Top Business Schools without GMAT Requirement for 2026 Admissions

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is commonly used by graduate business schools around the world to assess applicants seeking to pursue advanced business degrees. However, there are several universities in countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and others that offer MBA programs without requiring a GMAT score. In this article, we’ll explore options for pursuing an MBA without the GMAT in these countries.

Many students aspiring to study abroad consider taking the GMAT, but some find themselves uncertain about whether they need to take the exam. Common questions they often ask include:

• Is taking the GMAT mandatory for Business and Management programs?
• Is the GMAT score required by all B-schools?
• Do international B-schools offer any GMAT waivers?

The good news is, the answer to all these questions is no. While top-tier B-schools typically require a GMAT score, many reputable business schools will consider your application without one. These institutions often prioritize factors such as relevant hands-on experience in management or significant academic research that has contributed to the field. For these schools, your practical experience, the school's internal evaluation process, or your academic contributions may carry more weight than a GMAT score.

MBA in the USA without GMAT

Here’s a list of top US universities that offer MBA programs without the GMAT in exceptional cases:

1. Kenan-Flagler Business School – GMAT scores may be waived if the candidate submits a formal request, along with educational and professional transcripts, at least one month before the admissions deadline.
2. MIT Sloan School of Management – MIT’s full-time MBA program may waive the GMAT requirement if applicants provide sufficient justification for not taking the exam.
3. Questrom School of Business - BU offers a GMAT waiver for its MBA program if the applicant has not taken the exam. Additional waivers are granted at the discretion of the admissions committee.
4. Syracuse University – Its online MBA program allows applicants to bypass the GMAT and complete the degree in 24 months without relocating.
5. Kellogg School of Management – Kellogg offers GMAT waivers based on work experience and leadership roles, allowing some applicants to skip the test entirely.

In addition to the universities listed above, several other business schools in the US also offer GMAT waivers for qualified applicants. Some of these institutions include:

A few other US universities that offer a GMAT waiver are listed below:

• University of Tampa
• Pace University
• New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)

You must keep in mind that admission requirements can vary. For example, UTampa’s MBA program doesn’t require a GMAT score to apply, although they do accept it. At Pace University, applicants with a Master's or Doctoral degree in a business-related field can request a GMAT waiver. NYIT’s MBA program only asks for GMAT scores if your GPA is below 3.0. Other MBA programs in the USA don’t require the GMAT. It’s important for applicants to carefully review the specific requirements for each program before applying.

MBA in Canada without GMAT

Listed below are the Canadian B-schools and universities that do not require the GMAT:

• Ivey Business School in Toronto offers an Executive MBA program, where students attend classes 4 days in a row once a month for 15 months, while continuing their careers. Although the GMAT is not required, applicants must submit a detailed resume.
• Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University provides a GMAT waiver for its Master's in Finance program. Applicants only need to submit their transcripts after completing a 4-year university degree.
• Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University offers a Part-time Alternate Weekend MBA that doesn’t require a GMAT score, except for students who completed their undergraduate degree outside of Canada.
• Schulich School of Business at York University offers an Executive MBA program without the GMAT requirement, as long as applicants provide valid academic credentials and other necessary transcripts.

Learn more about the Executive MBA program.

Many business schools in Canada offer MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT. In addition to universities, there are also several MBA colleges in Canada that don’t ask for a GMAT score. Moreover, Canadian universities may offer GMAT waivers for other business-related programs as well.

MBA in Australia and New Zealand without GMAT

Here is a list of Australian universities that offer MBA or business programs without requiring the GMAT:

• Australian National University, Canberra: The Master of Management (Advanced) program allows candidates to develop their management skills without needing a GMAT score.
• Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne: Requires at least 2 years of relevant work experience for applicants, but no GMAT score is necessary.
• Monash University: Offers management courses with a low GMAT score requirement (550) or even no GMAT at all. However, applicants must have at least 3 years of work experience, including 1 year in management.
• Macquarie Graduate School of Management, Macquarie University: Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree, proficiency in English, and a GPA of 5.00 (out of 7.00), with no GMAT required.

As mentioned earlier, while the GMAT isn’t always required, you’ll still need to provide your academic records. For some Executive MBA programs, you’ll need 8-12 years of work experience. A clear and effective resume showing your education and work history is also important. Lastly, you’ll need 2-3 reference letters from previous employers to help the school assess your skills, character, and work ethic.

Top MBA Colleges Abroad without GMAT

The GMAT is often a key requirement for admission to business and MBA programs at schools around the world. However, some top business schools do not require the GMAT for their MBA and other business programs. Here are a few of the leading schools that offer MBA programs abroad without the GMAT.

Even though some schools don’t require the GMAT, preparing for and taking it can still help you succeed. It can boost your chances of getting into a top business school, even if they don't ask for a GMAT score. The exam shows your ambition and potential. Plus, studying for it, whether it’s math or verbal skills, helps you grow both academically and personally.

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