Is GMAT/GRE mandatory for NYU Stern MSBA?

Question

Hema A · Accepted Answer

The NYU Stern MSBA does not require GMAT or GRE scores for admission. The program has made test scores completely optional, so applicants can choose to apply without them. This is stated clearly in Stern&rsquo;s admissions FAQ.
That said, submitting a score can still be useful, especially for international students or applicants from non-quant backgrounds. A GRE above 320 or GMAT around 650&ndash;700 can act as extra evidence of quantitative readiness. But it&rsquo;s not mandatory, and many successful admits apply without scores by highlighting strong academics, work in analytics-heavy roles, or certifications like Python, SQL, or CFA Level 1.
In short, you don&rsquo;t need a GMAT/GRE to apply, but including one can help strengthen the application if you feel your profile needs that extra quant boost.

Preet J · Answer

A lot of applicants assume the Stern MSBA needs a GMAT or GRE, but the reality is it doesn&rsquo;t. Test scores are optional, and the admissions team is upfront about it.
&bull; The application is designed to evaluate professional experience, academic transcripts, essays, and recommendations as the main criteria. &bull; Applicants with solid quant coursework in undergrad or strong data-heavy projects don&rsquo;t need to worry about adding a score. &bull; For candidates from less technical backgrounds, submitting even a mid-range GRE/GMAT can help signal comfort with numbers. &bull; Some admits have entered without any test score at all by showcasing quant ability through their job roles or online certifications.
So while GMAT/GRE isn&rsquo;t mandatory at all, including it can sometimes tilt the decision positively, depending on the rest of the profile.
For more details you can read this blog on "NYU Stern GMAT"