If you’re a business professional in 2023, you may face a problem. In order to advance your career, you need the skills and credentials offered by a higher degree. However, a master’s can be expensive. It can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Especially for prospective students already in the workforce. For a solution, look no further: in this article, you’ll read about the best online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.
Article Navigation: Benefits of Skipping the GMAT | Admission Test 101: GMAT & GRE | What Do Schools Consider Instead of the GMAT? | Cheapest Online MBA No GMAT | Accelerated MBA Online No GMAT | Best Programmatically Accredited Online MBA Programs No GMAT | Top 5 Most Prestigious Online MBA No GMAT | Application Tips | Find the Best Online MBA For You
Benefits of Online MBA Programs That Don’t Require GMAT
The best online MBA programs, no GMAT, are available at any career stage. It doesn’t matter if you’re fresh off the heels of a bachelor’s degree or returning to school after a decade in the field. Online programs are often flexible with their admissions requirements, providing alternatives to GMAT and GRE scores or not requiring them at all. They have the added benefit of being flexible and fitting with your schedule. Before looking at the schools, let’s review the GMAT and GRE tests. Also, why it may be beneficial to skip them.
There are two main benefits of pursuing the best online MBA programs no GMAT:
- Cost – The GMAT costs $250. This doesn’t include study material or practice tests. Plus, you may have to take the test more than once, resulting in more money spent.
- Time – The GMAT itself takes over three hours. However, that’s not including time spent studying and preparing. You may also want to retake the test if you don’t score well, which means more time and money.
For nontraditional students especially, skipping the GMAT can be an excellent option. Besides saving time and money, AACSB and regionally accredited online MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT offer the same benefits as traditional degrees. There’s just no inconvenient commute or unnecessary fees. MBAs from accredited institutions are universally respected in the professional world, regardless of whether they’re completed online or in person.
GetEducated's Picks
- Indiana Wesleyan University Master of Business Administration
- Saint Ambrose University Master of Business Administration / General Business
- William Carey University Master of Business Administration
Admission Test 101: GMAT & GRE
“GMAT” stands for “Graduate Management Admission Test.” It is an academic assessment management and business graduate programs use to screen candidates.
What is the GMAT?
The GMAT is a computer-based test. Students can take it online or in person at a proctored testing center. Many colleges offer in-person testing. A quick online search can help find a place and date for taking the test near you. Otherwise, you can take remotely proctored exams from the comfort of your own home.
The GMAT divides into four main sections:
- Analytical writing: This section evaluates writing skills. It is assessed separately from the rest of the test. Basically, you must write an essay critiquing an author’s argumentative writing.
- Verbal reasoning: This section tests your ability to use and understand written English including critical reasoning skills, reading comprehension, and the ability to understand and improve sentences and arguments.
- Integrated reasoning: This section combines the skills tested in the Verbal and Quantitative sections. Problems involve analyzing information and data in written, graphic, and combined forms. Subsequently, test-takers identify what’s important and what’s not.
- Quantitative reasoning: This section tests your knowledge of math, including algebra and statistics. It also measures how you apply math to practical issues. Plus, you must think logically about applying your math skills. This section presents two types of problems: data sufficiency and problem-solving.
GMAT Length
The GMAT itself takes 3.5 hours to complete, assuming you only need to take it once. Study time varies widely. Most students start studying at least two months in advance. Some students, however, may begin studying up to two years in advance, depending on their academic and professional calendars.
GMAT Score Range
The highest possible score on the GMAT is 800 points, and the lowest is 200 points. Most test-takers score an average of 556. Especially prestigious programs often require scores in the 700s. There is no “failing” score on the GMAT. Your MBA goals determine success or failure in this test, and different programs have different requirements or guidelines. If you don’t meet your goal on your first try, you can retake the test up to five times in one year.
GMAT vs GRE
The GRE, or Graduate Record Exam, is an admission requirement for graduate programs. This standardized test measures verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills. While the GMAT is used in business contexts, GRE scores broadly apply to most graduate programs. Most programs, if they require an entrance exam, will require the GMAT or the GRE, but not both.
GMAT Waiver: What Do Schools Consider Instead?
Schools often have one or more alternative requirements they consider in lieu of GMAT or GRE scores.
Standard GPA Requirements
Many online MBA schools have minimum GPA requirements for applicants. Most require a minimum of a 2.5 GPA from undergraduate transcripts. Some will require a 3.0 and admit applicants with lower GPAs on certain conditions. For example, a school accepts a student with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99. However, the student must understand that they must achieve and maintain a 3.0 by the end of their first semester. Some more prestigious programs may require a GPA as high as 3.5.
Undergraduate Accomplishments
Most online master's in business administration programs require an accredited undergrad degree at a minimum. For example, some MBAs look for programmatic accreditation, like the AACSB. Others may only require regional accreditation. More prestigious programs may require an accredited business degree specifically. Others accept different backgrounds, such as healthcare or psychology. Accreditation is especially important when it comes to transferring credits. Without an accredited bachelor’s, you may be unable to waive certain core courses for many MBAs.
GetEducated's Picks
- Campbellsville University Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- University of West Alabama Bachelor of Business Administration / Business Administration
- Adelphi University Bachelor of Science in Business
Graduate Accomplishments
Students with a master’s degree have an excellent advantage when applying for a second MBA. Especially if they’re staying at the same school to apply. In that situation, students may transfer automatically into their new program.
Most schools prefer programmatic accreditation when considering applicants for admission. These accreditation agencies include the AACSB, the ACBSP, and the IACBE.
Professional Work Experience
Many online MBA programs, including those listed in this article, benefit working professionals. They require at least two years of business experience and some as many as five. Challenging work experience is important for students seeking admission to an MBA program.
Also, experience in prestigious businesses will give you an edge. However, there is no standard for what schools value when it comes to experience. Some programs may look for specific names, certifications, or licensing. But generally, competitive, hands-on experience demonstrating ambition is best for your application.
Managerial Business experience
The AACSB does not guide the admissions policies of the schools they accredit. However, it does hold graduate-level business programs to a high standard. This means they expect programs to present challenging, complex coursework. With this in mind, most schools require at least five years of managerial experience. Students will find this experience necessary to prepare them for the rewarding but intense undertaking of completing an MBA. Some programs may make exceptions for students with equivalent experience or high academic achievement.
GetEducated's Picks
- Rider University Master of Business Administration
- University of Nebraska at Kearney Master of Business Administration
- William Carey University Master of Business Administration
Best Affordable Online MBA No GMAT or GRE
Albany State University
Albany State University’s online MBA is an ACBSP-accredited program. Students who choose the General Track are exposed to skills and knowledge aimed at working professionals. You don’t need GRE or GMAT scores to apply to this affordable and compact program. In brief, the curriculum focuses on five core goals:
– Communication
– Leadership
– Managerial Knowledge
– Business Analytics
– Ethical PracticeUniversity of the Cumberlands
University of the Cumberlands offers one of the best online MBA programs no GMAT. It’s purpose is to help students tackle advanced business decisions. The program is also presented in a flexible online format lasting one to two years. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. The program offers several relevant concentrations:
– Accounting
– Project Management
– Strategic Management
– Entrepreneurship
– Healthcare Administration
– MarketingNorth American University
North American University offers a handful of specialized MBAs with accreditation from the ACCSC. The Healthcare Management concentration combines leadership and management with knowledge specific to the healthcare industry. You don’t need GMAT or GRE scores to apply. In addition, the program takes as few as 16 months to complete. Classes are online via a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning.
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
SWOSU offers an affordable, ACBSP-accredited MBA. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. But applicants will need to complete the university’s program-specific MBA Inbound CPC-based Comprehensive Exam. All 33 credit hours take one to two years, depending on full-time or part-time formats. Because the program offers mentorship from professors with industry experience, it’s excellent for students looking for the next step in their careers.
University of Nebraska at Kearney
University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an AACSB-accredited MBA with in-person, online, and hybrid options. In line with the hybrid spirit of the program, classes have synchronous and asynchronous elements. The program can take one to two years, and no GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. Students may choose a “track” to customize their degree. Three of these tracks are 100% online:
– Professional Track
– Marketing Track
– Human Resources Track
Top 5 Accelerated MBA Online No GMAT or GRE
Quincy University
Quincy University offers a 30-credit-hour MBA accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Classes are offered asynchronously and online. This program has flexible admission requirements, taking professional experience, previous degrees, and academic history into account. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. Core courses cover vital business concepts. Plus, you can specialize in the degree with a Healthcare Administration focus.
Midway University
Midway University’s MBA is SACSCOC-accredited. This program only takes a brisk 12- to 15-month period. The MBA boasts small class sizes, ensuring students get the personalized attention they need to succeed. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. Several unique concentrations are available to customize this degree, including:
– Equine Management
– Health Care Administration
– Human Resource Management
– Management of Information Systems
– Sport Management
– Tourism & Event ManagementSpring Hill College
Spring Hill College has an affordable, compact MBA degree for working students. The intensive program takes just 10 months. One big benefit is that personal mentorship and networking are part of the curriculum. Coursework is focused on real-world applications of foundational skills. Finally, no GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges regionally accredits Spring Hill.
Carlow University
Carlow University’s Executive MBA can be completed in a compact 10 months. The intensive coursework takes place with a cohort, a group of peers with whom you complete the program. The ethics-focused curriculum is completely online. It equips leaders to make high-level decisions. No GMAT or GRE scores are required to reply. But other requirements include at least five years of professional work experience and two letters of recommendation. The program is IACBE-accredited.
Keystone College
Keystone College offers an asynchronous, online MBA. With rolling admissions and a generous transfer policy, it’s ideal for new applicants and transfer students. The program can take as little as one year for full-time students. A flexible part-time plan can be completed in two. The Middle States Commission accredits this MBA on Higher Education.
Best Programmatically Accredited Online MBA Programs No GMAT (AACSB, IACBE, ACBSP)
Indiana Wesleyan University
IWU’s MBA has online and hybrid options. It can take as few as 18 months to complete the program. There are a couple of unique features. One is a focus on ethical business planning. The other is an MBA “test drive” option. That can earn you a 10% discount on tuition if completed. For motivated students, this program also offers a one-year fast-track option. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply, and the program is ACBSP-accredited.
Saint Ambrose University MBA/General Business
SAU’s MBA is an ACBSP-accredited program completely online. No GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply to the program. Depending on whether students choose part-time or full-time coursework, it can take as little as 13 months to complete. Students can choose a General Business concentration that allows them to customize their degree. Otherwise, four main concentrations are available:
– Leadership
– International Management
– Human Resources Management
– Marketing ManagementRider University
Rider University’s MBA is AACSB accredited and fully online. This program offers many of the benefits of an in-person degree with far more flexibility. For example, small class sizes and an emphasis on networking. Classes are asynchronous. Also, there are six start dates are available throughout the year. It’s easy to pick it up in a short time frame.
The program, built for working professionals, can take less than two years. GRE or GMAT scores may be required, depending on your previous education and work experience, but all applicants are automatically reviewed for a waiver. You can also request a review before you apply, saving time and money. Four concentrations are available to customize your degree:
– Business Analytics
– Finance
– Information Systems
– Sport ManagementUniversity of Delaware
University of Delaware’s Lerner MBA is AACSB-accredited. The flexible degree benefits students with business experience. The program covers 44 credit hours in just 16 months, all online. One unique benefit this MBA offers is one-on-one career coaching. Coaching helps professional students make planned career decisions. GRE and GMAT scores are optional but not required to apply. Several specializations are available to help customize your degree plan. For instance, in-demand topics like information technology and global business.
Lawrence Technological University
Lawrence Technological University offers a flexible, 2-year, AACSB-accredited MBA. The program features online, in-person, and hybrid options for working students. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply. Several concentrations are available to customize your degree, including:
– Business Analytics & Cybersecurity
– Finance
– Information Technology
– Marketing
– Project Management
– Human Resource ManagementLiberty University
Liberty University offers an online, 18-month MBA. The degree focuses on high-level business structure and management. Specifically, how these concepts affect day-to-day operations. This program also emphasizes networking. Students can build connections through online communities that last beyond graduation. As a Christian school, Liberty’s MBA may be appealing to those for whom faith is important. This program is ACBSP accredited; no GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply.
Utica University
Utica University offers a 100% online MBA with a focus on leadership. The program features live virtual sessions with faculty who have real-world business experience. Recorded lectures and other online content are available around the clock. Basically, this program is a blend of synchronous and asynchronous learning. Most students complete this program part-time in two years. Several specializations are available to help customize your degree. The program is ACBSP accredited. Finally, no GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply.
Drake University
Drake University’s MBA is a completely online program. All classes are asynchronous, making this program one of the most flexible out there. Most students complete their courses in two years, studying part-time. This MBA is accredited by the AACSB and requires no GRE or GMAT scores to apply. The program offers several areas of emphasis to customize an already flexible degree further. Students may choose an individualized emphasis or any of the following:
– Accounting
– Business Analytics
– Health Care Management
– Cybersecurity
– Leadership & Human Capital Development
– Public and Nonprofit ManagementFairleigh Dickinson University
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s MBA is a leadership-focused program accredited by the AACSB. The program can take under three years. Students will complete core course requirements first. Then, they’ll finish their degree with application-focused “discipline enhancing” courses and a capstone project. The discipline-enhancing courses cover real-world skills, including project management and digital marketing.
Classwork is asynchronous, which is ideal for working professionals. Up to 6 transfer credits are accepted from other AACSB-accredited programs, making this program a great option for transfer students. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply.
Bethesda University MBA
Bethesda University’s MBA is an online-optional degree accredited by the TRACS. The 45-credit hour program takes about two years. However, students that meet certain prerequisites complete fewer credit hours, resulting in a shorter track. Bethesda’s admissions process is simple and has a low barrier to entry. There’s no GMAT or GRE scores required to apply. This program is a good choice for students looking for a faith-based education. In addition to core business courses and electives, students will receive professional ministry training and take other faith-related classes.
Freed-Hardeman UniversitY
Freed-Hardeman University’s MBA is a fully online program. It benefits working professionals and full- or part-time students. This MBA is SACSCOC accredited. GMAT/GRE scores are waived for applicants with a GPA of 3.4 or higher. The program is compact, with full-time students able to complete the 30 credit hours required in just 12 months. Freed-Hardeman offers a dual-enrollment option for on-campus undergrad students. Though this, they can obtain both their MBA and an undergrad business degree at the same time.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s MBA is an affordable, 100% online program. The AACSB accredits it. Urbana-Champaign balances its online coursework with a focus on leadership and team-based projects. The program emphasizes a completely online experience with no compromises. It requires no travel and provides amenities like staff office hours and access to a 470K-strong alumni network. GRE and GMAT scores are not required to apply. Also, rolling admissions provides several chances to apply over the course of the year. The program boasts a robust, 72-credit-hour curriculum that can be completed in as few as two years.
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University joins the best online MBA programs no GMAT list as an experience-focused, ACBSP-accredited program. It has a flexible online option that offers optional hands-on experiences, like research projects and travel. The curriculum offers several specialization options. Many cover emerging skills in the field. For example, social media marketing and cybersecurity. Most students complete the program in two years. No GRE or GMAT scores are required to apply.
Thomas Edison State University
TESU’s MBA is a completely online program helping professionals thrive in a global context. Courses are a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning. They focus on career-applicable skills and knowledge. The program offers several areas of focus, including accounting, data analytics, and finance. Students can complete their studies in a brisk 15 months. No GRE or GMAT is required to apply for students with an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher. The ACBSP accredits the program.
Texas Wesleyan University
Texas Wesleyan University’s online MBA is a compact program for professionals. It’s certainly one of the fastest out there. The degree can take as few as 12 months, with six sessions starting every year.
Several areas of focus are available. Some include business administration, data analytics, healthcare administration and more. Classes, including assignments and recorded lectures, are available to complete asynchronously at your own pace. With appropriate work or education qualifications, no GMAT or GRE is required to apply.
Xavier University
Xavier University’s Online MBA is a fully online, AACSB-accredited program. The required 39-45 credit hours can take as few as 18 months. A large alumni network provides chances to network even while taking classes online. Classes may have synchronous and asynchronous elements depending on the instructor and material. The program features rolling admissions; no GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply.
California State University – San Bernardino
California State University’s Executive MBA is a highly accessible program. It accepts students with any accredited bachelor’s degree, not just in business. It’s AACSB accredited and can take as few as 15 months. This MBA is flexible in terms of format, with in-person, fully online, or blended options. Also, weekend and evening classes. GRE/GMAT test scores are accepted but not required, provided applicants meet other criteria. Some alternative criteria include:
– A 3.2 cumulative GPA from an accredited undergraduate program,
– Minimum two years of professional experience, or
– Proof of an accredited graduate degree.Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University offers two MBAs. The first is a customizable Professional MBA. The second a compact one-year MBA. Both are online and accredited by the IACBE. The one-year MBA is focused and intensive. It takes around eleven months to complete. The Professional MBA boasts twelve majors, among them in-demand concentrations like international business, supply chain management, and business intelligence/analytics. This MBA can take as few as 18 months. GRE and GMAT requirements depend on the program and applicant qualifications.
Loyola University Maryland
Loyola University Maryland’s AACSB-accredited MBA is a part-time program. Specifically, it benefits professionals with one to two years of working experience. Students have the option to complete their degrees in a blended or online format. Loyola’s MBA features rolling admissions, accepting applications year-round. Generally, the degree takes two to three years. GMAT/GRE scores are not considered part of the application process.
Top 5 Most Prestigious Online MBA no GMAT or GRE
Syracuse University
Syracuse University’s online MBA is a flexible, AACSB-accredited program. One distinctive element is the option to earn a second master’s degree alongside an MBA. Similar pairings can elevate your credentials while saving money and time. For example, an MBA and an MS in Entrepreneurship options. The core degree can take as few as 24 months. It offers specializations, including accounting, business analytics, and more. With a minimum of two years of professional work experience, GMAT and GRE scores are not required to apply.
University of Miami
The University of Miami’s online MBA offers a multicultural take on business education. The program is flexible, with traditional and accelerated tracks that offer full- and part-time options. Also, working students can complete the program in as few as 16 months. Students may participate in on-campus immersions. They must meet alternative requirements to make their experience completely online. No GMAT or GRE scores are required to apply. This program may waive TOEFL scores for international students, provided they meet the appropriate criteria. This program is AACSB accredited.
Rochester Institute of Technology
The RIT online Executive MBA is an AACSB-accredited program with an emphasis on networking. Classes are synchronous, offering less flexibility than some other programs. However, thanks to the program’s unique pacing, you’ll complete the degree alongside a cohort in just 17 months. The program requires an in-person orientation and an international seminar. GMAT/GRE scores are not.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Virginia Tech’s online MBA is a fully online, part-time program. The AACSB accredits it. With a flexible combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning, this program may take 22 months. No GMAT or GRE scores are required to reply. However, professional letters of recommendation are. In addition to your core studies, you’ll have access to online workshops, alumni mentoring, and optional travel opportunities. Areas of focus are available in your second year, including the following:
– Cybersecurity
– Entrepreneurship
– Global Immersion Experience
– Healthcare Data & LeadershipUniversity of Denver
The University of Denver’s online MBA benefits working professionals. Scheduling is flexible, and the degree takes as little as 21 months to complete. GMAT or GRE scores are optional. Other application requirements include:
– A professional resume
– Essays
– Professional references and official college transcriptsIn addition to online coursework, you’ll have two required in-person immersions. They provide global travel opportunities and help you apply your education in a global business context. Focuses on marketing, finance, and executive leadership are available online. The AACSB accredits this program.
Applying to the Best Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Scores
Just because you don’t need GMAT and GRE scores doesn’t mean there isn’t work to do when applying for the best online MBA programs no GMAT. The following are common application requirements. Consider them while you research programs.
- Letters of Recommendation: Many MBAs require one or more letters of recommendation. These can be from a colleague, superior, or contact from a relevant organization.
- Resume: A resume showing relevant work experience and accomplishments is valuable when applying for your MBA. Try to spotlight work experience that shows your growth and ambition as a professional. List any achievements or certifications that demonstrate your credentials.
- Essays: Application essays are a chance to express why you deserve a spot in a program. Good essays are passionate and specific and highlight the qualities that make you a valuable candidate.
- Undergraduate Transcripts: Many programs will accept unofficial transcripts for admissions purposes. However, these programs usually require official transcripts submitted by the end of your first semester or sooner. Check with your undergrad school so that transcripts are official and on time. Many colleges offer digital transcripts, making this process fast and easy.
- Interviews: An academic interview can make or break your application. Successful candidates are confident, concise, and prepared to answer tough questions. Consider researching potential questions and brush up on your resume to ensure you put your best foot forward.
The Best Online Programs With No GMAT Requirement Await You!
In conclusion, there exist many alternatives to GMAT and GRE scores. Dozens of respected, accredited schools offer their MBAs online. Use GetEducated’s resources to find the best online MBA programs no GMAT that work for you.