Prefer the GRE over GMAT? Now, you may have the option, as Harvard, Wharton and more, accept GRE.GMAT is a cause for concern among MBA applicants. When working with business school admissions clients on GMAT consultations, we are frequently asked on how important the GMAT is for the MBA application and how will it impact admission chances at b-school.
When we first take on an MBA admissions client, we look at their profile from three perspectives - academic, professional and personal. One of the major components of the academic section is the GMAT. If you have a less-than-stellar academic history from undergraduate or previous graduate degrees, the GMAT assumes greater significance. Essentially, your GMAT score is a convenient metric for business school admissions committees to figure out how you rank against your potential MBA classmates. Obviously, it is one of many factors that affect your MBA admission chances, but it remains an important part of your business school application.
With all that being said, wouldn't it be nice to have an alternative? Now, there is, and the trend seems set to continue. Many US business schools, as well as international MBA programs now accept the GRE as a substitute for the GMAT in an MBA application. Among the top schools, we have NYU (New York University, Stern School of Business), Harvard University, Wharton (University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School - beginning 2010), Yale University and Columbia (but so far, Executive MBA program only). Business schools are realizing that an increasingly diverse pool of MBA applicants with a multitude of professional and academic backgrounds, require options.
So if you are applying for an MBA sometime soon, in the United States or abroad, and would prefer the GRE over GMAT, check the list below. If it's not on the list*, doesn't hurt to ask your MBA program anyway. Business schools follow trends, and are responsive to the needs of their students. The newest trend seems to be an increasing acceptance of GRE, as a substitute for GMAT, as part of the MBA application.
Most current list of business schools accepting GRE for MBA applications at https://bit.ly/9lCl4I.
*Lists are subject to change. Verify GRE acceptance with your target MBA program. Schedule a Free Initial Consultation on your MBA application at
mbaconsult@mymbaadmit.com. Learn about our affordable
Application Packages and Volume Discounts.