have achieved outstanding real world accomplishments. Likewise, strong application essays and references can always help. Finally, if you are a member of an under represented group, you may be able to gain acceptance even with low GMAT scores.
Can You Get A MBA without GMAT
Not every MBA program requires GMAT scores. MBA programs are offered from a variety of schools with differing accreditations and entrance requirements. It is sometimes convenient to categorize MBA programs in one of four categories: Executive MBAs, Online MBA programs, regionally-accredited MBA programs and nationally-accredited MBA programs.
Executive MBA Programs and GMAT
Some executive MBA programs (EMBA) do not require GMAT scores because of their requirement for work experience. Executive MBA programs typically look for 5 or more years of relevant work experience. Top tier executive MBA programs also look for company sponsorship.
Online MBA Programs and GMAT
The admissions requirements of online MBA programs vary greatly. Most top MBA programs, whether online or not, will require GMAT scores. Other online programs do not rely heavily on GMAT scores. Since online MBA programs typically cater to working adults, many of them have forsaken GMAT or GRE requirements. For example, there are over 80 online MBA programs that do not require GMAT scores.Regionally Accredited Programs and GMAT
Accredited universities in the US are either regionally accredited or nationally accredited. Regional accreditation is considered the most widely recognized form of accreditation and is sometimes viewed as more prestigious. Top tier MBA programs such as Harvard, Stanford, Northwestern and others will have regional accreditation. Regionally accredited universities will typically have stricter admissions criteria including GMAT scores. There are, however, over 50 regionally accredited programs (many of them with online options) that do not require GMAT scores.Nationally Accredited Programs and GMAT
If an accredited school is not regionally accredited, then it is typically nationally accredited. There are several national accrediting organizations, but three of the more prevalent accreditations are: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools (ACICS), The Distance Education & Training Council (DETC), and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT). Nationally accredited schools are sometimes seen as more flexible in their admissions criteria. There are over a dozen nationally accredited MBA programs (many with online options) that do not require GMAT scores.Many universities (some surveys claim 80%) require GMAT scores for the MBA programs. The GMAT requirements vary widely by institutions and are different for online and executive MBA programs. Students are encouraged to research the particular institution that they are interested in to understand their entrance requirements.
