Online MBA Programs No GMAT

Many master of business administration programs don’t require the Graduate Management Admission Testing (GMAT), a requirement considered necessary for admission by many top programs. If you have a bachelor of business administration (BBA) or other business-related degree, you’re eligible to apply for an online MBA program without taking the GMAT.

M.B.A. degrees can provide graduates with promotions, new jobs, and higher salaries. PayScale reports MBA graduates earn an average annual salary of $89,912 — $22,000 more than their peers with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. This salary gap was confirmed by a 2018 report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

The application process for many online MBA programs involves submitting an application, transcripts, recommendation letters, and a GMAT score. Business schools look at each applicant’s background and history of education as well as work experience. Their analytics indicate which portfolio of courses are most likely to produce high GMAT scores.

The online MBA programs without GMAT score requirement is good for gaining admission to the best programs, allowing applicants to be judged on their own merit rather than their GMAT score. This can make it easier to enter a high quality program that helps students gain skills and experience needed to apply for a great job.

Read on to learn about the best online MBA programs without GMAT requirements.

Online MBA Programs No GMAT

The online MBA programs without GMAT score requirement is good for gaining admission to the best programs, allowing applicants to be judged on their own merit rather than their GMAT score. This can make it easier to enter a high quality program that helps students gain skills and experience needed to apply for a great job.

10 MBA Programs With No GMAT Required

1. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Since its founding in 1893, CSP has grown into a school with more than 5,000 students and 80 programs, including 10 online programs from its business school.

College of Business and Technology

A 36-credit online MBA program trains students to be future business leaders and strategic decision makers. Learners may take courses on topics like applied business ethics, organizational leadership and development, and managerial research methods and design. The program also includes a professional development class that acts as a capstone course.

The online MBA program does not require a GMAT. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.

CSP’s Online Experience

The fully online degree features accelerated asynchronous courses that run throughout seven-weeks sessions. Classes run in the fall, spring and summer. Library resources and services are available to online learners at any time. They also pay the same tuition rates, regardless of their location.

Concentrations

1. Healthcare Compliance
2. Healthcare Management

Location: Saint Paul, MN
Graduation Rate: 59%

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2. Baker University

Founded in 1858 as Kansas’ first university, BU enrolls more than 3,000 students a year in more than 45 areas of study, including several professional studies programs.

School of Professional and Graduate Studies

The 30-credit online MBA program will equip graduates with the skills they’ll need to succeed in the rapidly changing business environment. The program includes 18 credits of core courses emphasizing human resource, organizational, and marketing management. Students then choose between four concentrations.

An online MBA does not require a GMAT score. Direct entry requires a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.75. Students with lower grades may receive conditional acceptance.

BU’s Online Experience

The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at BU is designed for learners who have fulfilling careers and busy personal lives. Students in the online MBA cohort work through the program together, learning, studying, and collaborating remotely with one another as if they were taking a campus-based MBA.

Concentrations

1. Finance
2. Healthcare Administration
3. Human Resources
4. Strategic Management

Location: Baldwin City, KS
Graduation Rate: 59%

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3. Messiah College

Founded in 1909, Messiah hosts over 3,300 students in more than 200 activities each year.

School of Graduate Studies

The 36-credit MBA program focuses on analyzing data for decision making, developing business strategies, and improving organizational effectiveness. Each student completes one of five concentrations in addition to core courses.

The online MBA does not require the GMAT. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0 and submit transcripts and a statement of purpose.

Messiah’s Online Experience

At Messiah, classes run asynchronously over six- or eight-week sessions. Students can complete the program within two years and choose from six start dates. Students from anywhere in the world pay the same tuition rate.

Concentrations

1. Digital Marketing
2. Healthcare Management
3. Management
4. Strategic Leadership
5. Dietetics

Location: Mechanicsburg, PA
Graduation Rate: 78%

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4. University of Scranton

Established in 1888, Scranton enrolls over 5,000 students annually through over 80 programs, which currently include four graduate programs in management.

Kania School of Management

This 36-credit online MBA teaches students how to integrate technology into various business settings. It emphasizes topics such as globalization, ethics, and sustainability. Students can choose to complete a general MBA or choose from eight concentrations.

The online MBA requires no GMAT. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and at least three years of professional experience.

Scranton’s Online Experience

Scranton’s Online MBA offers the flexibility of an online experience combined with the engagement of a residential program. Asynchronous course formats such as live classes, recorded videos, and weekly live “office hours” allow you to engage with your fellow students from all over the world.

Concentrations

1. Accounting
2. Business Analytics
3. Enterprise Resource Planning
4. Finance
5. Healthcare Management
6. Human Resources Management
7. International Business
8. Operations Management

Location: Scranton, PA
Graduation Rate: 82%

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5. Norwich University

Norwich is the oldest private military university in the country, hosting over 4,000 students a year and offering more than 50 degrees, including several business programs.

School of Business

The online MBA offers 36 credits of core courses in areas such as financial management, strategic resource management, and strategic marketing. Students also take 18 credits of concentration courses. The program concludes with an independent research project and comprehensive exam. There are some concentrations that may prepare graduates for additional credentials after graduation.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 2.75. Credits up to 12 can be transferred toward the degree.

Norwich’s Online Experience

The online classes at Norwich University run throughout 11-week sessions. There are multiple start dates and learners can complete their degrees within 18 months. Each cohort consists of up to 15 students, and all online enrollees participate in a one-week residency.

Concentrations

1. Construction Management
2. Energy Management
3. Finance
4. Organizational Leadership
5. Project Management
6. Technology Management
7. Supply Chain Management & Logistics

Location: Northfield, VT
Graduation Rate: 62%

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6. Bethel University

Founded in 1871, Bethel hosts about 4500 students a year through more than 100 programs, some of which are graduate programs.

Graduate School

The 42-credit online MBA focuses on training ethical leaders for a complex and competitive global economy. This program offers 30 credits of core courses, including business analytics, economics, and business strategy, along with 12 credits of concentrations. The MBA concludes with an integrative team capstone course.

An online MBA does not require a GMAT score. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 and at least two years of work experience.

Bethel’s Online Experience

Bethel’s online classes typically occur asynchronously, although some synchronous sessions may occur as well. It takes most students 18-24 months to complete the program, taking six-week courses. The program has six start dates a year. An online student may have to complete one or two weeks of in-person residences each year.

Concentrations

1. Data, Economics, and Development Policy
2. Finance
3. Healthcare Administration
4. Management
5. Principles of Manufacturing
6. Statistics and Data Science
7. Strategy and Execution
8. Supply Chain Management

Location: Saint Paul, MN
Graduation Rate: 77%

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7. Endicott University

Endicott College, founded in 1939 as a women’s college, enrolls over 5,000 students every year through its over 80 programs.

Curtis L. Gerrish School of Business

A 42-credit online MBA includes 30 credits of core courses in marketing, management, strategy, and operations. The remaining 12 credits come from one of 14 concentration options. Students can take two concentrations if they wish, adding 12 credits to the program total.

An online MBA does not require a GMAT. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant work experience.

Location: Saint Paul, MN
Graduation Rate: 77%

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8. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

Established in 1912, SJC is the only Catholic college in the state, enrolling close to 2,500 students each year. More than 40 majors are available at the school, including five in the school of business.

Business School

A 39-credit foundational MBA is available, as well as a 42-credit leadership MBA for experienced professionals. Learners can customize their training through a variety of electives in the foundational MBA program. Additionally, students take courses in leadership, organizational dynamics, and ethics. The MBA in leadership emphasizes organizational leadership.

Both online MBA programs do not require GMAT scores. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Additionally, candidates may need to complete business prerequisites. The leadership MBA program requires applicants to have at least two years of professional experience. The student can transfer up to six credits from an accredited school toward the degree.

SJC’s Online Experience

The online format is characterized by asynchronous participation, meaning students complete classes when it’s convenient for them. Most students complete their classes asynchronously, but SJC also offers part-time on-ground and online hybrid formats.

Concentrations

1. Health Sector Managements
2. Human Resources
3. Accounting

Location: Standish, ME
Graduation Rate: 63%

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9. Salve Regina University

Salve Regina offers more than 2,700 students a year through over 60 programs, including 11 graduate programs.

The 36-credit online MBA program features 12 courses, including global economy management, cybersecurity strategies, and creative problem-solving. The program concludes with a capstone course strategic management. Students can take electives in one of five concentrations.

An online MBA does not require the GMAT. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree. Applicants may also need to complete prerequisite courses in economics, mathematics, and quantitative analysis.

Salve Regina’s Online Experience

Online classes at Salve Regina run throughout asynchronous seven-week sessions, though some sessions may feature synchronous delivery. Learners typically complete their degrees in 18-24 months. Remote learning resources such as academic advising, academic support, and library resources are available to online students.

Concentrations

1. Cybersecurity Issues in Business
2. Entrepreneurial Enterprise
3. Healthcare Administration and Management
4. Nonprofit Management
5. Social Ventures
6. Social Ventures

Location: Newport, RI
Graduation Rate: 72%

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10. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

U of I, the flagship school of the University of Illinois System, opened in 1867 and now enrolls over 50,000 students annually through 16 colleges and schools, including the Giles College of Business.

Location: Newport, RI
Graduation Rate: 72%

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11. Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Established in 1968, the MVNU School offers over 2,200 students a year through 35 majors, including 10 graduate programs.

School of Graduate and Professional Studies

The 36-credit online MBA consists of core courses and concentration courses. Finance, accounting, economics, and marketing are included in core classes. There are nine concentrations that learners can choose from. There is also the Healthcare Administration concentration at MVNU.

There is no GMAT requirement for the online MBA; however, students must hold a bachelor’s degree. A maximum of six credits can be transferred toward the degree.

MVNU’s Online Experience

All online classes at MVNU occur through accelerated six-week sessions. Classes typically run asynchronously (no fixed schedule or attendance is required). On average, students finish in approximately 19 months, though they can choose to finish within 11 months with a fast-track pathway. The same tuition applies to all learners, regardless of residency.

Concentrations

1. Accounting
2. Data Analytics
3. Finance
4. Human Resources Management
5. Human and Social Services Leadership
6. Logistics Management
7. Marketing
8. Ministry Leadership
9. Organizational Leadership
10. Healthcare Management

Location: Mount Vernon, OH
Graduation Rate: 59%

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12. Lawrence Technological University

Established in 1932, LTU enrolls more than 4,500 students annually in over 100 programs.

College of Business and Information Technology

The 36-credit online MBA consists of nine core courses and three electives. Core courses include topics like supply chain management, enterprise information technology, and corporate finance. Electives can be used to pursue one of four concentrations.

The online MBA requires no GMAT. Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students may transfer up to 12 credits toward the degree toward the online MBA.

LTU’s Online Experience

The fully online MBA program includes asynchronous coursework. Enrollees can start in the fall, spring, or summer semester and graduate within two years. Online learners pay the same tuition rate, regardless of their location.

Concentrations

1. Finance
2. Cybersecurity
3. Project Management
4. Information Technology

Location: Southfield, MI
Graduation Rate: 58%

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13. Spring Arbor University

SAU was founded in 1873 and enrolls over 1,300 students annually across four schools, including the Gainey School of Business.

School of Graduate and Professional Studies

SAU was founded in 1873 and enrolls over 1,300 students annually across four schools, including the Gainey School of Business.There is no GMAT requirement for the online MBA; however, students must hold a bachelor’s degree. A maximum of six credits can be transferred toward the degree.

MVNU’s Online Experience

All online classes at MVNU occur through accelerated six-week sessions. Classes typically run asynchronously (no fixed schedule or attendance is required). On average, students finish in approximately 19 months, though they can choose to finish within 11 months with a fast-track pathway. The same tuition applies to all learners, regardless of residency.

Concentrations

1. Accounting
2. Data Analytics
3. Finance
4. Human Resources Management
5. Human and Social Services Leadership
6. Logistics Management
7. Marketing
8. Ministry Leadership
9. Organizational Leadership
10. Healthcare Management

Location: Spring Arbor, MI
Graduation Rate: 57%

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14. Howard University

Established in 1867, Howard enrolls close to 11,000 students across more than 120 study areas and 13 schools.

School of Business

Howard University offers a 42-credit executive MBA for experienced professionals and a 48-credit MBA for early- to mid-career professionals. The executive MBA includes a total of 14 courses, including management consulting and strategic consulting. A standard MBA includes 11 core courses and five electives. Both programs conclude with a strategic management capstone.

The standard MBA requires no GMAT. Each applicant is expected to possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 along with at least two years of work experience. The executive MBA requires seven years.

Howard’s Online Experience

The online courses at Howard University typically run asynchronously, though enrollees may encounter some synchronous sessions. With classes held in the fall, spring, and summer semesters, most students will complete the program in less than 18 months.

Location: Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 62%

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15. Webster University

Founded as one of the first women’s colleges west of the Mississippi River in 1915, Webster enrolls more than 15,000 students annually through more than 150 programs and five academic schools.

George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology

With a 36-credit online MBA program, Webster University offers students the flexibility to complete their degree without compromising on quality. The program emphasizes value creation within organizations and is made up of courses covering market analysis, information support for decision-making, and financial value of capital projects. Students can choose from 10 different specialization areas.

The GMAT is not required for this online MBA, but your bachelor’s degree must have a 2.5 GPA. Applicants lacking foundational business training may need to take additional coursework.

Webster’s Online Experience

Online classes at Webster University typically run asynchronously, though synchronous sessions may occur. Learners can take two classes at once online or part-time to complete the total program. Students may also select a hybrid program that combines online learning with two weekly hours of classroom training.

Concentrations

1. Corporate Communications
2. Corporate Finance
3. Cybersecurity
4. Digital Marketing Management
5. Enterprise Resource Planning
6. Health Administration
7. Information Technology Management
8. International Business
9. Marketing
10. Project Management

Location: Saint Louis, MO
Graduation Rate: 59%

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16. Concordia University-Wisconsin

As one of nine schools in the Concordia University System, CUW enrolls more than 7,000 students each year in six academic schools, including the Batterman School of Business.

Batterman School of Business

As with most online MBA programs, the 36-credit program features five core courses, such as accounting, finance, and corporate finance. Students also complete two experiential learning courses and a strategic management capstone. “The remaining 12 to 15 credits come from a student’s chosen concentration.”

The online MBA does not require a GMAT. Each applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree. Those without the prerequisite courses may need to take additional classes. Transfer students can receive up to six credits from past educational experiences.

CUW’s Online Experience

Online classes at Concordia run asynchronously, although synchronous sessions may occur. Certain courses may have specific synchronous sessions, but these are not required. Classes run for eight weeks in a row, followed by a week off in which students can go through the curriculum at their own pace. It is up to students to decide when they finish the course. They may even be able to fast-track one course into another!

Concentrations

1. Accounting
2. Communications & Public Relations
3. Finance
4. Healthcare Administration
5. Healthcare Practitioners
6. Human Resource Management
7. Informatics
8. Innovation and Entrepreneurship
9. International Business
10. Management
11. Leadership
12. Management Information Systems
13. Nonprofit Management
14. Public Administration
15. Risk Assessment and Management
16. Sport and Entertainment Business
17. Strategic Marketing
18. Sustainability Management and Analytics

Location: Mequon, WI
Graduation Rate: 59%

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17. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s has grown to enroll more than 5,000 students annually through more than 120 programs since opening in 1912.

Business and Technology School

The 30-credit online MBA program features 21 credits of business fundamental courses, such as operations management, corporate finance, and economics. The program also includes a capstone course, three one-credit special topic courses, and two general MBA courses.

The online MBA does not require a GMAT. An applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Up to six credits can be transferred toward the degree.

Saint Mary’s Online Experience

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a fully online program in information systems that features asynchronous courses. Enrollees will begin in the fall, spring, or summer semesters and graduate in less than a year if they take more than 12 credits per semester.

Concentrations

1.Finance
2.Healthcare Administration
3.Human Resource Management
4.Project Management

Location: Winona, MN
Graduation Rate: 61%

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18. The Sage College

Sage was established in 1916 and enrolls approximately 3,000 students annually in four academic schools, including a management school.

School of Management

Online MBAs that are 42-credit courses prepare working professionals for leadership roles in business. There are 11 core courses in the program, including financial accounting, economics, and business law. Students are also required to take three concentration courses.

No GMAT is required for the online MBA. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. Without prior business training, candidates may need to complete prerequisite courses.

Sage’s Online Experience

Online classes at Sage typically run asynchronously, although learners will encounter some synchronous sessions. The program runs at an accelerated pace during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Students can graduate in under two years.

Concentrations

1. Human Resource Management
2. Marketing

Location: Troy, NY
Graduation Rate: 62%

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19. Olivet Nazarene University

Established in 1907, ONU enrolls over 5,000 students across 140 fields of study and eight academic schools, including the McGraw School of Business.

This 36-credit online MBA program covers topics like decision-making, cultural intelligence, and brand management. They also complete nine credits of certificate coursework in one of five disciplines. The online MBA has no GMAT requirement but applicants need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5. ONU’s Online Experience Online classes at ONU are delivered through accelerated eight-week sessions. You can enroll during any of these sessions to graduate within 18-24 months. Most of the program can be completed online, with the exception of an 8-10-day global immersion for one of the specialization certificates. Concentrations Leadership Healthcare Administration Public Relations Nonprofit Management Intercultural Competence.

Location: Bourbonnais, IL
Graduation Rate: 61%

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20. Freed-Hardeman University

The FHU was established in 1869 and now enrolls more than 2,000 students annually across six academic colleges.

College of Business

A 30-credit online MBA includes 24 core credits and six elective credits. Core courses cover topics such as operations management, analytical decision tools, and leading organizations. Students can complete electives in taxation, fraud examination, communication, and business law. The degree culminates with a capstone course in strategic decision-making.

The online MBA does not require the GMAT. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree. Persons without a bachelor’s degree may be able to enroll in the school’s BBA/MBA dual-degree program.

FHU’s Online Experience

On average, online classes run asynchronously throughout eight-week sessions, with students graduating within a year. All online learners pay the same tuition rate for the entire program, except for two elective accounting courses.

Concentrations

1. Healthcare Management

Location: Henderson, TN
Graduation Rate: 60%

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21. Southwestern College

Founded in 1885, SC has programs in more than 40 academic disciplines.

Business College

The 36-credit MBA online features an 11-course core curriculum that covers global economics, marketing, and international operations. There are also several experiential training projects included in the program, which include a final capstone project course. Each student must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 to graduate.

There is no GMAT requirement for the online MBA program. Students must possess a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Transfer students can receive up to six credits for previous educational experiences.

SC’s Online Experience

Classes at SC occur mainly asynchronously during eight-week sessions. By taking three classes each semester, students can finish their entire degree online and in under one year.

Location: Windfield, KS
Graduation Rate: 48%

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22. Bay Path University

Since its founding in 1897, Bay Path has enlisted nearly 3,500 students annually, across 125 programs.

Graduate College

A 36-credit online MBA emphasizes entrepreneurial innovation and creativity. These classes cover topics such as leadership, organizational behavior, and legal issues in business. The program culminates with a capstone course on entrepreneurial management strategies.

The GMAT is not required for the online MBA program. It requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Bay Path’s Online Experience

The classes run in an accelerated eight-week format and have a mix of synchronous and asynchronous formats. Enrollees can begin the program at any time during the year and complete it in 1-2 years. Online learners have access to tutoring, library resources, and career services.

Location: Longmeadow, MA
Graduation Rate: 59%

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23. Northwood University-Michigan

Founded in 1959, NU enrolls more than 5,000 students per year in over 40 programs.

DeVos Graduate School

The 36-credit online MBA program is designed for working professionals who need training in economic policy, process improvement for managers, and corporate financial decision making. A competitive strategy practicum is also completed by the students. The program culminates with a capstone in leadership and management.

The online MBA has no GMAT requirement. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Candidates with lower grades may have to submit a writing assignment.

NU’s Online Experience

Online classes are usually run asynchronously. Degree-seekers can begin their studies in the fall or spring semesters, and graduate within two years. The online MBA program does not require campus visits.

Location: Midland, MI
Graduation Rate: 49%

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24. Cardinal Stritch University

Founded in 1937, Stritch enrolls nearly 2,500 students annually in over 140 programs.

College of Graduate Studies

An online MBA program covering 33 credits covers topics such as business analytics, corporate finance, and leading complex systems. In addition, students take 9 credits in their chosen concentration. The program culminates in the capstone research project. The online MBA does not require a GMAT. All applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Without prior business training, candidates may need to take an additional four credits of business courses.

Stritch’s Online Experience

Online classes usually run asynchronously through six-week sessions, but some synchronous sessions may occur. Many students spend about four hours each week on their assignments and engagement activities. There are multiple start dates for the program annually.

Concentrations

1. General MBA
2. Healthcare
3. Sport and Recreation

Location: Milwaukee, WI
Graduation Rate: 51%

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25. Northwest Nazarene University

NNU was founded in 1913. It enrolls more than 2,000 students annually in over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, including several in its business school.

School of Business

A 33-credit online MBA is ideal for working professionals. The students take core courses on topics such as management law and organizational dynamics, as well as managerial and cost accounting. By completing nine additional credits, learners can pursue an accounting concentration, preparing them for professional certification.

The online MBA program does not require the GMAT. To qualify for admission, a candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants without previous business training may be required to complete nine foundational courses.

NNU’s Online Experience

Online classes at NNU run for eight weeks. Graduating within 14 months is possible for students who enroll in two courses each session. Students can complete the entire program online without visiting any campus.

NNU was founded in 1913. It enrolls more than 2,000 students annually in over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, including several in its business school.

Concentrations

1. Accounting

Location: Nampa, ID
Graduation Rate: 59%

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What Is the GMAT?

The GMAT is the Graduate Management Admissions Test used for admission to most graduate schools of business in the United States. As more business schools create a pathway towards a MBA degree without requiring the GMAT

In 1953, business school deans created the GMAT test to assess prospective students’ aptitude and potential. It was administered for the first time in 1954. The four-part test consists of four sections: quantitative, integrated reasoning, verbal multiple-choice, and analytical writing. These sections assess future business students’ ability to analyze, think critically, and solve problems. The GMAT takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete and costs $250 to take.

If you are thinking of pursuing an MBA, search for programs that do not require the GMAT. Graduate programs typically require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), a standardized test required at many business schools around the world. Strong business schools usually require minimum GMAT scores of 600, while top programs expect scores between 700-800. Performing well on this difficult exam typically requires several months of rigorous study.

The online application process for business schools is fast and simple. Once you have researched your target schools and narrowed down your list, focus on filling out the application correctly and completely. Although business schools are unlikely to hold a Gmat score against a candidate, applicants should plan to take the test several months before school application deadlines to allow time to retake the exam. Also, check out our guide on scholarship for business majors and cost of a masters degree here.

Why Are Business Schools Not Requiring The GMAT?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), a standardized test required by most MBA programs for admission, is meant to assess students’ proficiency in areas that are considered essential for success in graduate-level management education. However, the GMAT does not necessarily measure high-level skills that are important to the success of students in business school and in their subsequent professional careers. These skills include leadership and teamwork, abilities often valued more in companies than pure academic aptitude.

In addition, many schools recognize that advanced degrees and prior work experience provide evidence that the skills you need to succeed in business school. Admissions to schools that still require GMAT scores do so in part to weed out candidates who are not serious about business study.

GMAT waivers are a good alternative to the GMAT. The GMAT is required by many MBA programs and it can be a challenging barrier to cross, especially for professionals who have been out of school for a few years. Candidates who do not plan on using the score as a way to assess their performance during the admissions process may be better off pursuing an MBA program that doesn’t require applicants to take the GMAT.

MBA Admission Requirements in Place of GMAT Scores

A GMAT score is a key admissions factor for a growing number of MBA programs, so prospective students typically narrow their search to online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement or those that offer GMAT waivers to qualified applicants. Admission to these schools is typically determined by the following criteria:

Work Experience

MBA programs that waive GMAT scores often favor applicants with a few years of professional experience under their belt. Applicant pools who do not meet minimum GPA requirements or who have less relevant work experience will likely need to take and pass the GMAT exam. Some schools require a specific amount of work experience as well.

Advanced Degrees

There are many business school programs that require a GMAT score to be submitted as part of the initial admissions application. But just because a school requires a GMAT does not mean that you must take the exam if you have already graduated with an advanced degree or hold a professional license. Many MBA programs allow applicants with master’s degrees to submit their transcripts along with some other non-GMAT requirements.

Exceptional GPA

For those applying to business schools, the GMAT can be a lengthy and challenging test. However, for candidates with high GPAs, there are options to bypass the GMAT requirement and apply to MBA programs with no GMAT required. During the admissions interview, admissions committees look at disciplines outside of business when evaluating applicants.

Professional Licensure

Earning a business license or certification can help an aspiring student stand out from the competition. A professional license demonstrates an ability to practice the profession in-depth. Various certifications demonstrate skills and industry knowledge in the areas of project management, accounting, financial risk management, financial analysis, and human resources.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are an important part of the MBA applicant’s application. They provide a clearer picture of an applicant, beyond their test scores and grades. With that said, there are many things to think about before you begin writing your letters.

Essay or Personal Statement

The MBA requirements at most business schools include essays or personal statements. It is typical for prospective business students to explain the reasons behind choosing business as a major and their interest in that particular program. Students must describe their academic interests and career goals.

Graduate Record Exam

The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, is a test administered by the Education Testing Service (ETS) and used as an admissions requirement by many graduate schools. According to ETS, the GRE “measures skills that have the greatest potential for predicting success in graduate or business school.” It helps admissions officers evaluate and compare applicants based on their knowledge, verbal reasoning skills, quantitative reasoning skills, analytical writing ability and critical thinking skills including reading comprehension. MBA applicants with high GRE scores (often over 285) may qualify for a GMAT waiver at some schools.

Evaluating MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirements

In today’s crowded business education landscape, there is a variety of MBA programs, each with its own characteristics and requirements. The following five factors are usually shared by top MBA schools that don’t require a GMAT. To identify the best MBA programs that do not require GMAT scores, look for these elements during your search:

Why Get An MBA ?

But today, many students have more avenues than ever to develop qualitative and analytical skills and become successful business managers. Most options are far cheaper than business schools, which leaves some questioning the value and utility of MBAs.

According to the Harvard Business Review, quality business schools have shifted their focus in response to the changing educational landscape. Top MBA programs maintain a strong focus on technical and analytical skills, and they also offer comprehensive leadership training. The importance of this feature separates MBAs from lower-level degrees and alternative credentials, underscoring their relevance and utility.

There are numerous benefits to earning an MBA, such as:

Prestige

MBAs continue to be one of the most valuable credentials a business professional can hold. The statements send a strong message about your commitment and capabilities to prospective employers.

Transferability

Alumni networks are an excellent career-building asset, even for online students who study entirely online.

MBAs offer outstanding versatility, enabling graduates to stay on top of the changing dynamics of global economic sectors and industries.

What Jobs Can an MBA Get you ?

A 2020 U.S. survey suggests MBA degree-holders have a great chance of finding gainful employment. Research by News & World Report indicates that 85.2% of graduates of 2019 MBA programs got a job within three months. Online MBA programs with no GMAT open the same career opportunities as classroom-based programs. There are areas of high growth potential for high-ranking executive positions, such as C-suite positions. Check out our detail guide on salary of each specializations below:

MBA In Marketing Salary
MBA In Information Technology Salary
MBA in Healthcare Management Salary
MBA in Finance Salary

When hiring seniors, companies often prefer credentials-based pedigree over professional experience and on-the-job training. As such, MBA programs continue to attract candidates whose career progression has been stalled due to a lack of advanced business qualifications.

In fact, business schools are a popular destination for those who want to start their own company. This is not surprising given the experience of many leading entrepreneurs – Jack Welch, Bill Gates and Richard Branson all have an MBA. The following are also popular career paths for those with an MBA:

What to Expect from the Online MBA Experience

Online MBA programs with no GMAT requirement deliver a rigorous, challenging educational experience designed for working professionals. Most full-time students can complete their studies within two years. Several degree paths have accelerated structures leading to graduation in just 10 months. Trained and certified faculty members prepare students for professional achievement through massive and transferable e-learning courses.

Online MBA programs frequently take the same format as their campus-based counterparts. Usually, the program is broken into two broad categories: core or required courses and electives. While electives provide degree-seekers with the possibility to specialize their learning in specific areas, core courses cover essential learning. A capstone course enables students to synthesize program content by requiring them to analyze and solve real-world problems.

Costs vary widely: At the top end, business schools cost upwards of $2,000 per credit. On the other hand, the most affordable programs will charge an average of $315 per credit until January 2020. Given these figures, each student should carefully evaluate the cost-benefit ratio to maximize their ROI.

Selecting Your Online MBA Programs That Doesn’t Require The GMAT

Finding the right online MBA program requires applicants to weigh much more than just admission standards. While they may have to take the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), they must also consider a school’s reputation among employers as an indicator of whether or not it might help them find employment after graduation. For students who have already defined specific career goals, they can pursue concentrated and specialized learning opportunities that support their objectives.

Students should always verify the accreditation status of each school they intend to attend, and they should only apply to programs hosted by institutions with current national or regional accreditation. A number of specialized organizations, such as the AACSB and the Association of Collegiate Schools of Business, offer endorsements that elevate their prestige.

Choosing an online MBA program that doesn’t require the GMAT can seem overwhelming at first, but the process can be simplified with a five-step approach. From determining your priorities and learning needs to evaluating academic enterprise features and faculty profile visibility, this breakdown outlines a step-by-step process for selecting the right MBA program for you.

A ranked list is an excellent resource, but aspiring students should still conduct their own research. Online MBA programs that don’t require a GMAT may be beneath the mainstream radar.

Why You Should Get Your MBA Online?

The best online MBA programs with no GMAT deliver learning experiences on a par with classroom-based education. Without focusing on dynamic factors such as real-time student-instructor interactions, business programs do not adapt well to modern learning formats.

The main advantages of getting your MBA online is the flexibility it offers. You can study and attend classes at times, from locations, that are convenient for you. Taking a course online, you have access to the material at any time, even while traveling. Since most online programs are on a part-time basis, this can be an attractive arrangement for working professionals.

There are many options for getting your MBA online, and the market is growing rapidly. One popular format is a two-year program with a mix of asynchronous and self-paced lectures, followed by a semester to complete an onsite internship. The real-world learning that occurs during an internship can significantly boost your prospects for employment after graduation.

What If The School You Want Requires The GMAT Or GRE ?

If you fully research all your options, you may find that your ideal MBA program does require GMAT or GRE scores, but do not be alarmed. All MBA programs use the same kinds of tests for assessment of mental abilities and faculties regardless of entry requirements.

Your application will benefit greatly from GMAT/GRE requirements, especially if your undergraduate grades fall below the acceptable range. Business school candidates preparing for the GMAT/GRE can purchase exercise-based study guides, enroll in prep courses, or work with a tutor.

Experts also recommend starting the preparation process early and integrating multiple timed practice tests into your study routine. If you need more information and tips, check out this complete guide to the GMAT for MBA applicants.

FAQs About MBA In Finance Careers