Is GMAT mandatory for LBS MiF, or can strong academics and CFA clear the requirement for applicants?

Question

Divakshi Arora · Accepted Answer

GMAT or GRE is generally required for the LBS MiF, but strong academics and qualifications like CFA can sometimes reduce the weight admissions places on the test score. The school clearly states that they don&rsquo;t have a strict cutoff, but they do expect evidence of strong quantitative ability.
For most international applicants, including Indians, submitting a GMAT/GRE strengthens the case significantly because it provides a standardized measure across a global pool. However, candidates with outstanding academic records in finance, economics, or engineering, plus progress in CFA, have been admitted with scores on the lower end.
It&rsquo;s rare for the test to be waived entirely. In fact, applicants without a score usually face more pressure to prove quant skills through transcripts, certifications, or work projects. So while CFA and strong academics help, a GMAT/GRE still gives the safest chance of admission.

Hema A · Answer

Plenty of people wonder if CFA plus good academics can replace GMAT for LBS MiF, but the reality is more nuanced.
&bull; LBS officially requires either GMAT or GRE; waivers are not common for MiF. &bull; What CFA does is provide proof of finance knowledge, especially for candidates from non-finance degrees. It can balance a slightly lower score, but not eliminate the need altogether. &bull; The admissions team looks for evidence of quantitative strength, so top grades in math-heavy courses can sometimes reduce the reliance on a high GMAT. &bull; For Indian applicants, where the pool is competitive, skipping the GMAT almost always makes the application weaker compared to peers.
So, while CFA progress and strong academics definitely add weight, they don&rsquo;t replace the GMAT/GRE requirement. Submitting a solid score alongside CFA usually creates the most competitive profile.
For more details you can read this blog on "LBS MFin GMAT "

Jayant M · Answer

For the LBS MiF, the GMAT is generally mandatory and strongly preferred by the admissions committee. While having excellent academics and CFA Level 1 or higher strengthens your application, they typically don&rsquo;t replace the GMAT. The school uses it to assess quantitative ability and ensure all applicants are evaluated on a consistent scale.
Exceptions exist, but they&rsquo;re rare &mdash; usually limited to candidates with exceptional quantitative backgrounds or degrees from highly reputed institutions. Even then, the admissions team may still request a GMAT or GRE later in the process. So, while strong academics and a CFA boost your profile, submitting a competitive GMAT score (around 700+) remains the safer and more strategic route for LBS MiF applicants.

Mansih K · Answer

The GMAT isn&rsquo;t always strictly mandatory for the LBS MiF, but skipping it is only possible in very limited cases.
&bull; Candidates with outstanding quantitative performance in degrees like finance, economics, or engineering may be considered without a test score. &bull; The CFA credential adds credibility, but it doesn&rsquo;t fully prove the reasoning and problem-solving skills that the GMAT measures. &bull; Most successful applicants still submit a GMAT or GRE because it helps the committee compare profiles fairly. &bull; For international applicants &mdash; especially from India &mdash; a 700+ GMAT often strengthens both admission and scholarship chances.
In short, while strong academics and CFA help, a solid GMAT score remains one of the best ways to stand out in the LBS MiF pool.