Your Guide to GMAT/GRE Waivers in 2023-2024 MBA Admissions

When it comes to pursuing an MBA, the road to admission can be challenging, but there’s good news for prospective candidates in 2024. Many esteemed business schools and top-tier MBA programs have extended the option of GMAT/GRE waivers for the 2024 intake, providing an exciting opportunity for applicants to gain admission without submitting standardized test scores.

Here’s a detailed rundown of the business schools that are offering GMAT waivers, along with their eligibility criteria.

Let’s take a closer look at this exciting trend and explore the list of business schools that are breaking the mold.

Business Schools Offering GMAT/GRE Waivers

CMU Tepper

CMU Tepper, a prominent player in the business education arena, believes in assessing academic readiness through various lenses. While many Tepper MBA hopefuls may still opt to submit GMAT/GRE/EA scores, the school acknowledges the multitude of ways to showcase your academic readiness. Tepper offers a case-by-case evaluation for test waivers, keeping a focus on holistic application review. It’s important to note that even if you’re granted a waiver, additional academic preparation might be recommended before embarking on the MBA journey.

Here are some key points to understand about our test waiver option:

• Waivers are granted on an individual basis, considering each case separately.
• The evaluation for waivers is centered around your academic readiness specifically for the Tepper MBA program.
• It’s important to note that being granted a waiver by the Admission Committee does not guarantee admission to the Tepper MBA.
• The decision for admission is based on a comprehensive review of your entire application.
• Even if you receive a waiver, the admissions committee might recommend further academic preparation before the program begins to enhance your academic performance.
• Applying with a test waiver will not impact your eligibility for scholarships.
• After you submit your application, your waiver request will be assessed, and you can expect a response via email within 10 business days from the application deadline.

Cornell Johnson

Cornell Johnson, a distinguished name in MBA education, is allowing candidates for the Full-Time MBA 2024 admissions to request a GMAT/GRE test waiver. 

The school welcomes those who can demonstrate their readiness for the rigorous academic environment to the Cornell’s MBA admissions committee.

Crafting a compelling argument for your readiness in a brief statement becomes the key to unlocking this opportunity at Cornell.

This is what Cornell asks: Please prepare a short statement that describes your personal circumstance and provide a clear and compelling argument for why you will flourish in our rigorous academic environment (100 words). Please note you will submit this statement as part of your admissions application.

Dartmouth Tuck

At Dartmouth Tuck, an exciting proposition awaits applicants. GMAT/GRE test waivers are within your reach if you can demonstrate that your academic background and professional journey have equipped you to thrive in the Tuck MBA program. 

To qualify for submitting a GMAT/GRE test waiver request, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Align with Tuck’s values and admissions standards.
• Possess a minimum of two years of professional work experience post-graduation.
• Fulfill the criteria for an English Language Proficiency test waiver if you are a non-native English speaker.

Requests for GMAT/GRE test waivers must be submitted before you send in your application, adhering to the specified deadline provided in the GMAT/GRE test waiver request deadlines table on the Applying to Tuck page. It’s important to note that GMAT/GRE test waivers are non-renewable and must be requested anew in each admissions cycle.

The evaluation of GMAT/GRE test waiver requests will be conducted in the order they are received. Expect to receive a response via email within a period of 10-12 business days from the date you submit your request.

Certain candidates might be able to make a compelling case for a GMAT/GRE test waiver based on their academic history and/or the nature of their professional experience. Prior to submitting a GMAT/GRE test waiver request, it’s advisable to conduct an honest self-assessment of your strengths, background, and overall candidate profile.

For more information visit Tuck’s GMAT Waiver Page.

Emory Goizueta

Goizueta Business School embraces a different approach, giving applicants the chance to request a waiver from standardized tests for the Full-Time MBA programs. If your academic background and work experience testify to your readiness for graduate-level business coursework, you may find yourself waving goodbye to the GMAT/GRE scores.

Individuals interested in pursuing this avenue should bear in mind that fulfilling requirements such as holding a conferred bachelor’s degree and having engaged in full-time professional work post their undergraduate studies is necessary to initiate the Test Waiver Application process.

For those inclined to pursue a test waiver, the process involves completing the Test Waiver Application and submitting all requisite supporting documents. Following the submission, decisions are typically communicated within a span of approximately 10 to 14 business days.

Recommended Waiver Request Deadlines

For more information visit Emory’s MBA admissions FAQ page

Foster School of Business

Foster School of Business is providing candidates the option to skip the GMAT/GRE for 2024 MBA admissions.

Wondering if this option is right for you? Here’s the lowdown on what the school is looking for in applicants who choose to apply without a test score:

Who Should Consider This Option?

Anyone who can demonstrate strong quantitative skills through their academic history and recent professional experiences should consider applying without a test score. This might be a perfect fit for you if:

• You’ve consistently shown your quantitative abilities in your educational journey, maintaining a GPA at or above average.
• You hold a STEM or business-related degree, and you’ve excelled in multiple quantitative or analytical courses.
• Your professional work experience reflects a clear proficiency in quantitative or analytical tasks. Have certifications in a quantitative field like CPA or CFA? That’s a bonus.
• You’ve been in the professional world for four or more years, progressively taking on roles that highlight your quantitative or analytical prowess.

Remember, these criteria aren’t the only things Foster MBA adcom considers. They’re part of a holistic review along with your transcripts, resume, essays, recommendations, and admission interviews. The aim is to assess your potential within the context of the entire applicant pool.

When Might Test Scores Be Beneficial?

While the school is excited about the test-optional approach, there are scenarios where submitting test scores could work in your favor:

• If your undergraduate GPA is below the class average, a strong test score can showcase your quantitative skills or alleviate concerns about academic readiness.
• Some industries, like finance, investment banking, and consulting, might consider test scores during hiring. A solid GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, or GRE score could give you an edge.
• Scholarships and fellowships often look for strong standardized test scores, so if you’re gunning for financial support, it might be worth submitting your scores.

More information on Foster’s Test Waiver Page

Rotman School of Management

For candidates who have successfully completed Level 2 of the CFA designation, the GMAT requirement is waived. They are advised to obtain confirmation of their CFA Level 2 pass from the CFA institute. This confirmation can then be conveniently forwarded via email to mba@rotman.utoronto.ca. This way, their achievement can be considered during the Rotman School of Management admissions process.

More information on Rotman’s MBA admissions page

Georgia Tech Scheller

Georgia Tech Scheller offers a diverse range of standardized tests for admission consideration, including GMAT, GRE, EA, LSAT, and MCAT. However, they’ve also set sail into the test-optional territory, allowing candidates to apply without submitting a standardized test score.

Individuals who fulfill multiple criteria from the list below might want to explore the option of applying without a test score:

• Display of achievements and a robust track record during their undergraduate studies and degree.
• Accumulation of three or more years of professional work experience.
• Possession of quantitative or analytical educational and/or professional experience.
• Holding of professional certifications like CPA, CFA, or PE.
• Attainment of an advanced degree, whether it’s a graduate, masters, or professional degree.
• Having a strong academic history as an undergraduate at Georgia Tech.

When evaluating an applicant for admission, these criteria will be evaluated alongside other elements such as transcripts, resume, and interviews.

Indiana Kelley

Kelley School of Business at Indiana University presents a more holistic perspective. While the GMAT or GRE can showcase your quantitative and analytic prowess, you can also make a strong case for a waiver based on your academic achievements, professional experience, and leadership qualities.

The evaluation of waiver requests emphasizes robust academic accomplishments in both prior undergraduate and graduate programs. This includes excelling in quantitative and analytic coursework. Possessing certifications like CPA or CFA (or their international equivalents) can also be a strong indicator of academic potential.

Individuals seeking a GMAT/GRE waiver should take the following steps:

• Complete and submit the online information request form. This step ensures the school has your most up-to-date contact details.
• Email the required documents to iumba@indiana.edu. These documents include your current professional resume, unofficial or official undergraduate transcripts (and graduate school transcripts if applicable), and a concise statement (300 words or less) outlining why you believe you qualify for a waiver.

For those wondering about the submission deadlines for waiver requests, here’s the breakdown:

• Round one applicants: October 1
• Round two applicants: December 15
• Round three applicants: February 15
• Round four applicants: April 1

Expect to receive feedback within just one week after submitting your request.

MIT Sloan

For individuals who find themselves unable to submit a test score due to their current circumstances, they have the option to seek a test waiver by explaining their situation.

The Admissions Committee will carefully consider these waiver requests and inform the applicants about the approval status.

If the waiver is granted and the applicant is subsequently admitted, the Admissions Committee retains the prerogative to propose conditional admission terms.

These terms might include specific requirements like achieving a particular score on the GMAT or GRE or participating in an additional class.

To initiate the process for requesting a test waiver, applicants can begin their application and proceed to the Test Scores section. The request can be submitted there, and the applicants will receive an email response at their earliest convenience.

NYU Stern

NYU Stern takes a nuanced approach. While the standardized test is a requirement for the Full-Time and Fashion & Luxury MBA programs, they also consider other evidence of academic readiness. Strong examples of analytical or quantitative background could earn you a standardized test waiver.

The following items need to be included when submitting the request:

• Completed request form
• Updated resume
• Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate programs or degrees. These transcripts should detail all courses taken, grades earned, credits received, final cumulative GPA(s), and degrees awarded. Self-reported transcripts will not be accepted for evaluation. If your transcript isn’t in English, a certified translation along with the original transcript copy is required. In cases where you’ve attended multiple undergraduate institutions, a separate transcript is needed from each unless your primary transcript lists all course titles and grades.

If relevant:

• Transcript from any graduate studies
• Transcripts for post-graduate coursework
• Professional certifications such as CFA, CPA, and more

Additionally, a concise essay response is necessary, addressing the following prompt:

Please list the coursework completed, certifications held, and professional experience you have that demonstrates academic readiness for an MBA program. You may use bullet points. (300 word limit)

Texas McCombs

The Texas McCombs MBA Admissions Team adds flexibility to the mix. Full-Time MBA candidates have many standardized test options, including GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA). And for those with expired scores or who qualify for a general test waiver, the testing requirement can be put to rest. The school gives the option to apply for a merit-based waiver.

Those interested in a merit-based test waiver can submit a request before finalizing their application. It’s important to note that waivers or exceptions aren’t applicable to applicants who have already sent their scores to UT.

To qualify for consideration for a test waiver, an applicant should meet the following criteria:

• Possess a minimum of three years of progressive post-undergraduate work experience, preferably in an analytical or quantitative capacity.
• AND have at least one of the following:
• Successful completion of an undergraduate degree with a strong academic track record, particularly in analytical or quantitative courses.
• Attainment of a graduate degree with a solid academic performance, preferably in a field related to analysis or quantitation.

The Admissions Committee will conduct a meticulous assessment of the applicant’s academic history, focusing on their engagement with analytical or quantitative coursework. To enhance the likelihood of the waiver request being approved, it is advisable for applicants to maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher.

More information on this page

UCLA Anderson

Applicants have the flexibility to choose whether or not they want to submit a test score as part of their application to the Full-Time MBA program. A test score isn’t mandatory, but it can provide the admissions committee with valuable information.

For those who opt not to include a test score, demonstrating their readiness for the program becomes paramount. To do so, they’ll be required to craft an essay that presents evidence of their MBA readiness. The admissions team will take a close look at their track record, encompassing:

• Their academic history, particularly focusing on analytical or quantitative courses taken during their undergraduate or graduate years.
• Their professional journey after completing their undergraduate degree, especially if it involves roles that demanded analytical or quantitative skills.
• Any professional certifications they’ve earned, such as CPA, CFA, or their international equivalents.
• Past performance on expired GMAT or GRE tests.

Candidates who can showcase multiple achievements in the academic and professional realms, as outlined above, stand a higher chance of being accepted without a test score. The application process aims to understand applicants from a holistic perspective, making room for various paths to success.

More information on UCLA Anderson’s MBA admissions page

UNC Kenan Flagler

While scores from standardized tests such as the GMAT or GRE offer valuable insights into an applicant’s potential for academic success, the Admissions Committee acknowledges that certain individuals possess compelling qualifications that warrant admission consideration. These criteria encompass, but aren’t limited to:

• Graduating with a GPA of 3.2 or higher, with coursework in STEM, business, economics, or analytical fields, from a U.S. institution.
• Attaining an advanced or terminal degree in JD, MD, PhD, or MS within academic domains like STEM, business, or economics.
• Accumulating 5 or more years of professional experience in quantitative or analytical roles.
• Holding a professional certification such as CFA or U.S. CPA.
• Impressive scores in the Executive Assessment, LSAT, PCAT, or MCAT.

The Admissions Committee expects all candidates requesting a GMAT/GRE waiver to submit their requests before the test waiver deadline designated for each application round. Late submissions might either be declined or deferred to the subsequent round.

More information on the UNC MBA admissions page

Virginia Darden

Virginia Darden offers a standardized test waiver application, with each request evaluated on a case-by-case basis. A record of exceptional academic and professional accomplishment can pave the way to a waiver.

Darden MBA admissions committee will look at the following before deciding to grant you a GMAT Waiver:

• A strong undergraduate record, including performance in analytical coursework or disciplines 
• Master’s or advanced degree in analytical discipline 
• At least three years of professional work experience 
• These factors will be considered in combination with resume and transcripts for all degree-related coursework. Candidates who present a strong profile across several criteria (including supporting materials) are more likely to be granted a test waiver

These candidates received GMAT Waivers and admits from their target Business Schools

Real stories of triumph shine a light on the transformative power of Admit Expert’s MBA admissions consulting. Let’s delve into the journeys of two exceptional individuals who, with our guidance, turned their dreams into reality by securing GMAT waivers and coveted admissions to their desired business schools.

Disha Chhabra: Unlocking Opportunities with a GMAT Waiver

Disha Chhabra, a professional with nearly four years of consulting experience, embarked on her MBA application journey with Admit Expert. Her determination to aim high was met with the challenge of a not-so-ideal GMAT score. However, Admit Expert’s unwavering support and tailored guidance made all the difference.

Disha attests, “My consultant suggested to apply for the GMAT waiver, considering the profile I had and the things that I have in hand which would make it possible for me to get through. Thanks to Admit Expert’s strategic approach, I secured GMAT waivers from multiple schools.”

She not only received admission to Emory Goizueta, a top-tier business school, but also earned a scholarship of $72,000. Disha’s success story exemplifies the power of Admit Expert’s personalized assistance in turning challenges into triumphs.

Akanksha Sinha: Paving the Way to Success with Expert Guidance

Akanksha Sinha’s journey to her desired MBA program was marked by the absence of a GMAT score. With Admit Expert, she found the support and motivation she needed to embark on her application journey. Akanksha shares, “My consultant took the time to get to know me on a personal level and really understand my career aspirations.” Through meticulous collaboration, Akanksha’s application shone brightly, securing GMAT waivers at every school she applied to.

Admit Expert’s attention to detail and round-the-clock availability stood out to Akanksha. “My consultant worked with me to fine-tune every aspect of my application, from my essays to my resume and beyond,” she recalls.

These stories illuminate Admit Expert’s transformative impact on MBA candidates pursuing their aspirations with GMAT waivers. Through dedicated consulting, Admit Expert empowers applicants to craft compelling applications, unlock opportunities, and achieve their dreams of attending top-tier business schools.

Final Thoughts 

In the ever-evolving landscape of MBA admissions, business schools are reaching out to candidates in unprecedented ways. As you explore your options, remember that each school offers a unique path to pursuing your MBA dreams. Whether it’s showcasing your analytical prowess, demonstrating years of leadership, or proving your academic readiness through alternative means, these GMAT/GRE waivers are opening doors that were once considered closed. So, take a leap of faith, make your case, and embark on a transformative journey toward a top MBA program, unburdened by traditional test score constraints.

With Admit Expert’s unparalleled MBA admissions consulting services, you can navigate the intricate path with confidence. Our team of experienced consultants is dedicated to helping you make the most of the unique GMAT/GRE waiver opportunities presented by leading business schools for the 2024 admissions cycle. We understand that each applicant’s story is distinct, and we tailor our guidance to ensure your application stands out in a competitive landscape. With Admit Expert by your side, you’re not just applying; you’re illuminating your potential for success.