For many aspiring international students, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) has long been considered a major hurdle in the path to pursuing an MBA in the United States. However, in recent years, several top universities and business schools have recognized that standardized tests may not be the best measure of a candidate’s potential. As a result, many institutions have made the GMAT optional or waived it entirely under certain conditions.
If you’re an international student aiming to study in the U.S. and want to avoid the GMAT, this guide covers the top MBA colleges in the USA that accept students without GMAT in 2025.
Why Are U.S. MBA Programs Waiving the GMAT?
The shift towards GMAT waivers is driven by several key factors:
- Holistic Admissions: Schools now evaluate candidates based on overall profiles, including academic history, work experience, leadership qualities, and communication skills.
- COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic forced many testing centers to close, prompting institutions to become more flexible.
- Work Experience Matters: Many schools value strong professional experience more than standardized test scores.
- Encouraging Diversity: Waiving the GMAT helps attract students from varied backgrounds, enhancing classroom discussions and learning experiences.
General Eligibility for GMAT Waiver
While some schools have completely removed the GMAT requirement, others allow a GMAT waiver based on criteria like:
- Minimum years of full-time work experience (usually 3–5 years)
- A strong undergraduate GPA
- Holding an advanced degree (e.g., MS, MD, PhD)
- Relevant certifications (CPA, CFA, etc.)
- Impressive leadership or managerial background
Let’s explore the top MBA programs in the USA where international students can apply without a GMAT in 2025.
1. MIT Sloan School of Management (Massachusetts)
MIT Sloan offers a GMAT waiver for select candidates applying to its Executive MBA and Sloan Fellows MBA. For the full-time MBA, GMAT is still recommended but not mandatory if candidates demonstrate exceptional academic and professional achievements.
Waiver Conditions:
- Strong academic background
- Senior-level leadership experience
- Professional certifications like CFA or CPA
2. Kellogg School of Management – Northwestern University (Illinois)
Kellogg allows GMAT waivers for its Evening & Weekend MBA and Executive MBA programs. Though the full-time MBA still recommends a GMAT score, waivers are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Ideal Candidates:
- Professionals with 5+ years of experience
- STEM or quant-heavy academic background
- Exceptional leadership and achievements
3. Rutgers Business School (New Jersey)
Rutgers offers full GMAT waivers for international and domestic students applying to its Full-Time MBA program.
Waiver Eligibility:
- 3+ years of work experience
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Relevant graduate degree or professional certification
This makes Rutgers a top choice for international students looking for a reputable, affordable MBA without GMAT.
4. University of Washington – Foster School of Business
Foster School of Business offers GMAT waivers for candidates with strong academic and professional backgrounds.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with a high GPA (especially in analytical fields)
- Minimum 3 years of full-time work experience
- Strong statement of purpose and resume
This makes Foster one of the most accessible yet competitive programs in the USA without GMAT.
5. DePaul University – Kellstadt Graduate School of Business (Chicago)
DePaul University is one of the most international-student-friendly MBA programs and has removed the GMAT requirement for several of its MBA concentrations.
Waiver Basis:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Resume with solid work experience
- No minimum work experience required, but quality of experience matters
6. Babson College – Olin Graduate School of Business (Massachusetts)
Babson is known for its strong focus on entrepreneurship and offers test-optional MBA admissions for 2025.
Test Optional Policy Includes:
- Full-time MBA
- Blended and Online MBA options
This means students can choose not to submit a GMAT score without needing to apply for a waiver.
7. University of Massachusetts – Isenberg School of Management
UMass Isenberg offers a highly ranked Online MBA and an on-campus MBA, both available without a GMAT requirement for qualified applicants.
Who Qualifies:
- Minimum 5 years of professional work experience
- Strong academic background
- Clear career goals
8. Florida International University – Chapman Graduate School of Business
FIU offers a GMAT waiver for its Professional MBA programs.
Waiver Available For:
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.25+
- 4 years of professional work experience
- Completion of graduate-level courses
This program is also known for being budget-friendly and international-student inclusive.
9. Suffolk University – Sawyer Business School (Boston)
Suffolk’s MBA program is designed with flexibility in mind and does not require the GMAT for most applicants.
Why It’s a Good Choice:
- Located in Boston with strong corporate connections
- Accepts international students without GMAT
- Offers concentrations in Finance, Healthcare, Marketing, and more
10. Pace University – Lubin School of Business (New York)
Located in the heart of New York City, Pace University’s Lubin School is another top pick for MBA aspirants seeking admission without a GMAT.
Admissions Focus:
- Work experience
- Undergraduate GPA
- Quality of resume and goals
Final Thoughts
Skipping the GMAT doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of your MBA education. Many top-ranked and affordable MBA programs in the U.S. are now focusing on holistic admissions that consider your real-world experience, leadership qualities, academic performance, and future goals.
If you’re an international student planning to study in the U.S. in 2025, the above list offers a great starting point to find a GMAT-free MBA program that aligns with your career aspirations and budget.
Tips Before Applying:
- Check Each Program’s Latest Policy: Admission rules can change, so always confirm from the official website.
- Strengthen Your Resume: Your work experience, achievements, and career goals will carry more weight if you’re not submitting test scores.
- Write a Strong SOP: Clearly explain why you’re a good fit for their MBA program without needing standardized scores.