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Do I Have to Take the GMAT?

Many business schools require prospective students to submit Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores as part of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) admissions process. This requirement can pose a barrier, especially for those in full-time jobs.

The new GMAT Focus Edition is not cheap, costing $275 when delivered at a test center or $300 when delivered online. Plus, fees for additional score reports and rescheduling can increase the cost of the exam substantially. Besides, some students do not fare well on standardized tests.

The good news is that it is possible to enroll in the Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) online MBA programs without taking the GMAT Focus exam.

How to Apply for an MBA Program Without the GMAT

Many schools waived GMAT requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic, but this temporary trend will likely regress. Still, many top online MBAs let applicants skip the GMAT, or they waive it if applicants meet certain criteria.

For example, TAMIU waives GMAT requirements and offers automatic graduate school admission to online MBA applicants with:

  • An undergraduate degree or a graduate degree from an accredited business school
  • An upper-level GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent GPA in the last 60 completed hours for international students)
  • Three references and a resume documenting background and work experience
  • A recent TOEFL score report with a score of at least 79 or an IELTS score report with a minimum score of 6.5 (only required for international students or domestic applicants who completed undergraduate study abroad)

TAMIU’s MBA programs are AACSB-accredited, demonstrating they meet the highest standards of global business education. The university reviews an applicant’s school and work history as part of its admissions process. Applicants who do not meet the above criteria must submit a GRE or GMAT score less than five years old, two reference letters and a personal statement of 300 words describing career and personal goals. The option to take the GRE instead of the GMAT makes TAMIU’s MBA programs more accessible.

How to Get an MBA Online

Students can complete TAMIU’s affordable online MBA programs in as few as 12 months. TAMIU offers MBA specializations in Criminal Justice, Healthcare Administration, International Banking and Finance, International Business, International Trade and Logistics and Management. Each program consists of 10 courses, totaling 30 credit hours of study.

Each course in TAMIU’s online MBA programs lasts seven weeks. TAMIU offers six sessions each year, so students have multiple start dates to choose from. Students who take two courses per seven-week session can complete the program in a year. Students can also take a slower pace to fit studies around other scheduling obligations like work or family commitments.

Earning an MBA through an online program provides students with the same learning outcomes as those attending on-campus classes. Both lead to a graduate degree from a high-quality program. Taught by top-notch faculty, the content is the same regardless of format — on-campus or online. Some professors teach in both settings. Plus, with the online model, students can continue working, earning an income, gaining experience and taking advantage of opportunities that come their way, all while earning a respected degree and advancing their careers.

Learn more about TAMIU’s online Master of Business Administration programs.

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