Some of the most respected online MBA programmes still ask for a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score. Carnegie Mellon Tepper, Georgetown McDonough, Ohio State Fisher, Rice Jones, UNC Kenan-Flagler, and Michigan Ross all officially require a test, though each offers waivers to applicants who meet certain criteria (Clear Admit, 2026). If you are targeting these schools, a strong score is often your best route in.
Key Takeaways
- Several top online and hybrid MBAs require a GMAT, GRE, or EA score but offer waivers (Clear Admit, 2026).
- A test requirement signals academic rigour and helps schools compare applicants fairly.
- A strong score can improve both admission odds and scholarship chances.
- Plan 2 to 4 months of preparation before your target application deadline.
Which online MBA programs require a GMAT or other test?
Clear Admit lists these AACSB-accredited online and hybrid MBAs as requiring a GMAT, GRE, or EA score while offering waivers to qualifying applicants (Clear Admit, 2026):
| School | Test policy | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon (Tepper) | Test required; waivers available | Plan for a score unless you clearly meet waiver criteria |
| Georgetown (McDonough) | Test required; waivers available | Plan for a score unless you clearly meet waiver criteria |
| Ohio State (Fisher) | Test required; waivers available | Plan for a score unless you clearly meet waiver criteria |
| Rice (Jones) | Test required; waivers available | Plan for a score unless you clearly meet waiver criteria |
| UNC (Kenan-Flagler) | Test required; automatic waiver with 5+ years of experience | Under 5 years, request a waiver or submit a score |
| Michigan (Ross) | Test required; waivers available | Plan for a score unless you clearly meet waiver criteria |
UNC's automatic waiver for applicants with five or more years of full-time experience is confirmed on its official page (UNC Online, 2026). For the others, check the current waiver rules on each school's admissions site.
Why do some online MBAs still require the GMAT?
-
Academic readiness. The test shows you can handle quantitative courses like finance, accounting, and statistics.
-
Fair comparison. Applicants come from very different countries and universities; a common test gives schools one consistent yardstick.
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Same standard as on campus. Many of these schools want their online MBA to match the rigour of their full-time programme.
Is a test-required online MBA better?
Not automatically, but there is a pattern. The list above includes several of the most selective schools offering online MBAs. A test requirement usually means a more selective admissions process, which can mean a stronger peer group and brand. It does not guarantee a better experience; compare curriculum, network, and outcomes too.
Should you request a waiver or take the test?
| Your profile | Better move |
|---|---|
| 5+ years of experience and strong quantitative work | Request a waiver, or check if it is automatic |
| Weak maths grades or a non-quantitative degree | Take the test to prove quantitative readiness |
| Aiming for scholarships | Take the test; a strong score helps your case |
| Little time before the deadline | Check if the Executive Assessment is accepted |
In my view, your GMAT score is the most important number you can still improve, and for these programmes it often decides whether you get in. Start your free mock today, so you know exactly where you stand.
What are your test options?
| Test | Length | Score range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| GMAT | 2 hours 15 minutes, 64 questions | 205 to 805 | Most MBA applicants |
| GRE | 1 hour 58 minutes | 260 to 340, plus writing 0 to 6 | Applicants also considering other master's programmes |
| Executive Assessment | 90 minutes, 40 questions | 100 to 200 | Experienced professionals, where accepted |
Executive Assessment details are from GMAC (GMAC, 2025). Always confirm which tests each programme accepts.
How should you plan your preparation?
Most people need 100 to 200 hours over 2 to 4 months for the GMAT, depending on their score gap. Start with a diagnostic, set a target from the class profiles of your chosen programmes, and work backwards from the application deadline.
Find your starting point before you decide between the test and a waiver. Start your free mock today on OnePrep and let your scores guide your next step.
Frequently asked questions
Which online MBA programs require the GMAT?
According to Clear Admit, programmes such as Carnegie Mellon Tepper, Georgetown McDonough, Ohio State Fisher, Rice Jones, UNC Kenan-Flagler, and Michigan Ross require a test but offer waivers to qualifying applicants.
Can I get a GMAT waiver for an online MBA that requires a test?
Often, yes. Waivers usually depend on work experience, quantitative coursework, or professional certifications. Check each school's criteria.
Do online MBAs accept the GRE or Executive Assessment instead of the GMAT?
Many do. Clear Admit's list covers programmes that require a GMAT, GRE, or EA score. Confirm accepted tests with each school.
What GMAT score do I need for an online MBA?
It varies by school. Aim at or above the programme's published average, and check its class profile.
Sources
About the author
Rama Negi
Admission Specialist at oneprep.in
15+ years teaching GMAT and counselling MBA applicants; 5 years with OnePrep.
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