Best Online MBA Programs of 2025 — No GMAT/GRE
Each year, thousands of students enroll in online business schools to pursue MBAs. As accessibility and interest in online learning have grown, many schools have expanded to allow learners to pursue this in-demand degree from the comfort of their homes.
Colleges, too, have shifted their approach to recruiting MBA students. As more business schools shift away from requiring GMAT/GRE scores, the focus has turned to other indicators of success.
Explore details on the top online MBA programs with no GMAT/GRE requirements in this helpful guide.
10 Best Online MBA Programs That Don’t Require GMAT/GRE Scores
University of Southern California — Best MBA for Future Business Leaders
Los Angeles, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Most Well-Rounded, Up-to-Date Online MBA Program for Future Business Leaders
The online MBA program at USC offers a balanced curriculum for professionals who want to grow as effective, modern business leaders. USC's program combines essential business topics like finance, marketing, operations, and accounting with emerging areas such as data science and remote team management.
Why Attend USC Online?
- Gain an Integrated Perspective: Learn from faculty across disciplines to understand how different business functions connect and work together.
- Apply Knowledge in Real Time: Participate in weekly live sessions, interactive coursework, and peer collaboration designed to help you use what you learn immediately in your current role.
- Develop Future-Focused Skills: Build a foundation in core business areas while exploring emerging topics like digital strategy and data-driven decision-making.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You'll need a minimum of two years of work experience for admission.
- You must start the curriculum with a one-week, on-campus class session in Los Angeles.
- In-State$66,640
- Out-of-state$66,640
- In-State$66,640
- Out-of-state$66,640
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate10%
- Students Enrolled47,147
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
New York University — Best Modular MBA Experience
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA Program for Professionals Seeking a Hybrid Experience
NYU's online MBA combines the convenience of remote study with the benefits of in-person learning. This part-time hybrid program features several modules covering key business topics and is ideal for working professionals who value flexibility but don't want to miss out on deeper connections and experiences that come from face-to-face interaction.
Why Attend NYU Online?
- Prime Location: Take in-person classes in New York City's core near Lower Manhattan, a major center for finance and fintech.
- Themed Modules: Participate in modules with specific business themes, including leadership, managing brands, and analytics for decision-making.
- Collaborative Community: Move through the program with a close-knit group of peers and build meaningful relationships.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- The core curriculum, which amounts to around half of the total credits, can be completed online, but you must complete additional credits in person in NYC.
- The part-time hybrid MBA takes 3-6 years to complete.
- In-State$60,438
- Out-of-state$60,438
- In-State$38,826
- Out-of-state$38,826
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate9%
- Students Enrolled57,335
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Best Reputation
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA for Employer Recognition
UNC-Chapel Hill’s online MBA connects students with top employers. Each year, hundreds of companies recruit UNC MBA students for internships and full-time jobs. Possible employers include major names in finance, energy, and consulting, such as Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, and Truist.
Why Attend UNC-Chapel Hill Online?
- Strong Results: Land internships during the program and benefit from high job placement — 83% of the class of 2024 received offers within three months of graduation.
- Format Options: Choose part-time or full-time study and complete the program in as little as 18 months or up to 36 months, depending on your preference.
- Curriculum Flexibility: Create a custom curriculum if the six available concentrations don't fit your goals.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You will automatically be considered for a fellowship if admitted to the upcoming online MBA cohort.
- No GMAT or GRE scores are required if you have at least five years of professional experience.
- In-State$7,020
- Out-of-state$37,360
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,844
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate19%
- Students Enrolled32,496
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale — Top Fast-Track MBA Program
- Carbondale, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Fastest Path to Online MBA
SIU-Carbondale's online MBA streamlines the path to a degree, with the option to graduate in as few as 12 months. The program features flexible course schedules to help you build leadership skills and business expertise on an accelerated timeline.
SIU's MBA program can be completed entirely online, making it ideal for working professionals who can't travel to complete degree requirements.
Why Attend SIU-Carbondale Online?
- Accelerate Your Degree: Courses are delivered in 8-week sessions, allowing you to finish your degree in as little as 12 months.
- Dual Degree Options: Expand your career potential and save time by pursuing a dual degree, including an MBA-BA in computer science, an MBA-JD, or an MBA-MS in agribusiness economics.
- Specialized Tracks: Choose from four concentrations — general, analytics for managers, finance, or marketing — to align your studies with your goals.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- SIU offers five start dates throughout the year, providing the flexibility to start when it works for you.
- Admissions are holistic, requiring either work experience, a business degree, or a strong personal statement. Applicants with academic gaps may need to meet GPA requirements as non-declared students before reapplying.
- In-State$9,638
- Out-of-state$9,638
- In-State$8,451
- Out-of-state$28,170
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled11,359
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University — Most Flexible
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA Program for Working Professionals
Johns Hopkins' online MBA is built for the busy professional. With asynchronous courses, optional in-person experiences, and flexible timelines, you can learn on your schedule.
The program helps you balance work, life, and school while developing business skills you can apply immediately in real-world settings. 2024 graduates of Johns Hopkins' online MBA reported an average base salary of $150,924.
Why Attend JHU Online?
- Flexible Pace: The curriculum is designed with flexibility at its core, tailored specifically for working professionals and offered exclusively on a part-time basis.
- Strong Return on Investment: More than 75% of part-time MBA students reported a salary increase, and over half (55%) reported a promotion.
- In-Person Experiences: Take part in optional residences, accelerated electives, global immersions, and leadership programs.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- No GRE or GMAT scores are required for acceptance, but applicants may submit them if they choose.
- Students typically take 2-3 years to complete the flexible MBA program.
- In-State$62,840
- Out-of-state$62,840
- In-State$62,840
- Out-of-state$62,840
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled30,363
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — Best Career Support and Job Connections
- Ann Arbor, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA for Job Placement
The University of Michigan’s online MBA program supports various career goals, including changing industries, advancing in a current role, or preparing for new opportunities. Graduates report strong employment and salary outcomes, with access to a broad employer network.
Why Attend U-M Online?
- Job Placement: U-M graduates reported 100% job placement rates within four months of graduation.
- Career Outcomes: Earn a median base salary of $142,000, while 64% have received a promotion since starting the program.
- Professional Network: Connect with more than 682,000 U-M alums worldwide and benefit from dedicated recruiting and career development support.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- If you don't submit GRE or GMAT scores, you'll need to take the Michigan Ross Quantitative Readiness Course and receive a minimum score of 80%. You can also submit a test waiver request within the application.
- You must participate in three in-person residencies alongside live interactive class sessions.
- In-State$19,058
- Out-of-state$61,810
- In-State$27,192
- Out-of-state$54,720
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate18%
- Students Enrolled52,065
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
The Pennsylvania State University — Most Customizable
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA for Concentration Offerings
Penn State's online MBA offers extensive curriculum personalization, with over 25 concentration options available to suit your specific career path. You can explore high-demand fields such as business analytics, finance, and healthcare business while developing core leadership skills to manage teams and organizations across industries.
Why Attend Penn State Online?
- Broad Curriculum: Complement your concentration with electives that both expand and deepen your knowledge in areas such as supply chain management, project management, and marketing analytics.
- Additional Credentials: Earn graduate certificates in 13 areas, including business architecture, real estate law and valuation, and business sustainability strategy.
- Global Perspective: Participate in an optional global immersion trip to visit company headquarters and meet with business leaders and government officials in an international setting.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- New students are required to complete a three-day online team performance immersion experience to foster valuable relationships with faculty and peers.
- You do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores to apply.
- In-State$15,400
- Out-of-state$25,084
- In-State$23,189
- Out-of-state$39,248
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled88,914
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Rice University — Best for Personalized Learning
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA for Small Classes and Individual Support
Rice University’s online MBA program offers a personalized, high-engagement learning experience. You learn in tight-knit small cohorts, connect regularly with faculty, and choose focus areas that align with your career goals.
Why Attend Rice Online?
- Personalized Attention: Join live, face-to-face class sessions each week with faculty and peers in a small, interactive setting.
- Career-Focused Options: Choose from seven focus areas, including corporate finance, investment management, and healthcare or take up to 13.5 elective credits.
- Hands-On Learning: Participate in simulations, seminars, and on-campus or global field experiences alongside faculty and mentors.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- The GRE or GMAT requirement is waived if you have three years of relevant professional experience or meet other qualifications.
- Rice offers four start dates per year, allowing you to begin the program when it works for you.
- Depending on eligibility, military veterans and students may receive benefits that can help make the MBA program more affordable.
- In-State$57,210
- Out-of-state$57,210
- In-State$53,712
- Out-of-state$53,712
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled8,556
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment8%
- AccreditationYes
Carnegie Mellon University — Best STEM-MBA
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Best Online MBA for Tech and Data-Driven Careers
CMU’s online hybrid MBA features an analytics-driven curriculum that focuses on the intersection of business and technology. The part-time hybrid program leads to a STEM-designated MBA, combining core business coursework with specialized classes in data-driven decision-making, probability and statistics, and optimization.
Why Attend CMU Online?
- Emerging Concentrations: Choose from 14 concentration areas, including artificial intelligence in business and healthcare analytics.
- Tech-Driven Tracks: Focus your studies with one of five tech-oriented tracks, such as business analytics or technology strategy and product management.
- STEM-Focused Curriculum: Built on a foundation of analytics and data management, this program prepares you to become a sharp analytical thinker and decision maker.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- You must attend live, interactive classes two evenings a week and complete weekly offline content.
- You'll need to come to campus multiple times per year to participate in immersive access weekends for study, networking, coaching, and more.
- In-State$62,260
- Out-of-state$62,260
- In-State$48,496
- Out-of-state$48,496
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled16,554
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida — Best Value MBA
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose It: Most Affordable Online MBA Program
The online MBA program at USF offers a competitive tuition price with a solid return on investment. You can tailor your degree to fit your career goals, with concentrations in high-demand areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, and finance, making each credit earned relevant and cost-effective.
Why Attend USF Online?
- Wage Increase: Join past graduates in getting an average 28% increase in earnings within four months of graduation.
- Fast Finish: Ability to save both money and time by studying at a full-time pace and completing the program in as little as one year.
- Competitive Tuition Rates: In-state and out-of-state students pay an average tuition of just under $10,000 and $20,000, respectively, making it the most affordable MBA program on our list.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- To be considered for a GMAT waiver, you must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 in undergraduate coursework, have three years of professional experience, or hold a significant certification or license.
- As an online MBA student, you have the opportunity to participate in a variety of short-term study abroad courses.
- In-State$3,647
- Out-of-state$11,963
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled48,566
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Why Are Schools Waiving or Not Requiring the GMAT/GRE?
The reasons a school may waive graduate entrance exams differ from the reasons for eliminating the GMAT/GRE altogether. A school may waive its GMAT score requirement if you apply with a stellar undergraduate GPA and exceptional work experience. Additionally, some schools created a temporary waiver following the COVID-19 pandemic and never reverted back.
Schools with online MBAs commonly no longer require GMAT/GRE scores. These programs recognize that applicants have a wide spectrum of experiences and educational backgrounds, allowing them to decide which elements of their application best showcase their preparedness.
Reality Check: Do Employers Care About GMAT/GRE Scores?
Even though some schools may no longer request GMAT or GRE scores, employers may still consider them in their hiring processes. Consulting firms and some investment banks frequently request these test scores when hiring interns and employees.
Other types of companies that may want to know your scores include managerial recruiters, financial planning institutions, and risk management firms. These employers may view test scores as a helpful metric when identifying the strongest candidates.
Common Admission Requirements in Place of GMAT/GRE Scores
In the absence of test scores, what do online MBA program administrators look for in potential candidates? Below, we examine some of the top considerations for online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.
Work Experience
Work experience shows admissions offices how you handle yourself in professional settings and whether you have progressed in your career. Many programs desire applicants with 2-8 years of professional work experience.Advanced Degrees
Students who successfully navigated the rigors of graduate school are more likely to succeed in an MBA program. Learners can often bypass GMAT requirements if they have master’s degrees or doctorates.GPA
A high GPA demonstrates that you can handle challenging classes without letting your grades suffer. Many schools require a 3.0-3.5 GPA to waive GMAT requirements.Professional Licensure
Many business-related positions require licensure and/or certification (e.g., CFA, CPA, Six Sigma) to practice. Licensure demonstrates that you have the skills and qualifications to pass industry exams. Some schools may use existing licenses and certifications to determine whether to waive GMAT scores.Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation can help you to gain admission without GMAT/GRE scores. Choose mentors and contacts who can speak well about your abilities and potential.Essay or Personal Statement
The essay or personal statement provides you with a chance to demonstrate — in your own words — why you deserve a place in the program and how you plan to ensure your success. Use this document to highlight academic and professional accomplishments and clearly outline how you hope to use your MBA meaningfully.
How to Choose an Online MBA Program: 4 Key Factors
The best online MBA programs with no GMAT requirements offer affordable, top-quality academics with career services support that can help you transition into a new role. Below, we highlight four key factors to consider when choosing an online MBA program.
1. Check for Accreditation
Though test scores might be optional, attending an accredited school is not. Programmatic accreditation indicates that the MBA program has gone through a rigorous vetting process that ensures you’re receiving a high-quality education. It also signals the value of your degree to employers. If you’re investing your time and money into business school, you want future employers to trust that your education meets current industry expectations. Moreover, enrolling in programs that lack accreditation can make it impossible for you to receive federal student aid.
Top organizations that accredit MBA programs include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
2. Graduate Success Outcomes
Strong student outcomes are a valuable indicator of a high-quality online MBA program. When researching and comparing programs, ask yourself: How long does it take for graduates to land a job? What are their average earnings in the short and the long term?
The best online MBA programs have strong graduate success rates and maintain career placement connections with employers to help you quickly connect with jobs after graduation.
3. Ensure the Program Offers Your Specific MBA Area of Study
You can earn a general or specialized MBA degree. Generalist programs focus on versatile, transferable skills with broad, cross-industry applications. Specialized programs develop more focused proficiencies for particular industries or targeted areas of professional practice. You may also encounter online executive MBA programs with no GMAT requirements.
Specializations vary among schools. Some business schools feature many concentration options, while others offer a limited selection. The following list describes common specializations that may interest learners with particular career goals:
Common MBA Specializations
4. Program Length and Format
MBA programs come in many forms, including options with full-time and part-time enrollment, evening and weekend schedules, hybrid and accelerated delivery, and online and in-person learning.
Online degrees can use asynchronous learning platforms with more flexible schedules or require you to join live classes via teleconference software.
Virtually all types of MBAs take 1-2 years to complete as a full-time student. If you choose part-time enrollment, you should budget 2-5 years for business school.
What Can I Do With an MBA Degree?
An MBA is one of the most versatile degrees you can earn. General MBA programs can prepare you for leadership roles in enterprise-level corporations or to launch your own business. Business schools often allow you to add a concentration to your MBA, which can help you pursue a career in a specialized field like finance, marketing, real estate, or human resources.
An MBA can also qualify you to teach undergraduate business courses or pursue a doctorate and become a full-time researcher or academic.
How Much Can I Make With an MBA?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), business and financial professionals made a median annual wage of $79,050 as of May 2023 — nearly $14,000 higher than the median annual salary of $65,470 for all jobs. A 2023 report by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) indicates that MBA graduates earn a median annual salary of $125,000.
GMAC also reported that post-pandemic demand for MBA graduates is more robust than ever, as 91% of recruiters planned to hire MBA grads in 2023.
| MBA Careers | MBA Specialization | Median Salary (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Manager | Healthcare Administration | $110,680 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | Marketing Management | $130,480 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | Information Management | $169,510 |
| Top Executives | Executive and Organizational Leadership | $103,840 |
| Financial Managers | Finance Accounting | $156,100 |
| Human Resources Managers | Human Resources | $136,350 |
How Much Does an Online MBA Program Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), tuition and fees for online MBA programs cost about $22,500 over two years, on average. On average, online MBA programs cost about $5,000 less per year than campus-based degrees.
However, many factors affect an MBA program’s price tag, including the school’s reputation, location, and public or private status. Financial aid comes in several ways, too. For example, some schools offer reduced tuition rates for veterans, military members, university employees, and employees of partner companies.
Average Annual Cost of an Online MBA Degree
$10,995
Online MBA Degree
$16,120
Traditional, Campus-Based MBA Degree
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MBA Programs That Don’t Require GMAT/GRE Scores
Historically, MBA programs have required GMAT scores for admission, but many business schools have waived test requirements in the post-COVID era. Other universities consider GMAT or GRE scores as part of an overall admission packet but only for applicants with lower GPAs.
