MBA in USA without GMAT: Top Universities, Admission Requirements, Deadlines, FAQs
MBA in USA without GMATPlanning to pursue an MBA in USA without GMAT? Many top business schools offer MBA without GMAT requirement for candidates with strong academic performance, professional achievements, or relevant work experience.
Some of the top universities offering MBA without GMAT include Northwestern University, Columbia Business School, Babson College, Rutgers Business School, Hult International Business School, and New York Institute of Technology.
The average tuition fee for an MBA in USA without GMAT can range from $33,000 - $88,000 USD yearly. After graduation, students are hired by some of the top recruiters like Amazon, Deloitte, Google, Apple, Microsoft, and many more.
The top university that offers an MBA with GMAT generally has a good placement rate of around 90% or above. While some university that offers MBA without GMAT like Babson, have around 77% placement rate.
The average salary after completing an MBA in the USA can range from $90,000 - $150,000 USD annually, depending on the specialization and work experience. Common intake sessions are Fall (September) and Spring (January).
This blog will guide you through top universities, admission requirements, fees, application deadlines, career opportunities, and FAQ for pursuing an MBA in the USA without GMAT.
MBA in USA without GMAT: Highlights
The table below shows an overview of the key details for pursuing an MBA in USA without GMAT.
Topic | Details |
Top Universities | Northwestern, Columbia Business School, Babson College, Rutgers Business School, Hult International Business School |
Average Tuition Fees (USD) | $33,000 - $88,000 Yearly |
Average Salary (USD) | $90,000 - $150,000 Yearly |
Top Recruiters | Amazon, Deloitte, Google, Apple, Microsoft, JPMorgan Chase, and many more. |
Duration of Program | 1 - 2 years |
Common Intake Sessions | Fall (September) and Spring (January) |
Basic Eligibility | Bachelors degree, 2 - 5 years work experience, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) |
Scholarships Available | University-specific merit scholarships, Deans Scholarship, International Student Awards, and more. |
Why Choose a MBA in USA without GMAT?
The following points represent why pursuing an MBA in USA without GMAT is a smart choice for many professionals.
- No GMAT Requirement: candidates can apply based on work experience, academic performance, or professional achievements.
- Access to top business schools: Some of the top universities like Kellogg, Columbia, Babson, and Rutgers offer GMAT waivers.
- Career advancement: Opens doors to senior roles in consulting, finance, marketing, and technology.
- High earning potential: The average salaries can range from $90,000 – $150,000 USD annually after graduation.
- Global exposure: Opportunity to network with top recruiters like Amazon, Deloitte, Google and more.
- Flexible admissions: Multiple intakes (Fall and Spring) mainly in January and September.
Read More: MBA in Canada without GMAT
Best Universities for MBA in USA without GMAT
The table below shows some of the top US business schools that offer MBA programs without a GMAT requirement based on work experience, academic performance, or other qualifications.
University | QS Global MBA Ranking 2025 | Annual Fees (USD) | Location |
Northwestern University (Kellogg) | 5 | $78,000 | Evanston, Illinois |
Columbia Business School | 8 | $82,000 | New York, New York |
Babson College (Olin) | 77 | $72,000 | Wellesley, Massachusetts |
Rutgers Business School | NA | $45,000 | Newark, New Jersey |
Hult International Business School | NA | $52,000 | Boston, Massachusetts |
New York Institute of Technology | NA | $33,000 | New York, New York |
Colorado State University | NA | $40,000 | Fort Collins, Colorado |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Eligibility Criteria
The table below highlights the common eligibility requirements for pursuing an MBA in USA without GMAT.
Eligibility Criteria | Details |
Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree in any discipline |
Work Experience | 2 - 5 years of professional or managerial experience |
English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5 - 7.0 OR TOEFL iBT: 90 - 100 |
Academic Performance | Strong undergraduate record or relevant certifications |
Alternative Tests (if required) | Some schools may accept GRE instead of GMAT |
Letters of Recommendation | 2 - 3 letters from academic or professional references |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Detailed SOP highlighting career goals and achievements |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Application Process
The following steps guide candidate to apply for an MBA in USA without GMAT.
- Step 1: Research universities offering MBA programs without GMAT requirements and check their specific criteria.
- Step 2: Prepare all required documents (SOP, LOR, resume, transcripts, English proficiency scores).
- Step 3: Fill out the online application form for your chosen universities.
- Step 4: Pay the application fee and submit your application before the deadline.
- Step 5: Attend interviews (if required) to demonstrate your academic and professional potential.
- Step 6: Receive the admission decision and accept the offer.
- Step 7: Apply for a student visa and arrange your accommodation in the USA.
MBA in USA without GMAT: Documents Required
The table below lists the common documents needed to apply for an MBA in USA without GMAT
Documents Required | Purpose |
Academic Transcripts | Bachelor's degree and GPA |
Resume/CV | Showcasing professional and academic achievements |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Explaining career goals and reason for choosing the program |
Letters of Recommendation (2 - 3) | Endorsement from professors or employers |
English Proficiency Test Scores | IELTS or TOEFL to prove language ability |
Work Experience Certificates | Proof of relevant managerial or professional experience |
Passport Copy | Identification for admission and visa process |
Financial Proof | Bank statements or sponsorship documents for visa requirements |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Visa Application Timeline
The table below shows the typical student visa application process for MBA programs in the USA.
Process | Timeline |
Receive Admission Offer | 1 - 2 weeks after final selection |
Pay SEVIS Fee & Receive I‑20 Form | 1 - 2 weeks after admission |
Book Visa Interview Appointment | 2 - 3 months before program start |
Attend Visa Interview (F‑1 Visa) | 1 - 2 months before program start |
Visa Approval & Passport Return | Within 7 - 14 days of interview |
Travel to the USA | Up to 30 days before program start date |
Top Entrance Exams for MBA in USA without GMAT
The table below represents some of the Top Entrance Exams for MBA in USA without GMAT, some universities may still require English proficiency tests or alternative assessments.
Exam | Purpose / Details |
IELTS | Proves English language proficiency (Score: 6.5 - 7.0) |
TOEFL iBT | Proves English language proficiency (Score: 90 - 100) |
GRE (Optional) | Accepted by some universities instead of GMAT |
Duolingo English Test | Alternative English proficiency test accepted by select universities |
PTE Academic | Alternative to IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Cutoff
The table below shows the average English proficiency cutoffs for MBA programs in USA without GMAT
University | IELTS Cutoff | TOEFL iBT Cutoff |
Northwestern University (Kellogg) | 7.0 | 100 |
Columbia Business School | 7.0 | 100 |
Babson College (Olin) | 6.5 | 90 |
Rutgers Business School | 6.5 | 90 |
Hult International Business School | 6.5 | 90 |
New York Institute of Technology | 6.0 | 79 |
Colorado State University | 6.5 | 86 |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Syllabus
The syllabus for an MBA in USA without GMAT covers a mix of core business subjects and electives to develop managerial, strategic, and analytical skills.
Core Subjects | Elective Examples |
Financial Management | Digital Marketing |
Marketing Management | Business Analytics |
Strategic Management | International Business |
Operations Management | Entrepreneurship |
Human Resource Management | Leadership & Change Management |
Business Ethics & Corporate Governance | Data‑Driven Decision Making |
Managerial Economics | Investment & Portfolio Management |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Electives & Specializations
Many universities in the USA offer diverse electives and specializations to help students focus on their career goals.
Specialization | Career Path |
Finance | Investment Banker, Financial Analyst, Corporate Finance Manager |
Marketing | Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Market Research Analyst |
Business Analytics | Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant, Analytics Manager |
Entrepreneurship | Startup Founder, Business Development Manager, Innovation Consultant |
Operations Management | Supply Chain Manager, Operations Consultant, Logistics Director |
Human Resource Management | HR Director, Talent Acquisition Manager, Training & Development Specialist |
International Business | Global Business Consultant, International Marketing Manager, Export Manager |
MBA in USA without GMAT: Scholarships
The table below represents the several US universities offer scholarships for MBA students, even without GMAT scores, based on merit, leadership potential, or financial need.
Scholarship | Eligibility |
Deans Scholarship: Columbia Business School | Merit-based academic and professional achievements |
Olin Graduate School Merit Scholarship: Babson | Academic excellence and leadership potential |
Kellogg MBA Merit Scholarship: Northwestern | High academic performance, leadership, and professional experience |
Hult Global MBA Scholarship | Demonstrated leadership or entrepreneurial potential |
Rutgers Business School International Award | Strong academic record and professional achievements |
Cost of Living in USA
The table below shows the estimated monthly cost of living for Indian students in the USA
Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Accommodation | $800 - $1,500 |
Food | $250 - $500 |
Transportation | $70 - $150 |
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.) | $150 - $250 |
Health Insurance | $100 - $300 |
Personal Expenses | $200 - $400 |
Miscellaneous | $100 - $200 |
Career Scope After MBA in USA without GMAT
Graduates of an MBA in USA without GMAT can pursue diverse and high‑paying career opportunities.
- Management Consulting – Roles in firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte.
- Finance and Investment Banking – Careers in JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley.
- Marketing and Brand Management – Positions at companies like Amazon, Procter & Gamble, Google.
- Technology and Product Management – Roles in Microsoft, Apple, Meta, Salesforce.
- Operations and Supply Chain Management – Opportunities in companies like FedEx, Tesla, UPS.
- Entrepreneurship and Start‑Ups – Launch your own business or join innovative start‑ups.
- General Management and Leadership Roles – Senior positions across industries with global exposure.
MBA in USA without GMAT: Salary Package
The table shows the salary after completing an MBA in USA without GMAT depends on the specialization, role, and industry.
Job Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Management Consultant | $120,000 - $150,000 |
Investment Banker | $130,000 - $180,000 |
Marketing Manager | $95,000 - $130,000 |
Product Manager | $110,000 - $140,000 |
Operations Manager | $90,000 - $120,000 |
Financial Analyst | $85,000 - $100,000 |
Human Resource Manager | $85,000 - $110,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Can a candidate pursue an MBA in USA without GMAT?
Ans: Yes, many universities in the USA offer MBA programs without GMAT for students with strong academic records, work experience, or professional achievements.
Ques: Which universities in USA offer MBA without GMAT?
Ans: Some top universities include Northwestern (Kellogg), Columbia Business School, Babson College, Rutgers Business School, Hult International Business School, and New York Institute of Technology.
Ques: What is the average tuition fee for MBA in USA without GMAT?
Ans: The average tuition fee ranges between $33,000 - $88,000 USD yearly, depending on the university and program.
Ques: What is the average salary after MBA in USA without GMAT?
Ans: The average salary range from $90,000 - $150,000 USD annually, based on specialization and experience.
Ques: What are the main intake seasons for MBA in USA without GMAT?
Ans: The primary intakes are Fall (September) and Spring (January).