Do I need to submit GRE or GMAT scores for UK master's programs, particularly for business or finance specializations? If so, what scores are typically expected?
It depends on the university. LSE and Oxford require GMAT or GRE for their finance master's programs, with a competitive score in the high 600s GMAT. Imperial, Warwick, and Cambridge generally make the test optional or do not require it.
Whether you need a GRE or GMAT score for a UK business or finance master's depends entirely on the specific university, since there is no single UK-wide rule. LSE and Oxford generally require it, particularly if you do not hold a full 3 year UK undergraduate degree, while several other top programs make it optional or unnecessary.
GRE or GMAT Requirements by University
| University and Program | GRE or GMAT Required |
|---|---|
| LSE, MSc Finance | Required for applicants without a UK undergraduate degree |
| Oxford, MSc Financial Economics | Required |
| Imperial, MSc Finance | Not required, but recommended |
| Warwick, MSc Finance and Management | Not required |
| Cambridge, MPhil Finance | Not required |
What Score to Target
- GMAT: aim for the high 600s, since LSE describes this range as typical among competitive applicants.
- GRE: aim for a strong Quant score, ideally around the 85th percentile or higher.
- Imperial: its guidance lists a 600 minimum with a 666 current average for MSc Finance applicants.
- Your undergraduate degree's quantitative content matters alongside the test score, particularly for programs like Imperial and Warwick.
My Advice
If LSE or Oxford are on your shortlist, plan to take the GMAT or GRE rather than hoping to skip it. In my experience, students applying broadly across UK finance programs benefit from taking the test anyway, since even universities where it is optional treat a strong score as a positive signal alongside your academic record.
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