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
Los Angeles, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Southern California offers a top-rated online MBA program that emphasizes real-world scenarios and skills to help you stand out as a business leader. You'll focus on analytics-driven decision-making, efficient communication, and effective virtual and remote collaboration.
Things We Love:
- The curriculum pairs foundational business skills with contemporary issues to help you thrive in the data-driven, digital business world.
- The program is structured for working professionals who want to remain in the labor force while earning their degree.
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.
- Tuition is just under $35,000 per semester as of February 2025.
- 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
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
New York University's online and modular part-time MBA program is designed for working professionals. It combines the convenience of online learning with a top-ranked in-person education emphasizing career advancement and leadership roles. In each of five modules, you'll spend a week studying at the prestigious NYU Stern School of Business alongside your classmates.
Things We Love:
- The flexible curriculum allows you to take live online core courses and benefit from in-person interaction in NYC, the heart of the business world.
- You'll take cohort courses and join a supportive in-person orientation group, allowing you to journey through the program with a community of peers.
- Become part of a robust global alum community with over 110,000 members in more than 130 countries.
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 cohort program follows a set curriculum but allows you to the flexibility of part-time study.
- 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
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a top-ranked online MBA program with six concentration options. You can complete the program in 18-36 months, with full-time and part-time options available. The STEM-designated, accredited program equips you to bring integrity and data-driven expertise to every leadership challenge.
Things We Love:
- You can choose from concentrations in data analytics and decision-making, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, strategy and consulting, or management and leadership.
- The program offers electives in any discipline, allowing you to create a custom curriculum.
- Get connected to more than 51,000 business school alums who can support you through your career.
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
- Carbondale, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Southern Illinois University's 100% online MBA program focuses on helping students advance in their careers and succeed in today's fast-paced business world. In this accredited program, you'll communicate regularly with faculty members and support staff and benefit from a rigorous structure of weekly modules to keep you on track.
Things We Love:
- Choose from four concentrations — general, analytics for managers, finance, or marketing — that are designed to help you gain leadership skills and stand out among your peers.
- In some cases, you can obtain two concentrations with as few as one extra class beyond the 11 required for the degree.
- SIU’s MBA program offers several concurrent degrees, including a combined MBA-BA in computer science, an MBA-JD, and an MBA-MS in agribusiness economics.
What to Know Before You Apply:
- The school offers five start dates throughout the year, offering the flexibility to start when it works for you.
- The online FastTrack MBA option condenses courses into eight-week sessions designed for working students and can be completed in as little as 12 months.
- In-State$9,638
- Out-of-state$9,638
- In-State$11,268
- Out-of-state$28,170
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate16%
- Students Enrolled11,359
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Johns Hopkins University's prestigious Carey Business School offers an online MBA that gives you the same access to experiential learning, student organizations, and networking opportunities as its in-person programs — but built around your schedule.
Things We Love:
- Choose from eight in-demand specializations from a diverse group of focus areas, such as leadership and healthcare management.
- Graduates of the flexible MBA program report an average annual base salary of over $160,000.
- The 100% online program accommodates both asynchronous and synchronous learning styles.
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
- Ann Arbor, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of Michigan's Ross School of Business offers an innovative hybrid MBA program with flexible courses taught by world-renowned faculty. You can study at a pace that works for your schedule while building the skills and network to advance in your career.
Things We Love:
- The 57-credit curriculum emphasizes real-world business challenges and teamwork.
- You can apply to both Michigan Ross and another U-M program, allowing you to enroll in a dual-degree program.
- Get intensive recruiting and career development support, including access to a network of more than 682,000 U-M alumni worldwide.
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
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The Pennsylvania State University's online MBA program prepares you to strategically manage high-performance teams and solve complex, real-world business challenges. While you earn your degree, you can also earn graduate certificates in 13 topics, including business architecture, real estate law and valuation, and business sustainability strategy.
Things We Love:
- You can choose from more than 25 concentrations to customize this degree program to your unique career goals.
- This MBA program is 100% online with no in-person requirements, and nearly all of the coursework can be completed at your own pace.
- The curriculum emphasizes business analytics, critical thinking, and problem-solving to influence corporate strategy.
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
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Rice University's STEM-designated online MBA program gives you access to a tight-knit community and data-driven business education. The 54-credit program can be completed in as little as 24 months.
Things We Love:
- You can choose from one of seven specializations, including corporate strategy, corporate finance, investment management, marketing, entrepreneurship, energy, and healthcare. You can also design your own specialization.
- The customizable curriculum empowers you to act on big ideas and tackle complex challenges to benefit your career and create value across your organization.
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.
- 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
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business offers a hybrid MBA program that promises a part-time format with a "full-on experience." The STEM-designated MBA focuses on preparing you for a future in business that is informed by data and powered by humans.
Things We Love:
- Carnegie Mellon offers a five-minute online profile review that you can take before you apply to help you strengthen your MBA candidacy.
- You'll have the opportunity to work with a leadership coach to create a customized development plan focused on empathy, self-awareness, and effectiveness.
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 Enrolled16,335
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You'll Like:
The University of South Florida offers an online MBA that empowers you to become your best. The 49-credit curriculum emphasizes both analytical skills and creative abilities as it equips you with the intellectual capital needed to tackle today’s industry challenges and become a leader in the business world.
Things We Love:
- You can create a custom specialization or choose from concentrations in blue economy; compliance, risk, and anti-money laundering; cybersecurity; data analytics; finance; healthcare analytics; or personal financial planning.
- Most students work full-time while enrolled and complete the program in 2-3 years.
- If you live near a USF campus, you can access all on-site resources available to USF students.
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.
