What are the best MBA programs in UK with low GMAT scores?

Some top MBA programs in the UK accept low GMAT scores or even waive them for select candidates. These schools focus more on your overall profile—work experience, academics, SOPs, and interviews—than just the test score.

Here are a few UK MBA programs known for leniency with GMAT:

• University of Edinburgh – GMAT not mandatory; strong profile can get you in.
• University of Birmingham – GMAT is optional for most applicants.
• Lancaster University accepts GMAT scores below 600, especially if you have 3+ years of work experience.
• Durham University – Minimum GMAT not strictly enforced; they also consider GRE or internal assessments.
• Cranfield School of Management – GMAT waivers are available for applicants with extensive managerial experience.

For a full breakdown of UK MBA schools that accept low or no GMAT, check out this blog:      Best UK MBA Programs That Don’t Need High GMAT Scores.

Yes, you can definitely apply to top UK MBA programs even with a low GMAT score, or in some cases, no GMAT at all. Many schools focus more on your professional experience, academic background, and clarity of career goals.

Schools like the University of Birmingham, the University of Liverpool, the University of Bath, and Lancaster University Management School either don’t require the GMAT or consider waivers for strong candidates. These programs emphasize your work achievements and how well you present yourself during the interview.

Other GMAT-flexible options include Brunel Business School and Leeds University Business School, both of which offer full-time MBAs with a practical, career-oriented approach.

Not sure which school suits your profile best? Book a free profile evaluation session to get personalized guidance on the right UK MBA programs with low or no GMAT requirements.

There are a lot of good b-schools which accept low GMAT scores. Schools like University of Edinburgh Business School, University of Birmingham, and Durham University Business School are well-ranked and often accept candidates with GMAT scores around 550–600, especially if the rest of the application is strong.

These programs focus more on your work experience, academics, and interview performance. Some also offer GMAT waivers if you have years of managerial experience or a strong undergraduate GPA. So even with a low score, you still have a solid shot at a good school in the UK if you build a well-rounded profile.

Several well-ranked UK MBA programs accept applicants with low GMAT scores (around 600 or below)—especially if the rest of your profile is strong. Some options include:

• University of Edinburgh Business School – GMAT is not mandatory. They focus more on your undergraduate performance, quality of work experience, and clarity of career goals.
• Durham University Business School – Doesn’t require GMAT. They place higher value on professional achievements, leadership experience, and international exposure.
• University of Exeter – GMAT is optional and only requested in borderline academic cases. Strong academic transcripts, references, and a focused career plan carry more weight.
• Cranfield School of Management – No GMAT required. The emphasis is on managerial experience, problem-solving ability, and interview performance.

If your GMAT is on the lower side, make sure the rest of your application reflects strong leadership traits, clear goals, and evidence that you can succeed in a rigorous MBA environment.