Does Wharton deferred MBA require GMAT?

Question

Neema Nigam · Accepted Answer

Yes, the Wharton School does require GMAT scores for their deferred MBA program, known as the Moelis Advance Access Program. This program allows students in their final year of undergraduate or graduate study to apply for a guaranteed spot in a future Wharton MBA class, deferring their start date for two to four years to gain professional work experience.
Alongside the Wharton MBA GMAT, the GRE is also accepted, giving applicants the flexibility to submit the test scores with which they feel most confident. It's essential to check the latest application requirements directly on Wharton's website or contact their admissions office for the most current information, as admissions criteria can change.

Mathew Godnis · Answer

Yes, the Wharton deferred MBA program does typically require the GMAT or GRE as part of the application process.
As a student considering this option, it's important to know that while both the GMAT and GRE are accepted, the GMAT is often preferred by applicants targeting business schools. However, the good news is that Wharton does not specify a minimum GMAT score. They look for a well-rounded application, which means they assess more than just your test scores. Strong academic performance, leadership potential, and professional experiences are all key factors that are taken into account.
For the deferred MBA program, aimed at undergraduate students or those in a master&rsquo;s program with little to no work experience, Wharton seeks candidates with potential for leadership and a clear future career vision. This means your test scores will be one part of the application, but they are not the only thing that matters. A strong personal statement, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation also play a big role.
If you're unsure whether to take the GMAT or GRE, think about your strengths. The GMAT is generally considered better for those who are more comfortable with quantitative reasoning, while the GRE offers a more flexible structure, especially if you&rsquo;re still considering different graduate programs.
In summary, yes, the GMAT is usually required for Wharton's deferred MBA, but focus on creating a balanced application that reflects both your academic and leadership qualities.

Anjali Rawat · Answer

Yes, Wharton&rsquo;s deferred MBA program, known as the Wharton MBA Advance Access Program, requires a GMAT or GRE score as part of the application process. 
However, it&rsquo;s important to note that the admissions committee doesn&rsquo;t have a strict preference between the two tests, so you can submit whichever one you feel more confident with.
Wharton doesn&rsquo;t specify a minimum GMAT score for this program, but competitive candidates usually have strong scores, often in the 700+ range. 
It&rsquo;s also worth mentioning that Wharton takes a holistic approach in reviewing applications, meaning factors like your undergraduate performance, leadership potential, and work experience (or internships) matter just as much as your test scores.
If you feel your test scores are weaker, highlight other aspects of your application to stand out.

Nitin Chauhan · Answer

If you're applying to the Wharton Deferred MBA program, also known as the Wharton MBA Advance Access, a GMAT or GRE score is required as part of your application. This program allows undergraduate students in their final year, or those within six months of graduating, to secure a spot in the MBA program while gaining 2-4 years of work experience before officially starting.
While there isn&rsquo;t a specific minimum GMAT score, competitive applicants often have strong scores. The average GMAT score for Wharton&rsquo;s full-time MBA program is approximately 733, so aiming for a score in that range will likely improve your chances of admission.
It&rsquo;s advisable to start preparing for the GMAT or GRE early to give yourself enough time to strengthen both your score and your overall application.

T Mehta · Answer

Wharton&rsquo;s deferred MBA does require a standardized test score, and the GMAT Focus Edition is fully accepted. Applicants can also submit GRE scores instead. The school doesn&rsquo;t have a minimum cutoff, but admitted students usually score high, often around the top percentiles.
For undergraduates applying straight into Moelis Advance Access, strong academics and leadership experiences are weighed heavily, so a slightly lower test score can be offset if the rest of the profile is exceptional. That said, a solid GMAT makes the application stronger, especially for Indian students where the pool is very competitive.
Wharton also accepts online/at-home versions of the tests, so flexibility isn&rsquo;t an issue. If applying without GMAT or GRE, the application won&rsquo;t be considered complete.