MBA in USA without GMAT: Universities & Eligibility in 2024

Did you know that pursuing an MBA in the USA can be a game-changer for your career? According to recent studies, MBA graduates in the USA can earn up to 11 Lakhs per year, on average. 

But for Indian students, taking the GMAT test can add an extra layer of stress to the already daunting process of applying to business schools in the USA. 

However, there are MBA programs in the USA that don’t require GMAT scores from international students. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of pursuing an MBA in the USA without a GMAT and how it can help you achieve your career goals. 

Top MBA Universities for MBA in USA without GMAT

Many top U.S. MBA programs don’t need GMAT anymore. 

Get your MBA with a great job background – no test stress!

Here is a list of the top 10 Universities for an MBA in the USA without GMAT:

Universities	QS Global MBA Rankings 2024
Kellogg School of Management	6
Sawyer Business School	101-150
Columbia Business School	5
New York Institute of Technology	NA
Colorado State University	51-60
Hult International Business School	NA
Rutgers Business School	51-60
Golden Gate University	NA
Depaul University	NA
University of St. Thomas	NA

Here is a detailed overview of the top 5 Universities that offer MBA in USA without GMAT:

Kellogg School of Management

Kellogg School of Management is a prestigious business school in Evanston, Illinois. 

The school offers a highly regarded MBA program with a rigorous curriculum emphasising teamwork, leadership, and a global perspective.

 One notable feature of Kellogg’s MBA program is that it does not require a GMAT score for admission. 

 Kellogg’s MBA program is a great option for those seeking a top-tier business education with flexible admission requirements.

The Admission criteria for the university are: 

• GMAT is not required, but a good score can improve your chances of getting in.
• Your application will be evaluated based on work experience, academic background, leadership, and management skills.
• Letter of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose 
• You need a minimum B average grade in an undergraduate course in business or a related field, as well as a minimum B grade in specific undergraduate courses.
• You need at least 2-3  years of work experience in a relevant field to be eligible for the program.

An overview of Kellogg School of Management:

Parameters	Details
Course Length	2 years
Average tuition fees	76.50 lakhs
Scholarships	Kellogg School of Management Scholarship Kellogg School of Management International Scholarship
Top 3 MBA Courses	Entrepreneurship and Innovation Marketing Management Healthcare Management

Sawyer Business School 

Sawyer Business School is a well-respected institution that offers an MBA program without requiring the GMAT. 

This program provides students with a comprehensive business education that prepares them for leadership roles in a variety of industries.

The Admission criteria for the university are: 

• A good GMAT score is not required, but it can improve your chances of getting accepted.
• Your application will be evaluated based on your academic background, work experience, leadership skills, and management abilities.
• You will need to provide a letter of recommendation and a statement of purpose as part of your application.
• You must have at least 2-3 years of relevant work experience to qualify for the program.

An overview of Sawyer Business School:

Parameters	Details
Course Length	2 years
Annual tuition fees	40 lakhs
Scholarships	The Suffolk Global MBA Scholarship The Diversity MBA Scholarship
Top 3 MBA Courses	Business Analytics Global Business Management Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Columbia Business School 

Columbia Business School is a prestigious institution in New York City, offering a rigorous MBA program.

It allows students to apply without submitting GMAT scores if they’ve demonstrated exceptional academic or professional achievements. 

The program provides comprehensive business training, experiential learning, and a diverse community of students.

The Admission criteria for the university are: 

• GMAT? Optional, but strong scores help.
• Value: Your grades, work experience, leadership, and managing skills.
• Apply with: A letter of recommendation & statement of purpose.
• Work experience: 2-3 years minimum (in a field related to your MBA goals).

An overview of Columbia Business School:

Parameters	Details
Course Length	2 years
Annual tuition fees	70 lakhs
Scholarships	Columbia Business School Board Fellowships  The Fullbright Scholarship
Top 3 MBA Courses	Strategic Management Financial Management Marketing Management

Colorado State University 

Colorado State University is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. 

The university offers a highly reputable MBA program that is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s fast-paced business world. 

With a focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences, CSU’s MBA program is a great choice for anyone looking to advance their career in business.

The Admission criteria for the university are: 

• Letter of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose 
• You need at least 2-3  years of work experience in a relevant field to be eligible for the program.
• GMAT is not required, but a good score can improve your chances of getting in.
• Your application will be evaluated based on work experience, academic background, leadership, and management skills.

An overview of Colorado State University:

Parameters	Details
Course Length	2 years
Annual tuition fees	54 lakhs
Scholarships	International Presidential Scholarship Fort Collins International Center Scholarships
Top 3 MBA Courses	Strategic Marketing Management Supply Chain Management Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Rutgers Business School 

Rutgers Business School is a highly respected business school offering a range of programs including an MBA program which does not require GMAT scores. 

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business principles, critical thinking skills, and leadership abilities. 

The curriculum includes courses in finance, marketing, operations management, and more. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in a variety of industries.

The Admission criteria for the university are: 

• GMAT Waiver Available (Strong Scores Considered) • Evaluation Criteria:
• Work Experience
• Academic Background (Min. B Avg. in Business or Related Courses + Specific Course B Grades)
• Leadership & Management Skills

• Required Materials: Letter of Recommendation, Statement of Purpose
• Minimum Eligibility: 2-3 Years of Relevant Work Experience

An overview of Rutgers Business School:

Parameters	Details
Course Length	2 years
Annual tuition fees	21 lakhs
Scholarships	Rutgers Business School Merit-Based Scholarships International Student Scholarships
Top 3 MBA Courses	Business Strategy and Leadership  Global Marketing Management Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Also Read: Average Cost of Living in the USA in 2024

Scholarships for Indian students in the USA

International students who want to pursue an MBA in the USA without GMAT can apply for scholarships and fellowships that cover full or partial tuition fees. 

Here are some of the popular scholarships available: 

• Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships: The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships are awarded to Indian students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at an American university. The scholarship covers tuition, airfare, and living expenses for the duration of the program.
• Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship: The Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship is a fully funded scholarship offered to Indian students who want to pursue an MBA from Stanford University. The fellowship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme: The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme provides financial assistance to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their higher education. The program aims to develop effective leaders who can work to improve their communities and countries.
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships: The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation offers scholarships for Indian students to pursue higher education abroad. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs and are awarded based on merit and potential.

Admission Requirements for MBA without GMAT in the USA

Are you facing obstacles in achieving your goal of pursuing an MBA in the USA because of the GMAT test?

Don’t worry! Instead, focus on the following:

• Most programs require a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. 
• Depending on your undergraduate program, you’ll need to have 2-3 years of work experience. 
• Create a powerful resume 
• Submit letters of recommendation 
• Write a strong statement of purpose 
• Few programs accept GRE scores in place of GMAT scores for standardised tests.
• English proficiency by submitting IELTS (7.0) or TOEFL (600) scores.

Differences in admission criteria

Here’s a breakdown of some key differences in admission criteria for Indian students applying to traditional MBAs and those without a GMAT requirement in the USA:

Parameters	Traditional MBA	MBA without GMAT
GMAT Score	Having a competitive score within the range of 550-600 is crucial for most programs.	Not required. The focus shifts to work experience.
Work Experience	Require minimal or no work experience but strong academics are emphasised.	Minimum of 2-3 years of work experience is usually mandatory.
Academic Background	A high GPA score in a relevant bachelor’s degree is essential.	A good GPA (around 3.0) is still important, but experience gains weight.
Application Focus	Relies heavily on standardised test scores and academic performance.	Highlights work experience, achievements and potential through essays and recommendations.
Competition	The GMAT requirement makes the applicant pool more competitive.	It may be less competitive compared to traditional MBA programs due to the relaxed GMAT requirements.

Also Read: A guide on USA F-1 Visa Interview Question and Answers 2024

MBA Types and Specialisations in the USA: 

Types of MBAs:

Here’s a breakdown of the MBA programs:

• Full-Time MBA: This intensive program is ideal for recent graduates or those with minimal work experience. It can be completed in 1-2 years.
• Part-Time MBA: Designed for working professionals, this program provides flexibility to balance your studies with your current job. The program duration varies from 2 to 4 years.
• Executive MBA: This program is geared towards experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers. It often features weekend-intensive formats.

Specialisations:

1. Business Analytics: This specialisation combines business acumen with data analysis skills to solve complex business problems. Businesses are increasingly reliant on data to make informed decisions, and MBAs with business analytics expertise are in high demand.

2. Finance: A finance MBA provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a company’s financial resources. Finance MBAs can work in a variety of industries, including banking, investment banking, and insurance.

3. Marketing: A marketing MBA teaches students how to develop and implement marketing strategies that reach target audiences and promote products or services. Marketing MBAs can work in a variety of industries, including consumer goods, technology, and healthcare.

4. Information Technology (IT): An IT MBA provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage information technology systems and resources. IT MBAs are in high demand as businesses increasingly rely on technology to operate.

5. Healthcare Management: A healthcare management MBA provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage healthcare organisations. Healthcare management MBAs are in high demand as the healthcare industry continues to grow. 

Advantages of Pursuing MBA without GMAT in the USA 

Pursue Your MBA Dream in the USA: No GMAT Required!

Here’s what awaits you:

• Forget the GMAT prep! Focus on showcasing your professional achievements, academic excellence, and leadership potential through a more holistic application process.
• Many US MBA programs without a GMAT offer accelerated tracks (12-18 months), getting you into the dynamic American job market quicker.
• Compared to other leading countries, US MBAs deliver exceptional quality education at a competitive price point.
• Earn your US MBA and gain valuable American work experience through the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. This paves the way for permanent residency and a thriving career in the US.
• US business schools are hubs of cultural richness and inclusivity. You’ll gain invaluable exposure to a multitude of perspectives and build a strong network of international colleagues.
• The US is a powerhouse in international trade. A US MBA equips you with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the global business landscape with confidence.
• Many US MBA programs offer flexible schedules, allowing you to work part-time while pursuing your studies. Gain practical experience alongside your academic journey.
• Numerous US universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. This financial aid can significantly ease the cost of your MBA education.
• US MBAs offer a wide range of specialisations aligned with your career aspirations, from International Business to Finance.
• Choose a program that fuels your professional development and sets you on the path to success.

Cost of Studying MBA in the USA

The cost of your education can vary depending on what you choose to study and where. 

Here’s What You Need to Know About Costs:

The Cost of studying MBA in the USA is INR 3L per year.

Studying MBA in the USA may appear costly, but it offers a high-quality education, exposure to innovation and entrepreneurship, and a diverse culture. 

The USA is home to some of the best business schools in the world, and the experience opens up vast career opportunities.

Cost of living in the USA for Indian students 

Are you wondering about the cost of living in the USA? 

Well, let’s break it down for you. 

Living in the United States can be expensive, but it depends on your chosen city. Some cities like New York and San Francisco are expensive, while others like Austin and Pittsburgh are more affordable.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the living expenses in the USA:

Rent per month	$1,774
Basic Utility (Monthly)	$206.60
Transportation	$72
Total Expense (Monthly)	$97,869

Average Salary of an MBA Graduate in the USA

Aspiring business professionals are often curious about the average salary of MBA graduates in the USA. 

However, several factors can affect the salary range such as industry, location, years of experience, job responsibilities, company size, and job performance. 

According to the US Labor Report in previous years, the average salary for an MBA graduate in the USA is around USD 131,200 (INR 11L).

Despite some variations, an MBA can significantly improve your job options and earning power in the competitive U.S. job market. This makes it a smart investment for many looking to advance their careers.

Tips for Preparing and Applying for an MBA without GMAT in the USA

Here are some key points to keep in mind when preparing and applying for an MBA in the USA without a GMAT:

• Highlight your achievements and work experience to showcase your strengths.
• Choose an MBA program that aligns with your career goals and interests.
• Practice talking to people and showing your communication skills.
• Check the program’s minimum GPA, work experience, and English scores to make sure you qualify.
• Some schools accept the GRE as an alternative to the GMAT, so explore that option if needed.
• Find the best program for you by comparing different schools and their requirements.
• Talk to professionals in the field who can guide you through the application process and increase your chances of getting accepted.

Skipping the GMAT is a great option for students who want an MBA in the USA. 

With a strong application and the right program, you can achieve your dream of an MBA without the stress of standardised testing!

Summing up

Pursuing an MBA in the USA without a GMAT can be a game-changer for Indian students looking to advance their careers. 

Many top U.S. MBA programs don’t require GMAT scores from international students, opening the doors to a range of opportunities. 

The Kellogg School of Management, Sawyer Business School, Columbia Business School, Colorado State University, and Rutgers Business School are some of the top MBA universities in the USA without GMAT. 

Students can also apply for scholarships and fellowships that cover full or partial tuition fees. 

Pursuing an MBA in the USA without a GMAT offers a streamlined application process, career advancement, and scholarship opportunities.