gmat waiver essay example

MBA Resources

Successful GMAT Waiver Request Letters 

MBA & Beyond Team

22/08/2023 | 6:10 pm

For many aspiring business leaders, an MBA is the golden ticket to a fulfilling career. These coveted programs equip graduates with a potent combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, opening doors to lucrative positions with significant impact. However, the traditional gateway to these programs, the GMAT, can be a significant hurdle. Here’s where successful GMAT waiver request letters come in, offering a streamlined path for qualified individuals.

Every aspiring candidate harbors the dream of studying at some of the world’s most renowned universities and colleges. However, in leading business schools, GMAT scores are deemed a crucial component of the application. For certain students, one of the most challenging aspects of the application process is getting ready for standardized tests, either due to time constraints for proper preparation or because these students struggle with test-taking.

This is where the notion of a GMAT waiver comes into play. We will furnish you with comprehensive details about the GMAT waiver and offer tips on crafting a successful GMAT waiver request letter.

Here is the Snapshot of the article:

*Note: In this article, “GMAT waiver essay” and “GMAT/GRE request letters” are one and the same and used interchangeably. Most schools do not have any essays for GMAT waivers and hence only ask for a letter to request for getting a GMAT waiver.

TALK TO ALUMS OF YOUR TARGET SCHOOL AND KNOW YOUR CHANCES!

WHAT IS A GMAT WAIVER?

Briefly, a GMAT waiver enables an MBA program applicant to skip submitting a test score, especially if they meet specific criteria related to work experience, degrees, academic history, or other specified conditions.

Schools grant GMAT/GRE exemptions at the discretion of admission officers, who assess each GMAT/GRE waiver request letter or GMAT waiver MBA essay. Nevertheless, certain institutions automatically provide waivers to qualifying individuals without requiring an additional GMAT/GRE waiver request letter.

Universities like Syracuse University, UNC (University of North Carolina), and GW (George Washington University) automatically extend GMAT waivers to applicants with over five years of work experience. Conversely, NJIT (New Jersey Institute of Technology) exempts GMAT requirements for individuals holding an advanced degree.

Successful GMAT Waiver Request Letters: Who Should Consider Applying?

You may be contemplating whether to submit a GMAT/GRE waiver letter. There are factors to consider if you choose to apply. If you are confident in demonstrating your abilities adequately through the exam, have met the eligibility criteria but are facing challenges in taking the GMAT/GRE exam, you might consider composing a GMAT/GRE waiver request letter. Below, we will elaborate on the key elements of successful GMAT waiver request letters.

However, if you can attain a score higher than the average for your target program and meet the eligibility criteria, it is advisable not to consider a waiver. This can bolster the strength of your candidacy, so we recommend proceeding and submitting your scores. 

Yet, if you lack adequate work experience, leadership skills, a strong academic record, quantitative coursework, or if your application is weak, seeking a GMAT/GRE waiver may not be a strategic choice. The likelihood of your GMAT/GRE waiver letter getting approved is minimal, as admissions committees seek students capable of handling the school’s challenging academic program and contributing positively to their community. So, we advise you to pull up your socks and start preparing early so that you do not regret it at the end of the deadline. 

START YOUR PREPARATION NOW WITH US!

MAJOR CONSTITUENTS OF SUCCESSFUL GMAT WAIVER REQUEST LETTERS

Skip the GMAT, Focus on Strengths: Admissions committees value real-world experience (career, achievements) and past academic performance over test scores. Highlight these strengths to secure a GMAT waiver.

Schools are assigning increased importance to prior coursework, work experience, and professional certifications to choose the most highly qualified applicants from the same limited pool.

See what experts have to say about the impact of your GMAT/GRE letters.

Below Paragraph deals with all the major constituents that are included in successful GMAT waiver request letters.

WORK EXPERIENCE: IMPORTANT FACTOR TO A GOOD GMAT WAIVER MBA ESSAY  

Work experience constitutes the primary reason why B-schools offer test score waivers to applicants. “A real-world experience that an applicant would bring to a program is likely to be more valuable than scoring over a certain number on a test.” 

FREE CONSULTATION FOR GMAT WAIVER ESSAY AND GMAT FOCUS EDITION WITH TOP B-SCHOOL ALUMS

Business schools acknowledge the additional workload and pressure that entrance exams impose on experienced working professionals. Consequently, an increasing number of schools are simplifying the application process by granting GMAT waivers. While some B-schools adhere to a broad interpretation, many of the top institutions define “relevant work experience” according to their own criteria. 

While some consider management responsibilities, Strategic directions, Problem-solving, time management, personal accountability, and decision-making as key factors, many define work experience in a much broader aspect. ‘ The Work experience needs to be of a specific caliber that is relevant to the applicant’s career goals, with the average number of years of work experience required to be more than five years . However, the highest-ranked B- schools exhibit an average to be at least seven years.

Hence, work experience will become an important constituent to creating successful GMAT waiver request letters and a key solution to how to get GMAT waived.

• ACADEMIC HISTORY & ACHIEVEMENTS

Another factor influencing the evaluation of successful GMAT waiver request letters is your academic performance. Each school has varying academic preferences, encompassing undergraduate performance, additional coursework, certifications, and even advanced-level degrees. Several top B-schools set a minimum GPA threshold, typically ranging from 3.0 to 3.4, when considering waiver requests.

Learn how important your GPA for Top MBA Programs is. 

Universities, such as Pepperdine University, even require that students have degrees in quantitative economics or science, engineering, technology, or mathematics disciplines for evaluating the successful GMAT  waiver request letters.  

• PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS- MAJOR REQUIREMENT TO GET GMAT WAIVED

Professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), and similar licenses are taken into consideration by many B-schools when awarding waivers.

• LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

If your work experience showcases qualities indicative of leadership, it would be advantageous to highlight this experience in your GMAT waiver letter. Schools seek students who can tackle challenges not only for themselves but also for their team and the community, motivating everyone to strive towards becoming better versions of themselves. We suggest you back up your remarkable efforts by learning how to maximize the strength of your recommendations from senior management and colleagues, who can witness your leadership skills and professional integrity in the face of problems.

Learn how to exhibit leadership experience in your MBA application. 

• PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS

GMAT tests are crafted to highlight problem-solving skills in comprehending various issues. The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), and particularly the quantitative sections assess applicants’ performance in specific scenarios. Choosing a GMAT waiver presents an excellent opportunity to exhibit your problem-solving skills, drawing from your experience in your GMAT waiver letter.

KNOW THE DETAILS THAT YOUR APPLICATION REQUIRES TO MAKE A STRONG IMPACT

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY FOR A TEST WAIVER?

There are two types of schools in this scenario. The first category of school requires you to submit your GMAT waiver letter before your application. If the GMAT waiver is not granted, then you must take the exam before completing your application. The second category incorporates the GMAT waiver request within its application. This means that if you are applying for a GMAT waiver, you need to submit your full application before determining whether or not you still need to take the test. We recommend thoroughly reading the instructions of your chosen school and conducting comprehensive research in advance because sometimes the deadline for GMAT waiver requests is just a week ahead.

BOOK A PROFILE EVALUATION WITH STUDENTS & ALUMS OF TOP SCHOOLS! SUBMIT YOUR REQUEST AND GET THE MOST EXHAUSTIVE AND HONEST PROFILE FEEDBACK AND SUGGESTIONS FROM THE ALUMNI OF YOUR TARGET SCHOOLS!

Steps to an MBA with a GMAT Waiver Request Letter

Frequently, MBA aspirants grapple with uncertainty regarding the adequacy of their profiles and other standardized test scores to qualify for a GMAT waiver. Similarly, candidates harbor concerns that obtaining a GMAT waiver might adversely impact their chances of admission to their desired school.

1. In such a scenario, we urge MBA aspirants to follow these steps for initiating a GRE/GMAT waiver with any B-school.

• Understand the significance of the GMAT for your TARGET SCHOOLS and look at their criteria to get a GMAT waiver.
• Understand what qualities GMAT reflects in your application and how you can exhibit them with other aspects of your application
• Every school has different criteria for accepting case-by-case waivers; ensure you are well-versed with them!

2. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 

• It should be your biggest strength for applying to MBA programs that don’t require GMAT. 
• Professional experience is the best way to showcase your decision-making, analytical, and quantitative skills through practical examples.
• Build a compelling case for career progression that highlights your professional growth and exemplary leadership instances. 

3. Bring DIVERSITY to your application.

For anyone applying with a GMAT waiver for the 2024 intake, diversity is one of the most important aspects of your application!

Emphasize the diversity of perception, thought, and perspective, underscoring how your unique contributions will enrich the MBA communities of your target school. This will make a compelling statement in front of the Adcoms.

4. Draft a unique & Stellar GMAT WAIVER LETTER

• Comprehend the formatting requirements of the particular program to which you are applying for a GMAT waiver by reviewing successful examples of GMAT waiver letters used by others.
• Open with a Clear Statement to Highlight the Letter’s Purpose!
• Demonstrate relevant skills acquired through professional work experience without the necessity of taking a GMAT.
• Add specific examples to support your claims.

We follow a unique framework to guide applicants in exploring their work experience, leadership potential, strengths, weaknesses, etc., and organize all their essays, including GMAT waivers, in a manner that can create the desired impact!

APPLYING FOR A MBA WITHOUT GMAT BASED ON CFA PROGRAM EXEMPTION

If you have a good level of achievement in the CFA Program, for example, having a specific group of the CFA Program(e.g., Level 1, Level 2) or being a charter holder, Congrats! You are eligible for a GMAT/GRE waiver and even might be eligible for an additional course waiver. 

Top US MBA programs like Darden, Cornell, Duke, Emory, Dartmouth, John Hopkins, and many more offer exclusive exemptions for candidates who have cleared a specific level of the esteemed CFA exam to acknowledge their achievements by providing course waivers and other benefits! For detailed information on top MBA programs offering GMAT waivers for the MBA 2024 intake based on CFA program exemption, refer to our article titled “MBA GMAT Waiver 2024: CFA Exemptions.”

APPLYING FOR AN MBA WITHOUT GMAT AS AN ARMY VETERAN

Numerous top B-schools highly appreciate the leadership and decision-making skills cultivated during military service. In recognition of their commitment to the country, these institutions extend a GMAT waiver to all eligible candidates with a military background. Furthermore, these B-schools also grant a waiver for candidates with an army background to underscore the significance of diversity. The aim is to include students from varied backgrounds and experiences, enhancing the richness of content in classroom discussions and learning.

Below are some veteran-friendly programs that value their military experience and support them with a GMAT waiver for their military background. These MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirements are-

ARE GMAT SCORES IMPORTANT?

While the GMAT adds significant value to your candidacy, there is a growing trend among business schools to waive entrance exams and admit students who do not submit GMAT or GRE scores, even at highly ranked programs.

If applicants meet one or more of the GMAT waiver eligibility criteria, they are exempted from providing their GMAT scores as part of the application process. This approach was adopted to address the concern that numerous high-potential applicants with extensive work experience were either hesitant or limiting their application to MBA programs due to lower GMAT scores.

Among top B-schools, which include the University of North Carolina, the University of Delaware, George Washington University, NJIT, and Syracuse University, most admitted students did not provide GMAT or GRE scores with their applications; only less than three percent of admitted students provided scores.

However, for the Top 25 MBA programs, a strong GMAT score remains a crucial requirement. Even if you are submitting a GMAT/GRE waiver request letter (assuming the school is waiving the GMAT requirement and you qualify for it), you must present exceptionally strong essays and an overall compelling application.

Know how you can make a strong application if you are applying with a GMAT waiver.

Successful GMAT Waiver Request Letters: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Check with specific institutions for criteria to be eligible for a GMAT waiver. MBA program applicants should confirm their alignment with eligibility guidelines before submitting a GMAT waiver request letter. Each program establishes the specific eligibility requirements they wish to apply.

If you qualify for the requirements, you can submit a GMAT waiver request letter.

However, there is another aspect to consider. If you are aiming for M7 or T10 schools with a waiver, you must possess a strong quantitative background, substantial achievements, a promising career trajectory, and a compelling narrative to present in your MBA application.

TOP B-SCHOOLS WAIVING AND ITS CRITERIA: BASIC CRITERIA FOR GMAT WAIVER.

These are some general points you must have before submitting the GMAT waiver request letter:

• Ten years of professional working experience
• Exceptionally high GPA scores and academic records
• An Advanced master’s degree or a recognized certification in any alternative field.
• Three recommendation letters
• Copies of transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate schools.
• A formal GMAT waiver request letter that conforms to all the parameters of the school.

The below table enlists the Top notch B-schools providing GMAT waivers for deserving candidates. Carefully go through the eligibility criteria for each of them before applying.

Note – Check B-Schools page for latest eligibility criteria

TOP MBA PROGRAMS OFFERING A GMAT WAIVER:

Gmat fee reduction program/ waiver.

Some applicants might find both concepts confusing, but these are two distinct waivers. The GMAT waiver exempts the applicant from taking the GMAT test, while the GMAT fee waiver reduces the costs associated with a GMAT exam. GMAC doesn’t directly offer GMAT fee waivers to applicants. Instead, they recommend that schools grant GMAT fee waivers only to students facing financial difficulties. Business schools that submit a request to GMAC receive up to 10 fee waivers per year. GMAC provides a code to the school, which the school uses based on the needs of the applicants.

HOW TO WRITE  SUCCESSFUL GMAT WAIVER REQUEST LETTERS: GENERAL TIPS

• Conduct thorough research. Familiarize yourself with all eligibility criteria and other guidelines. Keep in mind that not every school providing a GMAT waiver will have identical criteria.
• Stay concentrated and address particular aspects that showcase quantitative and analytical skills for the successful processing and evaluation of information.
• Clear & Concise style of Writing.
• Instead of exaggerating, concentrate on two or three of the most crucial skills and emphasize them significantly.
• Revising & Proofreading  

HOW TO ASK FOR A GMAT WAIVER/HOW TO WRITE A GMAT WAIVER ESSAY- GMAT/GRE WAIVER REQUEST LETTER SAMPLE

University name:-

University Address:-

Salutation- Sir or Madam

1st Paragraph: About Yourself

Introduce yourself and provide a concise overview of the specific criteria that make you eligible to submit the GMAT/GRE waiver request letter. Explain the purpose of your letter, detailing why you are writing and specifying the nature of your request.

2nd Paragraph

Expand upon your academic and professional achievements while avoiding exaggeration. Overstating your qualifications may be perceived as bragging. Ensure that each accomplishment, no matter how significant, contributes to the purpose of convincing admissions; otherwise, it shouldn’t be included.

3rd Paragraph

Offer valid certificates and awards as evidence. Highlight your achievements that align with their requirements, aiding in your quest for a GMAT waiver. Ensure to delve into specific aspects of your professional work experience that align with the skills the GMAT is designed to assess. This will bolster your argument for applying for a waiver.

4th Paragraph:

Ending statement. Thank the reader for taking the time to read your letter. Make it as well polished as you can.

Contact details.

This is it from our side; we know it’s quite long. But we hope you got some great insights about the GMAT waiver request letter. If you require an expert to give your application or essay the light that can shine in the eyes of adcoms, you can count on us.

We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week to maximize your chances. We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DO I GET A GMAT WAIVER?

You need to have strong elements on your profile like work experience, academics, professional certifications, etc.

Also, you need to see the criteria for your target schools and see if you meet the requirements. If yes, you can go ahead and submit a GMAT waiver request letter (if required).

WHICH BUSINESS SCHOOLS ARE WAIVING THE GMAT?

You can see the list of business schools waiving GMAT in 2021-22 and their criteria in the table above.

IS GMAT WAIVED FOR 2022?

Yes, many schools are waiving the GMAT for 2022 intake. Some top schools include MIT, Ross, Kelley and Darden.

WHAT IS AN ACCEPTABLE GMAT SCORE?

For all the schools, there is generally no minimum limit or “acceptable GMAT score” as such. However, you may look into the class profile of your target schools to know what can be a good GMAT score to target. If you are an over-represented applicant (like Indian or Chinese), you may want to add 20+ in the average range to target a good GMAT for yourself. 

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Gmat waiver letter example

I am an applicant who wants to attend MIT but doesn’t have a high enough GMAT score. I am applying for the program because I want to learn about business management and leadership. 

I believe my ability to succeed in this program will be greatly enhanced by having access to MIT’s resources and opportunities. Therefore, I am requesting a GMAT waiver.

GMAT Waiver Letter Example 1

Dear Admissions Committee,

this letter is to request a waiver of the GMAT requirement. My career experience includes financial analysis and prognosis of corporate clients, as well as financial and statistical analysis of different business sectors. 

In my eight years in the bank sector, my daily responsibilities involved financial analyses and prognostications of corporate clients, as well as the financial and statistical analyses of various business sectors. 

In my current position, I am responsible for the valuation and analysis of value drivers in different sectors.

Based on these examples, I think that I have enough analytical skills to meet the requirements of the EMBA program, 

GMAT Waiver Letter Example 2

A great letter of application is very important when applying for admission into a graduate program. To get admitted, you must first write a letter of recommendation. In this case, we recommend writing a GRE waiver letter sample.

I am a student at University of California San Diego majoring in Computer Science. My name is __________. I am requesting an internship at Google because I want to learn more about computer science. 

I believe that my skills and experience will be useful to Google and I hope to work there after graduation.

GMAT Waiver Letter Example 3

I am an MBA student who wants to get a GMAT waiver because I want to study abroad. I have a bachelor degree in accounting and I have been working as a financial analyst for the past 2 years. 

My work experience includes managing accounts receivable and payable, preparing monthly reports, and analyzing data. I have also worked in a bank as a loan officer. I have done well in my job and have received several promotions.

 I have attended many training sessions and seminars related to finance. I have also participated in various projects and competitions. I have won several awards for my performance.

 I have also written articles for journals and magazines. I have also published research papers.

How To Write Successful GMAT Waiver Request Letters? 

Many people consider an MBA degree to be a golden ticket into a dream job with a lucrative salary. However, many students struggle with the application process due to lack of preparation or poor performance on standardized tests.

In this article, we will discuss how you can write successful waiver request letters and how you can get GMAT waived.We will also discuss how you should shortlist schools to apply to with a GMAT waiver.

These days, there are several MBA programs associated with GMAT waivers. This means that if you’re eligible, you can apply without having to take the GMAT. 

However, this doesn’t mean that you’ll be accepted into any program. You still need to get your application in and make sure that you’ve met all the requirements.

What Is A GMAT WAIVER?

A GMAT waiver allows an applicant to waive the requirement of submitting a GMAT score. Schools grant GMAT waivers at the discretion of admissions officers who evaluate each GMat waiver application letter. 

There are some schools where the waivers are automatically granted to applicants who meet certain criteria. You can have a quick look at the top schools granting GMAT waivers by looking at the list of schools that waive GMAT for the upcoming year.

Universities such as 

• Syracuse University, 
• UNC (University of North Carolina), 
• GW (George Washington University) and
•  NJIT (New Jersey institute of technology) automatically grant GMAT waivers for applicants having more than 5 years of work experience whereas New Jersey Institute of Technology does not.

Tips For Your GMAT Waiver 

 A GMAT Waiver Letter is a written request a student makes to the college asking them for a waiver on their GMAT score – a necessary requirement that most colleges ask the applicant to have. This type of letter can help you get accepted in an MBA with a gmat waiver. 

An MBA GMAt Waiver Letter should include evidence – like names, dates, courses, certificates, medical reports, etc. – that can help you with your demand.

A GMAT waiver letter should explain why you want to waive your GMAT® score, and why you think you can succeed despite your poor GMAT® score.

A successful GMAT waiver letter must contain evidence that convinces the reader to grant your waiver request. It should follow the format of other letters and be written in formal English. You need to pay close attention to your grammar.

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How to Write a Compelling GMAT Test Waiver Request

November 28, 2023

Sophie Hilaire

Not too long ago, the GMAT was the unavoidable gateway to a top MBA program. However, it is starting to become less of a “must” with each increasing year as a result of many contributing factors—notwithstanding a global pandemic, schools wanting to access a more diverse swath of applicants, and admissions committees recognizing that there are many other ways to evaluate a candidate’s ability to perform well academically.

Today, more and more schools are interested in a wider range of tests, including the GRE, the EA, and even your dusty old SAT and ACT scores from high school!

And for some schools, no test is required at all.

Maybe you don’t have the ability to safely take an exam, or you lack a home working setup that could accommodate studying for and/or taking an online exam, or you simply do not have the time to study because of your demanding schedule. If so, you’ll be happy to hear that a GMAT/GRE test waiver is now an option for some applicants at certain schools.

How are test waivers granted?

To be clear, not everyone who applies for a test waiver is granted one. You will need to convince the admissions committee that you have already displayed the requisite achievements and practical application skills to give them confidence in waiving the requirement for you. The level of convincing necessary will vary from school to school, so do not be discouraged if one school does not grant you a waiver; you may have a different result elsewhere. Conversely, if you do get a waiver from a particular school, there is a fair chance you may be granted one for another program as well—but there are no guarantees.

Most merit-based test waivers are granted on the basis of strong undergraduate academics, quantitative analysis in your profession, graduate degree grades, and/or application of quantitative/verbal/critical reasoning fundamentals, as well as other extracurricular courses or activities to showcase your academic abilities.

How can I request a test waiver?

Some schools will ask for specific information when requesting your waiver, while others will give you a blank field to fill out with a tight word limit. If you encounter the latter option, the following template is a general formula you can use to request your waiver:

Your why: Introduce your case briefly, and include your reason for not taking an exam.

Achievements: Elaborate on your academic GPA and achievements, relevant previous coursework and grades, professional achievements, graduate degrees, and certifications pertaining to the criteria the school wants you to satisfy to receive a waiver (encompassing quant, verbal, and critical reasoning, if applicable).

Work experience/practical application: Prove competence in your skills. Share professional applicability and/or challenges you’ve faced and overcome through your knowledge.

Close: Thank the admissions committee for their time, and politely request that they weigh your accomplishments against the requirement of an exam.

Many schools will respond to your GMAT/GRE test waiver request without you even having to complete your full application—which could save you significant time. And once you receive your waiver, schools will not evaluate any test scores for your application, regardless of whether you have already submitted a score to them in the past. So, if you already have a test score and don’t believe it reflects your abilities (or it’s far below the program’s average scores), requesting a test waiver may be an ideal option for you. 

If you’re looking for help in navigating the complex and competitive MBA application landscape, reach out to one of our counselors for a free 30-minute consultation . All of Stratus’s counselors have degrees from top MBA programs and would love to support you in your next phase in life!

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Online MBA, No GMAT: Writing a GMAT Waiver Letter

To avoid a standardized testing experience that can be expensive, time-consuming, and generally speaking, a real headache, many online MBA candidates seek out programs that offer the opportunity to apply with no GMAT scores. While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many business schools to reevaluate their entrance exam requirements, it’s likely that the GMAT will return to a place of relative prominence in many MBA applications as society moves back toward a pre-2020 normal.

If you still want to skip the hassle of the GMAT and rely instead on the strength of your educational and professional background to wow your MBA admissions committee, you may choose to pursue a GMAT waiver . If this is the case, be sure to check out our tips for crafting a GMAT waiver letter that leaves no doubt as to your qualifications for business school and your readiness to dive right in without wasting time and money on a standardized test.

Know the Waiver Requirements

MBA programs will grant GMAT waivers for a variety of reasons, and they typically detail their guidelines for requesting one alongside their application requirements . Generally speaking, these GMAT waiver requirements are intended to allow applicants to supplant their standardized test scores with other evidence from their academic and professional careers that can prove their readiness for graduate business education. To this end, some schools will identify target undergraduate GPAs, a minimum number of years of professional work experience, or specific academics studied at previous institutions as suitable justification for requesting a GMAT waiver.

Others, like the Online MBA program at Santa Clara University, take a more holistic approach to evaluating waiver requests . This means that they prefer to review candidates for the waiver as the sum of their accomplishments, and as the total person who has achieved them, rather than as merely a set of data. If this is the case, you’ll certainly want to spend some time thinking about how you present yourself in your GMAT waiver letter in order to best frame yourself as an eager learner and a capable candidate who is ready for the rigors of an MBA program.

Emphasize Your Experience

One of the key signifiers that you can forego the GMAT is evidence that you’ve already begun building the skills in your workplace that you will further hone in your MBA program. Professional business experience can go a long way toward convincing your admissions committee that you have what it takes to pursue a graduate degree. Generally speaking, the more time you’ve spent facing real business challenges and contributed to an organization’s success, the more likely you will be allowed to apply to business school without standardized test scores.

Two types of professional experience should be mentioned specifically. First, any roles or responsibilities that have asked you to demonstrate leadership or decision-making will show that you are serious about a career path that leads to upper management. And second, any evidence you have of your technical or quantitative skills will demonstrate your ability to successfully handle MBA coursework that some less-prepared candidates may find tricky.

Be Professional and Persuasive

The tone of your GMAT waiver letter should be clear and confident without coming off as arrogant. Your admissions committee will assess not only your business aptitude and experience, but also your professional maturity. You want to demonstrate that you would not only be a successful student in your MBA program, but an asset to your classmates and the greater community as well.

Keep It Short

Above all, never lose sight of what this document is and what it is not. It’s not a cover letter, nor a personal statement nor a space to rehash your resume. This is simply a succinct, to-the-point argument for your qualifications, not an extended narrative about your personal or professional journey. Avoid editorializing with unnecessary adjectives, and trust that your accomplishments will speak for themselves.

Skip the GMAT for your Online MBA application at SCU.

The Silicon Valley Online MBA program at Santa Clara University offers a no-GMAT pathway to admission for qualified applicants . Speak to an Admissions Advisor to learn more about our GMAT/GRE waiver options, and check out our other application tips for perfecting your resume and requesting effective letters of recommendation .

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Santa Clara University has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

Interested in one of our online programs? Receive a program brochure.

GMAT Waiver for MBA Application

However, it is also famously known that the weight of the GMAT score, just like any other application parameter, is considered on a case-by-case basis.While many b-schools accept GRE scores in lieu of GMAT scores (Read Top Business Schools accepting GRE Scores ), there are still others that offer admissions to applicants with a low GMAT score .

Some well-recognized business schools like Warwick, Rotterdam, ESMT, and more, have been known to look beyond the numbers and take in candidates who didn’t give a stellar GMAT performance (Read Colleges accepting low GMAT scores ).

What is also inspiring are the number of low GMAT success stories , giving hope to the applicants who don’t seem to be able to share the high-score limelight with the over 750s ( Does a 760 GMAT score guarantee admission? ).

Also read Average GMAT Scores in the Top MBA Programs .

So, if the selection is subjective,are there cases when a GMAT can be ignored altogether? Do all business schools require your sleepless sacrifice ? And can you request the b-school to forego the GMAT requirement from your application?

To sum up, is GMAT Waiver a thing and if it is, how does it work?  

All about GMAT Waiver for MBA Applications

Gmat waiver – what is it.

Besides the MBA programs that don’t allow poor GMAT scores to get in the way of a good application, there are still others that allow either of the following get-away-from-GMAT­ free cards .

• Schools that require a GMAT for admission but can consider a request for a GMAT waiver under special circumstances.
• Schools, or particular MBA Programs, that don’t require a GMAT for admission.

For the present article, we will focus on (A) GMAT Waivers. It presents an opportunity for certain qualifying applicants to request a waiver on a GMAT score, required for admission. Since this exception allows a special privilege not afforded to the others, the request for a GMAT waiver, from an admissions office, needs to be compensated for by other redeeming qualities in the applicant.

If you are requesting a waiver, your letter should emphasize at least one of the following, if not more, by way of making your case (each business school has its own criteria).

• Work Experience: The experience should not just be substantial, preferably more than the suggested eligibility for the application, but also strongly representative of your development along your career path. The admissions office needs to be able to infer your abilities from your growing contributions, at your workplace. Having the same job role, or too many job changes, can reflect badly on your initiative, and motivation to take on responsibilities.
• Leadership: It is one thing to have work experience, and quite an impressive another to have work experience which reflects your qualities as a good leader, taking on challenges, for yourself and your team, over and above the call of duty. It is essential to back up your remarkable efforts with recommendations from senior management as well as your colleagues who have witnessed your professional integrity and leadership skills in the face of problems.
• Problem Solving Skills: GMAT tests are designed to show a level of comfort at comprehending problems and arriving at optimum resolutions. The AWA, IR, and especially the quantitative sections test the takers on performance under constrained situations. If you are opting to do away with GMAT, it would behove you to showcase your problem-solving skills through successful instances at work, or otherwise.
• Academic Record: An applicant credibility shoots up with a good academic record, advanced degrees, or certifications, that represent your learning abilities. A quantitative background is almost always required.

Needless to say, besides the above silver linings, it is essential to have a solid MBA application essay. You should have a clear comprehension of your motivation, for an MBA, and what you would like to do with it in the future. In all, if a GMAT waiver is being requested, the rest of your application should be able to more than sell your position as a desirable candidate, nevertheless.  

MBA Programs that allow a GMAT Waiver

We will list some of the popular MBA programs that allow a GMAT concession, in the table below. However, the best route possible, for you, is to research the programs you may be interested in and, if possible, ask the admissions office for an initial clarification on the issue. Remember, all GMAT waivers need to be requested. They are not generally automatic.

Certain MBA programs,for instance the Columbia Business School EMBA, INSEAD GEMBA, SDA Bocconi GEMBA, Warwick MBA, Chicago Booth MBA, and Manchester Business School MBA,allow their own standardized tests instead of a GMAT or GRE.

Most Full Time MBA programs don’t allow a GMAT concession. Certain part time, or Executive programs, do make it possible to cruise through the admission process without a GMAT. For more MBA programs that fall in the (B) category mentioned above, follow this link on MBA without GMAT requirement in USA, Europe and India .  

Sample Letter Format for Requesting a GMAT Waiver

Each school will have their own timelines of when to send in the GMAT waiver request. It is best to follow their lead. Waivers are requested by writing a letter to the admissions committee, unless specified otherwise. It is also advisable to correspond with them well in advance in the event it takes some time for them to approve your special request.

Your GMAT Waiver Request Letter needs to follow the usual formalities associated with any business correspondence, unless otherwise specified by the school. The address line, date, subject, and salutations, should follow similar formats like the other admission related formal letters ( Letter of Intent vs Statement of Purpose vs Personal Statement ).

For the content itself, you have to ensure that you give a reasonable explanation of why your background has prepared you enough to not have to appear for a GMAT test. Schools generally have a clear criterion to be considered for the extra privilege. So, stick to the essentials and stay away from bragging, or sounding too good to be true.

Here’s a sample, and quite fantastically fictional, GMAT waiver letter from a candidate with an MS in a quantitative field and work experience to lay strength to his claims.

Gotham University Gotham, (Insert State) – 123456   1 st January 2020

Subject: GMAT Waiver Request for Application to the Full Time MBA Program   Dear Sir or Madam,

(1 st Paragraph: Introduce your case without getting into too many details)

I am writing this letter to formally request you to waive the GMAT exam for my application to the Full Time MBA program. My past professional, and academic background, have prepared me with the required skills essential to be considered for a waiver.   (2 nd Paragraph: Elaborate your academic and professional achievements pertaining to the criteria the school wants you to satisfy in order to receive a waiver)

I have a Masters in Economics from XYZ (accredited of course) University with a GPA of 3.5/4.0. After graduating in 2010, and having interned at ABC company for two months during my graduate years, I joined EFG Corp. as a Financial Risk Analyst. My responsibilities, in the role, involved (Insert your duties with measured restraint. You don’t want to sound too congratulatory). After 2 years, I qualified the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) certification. I was soon promoted to become my division’s Risk Manager, managing a team of ten.   (3 rd Paragraph: Provide proof of your achievements. Share the challenges you faced and how your super quantitative skills saved the day)   (4 th Paragraph: Appreciate the Adcom for their time and gently request them to weigh your accomplishments against the requirement of a GMAT exam and consider the worthiness of your background for an exemption).   With Regards, Lex Luthor

(signature)

What is the difference between GMAT Waiver and GMAT Fee Waiver?

To draw this epic GMAT waiver saga to a close, let’s touch upon one subtle semantic difference that has the potential to confuse a few – GMAT Waiver vs GMAT Fee Waiver.

They are not the same concession.

While the former relieves the applicant from the pressures of taking the GMAT test, the latter is associated with reducing the costs of a GMAT exam. GMAC doesn’t offer GMAT fee waivers directly to the applicants. Instead, it provides up to 10 fee waivers to each business school which sends in a request. GMAC sends a coupon code to the school, and the school uses its discretion to bestow,said code, upon a requesting applicant in need.

So, if you want to take the $250 cost out of your financial planning for your MBA application, then frame your fee waiver letter well in the initial months of application. Once the school gets the waiver approved from a senior official, you will receive the code enabling you to register for a GMAT exam for free.  

And they lived happily ever after…

So, we conclude the saga of GMAT waivers. Clearly, there’s far more to the information we barely glanced upon given the fact that there are thousands, if not more, business schools with a thousand some policies. Gladly though, you are not going to need to know all but just the slim few who fit your MBA objective. Research your share and may your GMAT waiver truly end in a fairy tale…

Also read Top universities that allow GRE waiver and TOEFL IELTS Waiver for the top universities abroad   Sources: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9

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5 thoughts on “GMAT Waiver for MBA Application”

I am 39 years of age and having 14 Years of experience in IT. I am working in SAP functional and playing Associate Manager role in Accenture for last 4 years. I want to do one year MBA because I want more acceptance of my profile after the MBA ( I want to be in Supply chain Management/Product Management /IT operations). Because currently the IT market for mid level managers are not secure , so I want to go for MBA to give more stability and job security for my carrier. Please correct me if I am wrong in my understanding and help me before I decide and start preparing for GMAT. Regards, Prasun

Hi Sameer Sir,

X-87% XII-77% B.Tech(EE)-8.8 CGPA, 2012

Work Experience:- 5 Y 6M in L&T(Operations & Management)

Due to busy & loaded working schedules, I have been facing serious issues in preparation for GMAT/CAT since last 1 year. As I am keen to enhance my skill sets in operations , I am planning to quit job and prepare for GMAT/CAT/XAT. kindly suggest suitably whether quitting job will be a wise decision.

@Prasun: We’ve shared several perspectives on what it means for folks considering an MBA after 30 in this article. Hope it helps you take a decision: https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2012/11/13/mba-age-over-30-too-old-for-bschool/

@Prasanta: It won’t be a good idea to leave your job. We’ve shared the reasons here: https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/04/17/quit-job-to-study-for-gmat/

Hi, Please have valuable comments on the following GMAT waiver letter:

From: Hitesh Kumar Sharma To: Joanne Boylan Dear Ms. Joanne

I am writing this letter for requesting a waiver for the GMAT examination requirement for admission to the Ph.D. program in Economics at “”.I realized that the Ph.D. program is a highly competitive program and that scores from the GMAT are used as one facet of an applicant’s application to aid in admissions decisions. Nevertheless, I believe that I did learn GMAT by myself already. I am confident that I have already possessed all the qualities for which GMAT qualifies the candidate. Indeed GMAT measures the applicant based on the following section: 1. Verbal I have around more than 11 years of experience in Technology Sector. Being the Technical Lead in Technology sector, my medium of communication is English only. Moreover, my responsibilities allow me to project the demos to Global clients like Delphi, Goodrich, etc. I visited USA to meet the Global customers and project the product developed at offshore (HCL technology).Answer the queries, listen to the problems & respond item experience has taught me how to interact with clients using strong technical & interpersonal skills. I also engaged in training sessions, presentations, group meetings, performance appraisals, one-on-one discussions, interviews. My language skills, cultural understanding & technical expertise has helped the company to achieve its targets, Apart from my academics my professional experience have cultivated a lot of who I am. Leading the team, I also listen to the issues of the team. If the issues are genuine then put forward to management. Example: • I have given several pieces of training to the clients & internal teams. Before giving any training primary step I do self-inquiry, brainstorming and then develop the training material to demonstrate with effective verbal communication words to convey a message eloquently and concisely. To get a message across, I ensure the receiver correctly interprets the words. By successfully delivering a message, the team describes ideas, thoughts, and directives that allow colleagues to work better together. After the end of each session, I seek feedback on how the message was received.

• Besides this, I also have the acute interest to teach English to young learners, effective business communication for the Business crowd. To achieve this I qualified all the following grades of TESOL : •  FOUNDATION TESOL CERTIFICATE  YOUNG LEARNERS TEACHERS TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM  ADVANCED TESOL CERTIFICATE  BUSINESS ENGLISH TEACHERS TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

2. Analytical I need to read the case studies of the project. Thereafter analyzing it & evaluate the mistakes done in the past project and implement the solution that filled the gap so that the past mistakes will never happen again. This requires immense patience & ability to collect, gather, visualize and analyze information in details. I need to see a problem or situation from different points of view. Information is the powerful resource but right information & applying the right solution on the problem is the powerful mantra. Example: • Being a Technical Lead I must analyze the system from various angles via which system can fail. In this manner I need to write a lot of test cases which tester does not need to test so first I understand the requirements of the system and breakdown the test cases w.r.t requirements and then test the system. This is the evidence that I uses clear, logical steps and possesses excellent judgment to understand an issue from all angles before executing an action.

• Before giving any work for review first I evaluate myself w.r.t self-checklist. Having a good attention to detail I am able to notice, retain, and keep track of details. This means that I am able to follow instructions properly, avoid mistakes in work, and carefully evaluate complex. This helps my work will be done with accuracy and precision. After getting comments I take seriously & discuss with the reviewer. If the comments are valid then I jotted down in my checklist and evaluate again myself. This is the evidence that I carried critical thinking ability to evaluate a situation or a problem with an independent mind. I don’t accept arguments or assumptions without question. This requires me to break down an argument or the steps in a process, and make independent evaluations.

3. Quantitative To prove the Math skills, I passed my Engineering with Grade A. As stipulated by statue behind the approval of GMAT waiver, a single Bachelor plus 11 years of experience is already a ground for such approval. I hope that the pieces of evidence mentioned in the letter suffice to grant me the GMAT waiver.

Thanks & Regards Hitesh

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• What is a GMAT Waiver and How Does it Influence the MBA Application Process?

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For the 2023-2024 academic year, we have 118 schools in our BSchools.org database and those that advertise with us are labeled “sponsor”. When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.

Many business school applicants may be surprised to learn how many MBA programs offer the option to waive admissions tests, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). In fact, a GMAT waiver allows an MBA program applicant to forgo a test score submission, particularly when they have met specific criteria in terms of work experience, degrees or achievements, or other conditions.

It is an unfortunate reality that many talented candidates delay or even opt-out of applying to business school entirely because they assume that all universities require GMAT or GRE scores. Between the months of preparation and the frustration of standardized tests, many applicants dread the ordeal of taking one of these lengthy and challenging entrance exams.

However, according to research by BSchools.org, there is an increasing trend within business schools to offer entrance exam waivers and grant admission to students who do not provide GMAT or GRE scores, even at programs highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report .

BSchools compared the current waiver policies at 12 online MBA programs across the United States with each school’s admissions statistics to identify the conditions that schools likely grant GMAT and GRE waivers. The schools in this study include a small sample of highly ranked programs across the country, such as the University of North Carolina , currently listed #1 by U.S. News & World Report, and Washington State University ranked #20.

Other schools included Syracuse University, the University of Alabama , Johns Hopkins University , Seton Hall University , George Washington University , the University of Delaware , Pepperdine University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), the University of Dayton , and the University of Denver .

The study analyzed patterns that might indicate specific circumstances where schools would likely grant these exemptions. While there are some inscrutable waiver policies, several themes and conclusions quickly emerged from the data. Read on to explore the top takeaways.

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No gmat vs gmat waiver business schools, are gmat scores important.

In general, most admitted students did not provide GMAT or GRE scores with their applications. Less than 14 percent of admitted students provided scores at five schools studied. These include the University of North Carolina, the University of Delaware, George Washington University, NJIT, and Syracuse University, where only two percent of admitted students provided scores.

According to Poets & Quants , Syracuse focuses on work experience as the prime indicator of program fit, which is why the Whitman School of Management waives GMAT scores for those with at least five years of work experience. The highest portion of entrants who provided GMAT scores was at Pepperdine University, but they still only accounted for one-third of all admitted students.

GMAT Waivers and Covid-19

By now, MBA applicants have likely noticed that the Covid-19 pandemic has fueled the GMAT waiver admissions trend in the United States. In January 2021, Poets & Quants reported that 67 of the top 100 MBA programs were waiving the GMAT and GRE requirement or implementing test waiver policies in favor of a more well-rounded application. To this point, Soojin Kwon, the managing director of full-time MBA admissions and program at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, states:

“We are not waiving the requirement that an applicant has demonstrated analytical and quantitative skills […] We want to see students succeed and thrive in our program. As such, we will continue to look for evidence that an applicant can handle the rigor of our MBA program.”

Other factors that admissions committees consider include coursework from previous degree programs and work experience. In fact, being able to demonstrate a certain number of years in a professional environment can grant an automatic GMAT waiver to an applicant, which is detailed below.

Automatic GMAT Waivers

Schools grant GMAT/GRE exemptions at the discretion of admission officers who evaluate each waiver request. However, at three institutions, waivers are automatically given to those who qualify; they do not have to request a waiver.

Admission committees at UNC, for example, automatically grant waivers to applicants with at least seven years of work experience. Similarly, GW allows waivers to applicants with five years of work experience. And at NJIT, applicants with an advanced degree are automatically exempted from submitting GMAT test scores. This means that candidates who have the above qualifications do not even have to file waiver request petitions with admissions committees.

Syracuse University embodies a particular case because while the school does require waiver applications, they are typically always granted to candidates with five or more years of relevant work experience, according to published statistics in U.S. News and interviews with their admissions officers .

Work Experience

Work experience encompasses the main reason why schools offer test score waivers to applicants. Business schools are aware of the extra work and pressure that entrance exams put on experienced working professionals. As Poets & Quants explains, “a GMAT or GRE turns into extra busywork when the real-world experience they’d bring to a program is likely more valuable than saying they scored over a certain number on a test.”

For this reason, some schools are making the application process less cumbersome by waiving GMAT requirements for online MBA programs. At UNC, for example, more than 80 percent of the school’s online MBA students are granted admission without entrance exams because they have double the work experience of students in the on-campus MBA program, according to Poets & Quants .

“Our research on our admissions and student performance data indicates that the GMAT is a poor predictor of performance for students with significant work experience; thus, we tend to waive the GMAT for those students and evaluate those applications based more heavily on their work experience,” wrote senior associate dean for MBA Programs Sridhar Balasubramanian. “We also found that the need to take the GMAT was holding back many of our highest-potential applicants with many years of work experience from even applying to the MBA@UNC program.”

UNC’s website goes into further detail about this change in the process. “We compared the academic performance of MBA@UNC students who had received a GMAT/GRE waiver with the performance of similar students who had submitted test scores over 18 months. We found no meaningful differences in the academic performance of the two groups,” reads the school’s waiver policy. “Therefore, when evaluating applicants with a significant amount of professional experience, we rely instead on what we believe are more reliable indicators of ability—career trajectory and success, previous academic performance and quantitative experience.”

How Schools Define Work Experience

In general, work experience which qualifies an applicant for a waiver needs to be of a specific caliber that is relevant to the applicant’s career goals. Beyond that generality, each school defines “relevant work experience” in their own way. For example, this language from the University of Alabama provides insight into the school’s preferences:

“Our admissions committee evaluates an individual’s accomplishments, roles, and responsibilities to determine the total number of years of professional experience. UAB considers the individual’s managerial responsibilities, role in setting direction and strategy, and his or her role in allocating resources. Normally, professional experience begins at the point of graduation; however, we may consider prior work experience based on type of experience.”

In other words, the University of Alabama ideally looks for management responsibilities with budget authority, along with demonstrated roles in determining strategic direction in their GMAT/GRE waiver candidates.

In contrast, Syracuse provides a more broad definition of work experience:

“Work experience is preferred, but not required for admission. We do accept qualified candidates without work experience who possess, among other criteria, exceptionally strong academic backgrounds, demonstrated leadership and a strong potential for success in business. Historically, one of our Syracuse MBA program’s greatest strengths has been the diversity of our student body. We continue to seek candidates with diverse racial, ethnic, social, academic, and professional backgrounds and career goals.”

However, Syracuse is the only school to specifically consider more qualitative skills, such as leadership ability and potential in their waiver decisions. The better business schools may devote substantial emphasis to developing skills like these during their programs.

How Many Years of Experience Do MBA Applicants Need?

In general, most GRE or GMAT waivers require candidates to have been working for several years. According to BSchools research, the average number of years of work experience required to win a GMAT or GRE waiver is more than five years. Moreover, the two highest-ranked schools in the sample, the University of Washington and Washington State, exhibited two of the most extensive work experience requirements, both at seven years.

Academic History

Another determinant in assessing applicants for GMAT waivers is education. Academic history requirements and preferences range from undergraduate academic performance (i.e., GPA) to additional coursework and certifications, and even advanced degrees.

Eight schools consider outstanding undergraduate academic performance at accredited universities when granting waiver requests, and four of them impose minimum GPA thresholds, which range from 2.8 to 3.4. Two schools also consider the “rigor” of undergraduate programs.

Applicants with GPA scores below the requirements may be required to submit GMAT or GRE scores. Many schools use GMAT or GRE scores as a proxy for validating a candidate’s quantitative ability, which is why five schools of the 12 studied consider or specifically require evidence of prior quantitative coursework before they grant waivers. Those schools include Johns Hopkins University, the University of Delaware, UNC, and GW.

Pepperdine and Johns Hopkins both require specific quantitative coursework such as statistics, finance, or quantitative microeconomics before granting waivers. Pepperdine University even requires that students have degrees in quantitative economics or science, engineering, technology or mathematics (STEM) disciplines, or a B or above in quantitative university coursework like calculus or statistics. Additionally, many schools consider advanced degrees when evaluating waiver requests.

Professional Certifications

Professional certifications are important to some schools. Four schools consider Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) and similar licenses when awarding waivers. Curiously, in the sample, three of those four were also private institutions.

GMAT Waivers as Incentives

Although many do not think about the marketing component to the application process, it is true that many schools use GMAT waivers to entice candidates towards applying, as is shown on many MBA program web pages where “No GMAT” prominently displayed.

Schools are all competing for the same limited pool of highly qualified students, so they want to make the application process as seamless as possible. There are some instances where schools do not disclose details about their waiver policies or publish information about their policies in such vague terms that applicants would need to opt-in to a “sales” pipeline—i.e., submitting name, email, and phone number—just to receive basic information that other schools freely reveal on their websites.

As a final note, four online MBA schools that were not part of the original sample—American University, Northeastern University, and Ohio University—have no entrance exam requirements. In these cases, the schools dispense with the need for applicants to request waivers, focusing strictly on evaluations based on several years of quality work experience and prior academic performance.

Douglas Mark

While a partner in a San Francisco marketing and design firm, for over 20 years Douglas Mark wrote online and print content for the world’s biggest brands , including United Airlines, Union Bank, Ziff Davis, Sebastiani, and AT&T. Since his first magazine article appeared in MacUser in 1995, he’s also written on finance and graduate business education in addition to mobile online devices, apps, and technology. Doug graduated in the top 1 percent of his class with a business administration degree from the University of Illinois and studied computer science at Stanford University.

Related Programs

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Related FAQs

• 1 Do I Need an Undergraduate Degree in Business to Pursue an MBA?
• 2 GMAT Waiver vs. No GMAT Requirement
• 3 How Do I Get into Business School?
• 4 How Do I Study for the GMAT?
• 5 What are MBA Program Yield Management and Yield Protection?
• 6 What are MBA Yield Comparisons, Connotations, and Stakeholders?
• 7 What are the Typical Requirements for Admission to MBA Programs?

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Full-Time MBA Standardized Test Waiver (GMAT/GRE)

As part of our continuing efforts to identify and meet the needs of all future leaders interested in improving their lives through graduate education, the Full-Time MBA program offers GMAT/GRE test waivers for applicants. MBA applicants seeking a test waiver will have additional weight placed on the remaining application components and will be asked to submit a supplemental essay. 

Two requirements to be considered for a waiver:

1. Earned at least a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA on a U.S. four-point scale OR the equivalent of a “B” for those on a non-U.S. four-point scale. 

2. Display quantitative acumen through one of the following:

• College-level quantitative coursework with a “B” grade or better (accounting, finance, algebra, geometry, statistics, calculus, etc.)
• An advanced degree, STEM degree, or certifications/licensures
• Relevant quantitative-based work
• Previous standardized test completion (i.e. LSAT/MCAT scores)

While a test waiver may benefit some MBA candidates, individuals should consider personal circumstances when applying. The GMAT and GRE exams are standard benchmarks for applicants wishing to signal their suitability for a rigorous MBA program and provide an additional point of consideration for the admissions team.

How to request a waiver:

Choose the waiver option

The waiver request is part of our online application. Simply answer "YES" to the question "Do you wish to request a GMAT/GRE waiver?"

Optional supplemental essay

 Students requesting a GRE/GMAT/EA test waiver may consider using this essay to clarify why they should receive a waiver. The admissions committee will utilize this in consideration of a waiver permission. It can also be used to address any circumstances you’d like the Admissions Committee to be aware of.

Complete the remainder of your application and submit it for consideration. 

Waivers are issued at the sole discretion of the Admissions Committee, and requests will not be considered until after an application has been submitted and all required documents are listed as complete in your application portal (i.e. transcripts, resume and essays) . You may not request a waiver if you have already taken the exam and requested your scores be sent to The Ohio State University.

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Sample Letter Format for Requesting a GMAT Waiver

Each school will have their own timelines of when to send in the GMAT waiver request. It is best to follow their lead. Waivers are requested by writing a letter to the admissions committee unless specified otherwise. It is also advisable to correspond with them well in advance in the event it takes some time for them to approve your special request.

Your GMAT Waiver Request Letter needs to follow the usual formalities associated with any business correspondence unless otherwise specified by the school. The address line, date, subject, and salutations should follow similar formats like the other admission related formal letters (Letter of Intent vs Statement of Purpose vs Personal Statement).

For the content itself, you have to ensure that you give a reasonable explanation of why your background has prepared you enough to not have to appear for a GMAT test. Schools generally have a clear criterion to be considered for the extra privilege. So, stick to the essentials and stay away from bragging, or sounding too good to be true.

Here’s a sample, and quite fantastically fictional, GMAT waiver letter from a candidate with an MS in a quantitative field and work experience to lay strength to his claims. To know more or want to share something - sign up  

Attn: Admissions Committee

Gotham University

(Insert State) – 123456

1st January 2020

Subject: GMAT Waiver Request for Application to the Full-Time MBA Program

Dear Sir or Madam,

(1st Paragraph: Introduce your case without getting into too many details)

I am writing this letter to formally request you to waive the GMAT exam for my application to the Full-Time MBA program. My past professional and academic background have prepared me with the required skills essential to be considered for a waiver.

(2nd Paragraph: Elaborate your academic and professional achievements pertaining to the criteria the school wants you to satisfy in order to receive a waiver)

I have a Masters in Economics from XYZ (accredited of course) University with a GPA of 3.5/4.0. After graduating in 2010, and having interned at ABC company for two months during my graduate years, I joined EFG Corp. as a Financial Risk Analyst. My responsibilities, in the role, involved (Insert your duties with measured restraint. You don’t want to sound too congratulatory). After 2 years, I qualified the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) certification. I was soon promoted to become my division’s Risk Manager, managing a team of ten.

(3rd Paragraph: Provide proof of your achievements. Share the challenges you faced and how your super quantitative skills saved the day)

(4th Paragraph: Appreciate the Adcom for their time and gently request them to weigh your accomplishments against the requirement of a GMAT exam and consider the worthiness of your background for an exemption).

With Regards,

(signature)

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10 Tips for Your GMAT Waiver MBA

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An MBA GMAT waiver letter is a written request a student makes to the college asking them for a waiver on their GMAT® score – a necessary requirement that most schools ask the applicant to have. This type of letter can help you get accepted in an MBA with GMAT waiver. An MBA GMAT waiver letter should include evidence – like names, dates, courses, certificates, medical reports, etc. – that can help you with your demand.

The letter’s purpose is to communicate to the admission board why you are a strong candidate even without presenting your GMAT® score. It is a written request that explains why you may have a low GMAT® score, or why you cannot take the test. If you make sure you hand in a well-written and strong GMAT waiver letter, your waiver may be granted.

A successful GMAT waiver letter should include evidence that will convince the reader to grant your request. It should follow a specific format and be written in formal language. To ensure you write a winning MBA GMAT waiver letter you will have to read some samples. Also, make sure you pay extra attention to your grammar.

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This will greatly depend on the college. Some schools may accept a GRE for an MBA, while others may need you to take a specialized test. You should write a GRE waiver request letter sample if you want to enroll in any master’s degree. However, for an MBA; it is better to write a GMAT waiver letter as GMAT is specifically designed for business students.

You should add your academic and/or career background, and any other information that may act as evidence to support your request. You should also include the reason why you are writing the letter and your signature at the end.

Tips for the GMAT Waiver MBA Applicants

If you have to write a waiver letter, you should be aware of the requirements you need to address. Asking for a GMAT waiver MBA or asking for  writing a liability waiver   can be tricky. Thus, ensure you include all the necessary information the admission board is looking for that will help them decide to grant you your request.

Another requirement is to add proof of your career progression. You can talk about your internship or your job, and how it helped you learn and acquire specific skills for the business field.

The following are 10 tips that MBA applicants can use when requesting a GMAT waiver:

• Check with specific institutions for criteria to be eligible for a GMAT waiver. MBA program applicant should determine if the meet eligibility guidelines before submitting a GMAT waiver letter . Every program determines the eligibility requirements they want to use.
• Write the MBA GMAT waiver request letter using a business letter format, unless the particular program requests another format. The greeting you use should address a particular person if possible. If you are unable to get a name, address the person by title or position. Avoid using “To whom it may concern” and other similar terms to open your letter.
• The introduction of your letter should state your reason for writing, which is to request a GMAT waiver. MBA program applicants should have met eligibility requirements for a waiver before writing a GMAT waiver request. An overview of the particular criteria that qualified you to request a waiver should also be included in the first paragraph.
• Make sure to discuss specific aspects of any professional work experience that match up with the skills the GMAT is meant to demonstrate. Work experience that displays the quantitative and analytical skills needed to process and evaluate information and apply the results to management decisions is exceptionally helpful.
• Provide specific examples that show how you have demonstrated a particular skill. Examples help to support your claim that you possess a particular skill. A statement that lacks any evidence to support it is not going to be considered near as strongly as one that you have given specific examples for.
• To apply for an MBA with GMAT waiver , it is essential that you convince admissions that you have the skills that the GMAT is intended to identify. Target two or three of the most important skills and focus on those. It is better to highlight a couple of important skills than to cover a dozen inadequately.
• Use a clear and concise style of writing when preparing your letter for GMAT waiver. MBA program applicants only have a few paragraphs to convince admissions officials they have earned the right to have GMAT requirements waived. It is important that you be easily understood and that you get directly to the points you are trying to make.
• Don’t exaggerate your accomplishments in the GMAT waiver letter. Overstating your qualifications can come off as bragging and may also be found out. At the same time, don’t be shy about stating your accomplishments. Point out the things you have done that match what they are looking for.
• Stay focused while writing the letter requesting a GMAT waiver. MBA programs are looking for specific skills. No matter how great an accomplishment was, if it doesn’t contribute to your purpose of convincing admissions you have the skills they are looking for it shouldn’t be included.
• Revise and proofread until your GMAT letter of waiver for MBA application is as well polished as you can make it. At this level spelling mistakes and grammatical errors are unacceptable.

Use these 10 tips when requesting a GMAT waiver for MBA application.

GMAT Waiver MBA Writing Template

An MBA GMAT waiver letter template is a sample that you can use as a guide when writing your waiver letter. A well-written template should have the following structure:

In the introduction, you will have to mention your request, but do it briefly. Write about why you are writing the letter, what is your request.

Talk about your academic and career background and how that helps you to acquire the knowledge you are required to have to enroll in the course. State why should the academic board grant you a GMAT waiver.

Provide evidence of your achievements, like certificates or awards. If you do not have any paper you can use, write about the courses you have taken or names and dates that can help you back up your argument.

Thank the reader for taking the time to read your letter.

Common Universities We Write the Waiver Letters For

Our expert writers can compose UNC MBA GMAT waiver as well as waivers for other universities with no hassle at all. These are the names of universities for which we write the best waivers with no hassle. The waiver letters are tailor according the criteria of university and needs of the clients.

• Rutgers MBA GMAT waiver
• ASU MBA GMAT waiver
• Georgetown MBA GMAT waiver
• USC MBA GMAT
• Harvard MBA GMAT waiver
• UCLA MBA GMAT
• UIC MBA GMAT
• Staford MBA GMAT

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