online mba no gmatWorking professionals who want to advance can choose an online MBA, but for many, the GMAT requirement is a barrier. When it comes to the best MBA programs online, no GMAT programs are a smart choice for working adults. A key reason MBA programs with no GMAT requirement are a growing segment of some online business schools is the correlation between standardized tests and student success. A standardized test does not necessarily mean a student is capable or will find success in their career.

The specific reasons online MBA programs may not require a GMAT score vary based on the school. It benefits students who may struggle with standardized tests or who are concerned about a low test score limiting their options for a higher level of education. A no GMAT-required MBA program may also focus on students with work experience. Some online MBA programs with no GMAT required set standards for student work experience. For example, a school may waive the testing standards by requiring students to complete five or more years of work experience in a related business field. The test may still apply to students who do not have work experience or the school may not accept students with limited work experience.

Methodology: Ranking the Best No-GMAT Online MBA Programs

To rank the best no-GMAT online MBA programs, Best Master’s Programs editors sought out programs that do not require GMAT scores to apply. That wasn’t the only standard, though – that was just the basics. In addition to being fully accredited, programs were ranked by three basic factors: Student Satisfaction, Salary Potential, and Tuition Cost.

1. Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s College of Business offers an online Master of Business Administration degree program that can be completed as a full-time student or a part-time student. CSU’s Degree candidates must complete 42 credit units to graduate. CSU offers several related certificates that can be earned simultaneously that complement your MBA degree. CSU’s no GMAT online MBA programs offer the same quality education as the on-campus degree.

Colorado State University was established in 1879 under the Morrill Land Grant Act. Colorado State University is considered the flagship institution of higher education within the Colorado State University System. The school’s urban campus is home to more than 28,000 students and another 5,000+ students study online. The Review recognizes Colorado State University’s program among the best MBA programs online no GMAT formatted course.

Degree: MBA

2. Northeastern University

Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that can be completed entirely online. NEU’s no GMAT online MBA programs have been recognized as the eighth-best in the nation. Northeastern University’s best MBA programs online no GMAT formatted courses allow students to opt from eight different concentrations and complete the program in only two years if so desired. Additionally, Northeaster University offers the dual program degree of an MS in Finance/MBA. Students must complete 50 credit units to graduate.

Northeastern University is a private research institution of higher education that was established in 1898. Northeastern University began in a YMCA in Boston. Currently, NEU’s satellite campuses are location Canada, California, Washington, and North Carolina. The school’s 70+-acre urban campus is home to more than 25,000 students. Northeastern University’s innovative coop program has replicated in many other education models.

Degree: MBA

3. University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that is considered among the best MBA programs online no GMAT required degrees in the nation. It is noted, however, that a GMAT score is required if the degree candidate has less that seven years of professional experience. UNC’s no GMAT online MBA programs have received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

The University of North Carolina was established in 1789 and is the flagship school of the seventeen-school Member University of North Carolina system. The school’s student enrollment nears 30,000, studying for academic degrees offered by UNC Chapel Hill’s fifteen colleges/schools. The University of North Carolina holds the distinction of being the first public university in the Tar Heel state.

Degree: MBA

4. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas’ Walton College offers an Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that can be completed entirely online and in about 2 years. The University of Arkansas offers no GMAT online MBA programs (no GMAT required if the candidate has at least 5 years experience) that specifically concentrate on the mechanics of retail operations. As an accredited institution of higher learning, U of A (By the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), U of A’s offerings are considered among the best MBA programs online no GMAT required.

The University of Arkansas was established in 1871 under the Morrill Land Grant Act. The University of Arkansas was established atop of a hill with pristine views of the Ozark Mountains. Additionally, U of A is a space-grant and a flagship school of the University of Arkansas system. The school’s 400+-acre college town campus is home to nearly 28,000 students. The University of Arkansas’ student to faculty ratio is 19 to 1.

Degree: MBA

5. University of Miami

The University of Miami offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that requires no on-campus visits. U of M’s no GMAT online MBA programs include four concentrations — a Professional MBA (42 credits), a Corporate Finance Focus MBA (47 credits), a Financial Decision Making MBA (47 credits), and an Accounting Focused MBA (51 credits). As an AACSB internationally accredited university, The U of M offers some of the best MBA programs online no GMAT required. This GMAT waived MBA is generally completed in 2 years and four months.

The University of Miami is a private institution of higher education and research was established in 1925. The school’s suburban Miami location in Coral Gables covers more than 225 acres and is home to more than 17,000 students studying for academic degrees from twelve undergraduate and graduate schools/colleges. The University of Miami’s student to faculty ratio is an impressive 12 to 1.

Degree: MBA

6. Babson College

Babson College offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that does not require the submission of a GMAT score. Babson’s no GMAT online MBA programs accept candidates using their blending learning student model — those with extensive relevant work experience. It is noted that the Babson College admission’s committee has the authority to ask for a GMAT score should they find a need. Babson College offers its unique innovative MBA program as a full-time or part-time student.

Babson College was established in 1919 as a school for men who wanted to study business with only 29 students. The school’s beautiful 250-acre suburban campus is home to about 3,100 students. Babson College has been recognized for one of the best MBA programs online no GMAT format course in the country. Olin College, Wellesley College, and Babson College work together to form BOW — a 2-college collaboration effort.

Degree: MBA

7. George Washington University

George Washington University’s School of Business offers a Global Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that does not require the submission of a GMAT score. GWU’s no GMAT online MBA programs offer a GMAT waiver to those degree applicants who have a minimum of five years of professional relevant experience. George Washington University’s MBA degree program that is offered through its distance-learning platform requires the completion of 55.5 credit units that are often completed in about 21 months, as the school’s program administrators high recommend a summer internship between semesters.

George Washington University was established in 1821. GWU is a private institution of higher education that is organized into fourteen colleges/schools. The school operates with several campuses in Washington DC and Virginia. George Washington University offers one of the best MBA programs online no GMAT format courses in the nation. George Washington University has received top honors for a university with the best internship opportunities.

Degree: MBA

8. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University offers a no GMAT online MBA program for those who have a minimum of three years of professional experience and have maintained a Grade Point Average of 3.0. US News ranks LSU’s program among the best MBA programs online no GMAT formatted degrees in the country. Louisiana State University’s online MBA program requires the completion of 42 credit units. Degree candidates can complete the coursework in approximately 1.5 years.

Louisiana State University was established in 1860 under the Morrill Land Grant Act. In addition to being a land grant institution of higher learning, LSU is also a sea-grant and space-grant university. The school’s urban campus is home to more than 25,000 students studying for academic degrees offered by fourteen colleges/schools. Louisiana State University holds the distinction of managing more than 800 research projects from outside sponsors.

Degree: MBA

9. Syracuse University

Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program that does not require the submission of a GMAT score if the degree applicant has five years of professional experience. Syracuse University’s graduate business degrees are recognized among the best MBA programs online no GMAT submission required programs in the country. In fact, SU’s no GMAT online MBA programs are consistently recognized as the number one private university for Veterans by Military Times.

Syracuse University was established as a private institution of higher education in 1870 that was affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church. However, since the 1920s, Syracuse University has operated as a nonsectarian school. The school’s urban campus covers more than 675 acres and is home to more than 22,000 students. US News and World Report recognizes Syracuse University among the top 55 national schools.

Degree: MBA

10. Baylor University

Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business offers no GMAT online MBA programs that have received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). The GMAT waiver is available to those degree applicants who have a minimum of four years of professional experience. Baylor’s best MBA programs online no GMAT option requires the completion of 48 – 60 credit units; which can be completed in only one year.

Baylor University was established in 1845 by the Republic of Texas’ congress before Texas was adopted as a state. Baylor University is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. The school’s college town campus covers more than 1,000 acres and is home to more than 17,000. Baylor holds claim to being the oldest institution of higher learning in Texas that has remained continuously operating since its inception.

Degree: MBA

11. Florida International University

Florida International University offers a Professional Master of Business Administration (MBA) that can be completed entirely online. FIU Business’s no GMAT online MBA programs permit applicants with professional work experience to apply for admission with a GMAT score. FIU’s best MBA programs online no GMAT coursework includes Strategy, Corporate Strategy, and Business Analysis, which is part of the require 42 credit hours. Students can specialize in Finance, Leadership, Real Estate, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship, to name a few.

Florida International University was established in 1965. Florida International University is a member public institution of higher education within the State University System of Florida. The school’s urban/city campus covers well over 550 acres and services nearly 57,000 students. Florida International University hosted a talk with then President Barack Obama during the 2015 calendar year.

Degree: MBA

12. Ohio University

Ohio University’s College of Business offers some of the best MBA programs online no GMAT options that offer students an opportunity to select from a variety of concentrations — Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Executive Management, Health Care, Finance, Operations, and Strategic Selling. Ohio University offers degree candidates a flexible, convenient method to earn their graduate business degree. Students must complete a total of 35 credit units that are completed in six semesters that cover a seven-week term.

Ohio University was established in 1804. Ohio University’s college town campus covers more than 1,800 acres and serves more than 34,000 students across OU’s main campus and its regional campuses. Several academic ranking services recognizes Ohio University’s no GMAT online MBA programs among the best. Ohio University holds the distinction of being the first institution of higher education that was chartered in the state of Ohio and the eighth oldest in the nation.

Degree: MBA

13. Regis University

Regis University’s College of Business and Economics offers a Professional Master of Business Administration (MBA) that can be completed entirely online. Most no GMAT online MBA programs may require certain program applicants to submit a GMAT school. Accreditedonlineschools.com recognizes Regis’ best MBA programs online no GMAT format as #4 in the state of Colorado. Regis University’s online MBA graduates Degree graduates are required to complete 33 credit units to graduate. Coursework includes Managerial Economics, Entrepreneurial Innovation, Organizational Behavior, Business Ethics, and Operations Management, to name a few.

Regis University was established in 1877 and is affiliated with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Regis University’s 80+-acre campus in Mile High City is home to more than 8,200 students studying from the school’s five schools/colleges. Regis University holds the distinction of having Desmond Tutu and the Dali Lama speak and a Papal visit with President Bill Clinton.

Degree: MBA

14. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

When you are looking into no GMAT online MBA programs, the University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers a solution. The school offers an executive MBA program that waives the GMAT requirement if students have at least five years of work experience. The online program is designed around the needs of students who are still working and may have limitations on their time, so it offers a flexible schedule to fit around your work obligations.

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington stands out from other programs by offering peer interaction and networking opportunities through their online program. Students are able to meet and work with their peers for a chance to work on projects or gain new perspectives into a topic. It also offers a chance to gain hands-on experience while learning through an online format. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers an accelerated program that allows students to finish their MBA in 12 months.

Degree: Executive MBA

15. Maryville University

Maryville University offers one of the best MBA programs online no GMAT requirement opportunities. The school does not require students to present their GMAT scores or to take the test. It also does not require a GRE or an application fee for students who are applying to the school. The online format makes it easy for students to work on their degree when it fits their schedule.

Maryville University offers an accelerated online program. Students are able to complete their degree in 12 months and can focus on their career goals. That flexibility allows students to avoid complications when they have work obligations or personal obligations that limit their time or availability. The program does not require students to spend any time on-campus or to complete work by visiting the campus. It is a fully online program. Maryville University allows students to start working on their MBA degree at six different times throughout the year.

Degree: MBA

16. Grand Canyon University

When you want to evaluate the best MBA programs online – no GMAT required, Grand Canyon University offers a solution for your goals. The school does not require students to obtain a GMAT as part of their evaluation. It uses transcripts, your application, and related factors to evaluate your abilities and skills. Students are not required to provide test scores to qualify for the program.

A key reason Grand Canyon University stands apart from other programs is the accelerated courses. The classes in the online program are eight weeks long, which gives students the flexibility to keep up with classes at a fast pace. The program also takes a Christian view of the topics of study, which gives students an interesting perspective on business-related topics. Grand Canyon University allows students to transfer in 12 credits from other programs to further accelerate the process to obtain a degree.

Degree: MBA

17. Texas A&M International University

The decision to pursue no GMAT online MBA programs means you will want to consider the online MBA option at Texas A&M International University. The school allows students to waive the GMAT requirements if they have a 3.0 GPA or higher in their undergraduate program. You will need to provide a copy of your transcripts to prove that you meet or exceed the requirements to avoid the test. Students who do not have a 3.0 GPA or higher must take the GMAT to be considered for the online program.

Texas A&M International University stands apart from other programs by offering four concentrations in specialized areas of business. The MBA programs allow students to gain specific knowledge of an area of business that gives a deep understanding of the topics of discussion. It allows students to focus on an area of interest and cut through the general topics associated with an MBA degree. The online MBA programs at Texas A&M International University offers accelerated opportunities to allow students to finish a degree in 15 months.

Degree: MBA

18. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers an online MBA program that does not require a GMAT for admissions. The MBA program at the school offers students the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of business or to focus on general business studies. That flexibility gives students the opportunity to obtain a career in their field of interest or to gain the general knowledge they need to give employers a flexible set of skills.

A key way Nova Southeastern University stands apart from other programs is the opportunity to add certifications to the degree. Certifications help students enhance specific skills and improve their ability to specialize for an employer’s goals. Students can use the certifications to their advantage by adding specific types of professional skills to their degree. Nova Southeastern University offers scholarships to students in the MBA programs that may help cut to the cost of tuition.

Degree: MBA

19. Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online MBA program that does not require a GMAT score to qualify for the program. Students must provide their transcripts from an undergraduate program; however, the school does not need the standardized test scores to allow students to apply for the program. It takes a holistic approach to admissions and evaluates alternative details to clarify the potential for student success.

A key way Liberty University stands apart from other programs is the accreditation. The school is ACBSP accredited, so students can feel confident that the degree program fits the high standards set by employers for potential job opportunities. The online program allows students to focus on their degree when they have time and to work around their personal and professional obligations. Liberty University offers a variety of scholarships to students, including a discount for first responders, that may help cut the cost of tuition.

Degree: MBA

20. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

When you plan to obtain an online MBA, you want to consider Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. The school waives the GMAT requirement for students who have five years of work experience in a busines-related field. It allows you to avoid the test and qualify for the program. You will need to provide a copy of your undergrauate transcripts and your resume as part of the application process to verify your qualifications for the program.

A key way Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota stands apart is the focused approach to your education. The school offers four concentrations in the online MBA program. That allows you to gain specialized skills that help your career and improve your abilities. You must select a concentration as part of the process to finish your degree. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an accelerated MBA program online that allows students to finish their degree in 12 months.

Degree: MBA

21. Florida Atlantic University

When you are looking into online degree programs for an MBA that do not require a GMAT score, Florida Atlantic University offers a solution for your goals. The school allows you to waive the GMAT and the GRE test scores if you have appropriate work experience. You will need to exceed the minimum criteria for work experience to qualify for the waiver. Since you need four years to apply for the program, you must have more work experience for a GMAT waiver. You should also be aware that the school has a minimum standard for your undergraduate GPA. You must have a 3.0 GPA or higher to qualify for the program.

A key way Florida Atlantic University differs from other online programs is the focus on specialized skills. The school offer ten different areas of specialization for students in the MBA program. When you finish the core classes, you select an area of specialization to gain the skills you need for your career goals. You can focus on general business skills or opt for more specific skills that apply to particular areas of business. Florida Atlantic University works with employers for tuition reimbursement and works with military students to ensure proper benefits under the GI Bill.

Degree: MBA

22. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin offers an online MBA with no GMAT requirement. The online program allows students to work around their schedule and keep up with personal and professional obligations. The program is designed around the needs of adult students who may have limitations on their time and complications when it comes to their schedule.

Concordia University Wisconsin offers 16 MBA concentrations and nine certifications or licenses that apply to MBA students. The ability to enhance your degree with a certification or license gives you the opportunity to work on specialized skills for your career. The school recognizes that students will need to develop their skills for a specific goal in their career and works with your situation to help you accomplish your goals. Students have access to scholarships for adult learners and non-traditional programs through Concordia University Wisconsin.

Degree: MBA

23. Concordia University Portland

Concordia University Portland offers an online MBA program that does not require students to submit GMAT scores if they meet other qualification standards. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher to qualify for the program without submitting GMAT scores. Students must also have transcripts from their undergraduate school and the undergraduate program must be accredited to qualify for the MBA program.

A key way Concordia University Portland stands apart from other programs is the focus on adaptability. The MBA program prepares students to handle rapid change in a modern business environment. That ability to adapt to the situation allows students to excel in their career and improve their abilities when moving forward with a new challenge. Concordia University Portland is ACBSP accredited to give students and employers peace of mind about the high standards set by the school for the online MBA program.

Degree: MBA

24. Norwich University

Norwich University offers an online MBA program that does not require a GMAT score. Students are able to start working on their degree program at four times throughout the year and it gives students an opportunity to advance in their career. As an online program, students have the flexibility to work around a personal schedule and finish up their work when it fits their situation and goals.

A key way Norwich University differs from other programs is the ability to specialize in the MBA program. The school offers seven concentrations that give students a clear understanding of the specialized skills discussed in the program. That allows students to develop their abilities and work toward long-term career goals. Norwich University offers a one-week residency to online students to provide hands-on experience in their field of study.

Degree: MBA

25. Queens University of Charlotte

Queens University of Charlotte gives students the opportunity to obtain an MBA online without taking the GMAT exam. The school focuses on providing students with a flexible schedule that works with their long-term goals. It gives students the opportunity to study four specialized areas of business administration through concentrations.

Queens University of Charlotte stands out from other programs by offering a flexible format. Students can take classes fully online or combine online and on-campus classes to fit their personal preferences and goals. It also allows students to work at their own pace. Students can finish their degree in two years or take more time if they need for their degree. Queens University of Charlotte offers a residency that allows students to work on team-building exercises and to gain face-to-face experience with peers and educators.

Degree: MBA

Are Online No-GMAT MBA Programs AACSB Accredited?

The decision to pursue an MBA program online does not mean you give up on accreditation. AACSB accredited MBA online no GMAT programs are available for students who are looking for an accredited program to fit their situation and goals.

AACSB accreditation standards apply to online and on-campus programs. Online programs are accredited as long as they meet or exceed the standards set by the organization and apply for accreditation. The key is clarifying the school’s accreditation before applying to a program. Verify that a school is accredited and then apply for an online program.

Can I Get a Cheap Accredited Online MBA Without the GMAT?

Finding the cheapest AACSB accredited online MBA no GMAT required programs may seem complicated. You may feel that an affordable MBA online no GMAT standard will not meet the exacting requirements of a potential employer. While you do need to select a program carefully, the cheapest online MBA no GMAT programs allow you to obtain an accredited degree that appeals to potential employers for a lower cost when compared to traditional on-campus programs.

The key to affordable accredited online MBA programs no GMAT requirement is focusing on small private universities or public universities that offer online programs for a lower rate when compared to their on-campus programs. You can also opt for regional colleges that offer MBA programs through an online format.

The advantage of an online degree is the flexibility available to students. Cheap online MBA programs no GMAT standard allow students to focus on using other factors to get into the program. For example, the school may use transcripts from your undergraduate program as well as work experience to determine if you are good fit for the program. Affordable accredited online MBA programs no GMAT allow you to focus on selecting schools that give you the type of education you want for your career. You can find a variety of choices in different public universities, private schools, or regional colleges to fit your long-term plans.

Can I Get an Accelerated Executive MBA With the GMAT?

When you are looking into an executive MBA program, you may notice that executive MBA online programs no GMAT are a common option. Since accelerated executive programs focus on the needs of working adults who may not be able to stop their current job or career path, it differs from traditional online MBA programs. A key difference is the amount of time required for your classes. Accelerated classes in an executive MBA program are fast-paced and allow you to finish your degree in a timely manner. You will not waste time on unnecessary classes or programs.

A key reason an executive MBA program may not require the GMAT scores for new applicants relates directly to the school’s requirements for students. In most cases, an executive program with accelerated classes will require students to have extensive experience in their field of study. Students may work in a corporate setting or have experience in a business career. The school may waive the GMAT scores due to the work experience and hands-on experience associated with the career.

The critical advantage of an executive MBA program online is the flexibility to work around your current job and responsibilities. The program is designed around working adults with active careers and limited time. That means you are able to keep up with your long-term goals while you are still maintaining your current job and career path. In many cases, the schools will not accept the GMAT test as a replacement for your work experience requirements, so you will not need to take the test to start working on your MBA degree through the online programs.

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