While GMAT is needed for various prestigious MBA programs including the likes of M7 and so on, there are plenty of online MBA programs that now admit students with no GMAT scores. This blog has a list of these schools and some corresponding information such as AVG salaries and so on.
List of Online MBA with No GMAT
While this is a healthy list and there are options, one should consider giving GMAT a real shot and try at their ideal schools and try to bridge the gap of getting through GMAT with a decent score rather than letting the exam constraining them!
We have various blogs with notes on different topics
As far as consensus on the exam taking is concerned, this is what Reddit has to say about GMAT exam and why it’s not such a bad idea to give it a shot:
Based on the discussion, here are the key takeaways about why one should not avoid taking the GMAT:
Academic Readiness Signal
- It proves you can handle the rigor of an MBA program
- The math is manageable (up to 11th-grade level) with proper preparation
- Shows commitment to academic excellence
Financial Benefits
- Strong test scores are a major factor in securing scholarship money
- Can potentially save significant money on tuition through merit-based scholarships
Program Options [Online MBA Programs]
- Not taking GMAT/GRE significantly limits school options
- Many top-tier programs still require test scores
- Test waivers aren’t always the best route, even when available
Career Readiness Indicator [No GMAT is not good!]
- If you can’t commit to 1-2 months of test prep, it may indicate challenges with MBA recruiting prep
- Shows dedication and ability to balance priorities (like working professionals often need to do)
Competitive Advantage
- Provides an additional way to stand out in applications
- Particularly important for candidates with less conventional backgrounds
- Can compensate for weaker areas in your application
Investment Perspective
- Relatively low difficulty and effort investment considering the potential return
- MBA degrees from top schools offer significant salary potential
- The prep time (typically 12-14 weeks) is minimal compared to the long-term benefits
The consensus from the discussion is that while test waivers exist, taking the GMAT/GRE is often the better strategic choice for serious MBA candidates, both for admissions prospects and potential financial benefits.