GMAT Waiver for MBA 2025
- Goalisb
- Oct 8
- 13 min read
GMAT Waiver for MBA 2025: Exploring Alternative Criteria for Admission. The significance of GMAT or GRE scores as a benchmark of academic capability for MBA admissions is evolving rapidly.
In a paradigm shift, many renowned Business Schools are offering test waivers, test optional, or eliminating the GMAT requirement altogether for the MBA admissions process in 2025.
This transformation aims to assess applicants more holistically, emphasizing their diverse skills and experiences beyond standardized tests.
Global MBA & Master’s Programs: Test-Optional and Test-Waiver Policies (2025)
School (Program) | Test Policy | Key Criteria / Additional Notes |
Babson College (Full-Time Graduate Programs, 2025 Entry) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE not required for any 2025 full-time graduate applicants. Strengthen other quant evidence through coursework or professional data-driven work. |
Georgia Tech — Scheller College of Business (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT, GMAT Focus, or GRE not required. Quant readiness can be shown through work experience and academic performance. |
Michigan State University — Broad College of Business (Full-Time MBA & STEM MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE/EA optional. Strong professional or technical experience can substitute for test scores. |
SKK GSB, Sungkyunkwan University (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE optional. High scores earn bonus points in evaluation. |
UCLA Anderson School of Management (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | Applicants may skip GMAT/GRE/EA but must submit a short essay demonstrating quantitative and analytical ability. |
UC Irvine — Paul Merage School of Business (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE not required. Applicants without a test must submit an essay demonstrating MBA readiness. |
University of Miami — Miami Herbert Business School (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE optional; however, a strong score may improve merit scholarship consideration. |
University of Rochester — Simon Business School (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE/EA optional. Emphasis on academic transcripts and work experience to assess quantitative skill. |
University of St.Gallen (Master in General Management) | Test Optional | For international applicants: GMAT, GRE, LSAT, or GTEBS optional. If omitted, GPA is weighted twice. |
University of Washington — Foster School of Business (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | Applicants choosing no test must complete a brief essay outlining quantitative preparedness. |
Washington University in St. Louis — Olin Business School (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE recommended but not mandatory. Other academic and professional data used to gauge readiness. |
William & Mary — Raymond A. Mason School of Business (Full-Time MBA) | Test Optional | GMAT/GRE waiver automatically granted; academic record and work experience evaluated instead. |
The Philosophy Behind Test-Optional MBA Admissions
The movement toward test-optional admissions reflects a growing recognition that standardized test scores, while useful, provide only a limited snapshot of a candidate's potential for success in business school and beyond. Forward-thinking admissions committees understand that the modern business world demands diverse perspectives, innovative thinking, and leadership capabilities that cannot be adequately captured by a single standardized exam.
This shift acknowledges several critical realities:
Equity and Access: Standardized tests can create barriers for talented candidates who may not have had access to extensive test preparation resources or whose academic strengths don't align perfectly with standardized testing formats. By removing this requirement, schools open their doors to a more diverse pool of candidates who can contribute unique perspectives to the classroom experience.
Holistic Evaluation: Test-optional policies force both candidates and admissions committees to look beyond numerical metrics and focus on the complete picture of an applicant's professional experience, leadership potential, and academic readiness as demonstrated through multiple data points.
Real-World Relevance: The skills required for MBA success—strategic thinking, leadership, communication, and collaborative problem-solving—are better demonstrated through professional achievements, academic performance, and thoughtful essays than through standardized test performance.
Schools Offering Conditional Test Waivers
(Tests can be waived for specific criteria such as GPA, advanced degrees, certifications, or quantitative work experience.)
School | Waiver Policy | Typical Eligibility Criteria |
BYU Marriott School of Business | Test waiver available upon request. | Strong GPA, significant quantitative work, or advanced degree. |
Emory University — Goizueta Business School | Conditional waiver offered. | High GPA, master’s degree, or quantitative certifications (CPA, CFA). |
Dartmouth — Tuck School of Business | Test waiver available. | Substantial quantitative experience or advanced academic qualification. |
University of Toronto — Rotman School of Management | Test waiver possible. | Professional designations (CPA, CFA) or quantitative master’s degree. |
Texas A&M University — Mays Business School | Waiver option available. | High GPA, quantitative academic record, or 5+ years professional experience. |
University of Southern California — Marshall School of Business | GMAT/GRE waiver on request. | Strong academic record or significant leadership/quantitative experience. |
Boston University — Questrom School of Business | Offers GMAT/GRE waiver. | GPA ≥3.3, graduate degree, or certification like CFA/CPA. |
UNC — Kenan-Flagler Business School | Waiver program available. | Minimum GPA threshold, quantitative work profile, or advanced degree. |
Imperial College Business School | Conditional waiver. | High quantitative academic background or professional credential. |
Bayes Business School (formerly Cass) | Test waiver available. | Prior master’s degree or quantitative coursework background. |
Arizona State University — W. P. Carey School of Business | GMAT/GRE waiver possible. | Strong GPA and evidence of analytical proficiency. |
University of Georgia — Terry College of Business | Test waiver on request. | ≥3 years professional experience and solid academic record. |
Texas McCombs School of Business | GMAT/GRE waiver option. | High GPA, advanced degree, or quant-heavy role. |
Rice University — Jones Graduate School of Business | Conditional waiver. | Strong GPA, 3+ years analytical work experience, or CFA/CPA. |
Vanderbilt University — Owen Graduate School of Management | Offers test waiver. | Advanced degree or professional certification (CPA/CFA). |
Georgetown University — McDonough School of Business | Test waiver option. | Strong academic background, quantitative career, or graduate degree. |
Queen’s University — Smith School of Business | Test waiver available. | Extensive leadership or quant-heavy professional experience. |
Alliance Manchester Business School | Conditional waiver. | Prior master’s degree or quantitative field background. |
Cornell University — Johnson (Cornell Tech MBA) | Test waiver allowed. | Significant professional/technical background or strong academic record. |
EDHEC Business School | GMAT/GRE waiver possible. | Academic excellence and relevant quantitative work experience. |
Which are the schools that offer a GMAT waiver in 2025?
As MBA admissions evolve, many prestigious business schools are now offering GMAT/GRE test waivers for their 2025 intake. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on test waiver policies at various top business schools, helping prospective MBA students navigate their application strategies.
University of Washington Foster School of Business MBA GMAT Waiver:
Offers a "Test Optional" application path for Autumn 2025 admission
Accepts GMAT (10th Edition and Focus Edition) and GRE scores if submitted
Requires completion of a "Test Optional Summary of Qualifications" in the application
150-word response detailing analytical and quantitative preparedness
Eligibility criteria:
Four-year undergraduate degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
Strong quantitative/analytical ability through education or work experience
STEM or business-related degree preferred
Professional certifications in quantitative fields (e.g., CPA, CFA)
Four or more years of relevant professional work experience
Emphasizes holistic admissions process
Note: Submitting a test score may benefit certain candidates, particularly for scholarships or specific career paths
Texas McCombs MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers a merit-based test waiver petition
Requires minimum three years of post-undergraduate work experience
Strong academic record, preferably in analytical or quantitative disciplines
Recommended overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
Waiver petition due 7 days before application deadline
Decision within 5-10 business days
Considers academic history, focusing on analytical and quantitative courses
Requires WES Basic Transcript Evaluation for non-English or non-4.0 scale transcripts
Note: Strong test scores can strengthen candidacy for admission and scholarships
UVA Darden MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers standardized test waiver option, evaluating applications case-by-case
Considers:
Strong undergraduate record, especially in analytical coursework
Master's or advanced degree in an analytical discipline preferred
At least three years of professional work experience
Supplemental materials (e.g., SAT/ACT scores, professional certifications)
May require English proficiency test for international applicants
Recommends submitting waiver applications 3-4 weeks before the target deadline
Defines "strong" undergraduate record as GPA around 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Degroote McMaster MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT waivers for Fall 2025 admission
Criteria:
B+ average in last 2 years of undergrad for STEM/Business degrees
A- average for other degree types
Most recent degree must meet minimum average if multiple degrees
Waiver recipients must attend a Quantitative Refresher course
Also accepts alternative tests like GRE, MCAT, CFA Level 2, Canadian CPA, or PEng
USC Marshall MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Allows test waiver requests as part of the application process
Emphasizes academic performance, especially in quantitative coursework
Considers professional experience secondarily
Requires transcripts for waiver consideration
Provides decisions within 15 business days of application submission
Schulich MBA (York University) MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers waiver for students with B+ or better GPA in last two years of Schulich undergrad or Master of Management program
Indiana University Kelley School of Business MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE waivers, considering multiple factors:
Previous academic achievement
Work experience
Requires resume, transcripts, and a brief statement
Responds to waiver requests within one week
Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business MBA:
Offers test waivers, focusing on overall academic readiness
Case-by-case evaluation
May recommend additional academic preparation even if waiver is granted
Waiver doesn't affect scholarship eligibility
Provides decisions within 10 business days of application deadline
Rice Business School GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers standardized test waivers for qualified candidates
Criteria:
Minimum three years of post-undergraduate work experience
Strong academic record, preferably in quantitative subjects
Terminal degree (e.g., MD, PhD) or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CFA) considered
Other graduate-level standardized test scores may be considered
Ivey Business School MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers pre-assessment for potential GMAT/GRE exemptions
Considers:
Strong GPA in engineering, science, computer science, statistics, mathematics, business, or economics
Professional work experience in the field of training
Automatic exemptions for certain professional designations (e.g., CFA, CPA, PEng)
Tuck MBA (Dartmouth) MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE test waivers for eligible candidates
Requirements:
Minimum two years of post-graduate work experience
Native English speaker or eligible for English proficiency test waiver
Strong quantitative and analytical competency through academic/professional experience
Specific deadlines for waiver requests relative to application rounds
UC Davis MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE waivers for their Full-Time MBA program
Eligibility criteria:
3.2+ GPA in quantitative undergraduate degree from a U.S. institution
Graduate degree or professional credential (e.g., CPA, CFA)
Five+ years of professional work experience
Four+ years of military experience
UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE waivers for qualified applicants
Considers:
3.2+ GPA in STEM, business, economics, or analytical fields from a U.S. institution
Advanced degree in relevant field
5+ years of professional experience in quantitative/analytical field
Professional certifications (e.g., CFA, U.S. CPA)
Strong performance on other standardized tests (e.g., Executive Assessment, PCAT, MCAT)
Michigan State University Broad MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Considers candidates without standardized test scores
Process:
Complete online MBA application
Select GMAT/GRE waiver option in supplemental questions
May require completion of non-credit online pre-requisite courses post-admission
Boston College Carroll School of Management MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE waivers for qualified candidates
Considers academic background, work experience, and other factors holistically
Emphasizes potential benefits of submitting test scores for certain candidates
NYU Stern MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers waivers for Full-Time MBA and MBA Business: Luxury & Retail programs
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree prior to submitting request
Planning to apply in the 2024-2025 admissions cycle
Submit request by April 1, 2025
Requires submission of resume, transcripts, and brief essay
Reviews requests on a rolling basis, typically within 3 weeks
Note: Andre Koo Technology and Entrepreneurship MBA is test-optional
Michigan Ross Full-Time MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers alternative demonstrations of academic readiness without test scores
Candidates can submit a Statement of Academic Readiness
Considers factors like:
Master's degrees in analytical disciplines
Professional certifications (CPA, CFA)
Strong undergraduate records
Relevant work experience
No separate application or pre-approval required for the Statement of Academic Readiness
Cornell Johnson MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers GMAT/GRE test waivers for candidates meeting specific criteria:
STEM, business, or analytical/quantitative-focused degree with 3.0 GPA or equivalent
CPA or CFA certification
Post-undergraduate work experience in analytical or quantitative functions
Waiver requests considered based on submitted application materials
Advises some candidates to take GMAT/GRE for internship and full-time recruiting purposes
UCLA Anderson MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers exam waivers based on proven academic achievement
Waiver criteria:
US undergraduate or graduate degree in Business, Economics, or STEM fields with 3.2+ GPA
US undergraduate or graduate degree in other fields with 3.4+ GPA
Emphasizes that meeting criteria doesn't guarantee admission
Encourages comparing individual profiles against class profile when deciding on exam submission
Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management GMAT Waiver 2025:
Offers test waivers with specific criteria
Considers academic and professional backgrounds
Evaluates waiver requests on a case-by-case basis
University of British Columbia UBC Sauder MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Provides waivers based on academic performance and work experience
Has specific deadlines for international (January 10, 2025) and domestic (May 6, 2025) applicants
Requires a Statement of Qualification and other supporting documents
Schools with Limited Waiver Policies:
Chicago Booth MBA GMAT Waiver 2025:
Only offers waivers for current UChicago undergrads or alumni with 3.4+ GPA
Does not waive GMAT or GRE requirement for any other applicants
While many top MBA programs now offer GMAT/GRE test waivers, policies vary significantly between schools. Applicants should carefully review each school's specific requirements and consider how a waiver might impact their overall application strength. Remember that even when waivers are available, submitting a strong test score can often enhance an application, particularly for scholarship consideration or certain career paths. Always verify the most current information directly with your target schools, as policies may change.
Get MBA essay assistance from GOALisB for applying to MBA programs with a GMAT waiver in 2024. Whatsapp us at: +91 7719497187 or email at contact@goalisb.com.
How can you apply for a GMAT waiver in 2024?
Each of these esteemed institutions has recognized the value of applicants' diverse accomplishments and is now exploring alternative ways to evaluate their potential. So, what factors are these Business Schools considering instead of standardized test scores?
Academic and Professional Accomplishments: Schools like Michigan Ross and Rice Jones look closely at applicants' academic and professional achievements, such as relevant master's degrees, CPA, CFA, or international equivalents.
Quantitative or Analytical Skills: Universities like Washington Foster and UNC Kenan-Flagler consider strong quantitative or analytical abilities demonstrated through coursework, professional experience, or certifications.
Terminal Degrees or Advanced Certifications: Olin Business School and Merage School of Business value applicants with terminal degrees (e.g., MD, JD, PhD) or quantitatively oriented professional certifications.
Work Experience: Business Schools such as Owen and McCombs weigh heavily on relevant work experience, particularly in analytical or quantitative functions.
Other Factors: Some schools, like Goizueta and Carey, encourage applicants to request a test waiver if they believe their academic background and work experience adequately showcase their potential for graduate-level business coursework.
Before requesting a test waiver, applicants should carefully consider several factors. Some employers, particularly in industries like consulting or finance, may require a test score during the MBA hiring process. Additionally, an approved test waiver does not guarantee admission, and a test score can be used as an additional data point in your application. Check deadlines for MBA Admissions 2025 .
The MBA landscape is evolving, and these Business Schools are paving the way for a more inclusive and diversified student body. With a strong application that highlights your unique accomplishments and experiences, you can embark on your MBA journey, confident in your potential for success.
Remember, each school has its own distinct culture and values, so find the best fit for your aspirations and let your story shine! 🌟
Its time for you to consider applying to these programs and put up a competitive application for MBA admissions. Get in touch with us for a profile evaluation and MBA Essay help. Whatsapp at: +91 7719497187 or email at contact@goalisb.com to get started.
GMAT Waiver and Test-Optional MBA FAQs (2025)
1. Can I get my GMAT waived?
Yes. Many MBA and master’s programs now offer GMAT waivers to applicants who meet certain criteria such as a strong GPA, advanced degree, or quantitative professional experience. Some require a formal waiver request, while others are completely test-optional.
2. How hard is it to get a GMAT waiver?
It depends on your profile. Applicants with quantitative degrees, 5+ years of relevant work experience, or certifications such as CPA or CFA usually have a higher chance. Top schools review waiver requests carefully to ensure academic readiness.
3. Can you get the GMAT fee waived?
Yes. GMAC provides GMAT fee waivers through approved universities or organizations. You must apply through your institution or a test-prep partner that participates in GMAC’s fee waiver program.
4. Why do people get GMAT waivers?
Applicants request waivers to save time and cost, or because they already have demonstrated quantitative skills through academics, certifications, or analytical professional work.
5. Is 575 a bad GMAT score?
A score of 575 is below average for most top 50 MBA programs, but some mid-tier or specialized programs may still consider it within range depending on other parts of the application.
6. Is a 750 GMAT impressive?
Yes. A 750 is an exceptional score, placing you around the top 2 percent of all GMAT takers. It strengthens applications for highly selective MBA programs.
7. Does ISB offer a GMAT waiver?
The ISB PGP requires a valid GMAT or GRE score. However, certain executive programs such as PGPpro or PGPMAX may allow GMAT waivers for candidates with significant work experience and leadership background.
8. Is ISB accepting GMAT Online?
No. ISB accepts official GMAT Online scores as long as they are submitted directly through GMAC.
9. What is the GMAT score required for ISB?
The average GMAT score for ISB PGP is around 675. Applicants with strong professional achievements or academic backgrounds have been admitted with slightly lower scores.
10. Why is ISB better than IIM for some applicants?
ISB’s one-year structure, global faculty, and international exposure appeal to mid-career professionals with 4–8 years of experience who prefer an accelerated format over traditional two-year Indian MBAs.
11. Can I get an MBA without GMAT?
Yes. Many schools now have test-optional or waiver-based policies. Programs such as UCLA Anderson, UC Irvine Merage, Washington Foster, Babson, and Toronto Rotman allow applications without GMAT if applicants can demonstrate academic or professional readiness.
12. What is the alternative to the GMAT?
Alternatives include the GRE, Executive Assessment (EA), or proof of quantitative skills through certifications such as CFA, CPA, or FRM. Some schools also accept strong quantitative coursework or a short analytical essay instead.
13. Is it compulsory to give GMAT for MBA?
No. GMAT is no longer mandatory at many schools. Over 100 global MBA programs now offer test-optional or waiver pathways.
14. Is GMAT tougher than CAT?
GMAT and CAT test different skills. The GMAT is adaptive and reasoning-focused, while CAT is time-intensive with heavier quantitative sections. GMAT tests logic and comprehension; CAT tests speed and accuracy.
15. Is the GMAT difficult?
The GMAT can be challenging due to its adaptive format and time pressure, but with consistent practice and strong fundamentals, most candidates can achieve competitive scores.
16. Can I skip the GMAT?
Yes. You can skip the GMAT if you apply to test-optional or waiver-eligible programs. However, submitting a test score can still improve scholarship and recruitment opportunities.
17. Does Harvard MBA offer a GMAT waiver?
Harvard Business School requires a valid GMAT, GRE, or EA score for its full-time MBA. There are no waivers for this program, but some executive and online programs under Harvard allow test flexibility.
18. Can you get into Harvard MBA without GMAT?
No. A test score is required for admission to the full-time Harvard MBA. However, Harvard Extension School and HBS Online offer professional development programs without test requirements.
19. Which MBA schools offer GMAT waivers?
Business schools that commonly grant GMAT waivers include Emory Goizueta, Rice Jones, UNC Kenan-Flagler, Texas McCombs, Vanderbilt Owen, Georgetown McDonough, Rotman Toronto, and Boston University Questrom.
20. Can Harvard MBA fees be waived?
Harvard Business School does not waive application or tuition fees but provides generous need-based financial aid. Applicants must submit a detailed financial aid application to qualify.
21. Can I get into Stanford MBA without GMAT?
No. Stanford GSB requires either a GMAT or GRE score for the MBA program. Executive Education and online learning programs may have flexible or no test requirements.
22. What is the average salary after Harvard MBA?
Harvard MBA graduates earn an average base salary between USD 175,000 and 190,000, with additional signing bonuses and performance-based incentives.
