Do I need to go through two exams, IELTS and GMAT, for studying abroad in UK/Germany for a Master's/MBA?
Yes, if you are pursuing an MBA or management Master's, you will likely need both IELTS, typically 6.5 overall, and GMAT, especially at top business schools. No, if you are pursuing a non-business Master's like Engineering, you generally only need IELTS, since European universities weigh your GPA over aptitude tests.
Whether you need both exams depends on your course type. IELTS is almost always required for English-taught programs in the UK or Germany, but GMAT only comes into play for business and management courses.
Exam Requirement by Track and Country
| Track | UK Requirement | Germany Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| MBA / Master in Management | IELTS + GMAT, usually both | IELTS + GMAT, usually both, though some accept internal tests |
| MSc Engineering/Tech/Sciences | IELTS only, GMAT not needed | IELTS only, GMAT not needed; sometimes an MOI waives IELTS |
Why Each Exam Applies
- IELTS (or TOEFL/PTE) proves English proficiency, typically a minimum overall band of 6.5, unless waived via a Medium of Instruction certificate
- GMAT (or GRE) measures analytical, quantitative, verbal, and writing skills, heavily used in business admissions at schools like London Business School, Saïd Business School, Mannheim, and WHU
- Public universities in Germany heavily weigh undergraduate GPA and coursework over standardized aptitude tests for technical or science degrees
My Advice
If you are set on an MBA or management Master's, start GMAT prep alongside your IELTS practice now, since both take sustained effort. If your target is a technical or science Master's, skip GMAT entirely and put that time into strengthening your IELTS score and academic profile instead.
More expert answers
It depends on your chosen program in Germany.
- For English-taught master's programs, you generally need an English proficiency test like IELTS (usually minimum 6.5). German language skills are not required for admission, but basic German is helpful for daily life.
- For German-taught programs, you must prove German proficiency (usually B2 or C1 level) through exams like TestDaF or DSH.
- GMAT is only needed for MBA or management-related master's programs.
Focus on IELTS if your program is in English. Learn German if your program is in German or to help with daily life. GMAT is needed only if your course specifically asks for it.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which does Germany accept?
Find out which test your universities accept, and which is easiest for you.
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