Are some universities asking for GRE or GMAT scores, and what is the best time to write the GMAT exam in UK for a Master's?
Yes, top UK business schools such as London Business School and Oxford Said require or favor the GMAT or GRE for MBA and finance programs, while LSE and UCL ask for GRE in quantitative economics. Most standard master's programs skip this, so plan your GMAT 3 to 6 months ahead.
Yes, some UK universities and specific master's programs do ask for a GRE or GMAT score, though it is not a blanket rule across the country. Once you know whether your target program needs one, you can time your GMAT preparation strategically to stay ahead of your application deadlines.
Where GRE Or GMAT Scores Are Actually Required
| Program Type | Typical Requirement | Example Institutions |
|---|---|---|
| MBA and Business Master's (MSc Finance, MiM) | Often required or strongly favored, usually GMAT | London Business School, Oxford Said, Cambridge Judge, Imperial College Business School |
| Economics and Quantitative Programs | Frequently required, usually GRE | LSE, UCL |
| Standard Arts, Humanities, Social Science Master's | Not required for most programs | Admissions focus on GPA, personal statement, references |
When You Should Sit The GMAT
Since UK admissions typically run in rounds or on a rolling basis, you should sit the GMAT roughly 3 to 6 months ahead of your intended submission date. If you are targeting Round 1 deadlines in September or October, plan to sit the exam around May or June, and if you are targeting Round 2 deadlines in December or January, aim to test no later than September or October. Remember the official GMAT rules require a mandatory 16 day waiting period between attempts, so testing early leaves you room for a retake.
My Advice
Always check the specific course page of your target university rather than assuming a blanket policy, since requirements vary drastically even within the same institution. Lock in your GMAT score early so you can shift your full attention to your essays, recommendation letters, and CV during the rest of your application window.
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