MBA in Germany without GMAT, Work Experience and Tuition Fees!

Looking to do an MBA in Germany without GMAT? Germany is a magnet for international students, offering top-notch business schools at a fraction of the cost you might find elsewhere.

Here’s the exciting part: many German universities do not have GMAT requirements at all! Instead, they value what truly matters — your academic achievements, relevant work experience, and, most importantly, the unique drive and ambition you showcase in your application essays. This makes you feel truly appreciated and valued.

These business programs from the top-rated universities typically last 1-2 years and come at an affordable price tag. Plus, with an MBA in hand, you can earn anywhere from €54K to €88K (INR 48L to INR 79L) per year!

So, leave the stress of standardised tests. Your ambition alone can help you on your way to a rewarding MBA program. 

Key Highlights

Here’s a roundabout of everything you will learn in detail in this blog post on top universities to study MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Particulars	Description
Top MBA Universities / MBAColleges in Germany Without GMAT	Technical University of Munich Ludwig Maximilian University Munich University of Cologne
Top Scholarships Available to Study MBA from Germany without GMAT	DAAD Germany Scholarship Program ESMT MBA Scholarship Dean’s Excellence Scholarship
Cost of Living in Germany	€1831 (INR 1.6L)
Cost of German Study Visa	€75 (INR 7K)
Top Recruiters for MBA graduates in Germany	DeloitteBayerBMW
English Proficiency Tests to Study MBA in Germany without GMAT	IELTS: 7+ TOEFL: 90+
GPA Needed at MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT	3.0 or higher

Why Study MBA in Germany without GMAT?

Are you considering an MBA but stressed about the GMAT? Germany has you covered! Did you know that Germany have around 28 universities in QS’s top 500 universities in the world in 2025? It offers a fantastic combination of top-notch education, affordability, and career opportunities.

Here’s why it’s the perfect place to earn your MBA as an International student.

• Save Money By Skipping GMAT: Many German universities ditch the GMAT requirement entirely. This saves you both time and money on test prep. You can save around $849 (INR 79K) that you can put towards your studies. Now, you can focus on creating a great application that showcases your achievements.
• Top-Tier Education at Affordable Prices: German universities are world-renowned for their quality education at a fraction of the cost you might find in the US or UK. Imagine graduating with an MBA from a top European economy with a booming job market!
• Work in Germany After Graduation: You may be eligible to stay and work in Germany, immediately putting your newfound skills into practice.
• Practical Learning: Germany’s education system is known for blending theory and practical application. This means you’ll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience employers seek.

Top Universities to Study MBA in Germany Without GMAT

The country has six universities under the top 600 in QS Ranking 2025, allowing you to study MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Many universities in Germany offer programs taught entirely in English. Not to forget, German universities are some of the most respected in the world. With over 4,50,000 international students, it is a welcoming place for people from all over the world.

Here’s a list of top 6 universities to Study MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Name of German Universities	QS World Ranking 2025	Tuition Fees
Technical University of Munich	28	€4K to €6K (INR 3.6L to INR 5.3L) Per Semester
Ludwig Maximilian University Munich	59	€374 (INR 33K) (Semester Fee)
University of Cologne	285	€304 (INR 27K) (Semester Fee)
University of Stuttgart	314	€1500 (INR 1.3L) Per Semester
University of Mannheim	487	€42K (INR 38L) (Lumpsum)
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management	527	€33K to €39K (INR 30L to INR 35L) (Lumpsum)

Also read: Cost of Studying in Germany

1. Technical University of Munich

Enrolling in the MBA program at TUM School of Management will give you a solid understanding of the latest management practices. The Technical University of Munich, founded in 1868, is a prestigious institution that offers this program. 

The MBA program taught at TUM will develop your skills and knowledge to become a responsible and effective leader. A unique aspect of this program is its focus on the intersection of technology and management, which equips you to excel in today’s dynamic business world. 

You’ll also benefit from a well-rounded academic education combining theory and practical application. The best thing is that you can study MBA in Germany without GMAT at this university.

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	6.5+
TOEFL	88+

Notable Alumni

• Maria Furtwängler, a TUM alumni, is a German physician and television actress.

• Samantha Cristoforetti, the Italian European Space Agency astronaut and former Italian Air Force pilot and engineer, is also a TUM Alumni.

2. Ludwig Maximilian University Munich

Another well-respected German option for an MBA without a GMAT is Ludwig Maximilian University Munich (LMU), founded in 1472. The MBA program by this university is ideal if you thrive on research and project-based learning during your undergraduate studies. 

It’s a full-time commitment, taking two years to complete across four semesters. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering essential business areas like accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, etc.

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	5.5+
TOEFL	90+

Notable Alumni

• Arnold Schwarzenegger, one of the most popular actors ever, is a Ludwig Maximilian University Munich alumni.

• Ian Fleming, known for creating James Bond, is also a Ludwig Maximilian University Munich alumni.

3. University of Cologne

Founded in 1388, the University of Cologne (UoC) is not only one of Germany’s oldest universities but also one of its largest. UoC is a top-ranked institution that attracts over 5,000 international students each year. 

It is one of the best universities to study MBA in Germany without a GMAT. It was ranked 4th in Germany in the subject “Business Administration” of the ARWU 2023, a prestigious international ranking. 

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	7+
TOEFL	95+

Notable Alumni

• German Singer Lena Meyer-Landrut is a University of Cologne alumnus.

• Stefan Raab, a well-known German television producer, businessman, former entertainer, and television host, is also a University of Cologne alumnus.

4. University of Stuttgart 

If you’re looking for a Business Administration program that dives deep into research, the University of Stuttgart which was established in 1829 is a great choice. Their MBA program is designed to give you a strong foundation in business knowledge, but it goes beyond the basics. 

You’ll be encouraged to develop your research skills, similar to those used in social sciences, so you can independently analyse complex business problems and find innovative solutions. This 2-year program is demanding, but it will prepare you to be a leader in the field.

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	6.5+
TOEFL	80+

Notable Alumni

• Saskia Esken, a German politician elected co-leader of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) in December 2019, is an alumnus of the University of Stuttgart.

• Martin Winterkorn, a former business executive who was chairman of the board of management (CEO, Vorstandsvorsitzender in German) of Volkswagen AG, the parent company of the Volkswagen Group, is another University of Stuttgart alumni.

5. University of Mannheim

The University of Mannheim founded in 1907 isn’t just about business! While they offer a well-regarded 1-year Mannheim Master in Management program, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. 

You can also pursue a Master’s in Economic and Business Education to teach these subjects. But that’s not all – the university also boasts a wide range of programs in other fields. 

With such a diverse offering, the University of Mannheim is bound to have a program that sparks your curiosity.

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	6.5+
TOEFL	90+

Notable Alumni

• Christine Lambrecht, a senior German politician of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) who served as the German Federal Minister of Defence in Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government from 2021 to 2023, is a University of Mannheim alumni.

• Anne Spiegel, a German politician of Alliance 90/The Greens. She served as Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth in the cabinet of Chancellor Olaf Scholz since 8 December 2021 and is another University of Mannheim alumnus.

6. HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management, established in 1898, might be a perfect fit if you’re looking for an intensive MBA program. Their program focuses on Business & Management Studies, and you can complete it in 15 months. To apply, you’ll need to demonstrate English language proficiency through the TOEFL or IELTS exams.

English Requirement

Certificate	Score
IELTS	7+
TOEFL	90+

Notable Alumni

• Rolf Schrömgens is the co-founder of Trivago and Leadership.sprouts, is an HHL alumnus.

• Christopher Behn, the co-founder of betterventures, is also an HHL alumnus.

Also Read: Best Universities in Germany for International Students 2024

Popular Specialisation in MBA Germany Without GMAT

Over 42,000 Indian students enrolled in German universities for the 2023-24 academic year. That’s a 25% increase compared to the previous year, 2022, which saw over 34,000 Indian students. This shows Germany’s growing popularity as a study destination for Indian students.

Germany’s MBA programs without GMAT offer a well-rounded education that prepares you for various industries. Many programs allow you to specialise in a specific field, such as marketing, HR, finance, and more. These specialisations enable you to develop targeted skills and knowledge to make you a strong candidate in your chosen field.

Here’s a list of top specialisations available with MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Specialisation	Job Prospects
Finance	Financial AnalystInvestment Banker
Marketing	Marketing Manager, Brand Manager
Information Systems	IT Manager, Systems Analyst
Operations Management	Operations Manager, Supply Chain Analyst
Human Resources	HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist
Entrepreneurship	Entrepreneur, Business Owner
Consulting	Management Consultant, Strategy Analyst

Free MBA in Germany Without GMAT

The good news is that public universities in Germany are known for offering MBA programs without the need for a GMAT exam, and you won’t have to pay tuition fees! 

There are minor semester fees to cover on top of your living expenses while you pursue your MBA. Here’s the exciting part: several top universities in Germany fall into this category, so you have options to choose from!

• University of Stuttgart
• University of Tubingen
• Ludwig Maximilian University Munich
• University of Kiel
• Goethe University Frankfurt
• Ruhr University Bochum
• Universität Hamburg
• University of Duisburg-Essen
• University of Cologne
• University of Münster
• RWTH Aachen University

Also Read: Study in Germany for Free for Indian Students in 2024

Eligibility Criteria to Study MBA in Germany Without GMAT

Great news! Many German business schools are ditching the GMAT requirement. But there’s a catch: to be considered for an MBA program without a GMAT, you’ll still need to show you’re a strong academic candidate.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll likely need to get accepted:

• Strong Academic Background: Aim for a 3.0 to 3.5 GPA (roughly 83-86%). This demonstrates a solid foundation in your undergraduate(bachelor’s) studies.

• English Language Proficiency:
  • IELTS: You’ll typically need an overall score of 7.5 with no individual band score lower than 7.
  • TOEFL: A score between 90 and 100 on the TOEFL is usually expected.

• Work Experience: Most programs require a minimum of 3-5 years of work experience to ensure you can effectively apply what you have learned.

• A Standout Resume: Go beyond your job titles! Highlight specific achievements, skills you developed, and impactful projects you led during your internships and jobs.

• Compelling Statement of Purpose: This is your chance to shine! Showcase your personal and professional goals, explain why you’re drawn to an MBA in Germany, and demonstrate how your experiences make you a perfect fit for the program.

• Strong Letters of Recommendation: Secure two letters from professors or former employers who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in a demanding program.

With a combination of these strengths, you’ll be well on your way to standing out from the crowd, even without a GMAT score.

Learn more about IELTS here.

Scholarships Available for MBA in Germany Without GMAT

While public universities in Germany are known for their free tuition fees, they charge a semester fee between 27K (€304) and 33K (€374). Private universities, on the other hand, can have comparatively hefty tuition costs, which can range from 3.6L (€4K) to 5.3L (€6K). 

This is where scholarships come in – they can be a game-changer, especially if you aim to study MBA in Germany without GMAT. The good news is there are several scholarship options available. 

Many foundations and even the German government offer scholarships for international students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on your academic achievements, financial situation, and sometimes other specific criteria the scholarship provider sets.

Here are some top scholarships available for MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Amount Awarded
DAAD Germany Scholarship Program	German Academic Exchange Service	€934  (INR 83K) (Monthly)
ESMT MBA Scholarship	ESMT Berlin	€1K to €6K (INR 90K to INR 5.4L) (Lumpsum)
Dean’s Excellence Scholarship	ESMT	€16K (INR 15L) (Lumpsum)
Mannheim School of Business Scholarships	Mannheim School of Business	€2K (INR 1.8L) (Lumpsum)
Women in Business Scholarship	ESMT	€4.5K (INR 4L) (Lumpsum)
Asia Scholarship	ESMT	€10K (INR 9L) (Lumpsum)

Also Read: Scholarship for Germany for Indian Students in 2024

German Study Visa

Germany is welcoming Indian students, with a visa acceptance rate hovering around 90%! The number of Indian students receiving German student visas has steadily increased, from over 28K in 2021 to 42K in 2023.

Since a student visa is required to study in Germany, this section will guide you through the application process step-by-step to ensure a smooth journey towards your academic goals.

• First, check all the visa requirements from the official website of the German embassy or consulate.

• Once you’re clear on the requirements, gather all the necessary documents for your visa application. Here’s a checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything:

• A valid passport with at least two blank pages was issued within the last ten years.
• Completed application and declaration forms.
• Three recent passport-sized photos.
• Two copies of your passport’s data page (A4 size).
• Your letter of admission from the university.
• Proof that you can financially support yourself during your studies (minimum 11L(€11.8K).
• Copies of your academic qualifications (diplomas, bachelor’s).
• Proof of language proficiency (unless your admission letter confirms it).
• Proof of payment for any tuition or study fees.
• Your resume (CV).
• A compelling statement of purpose letter.
• Travel health insurance.

• With all the documents ready, complete the official visa application form online and pay the visa fees of INR 7K (€75). Ensure all the information is accurate, and double-check that you’ve included everything on the checklist.

• Depending on the process, you might need to schedule a biometrics appointment. This usually involves providing fingerprints.

• Once submitted, you can track your application status online or contact German authorities for updates. Be prepared to provide any additional information they may request during processing.

• Finally, when the decision arrives, review your visa grant carefully. It details any entry requirements and visa conditions you need to fulfil.

By following these steps and staying organised, you’ll be well on your way to securing your German student visa and starting your exciting academic journey!

Also Read: How to Get a Germany Study Visa for Indian Students

Cost of Living in Germany

The cost of living in Germany will depend on the city you choose. Still, Germany is a budget-friendly option compared to other Western European countries.

Did you know that the cost of living in Germany is 21% cheaper than in the UK and Ireland and 35% cheaper than in the USA?

You’ll find a similar quality of life for a lower cost of living than in places like the UK, Ireland, or USA. Cities like Dusseldorf, Cologne, and Frankfurt are known for being particularly affordable for students.

Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living for a single person.

Particular	Amount (Monthly)
Rent	€942 (INR 84K)
Utilities	€367 (INR 32K)
Transport	€49 (INR 4.3K)
Groceries	€33 (INR 3K)
Gym	€200 (INR 18K)
Entertainment	€240 (INR 21K)

Job Prospects After MBA in Germany Without GMAT

Earning your MBA in Germany opens doors to exciting career opportunities in Europe. After graduation, you can apply for an 18-month residency permit to stay and search for a job. 

Did you know? More than 2.6L Indians are living in Germany right now. According to the German Economic Institute, more than 57% of Indians employed in Germany were classified as specialists or experts in their respective fields.

Many MBA graduates pursue careers abroad to leverage their newfound skills and knowledge. The good news is the demand for talented MBAs is consistent, regardless of economic conditions. 

Here’s a list of top recruiters for MBA graduates in Germany.

Top Recruiters	Average Annual Salary
Deloitte	€50K to €75K (INR  45L to INR 68L)
Bayer	€50K to €65K (INR 45L to INR 58L)
BMW	€60K to €100K (INR 53L to INR 90L)
Siemens	€60K to €100K (INR 53L to INR 90L)
Zolando	€50K to €80K (INR 45L to INR 71L)
Deutsche Bank	€55K to €90K (INR 49L to INR 80L)

ROI of Studying MBA in Germany Without GMAT: Is it Worth It?

Germany’s popularity for GMAT-free MBAs is rising, but it might seem a tad bit expensive for Indian students. However, with careful planning, you can make it work!

Expect to spend between €17K to €37K (INR18L and INR35L) annually to cover tuition and living expenses. While that might seem like a significant upfront cost, consider it an investment with a high potential return. 

Here’s why: the average MBA graduate in Germany pulls in a salary ranging from €54K to €88K (INR 48L to INR 79L) per year! This means you could potentially recover your study costs within the first few years of working after graduation.

But the benefits go way beyond your paycheck. MBA graduates often land highly respected jobs in Germany, such as IT Manager, Management Consultant, Financial Analyst, and more!

Conclusion

Germany, a land steeped in history, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned universities, is now a fantastic destination for your MBA journey, even without a GMAT!

The key is to plan effectively. Research universities that allow you to study MBA in Germany without GMAT. You’ll have to showcase your strengths in other ways, highlighting your academic achievements, relevant work experience, etc.

The good news is that many universities on the QS World Ranking 2025 list offer MBA in Germany without GMAT. As mentioned, you can choose the university that aligns perfectly with your academic background.

A graduate degree from one of these universities opens doors to high-paying jobs in Germany, allowing you to recover your investment in German education within the first few years.

With some planning and dedication, your dream of studying MBA from Germany without GMAT can become a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions