Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Updated April 1, 2024
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Each year, thousands of students enroll at U.S. business schools, working toward their MBAs. As access to and interest in online learning have continued to increase, more students can pursue these in-demand degrees from the comfort of their homes.
Colleges, too, have shifted their approach to recruiting MBA students. As more and more business schools shift away from requiring GMAT scores, the focus has turned to other indicators of success. Keep reading to learn about top online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.
The Best MBA Programs Online That Don't Require GMAT
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Minneapolis, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers an online master of business administration. The MBA program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the business field and related industries. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in business administration. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on prior business experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,580
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,204
#2 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
The University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of business administration at the University of Cincinnati prioritizes flexibility. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the MBA program. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the business field.
Online enrollees work with the MBA program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of Cincinnati at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,224
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,966
#3 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southeastern Oklahoma State University, located in Durant, enrolls master's students in its online business administration program. The MBA program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to business administration. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants with prior experience in business administration or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. The MBA program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,716
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,872
#4 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern Methodist University, located in Dallas, enrolls master's students in its online business administration program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the MBA program. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores business administration research and methodologies. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with prior experience in business or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Southern Methodist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $40,896
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $40,896
#5 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Bentley University
Waltham, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University hosts a top-ranked master of business administration program. The MBA program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to business administration. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends individuals have a background in business before applying.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. The MBA program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Bentley University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $40,992
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $40,992
#6 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The MBA program at Regent University, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of business administration program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on business. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the business field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, like the library or gymnasium, are accessible to students living near campus. Graduate students can build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Regent University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,552
#7 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Excelsior University
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online
The online master of business administration program is offered by Excelsior University from its Albany, New York, campus. Graduates train for leadership roles in the business field while earning their degree from the MBA program. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to business. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants have a business background.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Excelsior University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Program Name: Master of business administration
#8 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Baker College
Owosso, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Owosso, Michigan, Baker College hosts a master of business administration program. The MBA program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business administration. Learners can focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in business for applicants.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Baker College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,510
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,510
#9 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online business administration degree can enroll in the master's program at Missouri Baptist University, located in Saint Louis. The MBA program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the business field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of business administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in business or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Missouri Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,256
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,256
#10 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in San Angelo, Texas, Angelo State University offers an online master of business administration. The MBA program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates often pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on business. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in business or a related field may need to complete prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Many institutions provide libraries and fitness centers for use by students living on campus. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Angelo State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,119
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,481
#11 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Parker University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online
From its campus in Dallas, Texas, Parker University offers an online master of business administration. The MBA program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the business field. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in business or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live on campus. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Parker University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,870
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,870
#12 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
North Park University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Park University, located in Chicago, enrolls master's students in its online business administration program. The MBA program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the business field. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior business experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Students who live near campus can access the library and gymnasium as well as the equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
North Park University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,896
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,896
#13 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in earning a master of business administration can pursue their degree from Emporia State University. The MBA program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on business. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their community. On-campus students benefit from the library and gym facilities provided by many institutions. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Emporia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,547
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,365
#14 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Bushnell University
Eugene, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Eugene, Oregon, Bushnell University hosts a top-ranked master of business administration program. The MBA program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in the business field. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The admission requirements include a background in business or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the common amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. The MBA program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Bushnell University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,640
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,640
#15 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lincoln Memorial University, located in Harrogate, Tennessee, offers a flexible online MBA program. The master of business administration program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree often helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the business field. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in business.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library and gym, are accessible to students who live near campus. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Lincoln Memorial University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,705
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,705
#16 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Blue Mountain College
Blue Mountain, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of business administration program at Blue Mountain College, located in Mississippi, prioritizes flexibility. The MBA program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in business. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in the business field.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Students who live near campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Blue Mountain College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 99%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,530
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,530
#17 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Spring Hill College
Mobile, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The MBA program at Spring Hill College, located in Mobile, Alabama, uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of business administration program. After earning a master's degree, graduates can pursue careers in various industries.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in business. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in business before applying.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Those who live near campus can enjoy the amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Spring Hill College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,182
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,182
#18 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Tennessee Wesleyan University
Athens, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online MBA program is offered by Tennessee Wesleyan University from its Athens campus. The master of business administration program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the business field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in business administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a background in business may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the MBA program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their area. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, like the library and gymnasium, are accessible to students living on campus. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Tennessee Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,490
#19 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
The University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Saint Mary, located in Leavenworth, Kansas, offers a flexible online master of business administration. The MBA program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of business administration. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in business or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Those who live near campus can enjoy the amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
The University of Saint Mary at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,124
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,124
#20 Top Online MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirement
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Kansas, Wichita State University offers an online MBA program. The master of business administration program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to business. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in business administration.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Those who live near campus can enjoy the amenities and facilities available at most institutions, such as the library and gym. Internships and other practicum activities help learners build hands-on experience and professional connections.
Wichita State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of business administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,544
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,615
Featured Online MBA Programs
Why Are Schools Waiving or Not Requiring the GMAT?
The reasons a school may waive the GMAT are different than the reasons for eliminating the GMAT altogether. A school may waive the GMAT for two reasons. Firstly, if you apply with a stellar undergraduate GPA and exceptional work experience, you may get a waiver. Secondly, some schools created a temporary waiver following the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the case of schools no longer requiring the GMAT, you will find this more common with online MBAs. These programs recognize that applicants have a wide spectrum of experiences and educational backgrounds and allow them to decide which elements of their application best showcase their preparedness.
Even if a school doesn't require the GMAT, you may find that taking the exam still makes sense based on other application components.
What Is the GMAT?
The GMAT — or the Graduate Management Admission Test — is a standardized, multiple-choice exam used to measure readiness for graduate-level work. Many graduate business schools and MBA programs require it.
How Much Does the GMAT Cost?
As of 2023, it costs $275 to take the GMAT at an in-person testing location in the U.S. and $300 to take it online. Pricing and regulations vary by country.
How Long Does the GMAT Take?
The current version of the GMAT takes three hours and seven minutes to complete. You can also choose to use two optional eight-minute breaks. The exam breaks into four sections, including:
- 31 quantitative reasoning questions
- 36 verbal reasoning questions
- 12 integrated reasoning questions
- One analytical writing assessment
Most test-takers spend 8-12 weeks preparing for the GMAT, but timelines can vary based on how much preparation you need to feel confident.
How Many Times Can You Take the GMAT?
- Candidates can take the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period. Only two of those five attempts can be online.
- Candidates can take the GMAT a lifetime maximum of eight times.
Who Cares About GMAT Scores?
Even though some schools may no longer care about GMAT scores, that doesn't mean every employer feels the same. Consulting firms, and some investment banks, frequently require GMAT scores when hiring interns and employees.
Other types of companies you may encounter who want to know your GMAT scores include managerial recruiters, financial planning institutions, and risk management firms. These employers see GMAT scores as a helpful metric when identifying the strongest candidates, given that many receive a large number of applications for each position.
What Is the GRE?
The GRE — or Graduate Record Examination — is a more generalized graduate-level standardized test used by graduate, business, and law schools worldwide.
How Much Does the GRE Cost?
As of 2023, in most areas of the world, the GRE costs $220. Test fees in India and China are slightly higher. Some people may qualify for a fee reduction voucher.
How Long Does the GRE Take?
Overall testing time lasts about three hours and 45 minutes, plus a 10-minute break.
The test covers three subjects broken into six sections.
- Analytical Writing
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
Kaplan recommends 1-3 months of study time for the GRE. Top performers typically study over 100 hours before taking the exam.
How Many Times Can You Take the GRE?
You can take the GRE up to five times within any rolling 12-month period. There must be at least 21 days between each test.
Who Cares About GRE Scores?
The same type of employers who care about GMAT scores frequently still care about GRE scores, as they provide one more metric for comparing candidates and making informed decisions.
GRE scores also prove valuable for MBA graduates who may decide to attend law school later. In addition to colleges and universities wanting these metrics, many law firms also review GRE scores as part of the hiring process.
Admission Requirements in Place of GMAT Scores
In the absence of GMAT scores, what do online MBA program administrators look for in potential candidates? Below, we examine some of the top requirements for online MBA programs that do not require GMAT scores.
-
Work Experience
Work experience shows admissions offices how candidates handle themselves in professional settings and whether they have progressed in their careers. Many programs desire applicants with 2-8 years of professional work experience. -
Advanced Degrees
Students who successfully navigated the rigors of graduate school are more likely to succeed in an MBA program. You can often bypass GMAT requirements if you already have a master's degree or doctorate. -
GPA
A high GPA demonstrates that you can handle challenging classes without letting your grades suffer. Many schools require a 3.0-3.5 GPA to waive GMAT requirements. -
Professional Licensure
Many business-related positions require licensure and/or certification (e.g., CFA, CPA, Six Sigma) to practice. Licensure demonstrates that candidates hold the skills and qualifications needed to pass industry exams. Some schools may use existing licenses and certifications to determine whether to waive GMAT scores. -
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation can help an admissions office decide whether or not to admit a student without GMAT scores. Choose recommenders who can speak well about your abilities and your potential. -
Essay or Personal Statement
The essay or personal statement provides you with a chance to demonstrate — in your own words — why you deserve a place in the program and how you plan to ensure your success. Use this document to highlight academic and professional accomplishments and clearly outline how you hope to use your MBA in meaningful ways.
When You Need to Take the GMAT or GRE
Even though many MBA programs no longer require applicants to take the GMAT or GRE, you may want to include your scores anyway — especially if parts of your application could be stronger.
If your undergraduate GPA is low or you lack work experience, an impressive GMAT score may help bolster your admission chances.
What If the School Requires the GMAT or GRE?
Many programs continue to require standardized test scores for admission. Here's how to prepare for them:
-
Figure out which schools on your list require test scores. -
Decide which test you should take — do the schools you're looking at accept both exams? Is preference given to one over the other? -
Set aside plenty of time to study and sit for your exam. -
Ideally, give yourself enough time to retake the exam at least once in case you want to improve your initial score.
Accreditation
Test scores might be optional — but picking an accredited school definitely isn't. If you're going to invest your time and money into business school, you want future employers to trust that your education is legit.
Accreditation matters for three reasons:
-
1
It means the school has gone through a rigorous vetting process. -
2
It signals to employers that your degree is valuable. -
3
It indicates that the program does a good job of supporting students and preparing them to succeed in the workforce.
Some organizations that accredit MBA programs include:
-
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) -
International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) -
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Graduate Success
Strong student outcomes are a good indicator of a high-quality online MBA program.
Below are a few questions you can ask and research:
-
How long does it take for graduates to land a job -
What are their average earnings in the short and the long term -
How active is the alumni network when it comes to helping new graduates make important connections and get interviews -
What career resources does the program provide
Online MBA Areas of Study
Students can earn general or specialized MBA degrees. Generalist programs focus on versatile, transferable skills with broad, cross-industry applications. Specialized programs develop more specific proficiencies for particular industries or targeted areas of professional practice.
Schools vary with respect to the specializations they offer. Some business schools feature many concentration options. Others offer a limited selection or focus solely on generalist business education.
The following list describes common specializations that may interest learners with particular career goals:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Management
- Marketing
- Organizational Leadership
- Supply Chain
- Taxation
Accounting
MBA concentrations in accounting combine a business core with rigorous study of advanced accounting topics. Specialized accounting-focused coursework typically covers subjects including financial reporting, financial analytics, and managerial accounting. MBA programs in accounting also usually cover auditing and business and corporate taxation. Some also delve into nonprofit and public-sector accounting principles.
Featured Online Master's in Accounting Programs
Economics
Specialized MBA programs in economics train students to apply both general and specific economics theories and principles to business management. Coursework integrates applied economics with best practices in business management, developing students' abilities to make strategic business decisions based on macroeconomic and microeconomic factors and indicators. Graduates emerge with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in analytics-focused management roles.
Featured Online Master's in Economics Programs
Entrepreneurship
MBA programs in entrepreneurship endeavor to build a strong combination of leadership and business management skills. They typically appeal to self-starters who plan to launch their own ventures. In these programs, students build a combination of advanced skills in areas including business financing, marketing, project management, social innovation, and product and service design. Other common topics include the venture capital landscape, business law, and entrepreneurial strategy.
Featured Online Master's in Entrepreneurship Programs
Finance
Finance specializations focus on enterprise banking, accounting, and investment management. After building a strong base of strategic business finance knowledge, students explore advanced topics, including financial statement analysis, investment management, securities, derivatives, and financial technology. This specialization prepares students for future roles in financial planning, financial analysis, and capital management.
Featured Online Master's in Finance Programs
Management
By definition, all MBA degrees cover business management. However, management specializations delve deeper into the mechanics of business operations. Programs with management specializations teach students how to optimize efficiencies and leverage specific management techniques for strategic and competitive advantages. Students can also pursue more targeted MBA management degrees. Examples include MBAs in management consulting, human resource management, and project management.
Featured Online Master's in Management Programs
Marketing
Marketing specializations provide targeted education on the processes and strategies businesses use to bring successful products and services to market. Course content focuses on topics like market research, consumer analysis, product design and user experience, and product pricing. MBAs in marketing also typically place a strong emphasis on sales strategies and techniques.
Featured Online Master's in Marketing Programs
Organizational Leadership
MBAs in organizational leadership equip students with the management skills needed to succeed in high-visibility, high-profile organizational roles. In addition to standard MBA coursework in business and operations management, learners cover ethics, law, social responsibility, coaching, and leadership theory. Curricula may also cover evidence-based research in leadership and business management topics.
Featured Online Master's in Organizational Leadership Programs
Supply Chain
MBAs in supply chain management apply core concepts in accounting, finance, marketing, and competitive analysis specifically to supply chains. Students also build negotiation, inventory management, forecasting, logistics, and process analysis skills. Some programs supplement these topics with general coursework in relevant mathematical areas, including probability and statistics.
Featured Online Master's in Supply Chain Logistics Programs
Taxation
Taxation-focused MBA degrees combine the specialized tax topic coverage of master of science programs in taxation with business management coursework. Curricula tend to focus heavily on technical topics in enterprise and corporate taxation and tax strategy. They also train students to analyze the tax implications and potential tax consequences of business decisions and accounting strategies.
Featured Online Master's in Taxation Programs
Accreditation for Online MBA Programs With No GMAT Requirements
Enrolling in programs that lack accreditation can make it difficult or impossible for you to receive federal student aid, transfer credits, apply for licensure, or find a job.
Schools can receive accreditation from one of several regional bodies. These bodies assess colleges and universities to ensure they provide meaningful support services, maintain relevant curricula, and employ qualified faculty. Use the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to make sure your chosen school is accredited.
Programmatic accreditation matters because it ensures MBA programs meet industry expectations and teach students about relevant topics. Important organizations that accredit online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement include the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
MBA Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial professionals made a median annual wage of $76,850 in May 2022, far higher than the median annual salary of $46,310 for all jobs. A 2023 report by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) projects that MBA graduates earn a median annual salary of $125,000.
GMAC also reported that post-pandemic, demand for MBA graduates is more robust than ever: 91% of recruiters planned to hire MBA grads in 2023.
Salary Opportunities for MBA Graduates
If you have ever wondered what you can do with a business degree, take a look at popular specializations and jobs for online MBA graduates.
| JOB | MBA SPECIALIZATION | AVERAGE BASE SALARY (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Director | Healthcare Administration | $210,240 |
| Chief Marketing Officer | Marketing Management | $181,900 |
| Chief Technology Officer | Information Management | $173,850 |
| Chief Executive Officer | Executive and Organizational Leadership | $162,470 |
| Chief Financial Officer | Finance Accounting | $146,770 |
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA Programs Without the GMAT
Is the GMAT being phased out?
A new GMAT, known as the GMAT Focus Edition, is set to roll out in November 2023. Registration is now open. This new test focuses on more business-specific topics and also takes nearly an hour less to complete.
Can you be exempt from taking the GMAT?
Yes. Even if the online MBA program you plan to apply to requires GMAT scores, you can still request a waiver. Reasons for exemption typically revolve around academics and professional experience, though some schools still offer waivers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
How do you qualify for a GMAT waiver?
Many schools offer waivers for applicants who achieved a high GPA during undergraduate studies, but they may also offer them for those with significant professional experience. You must contact each school and ask for a waiver to begin the process.
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