All AnswersWhich Master's in Finance programs in the USA offer GMAT waivers?
Asked by A.K Chaturvedi 4 months ago
Content Writer
Several top Master’s in Finance programs in the U.S. offer GMAT waivers for applicants with strong academics, quant-focused degrees, or relevant work experience. Waivers are granted case by case, so it’s important to check each school’s criteria.
Here are some top programs that offer GMAT waivers:
- University of Michigan – Ross School of Business: Offers GMAT/GRE waivers based on undergrad performance, quant readiness, and professional achievements.
- University of Virginia – Darden (M.S. in Business Analytics, Finance-focused): Provides test waivers for qualified applicants with strong academic records or certifications like CFA.
- Georgetown University – McDonough School of Business: Waivers are available for applicants with high GPAs or degrees in analytical disciplines.
- Babson College – F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business: Does not require GMAT for most MSF applicants, especially if they have a solid quant background.
- Cornell University – Johnson School (MPS in Management, Finance track): Considers waivers for candidates with strong academic and professional credentials.
To explore detailed waiver criteria for each school and learn how to apply strategically, read this blog on MFin programs with GMAT waivers in the USA.
Sr. Consultant
Many top U.S. Master’s in Finance programs offer GMAT waivers, but the conditions vary across schools. These waivers are usually based on a combination of academic performance, quantitative background, and professional experience.
For instance, Georgetown McDonough offers waivers if you have a GPA above 3.3 and a degree in a quantitative field like economics, finance, or engineering. Cornell Johnson may consider waivers for applicants with prior graduate degrees, strong quantitative coursework, or certifications like CFA Level 1. At Babson Olin, the GMAT is typically not required unless your transcript lacks quantitative depth.
Ross (Michigan) and UVA Darden also evaluate waiver requests for applicants with high academic performance or 2–3 years of analytical work experience. Some programs may ask for additional documents like a quantitative résumé or explanation letter to support the request.
Book a free profile evaluation call to find out exactly which MFin programs fit your profile without the GMAT.
Several top Master’s in Finance programs in the USA do offer GMAT waivers, especially for candidates with strong academic records, relevant work experience, or professional certifications like CFA. Waivers aren’t guaranteed—you’ll need to meet specific criteria and sometimes submit a separate request.
Here’s a quick look at some MFin programs with GMAT waiver options:
| School Name | Program Name | GMAT Waiver Criteria (Specific) |
| MIT Sloan | Master of Finance (MFin) | Case-by-case basis for applicants with strong academic and professional records. |
| UVA Darden | MS in Business Analytics (with UVA McIntire) | Waivers considered for candidates with strong quantitative academic background or extensive professional experience. |
| Carnegie Mellon (Tepper) | MS in Finance | Waivers for candidates with strong undergraduate performance in quantitative fields or relevant work experience. |
| Michigan Ross | Master of Management (with Finance specialization) | Waivers offered for applicants with 3+ years of significant work experience or strong academic records |
| Emory Goizueta | Master of Analytical Finance | GMAT waiver considered for applicants with strong undergraduate GPA and/or quantitative professional experience. |
Digital Marketer
Many top U.S. Master in Finance programs now offer GMAT waivers, especially if you've got strong academics, solid work experience, or a degree in a quantitative field.
They usually don’t hand out waivers automatically, though. You’ll need to either apply for it separately or show them that your profile already proves what the GMAT would’ve tested—things like math skills, problem-solving, or analytical thinking.
Some schools known for offering GMAT waivers include: USC Marshall, UT Dallas, Georgetown McDonough, Northeastern D'Amore-McKim, and Illinois Gies.
Every school has its own rulebook, so before you apply, check their waiver policies on the official site. And if you're unsure, just email the admissions team—they’re usually happy to guide you.
Your scores matter, but they’re not everything. If you’ve got the rest of your story in place, you’re still in the game.