Top MiM Programs that give a GMAT waiver

Introduction

Are you someone who wants to build a successful career in a management-related field like consulting, finance, marketing, strategy, human resources, and similar? Do you need more work experience for an MBA? Or is GMAT preparation affecting your bigger dreams?

Guess what!? Some of the world’s top MiM programs now offer GMAT waivers

in 2024!  The current market is evolving at a faster pace than ever before. Having a business degree is no longer governed by whether you have a high GMAT score. 

You can now study at one of the top universities without GMAT/GRE scores. Stick till the end for a bonus!

MiM: What is it?

MIM or Master in Management is an excellent alternative to an MBA. It's generally of a duration of 1-2 years. Some universities extend up to 3 years, depending on the country. Confused if you should go for an MBA or MiM? Check out this comparative analysis for MiM vs MBA! The MiM program focuses on three key elements:

1. Foundational Management Courses: In the beginning, you will dive into essential management areas such as Financial Accounting, Economics, Business Strategy, and Marketing Management. These subjects will provide you with a strong background for your learning journey.
2. Work Experience: More than just studying, the MiM experience incorporates internships to give you hands-on opportunities to apply what you've learned in real-world situations—bridging theory and practice.
3. Specializations for MIM: As you progress through the program, you'll have the chance to specialize in areas like finance, data analytics, entrepreneurship marketing, HR, and customizing your education based on your career goals.

Still confused? We recommend that you read Our Guidebook to Master's in Management in 2025!

What is the weightage of GMAT?

Your GMAT scores weigh significantly less compared to your whole application. A GMAT score weightage at a top university can be anywhere from 10% to 30%.

MiM programs give heavy weightage to other factors, including the following-

1. Leadership experience
2. Academics (Grades, research papers)
3. International experience
4. Extracurriculars
5. Community service

Therefore, it is NOT ONLY the GMAT but the above factors that will act as game changers opening doors to top MiM programs of the world.

Is GMAT required for MIM?

GMAT/GRE scores are standardized tests that assess an applicant's quantitative and verbal reasoning skills, considered essential for success in a rigorous business program. 

In today's dynamic landscape of MIM admissions, the role of the GMAT is evolving. No longer is it an absolute prerequisite for applying to business schools. Many top universities now recognize that while the GMAT plays a role in assessing aptitude, it's not the sole determinant of an applicant's potential.

Is MiM without GMAT possible?

YES !!

A lot of TOP universities in 2024 are waiving the GMAT.

A good GMAT score conveys to the university that you will be able to cope with the curriculum. However, if you can prove strong quantitative and verbal abilities, top universities are ready to waive off your GMAT.

Most of these GMAT waivers or GMAT exemptions are provided based on a strong academic record, such as a high GPA, work experience, professional degree, or relevant coursework in a business-related field. Worried about your GMAT scores? Don't worry! Here, we have curated a list of top MiM programs that give a GMAT waiver.

Will a GMAT waiver affect your chances of an Admit?

Most TOP universities, after giving you a GMAT waiver, look at your profile without any bias. It means that your application without a GMAT score will be evaluated the same way as another candidate who has included a GMAT score.

However, this consideration is university-specific and you should check the FAQ and admission requirement section on the university page.

Additionally, a strong overall profile can compensate for low GMAT scores with high points achieved in other factors. 

How to compensate for a low GMAT score or GMAT waiver? 

Two words: essays and interviews. 

An excellent application with compelling essays, motivation letters, letters of recommendation, and a perfect CV will land you an interview with your dream university. About 40% of the weightage is given to the application, and about 30% weightage is given to the interviews. The GMAT or GRE score weightage for a MiM or master's in management program is very low. 

How to process a GMAT waiver?

The process to get a GMAT waiver or GRE waiver depends on the university. 

Generally, there are 3 possible ways to get a waiver

• Submit a GMAT waiver request letter that proves your verbal and quant abilities
• Simply do not submit the GMAT score, if the university mentions that the GMAT score is optional
• Request the university to give you a waiver (write an email to the admissions committee)

Should you submit a low score or seek a GMAT waiver?

A low GMAT score could adversely affect your university application. Here's what to consider:

• If you have a high score, definitely submit it.
• With an average score, submitting it shows effort, though it may not significantly impact your application.
• If your score is low, refrain from submitting it and consider applying for a waiver or exemption.

Is scholarship possible through a  GMAT WAIVER?

As mentioned earlier, once the GMAT waiver is granted, most universities will assess your profile without bias. Therefore, this should not impact your scholarship chances.

However, this varies depending on the university and its policies. A strong GMAT score will certainly strengthen an application.

Not to forget, a lot of external scholarships require GMAT as a mandatory criterion.

Finally, the million-dollar question: 

Should you opt for a GMAT waiver or not?

MiM application gives weightage to several components such as academics, work experience, leadership, international experience, extracurriculars, GMAT or GRE scores, etc.

If you are truly dreading the GMAT or GRE, 

Opt for a GMAT waiver if:

You have strong work experience, CGPA, and leadership experience.

Don't opt for a waiver if:

You don't have a very strong profile and you still aim to secure admission at a Tier 1 university.

Top MiM programs thatgive a GMAT waiver

If you're looking to pursue your business degree abroad, we’re here for you. We at EdYOU Abroad have prepared a list of colleges supporting your ventures with a GMAT waiver! 

The Master in Management (MIM) program is a springboard for launching a successful business career. However, leaping to pursue an MIM abroad offers unique advantages that can propel you even further. The world’s top Universities like Cornell, Imperial, ANU, and many more offer you MIM acceptances without your GMAT/GRE scores fostering a global perspective invaluable in today's interconnected business world. 

Learning alongside classmates from different cultures exposes you to a vibrant multicultural environment and picturesque memories for sure! Here is the list of top MIM programs that give a GMAT waiver:

Cornell University

Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business offers one of the best Master's in management programs in the world. 

• 2300 acres in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, a few steps away from the bustling city lies this prestigious IVY league school offering a specialized Master’s in Management that gives students great future job opportunities, networking, and collaboration events.
• It is part of the CEMS alliance 
• The duration of the master's in international management is 16 months
• Capstone projects, a part of the curriculum, train teh student with teh in-demand skills and help them to later stand out in the market
• According to the official website, “Candidates who demonstrate analytical and quantitative abilities through academics or work experience may request a waiver from the GMAT or GRE test requirement. The waiver request option is in the application.”

You can access EdYOU Abroad’s free GRE/GMAT template and empower your application through the doors of your dream schools.

Chicago Booth

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, a hub of bold thinkers and inquisitive minds, along the bank of the Chicago River, is regarded as one of the World’s best business schools.

• Chicago Booth launched its first cohort of the MiM program in 2024.
• Chicago-Booth hosts the first of its kind- Boothcamp. It is an immersive two-week experience full of career and professional development training.

You are eligible for a GMAT waiver. So. you can apply there without worrying about your past scores or even worrying about GMAT/GRE. 

The Kellogg School of Management

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this world-class top-tier Business School concentrates on the foundations of economics, entrepreneurship, finance, healthcare administration and global management. 

• The Master in Management at Kellogg has a duration of 10 months.
• It enjoys its advantageous location advantage of Chicago, a vibrant business hub with numerous networking opportunities.
• Kellogg offers opportunities for international study trips or exchange programs.
• Kellogg's renowned faculty provides a rigorous and engaging learning experience.
• The curriculum blends core business courses like accounting, finance, marketing, and operations with electives, allowing students to explore specific areas of interest.

 You can avail GMAT waiver for attending their MiM program, which is both flexible and the best in class. 

Australian National University(ANU)

The Australian National University, holds its consistent position in the top 50 (according to QS rankings) universities in the World.

• It offers the Master of Management program, preparing young graduates and professionals from myriad disciplines to become innovative decision-makers and tomorrow’s problem solvers.
•  You can potentially tailor your studies with up to two specializations in areas like business analytics, entrepreneurship, or digital marketing (depending on course availability).
• The program offers a combination of core courses in international business, finance, marketing, and strategy, along with electives allowing for specialization in specific areas of interest.
•  The ANU MIM is a two-year, full-time program.

Now, you can also be part of this prestigious university with a GMAT waiver and unleash your dreams.

Planning to pursue your MiM in Australia in 2026?

National University of Singapore

NUS offers a specialized course, Master in International Management, open to students enrolled at one of the CEMS schools. 

• This prestigious University does not need a GMAT or GRE for acceptance. 
• It's a full-time, 18-month program course.

The curriculum integrates core business areas like finance, marketing, strategy, and operations, providing a well-rounded understanding of business functions. 

Copenhagen Business School

This is one of the most highly competitive programs, a part of the CEMS alliance, designed for young graduates who want to navigate into International business. This Master’s in International Management is a 1-2 year course with a tuition of approximately DKK 150,000. 

Since you stick till the end. As promised, here is the bonus! List of MiM programs offering GMAT/GRE waiver! 

List of top MIM programs with GMAT Waiver

So, you made it to the end!  Here’s a bonus list of prestigious Universities offering a GMAT/GRE waiver for a Master’s in Management.

Career opportunities after MiM

The MiM program equips recent graduates and career changers with a variety of entry-level management positions. A solid base in general management principles allows MIM graduates to have many options in diverse sectors. Many MIM graduates pursue careers in consulting. Finance is another area where they find jobs thanks to their skills developed through a variety of electives taught in this program. 

The Master in Management program also equips you with entrepreneurial skills and knowledge to launch your venture. The curriculum often covers areas like business development and marketing, providing a strong foundation for budding entrepreneurs. 

Last but not least, pursuing a career in management entails a great deal of networking and exposure. Many MIM programs offered abroad foster a multicultural learning environment and prepare you for success in the globalized business landscape. This international exposure adds another layer of value to your skill set, making you a more attractive candidate to multinational companies.

Others

Corvinus University of Budapest

Located inside beautiful Budapest, it stands as one of the best business schools in Hungary and is a part of the CEMS alliance. 

Many students with less experience (0 to 2 years) are choosing an MIM or Master’s in Management degree mainly because it is not only cost-effective but also extremely flexible. The duration of a master's in management course can be either 1 - 2 year(s) or more.

With a GMAT/GRE waiver evaluation, the weight gets distributed over academics, research experience, and application (essays, motivation letters, etc) 

Conclusion

GMAT/GRE waivers acknowledge the competency of the candidature. Informing the admission officers whether the candidate has the quantitative or verbal ability necessary to pursue the course. Or is the candidate mentally and academically fit enough to sustain themselves in a foreign land? Strong  GPAs, relevant coursework, or impressive work experience act as game changers opening doors to pursue MiM with a GMAT/GRE waiver. We at EdYOU Abroad wish the best for you and provide personalized guidance when it comes to your future dreams. Are you ready to start your MIM journey this 2025? Book a session with our founder and let us find the best MIM program best for you!