Should You Request a GMAT Waiver? Top MBA Programs Offering Them and Key Considerations

Originally published on September 19, 2023. Most recently updated on July 29, 2025.

MBA applicants often ask whether top programs offer GMAT or GRE waivers and if taking these tests is necessary. Preparing for these exams can be time-consuming, so it’s natural to seek alternatives.

Yes, some MBA programs offer GMAT or GRE waivers, but this is more common outside the top 10 schools. For top programs, you must meet specific criteria and formally request the waiver.

Top MBA Programs That Offer GMAT Waivers (or GRE Waivers)

A few top MBA programs allow GMAT waivers. Below are some examples:

• Tuck says that ‘When evaluating candidates for a GMAT/GRE test waiver, we assess whether your academic and professional background demonstrates the quantitative reasoning and analytical capabilities essential for success in Tuck’s rigorous MBA curriculum. We will ask for unofficial copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, a list of quantitative graduate and undergraduate course names and grades, proof of professional certifications, designations, or non-degree coursework, your resume, and a brief description of specific job duties that demonstrate the practical application of quantitative and analytical skills and concepts. Candidates who present evidence of strong quantitative and analytical competencies through both their academic and professional experiences are more likely to be granted a test waiver. Given the importance of demonstrated quantitative and analytical ability in the admissions evaluation process, we will apply a very critical screen when granting GMAT/GRE test waivers. Merely having some quantitative academic coursework or professional experience does not guarantee a test waiver.’
• UVA Darden says that ‘For some candidates a test score may not be needed for our Admissions Committee to assess their preparedness for Darden. Waiver applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and our Admissions Committee will consider a number of factors when evaluating these applications. Particular regard will be given for indicators of academic and professional accomplishment.’
• Michigan Ross says that ‘Some candidates may be able to adequately demonstrate their quantitative readiness for the rigor of the program without the need to submit a test score. Instead, you must submit a statement that supports your case and provides alternative evidence of your readiness. Please note that you will either submit your application with test scores or with the Statement of Quantitative Academic Readiness; no separate application or pre-approval is required for the Statement of Quantitative Academic Readiness. We will look closely at your academic and professional accomplishments, including but not limited to:
  • Master’s degree in an analytical or quantitative discipline
  • CPA, CFA, or international equivalent
  • Undergraduate or graduate record, especially in analytical or quantitative courses
  • Post-undergraduate, full-time work experience in an analytical or quantitative function‘
• NYU Stern says that ‘A standardized test is a required component of the Full-Time MBA and Luxury & Retail MBA program applications, serving as one way to assess academic readiness. For most applicants, the test is a crucial tool for demonstrating this. However, if you are unable to prepare for or take a standardized test and can demonstrate academic readiness through other means, you may request a waiver. Strong examples of academic readiness—such as an analytical or quantitative undergraduate or graduate degree, relevant professional experience, or certifications—may increase the likelihood of receiving a waiver.’
• UNC Kenan-Flagler says that ‘While scores from standardized tests such as the GMAT or GRE are a beneficial way for our Admissions Committee to evaluate the likelihood of academic success in our Full-Time MBA program, we recognize that some candidates can build a strong case for admission based on but not limited to the following criteria:
  • Applicants who graduated with a 3.2 GPA or above and coursework in STEM, business, economics or analytical fields from a U.S. institution
  • Earned an advanced or terminal degree in JD, MD or a PhD or MS degree within a STEM, business or economics academic field
  • 5+ years of professional experience in a quantitative or analytical field
  • Hold a CFA or U.S. CPA professional certificate
  • Strong test results from the Executive Assessment, LSAT, PCAT or MCAT’.
• UCLA Anderson says that ‘While test scores provide an additional, relevant data point for the admissions committee to consider, a test score is not required. Applicants are given the option to apply for the Full-Time MBA program without submitting a GMAT, GRE, or EA. It is up to the applicant to decide if they want to apply with or without test scores. Please note that for some candidates without a quantitative background, a strong test score can strengthen their candidacy.’
• Cornell Johnson says that ‘Candidates who wish to demonstrate analytical or quantitative readiness outside of taking a GMAT or GRE exam may submit a test waiver request with their application for admission should they meet one of more of the following’
  • Earned a STEM, business, or analytical/quantitative- focused undergraduate or graduate degree, maintaining a 3.0 GPA, second class upper division honors, or international equivalent. We accept international credential evaluations that demonstrate this.
  • Hold a CPA or CFA certification or international equivalent.
  • Post-undergraduate, full-time work experience in an analytical or quantitative function, demonstrated on resume.
• Your submitted application materials (resume, transcript(s), professional certifications, non-credit bearing academic coursework at an accredited university, international study abroad credits, etc.), will be used to determine your test waiver eligibility. [In addition, to request a waiver], please prepare a short statement that describes your personal circumstance and provide a clear and compelling argument for why you will flourish in our rigorous academic environment (100 words). Please note you will submit this statement as part of your admissions application.’
• CMU Tepper requires applicants requesting GMAT waivers to submit a supplemental form prior to applying and says that ‘We believe standardized exams are one way that business programs gauge academic readiness; however, while many Tepper MBA applicants will submit a GMAT/GRE/EA score, we also recognize there are multiple ways to demonstrate academic readiness. This is the reason we offer a test waiver option.’
• UT McCombs says that ‘to be considered for a test waiver, an applicant must have:
  • A minimum of three years of substantive and progressing post-undergraduate work experience, preferably of an analytical or quantitative nature.
  • AND at least one of the following:
    • Completion of an undergraduate degree, with strong academic record, preferably with analytical or quantitative courses.
    • Completion of a graduate degree, with strong academic record, preferably in an analytical or quantitative discipline.
    • To improve chances of petition approval, we highly advise applicants to have an overall GPA of 3.0 or more.’
• USC Marshall says that ‘This program allows applicants to request a waiver for standardized tests (GMAT or GRE). To request a waiver, submit your application and explain your rationale using the Test Waiver Request Text Box. Test waiver requests will be evaluated based on academic performance, with a strong emphasis on achievement in quantitative coursework (business, economics, sciences, technology, engineering, math, etc.). Professional experience can be included in the waiver request but is secondary to academic achievement and quantitative coursework performance.’
• Emory Goizueta ‘provides applicants the opportunity to request a waiver from the standardized test requirement for applications to the Full-Time MBA programs…is for candidates who can demonstrate they are prepared for graduate-level business coursework, and specifically quantitative graduate coursework, based on their academic background and/or their professional work experience.’
• Georgetown McDonough offers the option to request a test waiver but hints at the following criteria for those whose waiver requests are likely to be granted: ‘Based on our experience, candidates who are most likely to be successful in the quantitative rigor of the classroom have one or more of the following as part of their profile:
  • Academic Grades: Undergraduate or graduate cumulative GPA of 3.1 or greater in one of the following degrees or majors: business administration, science, engineering, technology, or math. Undergraduate or graduate cumulative GPA of 3.3 in degrees or majors other than what is listed above.
  • Coursework: Applicants who have successfully received undergraduate or graduate-level quantitative coursework with a minimum grade of “B” or better in at least two rigorous (not introductory) quantitative classes (e.g. finance, accounting, statistics, calculus, advanced math, engineering, computer science, or physics) are preferred.
  • Certifications: CPA or CFA (or international equivalent) or other quantitatively rigorous certificates.
  • Work Experience: Significant post-undergraduate full-time work experience in a quantitative, mathematical, or analytical field where the majority of your job responsibilities require rigorous quantitative analysis. Please note that working in Excel and pivot tables for simple analysis does not qualify.
  • Demonstrated Grit: Professional and academic experiences that demonstrate grit and the ability to be successful in quantitative coursework.’

Is Requesting a GMAT Waiver a Good Strategy?

If you’re applying to a program that offers waivers, should you request one? In most cases, we advise against it. Top MBA programs are more likely to approve your waiver request if your other qualifications—like GPA and work experience—are truly exceptional. If you’re that competitive, why limit yourself to only schools offering waivers? By submitting a GMAT or GRE score, you can apply to more programs and increase your chances of admission and scholarships.

On the flip side, requesting a waiver could be risky. Even if your profile is strong, the admissions committee might think you’re either uncommitted to the MBA process or unable to perform well on standardized tests. These assumptions could hurt your application.

Instead of narrowing your options by requesting a waiver, it may be worth submitting a test score to demonstrate your commitment and boost your chances of standing out. For more insights on whether to retake the GMAT or GRE, check out our guide on What Is a Good GMAT Score?

For even more guidance, discuss your GMAT waiver plans with an expert and receive personalized advice to strengthen your application.