GRE, GMAT & EA Test Waivers for MBA Applications

With round 2 MBA deadlines rapidly approaching, many applicants who have not secured their desired test score (or have not yet had time to take the GMAT, GRE or EA) may be wondering if waiving the GMAT/GRE/EA is an option.

The answer is – MAYBE!

An increasing number of top MBA programs (including some T10 programs) are giving MBA hopefuls the chance to apply without taking a standardized test. This option can be particularly attractive for applicants who decide to pursue an MBA later in the application cycle and have not had adequate time to devote to studying. Waiving the testing requirement is also appealing for applicants who have not been able to achieve their target score (though if this is you, we do recommend you consider working with one of our expert tutors who can help you figure out where you might be getting stuck before throwing in the testing towel).

However, waiving the GMAT/GRE/EA is not an option for all schools and is not recommended for all applicants!

Schools Offering GMAT and GRE Waivers

It is important to note that most admits to schools that offered test waivers still submitted a score. For example, NYU Stern reported that only 13% of the class of 2026 submitted test waivers. To determine whether waiving the test is possible for you, let’s start by taking a look at which schools are offering waivers for 2024-2025 MBA applicants. It is important to note that in most cases, those applying for waivers must submit a separate essay demonstrating academic readiness. In some cases, applicants must request this waiver in advance and recognize that is may not be approved, particularly if you do not have enough quantitive education or experience. Finally, not all schools have a one size fits all policy. Some schools offer waivers only to candidates in specific situations, so it is important to read the fine print (or talk to us) before determining whether a waiver is truly available.

¹ Applicants must submit a request and have a minimum of two years of post-graduate professional work experience and qualify for the English Language Proficiency test waiver if they are a non-native English speaker.

² Applicants must submit an essay that provides alternative evidence of their readiness.

³ Only University of Chicago current students or graduates may be eligible for a GMAT/GRE test waiver.

⁴Waiver applications should be submitted prior to submitting the overall degree application. Candidates who plan to submit a waiver application should do so 3-4 weeks prior to their target degree application deadline. Particular regard will be given to indicators of academic and professional accomplishment, including but not limited to: At least three years of professional work experience; a strong undergraduate and/or graduate record, including performance in analytical coursework or disciplines; CPA or CFA designation or other quantitative, professional certification; master’s or advanced degree in an analytical discipline.

⁵ Applicants must submit a short statement that describes their personal circumstances and why they are confident they can succeed.

⁶ Applicants must explain the circumstances surrounding their inability to take a GMAT or GRE.

⁷A merit-based test waiver is available by request prior to submitting your application. Waivers/Exceptions are not available for applicants who have already sent scores to UT.

⁸ Applicants can request a standardized test waiver for the Full-Time and Luxury & Retail MBA programs.

If you are eligible for a waiver at one or more of your target schools, you next need to ask yourself:

Is Waiving The GMAT or GRE Test in My Best Interest?

You should NOT consider a waiver if you have a low GPA and/or no quantitative experience. Admissions directors need evidence of your ability to handle the academic rigor of an MBA program and, if your GPA is weak, you will need a strong test score to prove you have the potential to succeed.

Even with a strong GPA, waiving can also be a riskier option if you are applying from an overrepresented industry or demographic, given that you will be competing against other applicants with a similar background who are highly likely to submit test scores. As you determine whether to waive the GMAT/GRE/EA, ask yourself if there is ANY WAY you can get a competitive score in time.

If the answer is YES, Personal MBA Coach recommends that you give it a shot.

When To Consider a Test Waiver

If you cannot achieve a strong score in time (perhaps standardized tests are not for you or you are reading this in August and want to apply to round 2), Personal MBA Coach recommends that you evaluate whether a waiver is right for you.

Evaluate Your MBA Application

To do this, you want to look at your application holistically and determine if there is enough evidence of academic success. Ask yourself these three questions:

Do I have a strong GPA?
Does my resume show evidence of analytical ability and experience?
Have I demonstrated my academic ability throughout my application?

If you can answer yes to these questions a waiver could be a great option. Keep in mind, you need to request this waiver from your target school. While in most cases our clients who request waivers are successful, this is not a guarantee!

Ultimately, you want to know if your profile is strong enough without the test score and who you are competing against.