An MBA in the USA without GMAT is not only possible but highly accessible. With a minimum of 2 years of work experience, a good academic record (GPA above 3.4), and a stellar SOP, you can admission into top US MBA colleges without a GMAT. Read this blog to learn about MBA colleges in the USA offering GMAT waivers for International students.
Key Highlights:
- The top MBA colleges in the USA waiving off GMAT are MIT Sloan, NYU Stern, and Kellogg School of Business.
- The tuition fees for an MBA in the USA, without the GMAT requirement, range from USD 30,000 (about INR 24 lakhs) to USD 81,000 (approximately INR 68 lakhs) per year.
- You can expect a salary of USD 175,000 (INR 1.4 crore) after completing an MBA without a GMAT from the USA.
MBA in USA With GMAT vs Without GMAT
Many top US business schools offer an MBA without a GMAT. As we transition into a more practical approach to education, work experience, strong academic records, and extracurricular activities are prioritised over a single GMAT score.
Here, we've covered a detailed comparison of MBA programs in the USA with GMAT requirements versus those without, allowing you to understand the key differences and benefits of each option.
|
Parameter |
MBA with GMAT |
MBA without GMAT |
|---|---|---|
|
Top Universities |
HBS, Stanford GSB, Wharton |
MIT, NYU Stern, UCLA Anderson |
|
Cost |
USD 275 (INR 23,091) + prep materials, coaching, and other resources |
No GMAT-related costs |
|
Eligibility |
700+ score for top B-schools |
More focus on academic record and work experience |
|
Flexibility |
Less flexible, a good GMAT score is mandatory |
More flexible |
|
Post-MBA Opportunities |
87% of graduates are placed in leading companies |
Similar projections |
Top 10 Business Schools for MBA in the USA without GMAT
Many US business schools offer an MBA without a GMAT, making the program more accessible. The top business schools in the US waiving off GMAT are:
|
QS 2025 Ranking |
University Name |
|---|---|
|
4 |
MIT Sloan School of Management |
|
11 |
Northwestern University (Kellogg) |
|
13 |
Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley |
|
17 |
NYU Stern School of Business |
|
22 |
Ross School of Business |
|
42 |
UCLA Anderson |
|
57 |
Tuck School of Business |
|
108 |
Boston University |
|
218 |
University of Maryland |
|
- |
Babson College |
We’ve discussed these MBA colleges in detail below:
MIT Sloan School of Management
MIT Sloan is one of the best universities for an MBA in the US, and you don’t need a GMAT score. A relevant UG degree like business and economics allows you to skip the GMAT. Some additional details about an MBA at MIT Sloan without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at MIT Sloan
Follow these admission requirements for applying to MIT Sloan:
- Valid academic transcripts from UG
- A business writing assessment
- 5 years of work experience
- Cover letter
- 2 professional LOR
- TOEFL/ IELTS is not required
Overview of the MIT Sloan MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 77,170 (INR 64 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
Round 1 - September 30, 2024 |
|
Scholarships |
Dean’s Fellowship, MIT Sloan Fellowships, Legatum Fellowship, McKinsey Award and Forte Foundation Fellowship |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Operations, Strategy, Analytics |
Schedule a free consultation call with our expert counsellors, and get started on your journey to MBA in the USA.
Northwestern University (Kellogg)
The Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University waives off the GMAT if you have a GPA above 3.4. Some additional details about an MBA at Kellogg School of Management without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at Kellogg School of Business
Follow these admission requirements for applying to Northwestern University (Kellogg):
- Valid academic transcripts from undergraduate studies.
- A written essay as part of the application.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional work experience (or significant post-undergraduate work experience).
- A cover letter expressing your motivation for the program.
- Two professional letters of recommendation.
- A TOEFL score of 100 and an IELTS band score of 7.0 required
Overview of the Kellogg School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 81,015 (INR 68 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
Round 1 - September 11, 2024 |
|
Scholarships |
Brodsky Scholarship, Charles J. Schaniel Scholarship, David Himmelblau Scholarship, and Donald P. Jacobs International Scholarships |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance and Marketing |
Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley’s Haas School offers a highly selective MBA program known for its rigorous curriculum and strong focus on leadership and innovation. Consistently ranked among the top 10 business schools in the world, Haas doesn’t need a GMAT score. Some additional details about an MBA at Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at Haas School of Business
Follow these admission requirements for applying to Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley:
- A personal statement outlining your motivations and career goals.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of professional work experience.
- One to two essays that provide insight into your background and aspirations.
- Two letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Haas School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 85,406 (INR 71 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
Allan Holt Fellowship, Blue Duck Scholarship, Blue Duck Scholarship, C&J White Fellowship, and Galloway MBA Fellowship |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Strategy & Consulting, Corporate Social Responsibility, Energy and Clean Technology, Entrepreneurship and Health Management. |
NYU Stern School of Business
NYU Stern’s MBA program stands out for its location in New York City. Stern offers over 20 specializations, including FinTech and luxury marketing without GMAT. Some additional details about an MBA at NYU Stern School of Business without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at NYU Stern School of Business
Follow these admission requirements for applying to NYU Stern School of Business:
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose.
- No minimum criteria for professional work experience.
- A cover letter.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A TOEFL score of 100 and an IELTS band score of 7.0 required
Overview of the NYU Stern School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 81,916 (INR 69 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
Fertitta Veterans MBA Scholarship, Consortium Fellowship, William R. Berkley Scholarship, and Elizabeth Elting Advancing Women's Leadership Fellowship |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Accounting, Brand Management, Corporate Finance, and Digital Marketing |
Ross School of Business
The Ross MBA boasts a high employment rate of 96% within three months of graduation, reflecting its strong corporate connections. You can pursue an MBA without a GMAT here. Some additional details about an MBA at Ross School of Business without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at Ross School of Business
Follow these admission requirements for applying to the Ross School of Business:
- Valid academic transcripts from undergraduate studies.
- A written essay as part of the application.
- At least 4-5 years of professional work experience.
- A cover letter detailing your career objectives.
- Two professional letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Ross School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 75,392 (INR 63 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
Tauber Institute for Global Operations Scholarships, Erb Institute Scholarships, The Miguel Andrés Sossa-Mardomingo (MÁS) Scholarship Fund, and Health Innovation Scholars Program |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital, Business and Sustainability, and Data and Business Analytics |
UCLA Anderson
UCLA Anderson provides an MBA without submitting GMAT scores. Some additional details about an MBA at UCLA Anderson without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at UCLA Anderson
Follow these admission requirements for applying to UCLA Anderson:
- Minimum of 5 years of professional work experience.
- A cover letter outlining your background and goals.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A TOEFL score of 100 and an IELTS band score of 7.0 required
Overview of the UCLA Anderson MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 87,008 (INR 73 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
ROMBA Fellowships, Consortium Fellowships, and The Meyer and Renee Luskin Fellowship |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Entertainment Management, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Global Management, and Health Care |
Suggested: Top MBA Colleges waiving off GMAT
Tuck School of Business
Tuck’s MBA program requires a minimum of 2 years of professional work experience for an MBA without submitting GMAT scores. Some additional details about an MBA at Tuck School of Business without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at Tuck School of Business
Follow these admission requirements for applying to the Tuck School of Business:
- A personal essay addressing your goals and motivations.
- Minimum of 2 years of work experience.
- A cover letter.
- Two letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Tuck School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 86,040 (INR 72 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
The Willard M. Bollenbach Jr. 1949 Fund, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Strategy, Operations, Analytics, Corporate Finance and Capital Markets, and Managerial and Global Economics |
Questrom School of Business, Boston University
Boston University’s Questrom School of Business offers an MBA focusing on health sector management, digital technology, and social impact without GMAT. Some additional details about an MBA at Boston University without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at Boston University
Follow these admission requirements for applying to Boston University:
- Official transcripts from undergraduate studies.
- A statement of purpose explaining your career goals.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience.
- A cover letter.
- Two letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Questrom School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 66,670 (INR ) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
BU Alumni Scholarship, Amberscholar Scholarship, Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program, Zolve Global Scholarship, and Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Project management, Management consulting, Marketing, and Accounting |
Smith School of Business, University of Maryland
Smith School of Business’s MBA program offered by the University of Marland offers a specialized track in Business Analytics and a STEM-designated MBA without a GMAT. Some additional details about an MBA at the University of Maryland without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at the University of Maryland
Follow these admission requirements for applying to the University of Maryland:
- An application essay.
- At least 2-5 years of work experience.
- A cover letter outlining your objectives.
- Two letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Smith School of Business MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 58,239 (INR 49 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
Maryland Alumni Association Student Scholarship Award, Long Nguyen and Kimmy Duong Scholarship Program, and Forte Future Leaders Scholarship |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Accounting & Information Assurance, Information Systems, Managerial Economics, Operations Management/Management Science, and Organizational Behavior/Human Resource Management |
Babson College
Known for its focus on entrepreneurship, Babson College’s MBA program does not require GMAT scores for 2025 applications. Some additional details about an MBA at Babson College without a GMAT are:
Admission Requirements for MBA at the Babson College
Follow these admission requirements for applying to the Babson College:
- Transcripts from undergraduate studies.
- A personal statement or essay addressing your motivations.
- Minimum of 3-4 years of relevant work experience.
- A cover letter.
- Two professional letters of recommendation.
Overview of the Babson College MBA Program
|
Course Duration |
2 years |
|
Fees |
USD 71,564 (INR 60 Lakhs) |
|
Application Deadline |
|
|
Scholarships |
Babson Alumni Lifelong Learner Grant, Canadian Scholarship, Wellesley and Needham Town Scholarships, and Yellow Ribbon Scholarships (U.S. Veterans) |
|
Top MBA Specialisations |
Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, and International Business |
Popular Executive MBA Programs in the USA without GMAT
Not only MBA, but top US MBA colleges also offer popular executive MBA/ EMBA programs without GMAT. Renowned schools like MIT, Kellogg, and NYU Stern are a few. Professionals with 3-7 years of work experience can apply for an EMBA.
Some of the top B-schools offering EMBA without GMAT are as follows:
|
University |
QS Rank 2025 |
|---|---|
|
MIT Sloan |
4 |
|
Kellogg Business School |
11 |
|
Stern Business School |
17 |
|
UCLA Anderson |
42 |
|
Boston University |
108 |
|
125 |
Suggested: EMBA programs without GMAT
Types of MBA Programs in the USA that Don’t Need GMAT
You may wonder, “Which MBA is right for me?” The answer depends on your academic and career goals and personal circumstances. The good news is that US business schools offer various types of MBA programs without GMAT that suit your needs. Some of them are:
|
Full-Time MBA |
Mostly 2 years |
|
Dual Degree MBA |
MS + MBA, 3 years |
|
Tech MBA |
1 year |
How to Get a GMAT Exam Waiver for an MBA in the USA?
To get a GMAT waiver for an MBA in the USA, you need significant work experience of 3-4 years, and strong academic records (GPA above 3.4). Each MBA college has specific requirements, and you must check their respective policies on the official website.
You need to apply for the waiver either with the application form or separately.
A GMAT waiver has made renowned MBA colleges more accessible to students globally, by also offering a fair opportunity. Different colleges also offer GMAT waivers based on extracurricular activities, so make sure to check that out as well.
Cost of Studying MBA in the USA without GMAT
The average cost of studying MBA in the US is approximately 76.30 lakhs while the cost of living varies by location. Although the cost of studying is high you can expect a very high ROI% after graduating from this college as the average salary may range from USD 80,000 (INR 66.85 Lakhs) to over USD 160,000 (INR1.3 Cr) per annum.
Tuition Fees
The average cost of studying in top MBA colleges without GMAT is INR 76.30 lakhs.
The following table provides an overview of average tuition costs at popular U.S. universities, helping you evaluate your financial options for studying abroad:
|
University |
Tuition Fees (USD) |
Tuition Fees (INR Lakhs) |
|---|---|---|
|
MIT Sloan School of Management |
77,170 |
64.86 Lakhs |
|
Northwestern University (Kellogg) |
112,330 |
94.40 Lakhs |
|
Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley |
127,860 |
1.07 Cr |
|
NYU Stern School of Business |
76,780 |
64.55 Lakhs |
|
Ross School of Business |
72,000 |
60.56 Lakhs |
|
Tuck School of Business |
78,000 |
65.60 Lakhs |
City-wise Cost of Living
You can expect to spend INR 2-3 lakhs per year as an international student studying MBA in the US without GMAT.
The table below shows the average monthly costs in popular U.S. cities known for their educational and job opportunities, helping you plan your budget effectively.
|
City |
Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
|
Boston |
USD 2,000 - 3,000 (INR 1.67 lakh - 3.00 lakh) |
|
New York |
USD 2,500 - 3,500 (INR 2.50 lakh - 2.91 lakh) |
|
Stanford |
USD 1,800 - 2,500 (INR 1.50 lakh - 2.09 lakh) |
|
San Francisco |
USD 2,200 - 3,000 (INR 1.84 lakh - 2.50 lakh) |
|
Chicago |
USD 1,500 - 2,000 (INR 1.25 lakh - 1.67 lakh) |
|
Philadelphia |
USD 1,400 - 1,800 (INR 1.17 lakh - 1.50 lakh) |
|
Cambridge |
USD 2,000 - 2,500 (INR 1.67 lakh - 2.09 lakh) |
|
Los Angeles |
USD 1,700 - 2,200 (INR 1.42 lakh - 1.84 lakh) |
Scholarship Opportunities for Pursuing an MBA in the USA Without GMAT
As an international student, you can access multiple scholarships to pursue an MBA in the US without a GMAT. Top ones include the Mckinsey Award, MIT Sloan Master’s Fellowship, and others. These focus on work experience, academic excellence, and leadership qualities, helping to make advanced education more affordable and accessible for qualified applicants.
List of scholarships for MBA in the USA with GMAT Waiver
|
Scholarship |
Eligibility |
Award Amount |
|---|---|---|
|
Stern School of Business Dean’s Scholarship |
Awarded to a select number of top-performing admitted students |
Covers full tuition costs |
|
McKinsey Award |
Given to high-achieving students from underrepresented backgrounds |
USD 2500 grant (INR 207,500) |
|
MIT Sloan Master's Fellowships |
Recognizes students with strong academic records, significant professional accomplishments, and the potential to contribute to the MIT Sloan community |
Varies, available for both the first and second year |
|
Donald P. Jacobs International Scholarships |
Open to outstanding international students enrolled in a 2-year MBA program |
Amount varies based on individual circumstances |
|
Columbia Business School Board Fellowships |
Offered to new students who demonstrate exceptional academic and professional promise |
Full tuition coverage, renewable for the second year |
Average Salary of MBA Graduates in the USA
MBA graduates in the USA typically earn salaries ranging from USD 80,000 (INR 66.85 Lakhs) to over USD 160,000 (INR 1.3 Cr) per year. Factors like industry, location, and individual experience significantly impact the average salary.
The table below summarises salary ranges for different industries.
|
Job Fields |
Average Salary Per Annum (USD) |
Average Salary Per Annum (INR Lakhs) |
|---|---|---|
|
Marketing |
USD 99,000 - 157,000 |
INR 82.22 - 130.36 Lakhs |
|
Finance |
USD 80,000 - 123,000 |
INR 66.48 - 102.22 Lakhs |
|
International Business |
USD 79,000 - 148,000 |
INR 65.65 - 123.00 Lakhs |
|
Human Resources |
USD 60,000 - 96,000 |
INR 49.86 - 79.78 Lakhs |
|
Information Technology |
USD 78,000 - 164,000 |
INR 64.81 - 136.30 Lakhs |
Reasons to Pursue MBA in the USA Without GMAT
GMAT is one of the most popular standardised tests in the world, but taking it comes at a steep cost. While its application fee of USD 275 (INR 22,500) can be a deterrent for many students, the costs don’t end there. You also have to spend 3-6 months preparing for the exam, purchase additional resources, and even get help from coaching centers.
Additionally, many students may be excellent with real-life business scenarios and case studies but may find standardised tests challenging. Waiving off the GMAT makes it more flexible for all kinds of students to pursue an MBA in the best B-schools in the US.
A good academic record, projects, certifications, and work experience can help you crack top MBA schools in the US without taking the GMAT.
Here is why you should consider pursuing an MBA in the USA without GMAT:
- Time and Cost Savings: By skipping the GMAT, you save months of preparation and significant costs associated with the test and related study materials.
- Focus on Professional Experience: Many schools prioritize real-world business experience over test scores, allowing you to leverage your work history and achievements.
- Top Employers: Leading companies like Google, Amazon, Accenture, Deloitte, and Cognizant hire MBA graduates from the USA, even those without a GMAT score.
- Growing Demand in Management Roles: The financial management sector is projected to grow by 11% by 2026, ensuring a strong job market post-MBA without GMAT.
- High Employment Rate: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in management occupations will grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, leading to nearly 907,000 new jobs.
From the Desk of Yocket
Skipping the GMAT means saving valuable time and resources. This enables you to focus on building a professional portfolio, craft strong applications, and secure relevant recommendations. However, this path may still demand a stronger emphasis on work experience and career progression—so it’s essential to ensure your profile stands out.
An MBA in the USA without GMAT is not only possible but increasingly accessible. Schedule a call with Yocket experts to learn more about the significant opportunities to advance in the global business environment.
