Which top MBA programs currently offer GMAT waivers, and how do their policies differ?

Several top MBA programs have introduced GMAT waiver policies, allowing applicants to apply without submitting GMAT scores under specific conditions. Here's an overview of some prominent programs and their waiver criteria:

MIT Sloan School of Management

MIT Sloan offers GMAT waivers for applicants facing challenges in accessing the test. Candidates must submit a formal waiver request explaining their circumstances. The admissions committee reviews these requests individually.

University of Michigan - Ross School of Business

Michigan Ross allows applicants to request a GMAT waiver if they can demonstrate academic readiness through:

• Advanced degrees in analytical or quantitative disciplines.
• Professional certifications like CPA or CFA.
• Strong undergraduate or graduate academic records, especially in quantitative courses.
• Relevant work experience in analytical or quantitative roles.

Applicants must submit an essay detailing their qualifications for the waiver.

NYU Stern School of Business

NYU Stern provides GMAT waivers for candidates who:

• Demonstrate academic readiness through strong analytical or quantitative undergraduate or graduate majors.
• Possess relevant professional work experience.
• Hold certifications that showcase their quantitative abilities.

Applicants must request the waiver and provide supporting evidence of their academic preparedness.

University of Virginia (UVA) - Darden School of Business

UVA Darden considers GMAT waiver requests on a case-by-case basis, focusing on:

• Academic achievements.
• Professional accomplishments.
• Indicators of readiness for the program's rigor.

Applicants should provide detailed information supporting their waiver request.

Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management

Cornell Johnson allows all applicants to request a GMAT waiver. Candidates should prepare a concise statement (up to 100 words) explaining their circumstances and how they are prepared for the program's academic challenges.

Carnegie Mellon University - Tepper School of Business

CMU Tepper offers GMAT waivers on a case-by-case basis, evaluating:

• Academic readiness for the MBA program.
• Undergraduate or graduate coursework.
• Professional experience.

Applicants may need to complete additional academic preparation if granted a waiver.

Dartmouth Tuck School of Business

Dartmouth Tuck may offer GMAT waivers to applicants who:

• Align with Tuck’s values and admissions criteria.
• Have a minimum of two years of post-graduate professional work experience.
• Qualify for an English Language Proficiency test waiver if they are non-native English speakers.

Waiver requests must be submitted before the application and are reviewed individually.

Emory University - Goizueta Business School

Emory Goizueta provides GMAT waivers for applicants who can demonstrate preparedness for graduate-level business coursework through:

• Academic background.
• Work experience.
• Professional certifications.

Each waiver request is evaluated individually.

Boston University - Questrom School of Business

BU Questrom allows Full-Time MBA applicants to request a GMAT waiver if they meet at least one of the following qualifications:

• Three or more years of full-time work experience.
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Possession of a terminal degree (JD, MD, or PhD).
• Professional certifications like CPA or CFA.

Waiver requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

University of North Carolina (UNC) - Kenan-Flagler Business School

UNC Kenan-Flagler offers GMAT waivers for applicants who can demonstrate academic and professional readiness through:

• Undergraduate GPA and course rigor.
• Advanced degrees.
• Professional experience in analytical or quantitative fields.

Each waiver request is reviewed individually. 

While GMAT waivers provide flexibility, it's essential to assess whether applying without a GMAT score strengthens your application. A strong GMAT score can enhance your profile, especially if other areas are less competitive. Additionally, some employers may request GMAT scores during recruitment, particularly in consulting and finance sectors.

Before applying for a waiver, review each program's specific criteria and consider how your academic background, work experience, and professional certifications align with their requirements. Submitting a well-prepared waiver request that clearly articulates your qualifications can improve your chances of approval.