GMAT exemption and scholarship

Dear all,
I'am in the process of applying to 2nd round for USC Marshall IBEAR and Cornell Johnson 1-year MBA.
My GPA in the Italian system, as I was told not to convert, for the MSc and the BSc in Aerospace Engineering, from 1 of the TOP 2 engineering schools in Italy, are respectively 29.5/30 and 28.4/30.
I’ve still to take my first practice test for the GMAT. I was wondering if, given my GPA in two strong quantitative degree programs, I would qualify for a GMAT exemption.
However, getting a scholarship (possibly a full ride) would be crucial for me to attend. Would a GMAT be necessary in this latter case? Which score should I consider a good one?
Thanks
Best,
Francesco

Hello, Francesco. I believe we have crossed paths before. In any case, based on what I can find from the USC IBEAR and Cornell Johnson sites, you may, in fact, be okay to apply to the former without submitting a GMAT™ score, but I do not think that would be the case at the latter. The IBEAR site posts the following (my partial list):

• Standardized tests provide the Admissions Committee with some evidence of a candidate’s ability to perform academically in the MBA core curriculum. The basis for your waiver request should be grounded in a record of exceptional academic achievement that includes demonstrated mathematical preparedness. While professional experience can be included as a component of the waiver request, the Admissions Committee will most strongly consider two elements: 1) overall academic achievement; and 2) performance in quantitative coursework.
• Test scores serve as one consideration in merit-based scholarship decisions.
• Some employers may consider test scores in their evaluation of job applicants.

All things considered, it would seem to be in your best interest to take the GMAT™ even if you might not have to, particularly if a merit-based scholarship could affect your decision to attend.

Meanwhile, the Cornell Johnson site is less articulated on the matter:

• To be sure you are academically ready for this rigorous program, One-Year MBA applicants must hold a professional certification or advanced degree. You must have completed your advanced degree or certification by May 2022.
  
  Eligible certifications and advanced degrees include, but are not limited to: chartered financial analyst, certified public accountant (CPA), Institute of Chartered Financial Accountants (UK and India), Society of Actuaries, project management (PMP), JD, MD, MEng, MHA, MPA, MEd, MA, MS, or PhD.
• One-Year MBA Class of 2022 Profile
  
  Demographics
  
  Enrolled: 58
  Average age: 29
  International students: 60%
  
  Credentials
  
  GMAT Median: 710
  GMAT range (middle 80%): 650–750
  GPA Median: 3.52
  Average years of work experience: 5
  Average years of work experience (middle 80%): 0–9
  
  Prior Industries
  
  Financial Services: 27%
  Technology: 20%
  Consulting: 15%
  Healthcare: 12%
  Manufacturing: 2%
  Other: 24%
  (includes consumer products, real estate, education, and more)

I do not see anything about GMAT™ waivers or scholarships. Anyway, to play it safe, you should probably consider taking the GMAT™. I think that a merit-based scholarship would more likely be awarded to a candidate who earned a score in the mid-700s. This is my view on the matter, but it may be worth waiting to see what others say.

Good luck.

- Andrew
_________________