Interested in pursuing a Master’s in Marketing without a GMAT or GRE?

Introduction

The idea of taking standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE might be intimidating, especially after long hours of preparation for applications, be it a student or working professional. But let me tell you, you are not alone in this. To be honest, your profile also plays a great role in identifying your aptitude and capacity to handle the academic rigor of a particular Master’s in Marketing program.

Fortunately many top universities worldwide understand this zone and they now offer programs that waive off these requirements or emphasize other aspects of your application like your professional experience, academic achievements, or personal interviews. If you wish to pursue a Master's in Marketing without GMAT or GRE in 2025, here we have listed the top universities you can look for in 2025.

Is GMAT essential to pursue a Master’s in marketing in 2025?

GMAT or GRE are the most popular standardized exams that test you based on your quantitative ability, aptitude, and capacity to be able to attend a business school. So, GMAT serves you a great way of understanding if the candidate is capable and makes it one of the vital metrics of selection for top business schools offering masters in marketing. 

The GMAT assesses your critical and strategic thinking. It tests your problem-solving capabilities, which are crucial for developing and executing effective campaigns and interpreting consumer behaviors. Strong GMAT scores often increase eligibility for scholarships and financial aid, reducing the financial burden of pursuing a Master's degree.

However, the necessity of the GMAT for pursuing a Master’s in Marketing in 2025 depends on the specific program and university. Several universities offer GMAT waivers or do not require the test at all. This is common in programs that focus more on holistic applications, including work experience and academic background. So, we can safely say that GMAT is no longer mandatory if you wish to pursue a Master’s in Marketing in 2025. Below we have listed top Universities offering Master's in Marketing without GMAT or GRE in 2025

List of Top Universities for Master’s in Marketing without GMAT or GRE in 2025

The GMAT is not universally essential for a Master’s in Marketing in 2025. If you're targeting a top-tier or globally recognized program, having a GMAT score can enhance your application, but many programs are flexible, offering waivers or alternative admissions pathways. Always check the specific admission requirements for your desired program. Below are some of the top Universities offering Master's in Marketing without GMAT or GRE in 2025.

The University of Texas at Austin

Located in Austin, Texas USA, it is one of the best business schools in the USA and also the world. It is ranked 66 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

School Name

McCombs School of Business

Course

Master of Science in Marketing

Cohort-size

66

Average Undergrad GPA

3.66

Average GMAT Score (optional)

640

Average GRE Score (V+Q) (optional)

322

International Diversity

20% of the cohort

Average Work Experience

1 year (46% of Current Cohort With Work Experience)

Note: The above information is based on the Class Of 2025

University of Maryland

Robert H. Smith School of Business located in Maryland, USA is one of the leading business schools in education and research.

School Name

Robert H. Smith School of Business

Course

Master of Science in Marketing Analytics

Average Age

24

Cohort-size

-

Average Undergrad GPA

3.4

Average GMAT Score (optional)

639

Average GRE Score (V+Q) (optional)

309

International Diversity

-

Average Work Experience

1 year

Note: This is the Average Profile for Incoming Classes

University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is one of the best universities across the globe. Located in Manchester, UK, it is renowned for its top-notch education be it tech, arts, sciences or business. 

School Name

Alliance Manchester Business School

Course

Master of Science in Marketing

Average Age

20-33 (Age range)

Cohort-size

127

Average Undergrad GPA

-

Average GMAT Score (optional)

650 (for MBA)

Average GRE Score (V+Q) (optional)

-

International Diversity

26 Nationalities

Average Work Experience

-

The University of Arizona

Located in Tuscon, Arizona USA, the University of Arizona is known for its popular majors like data, business, marketing, finance, medical, and law programs.

School Name

Eller Colege of Management

Course

Master of Science in Marketing

Average Age

25

Cohort-size

-

Average Undergrad GPA

-

Average GMAT Score (optional)

-

Average GRE Score (V+Q) (optional)

-

International Diversity

30%

Average Work Experience

 

To learn about the course profiles and marketing incubators of top business schools offering Masters in Marketing in 2025, we highly recommend reading our blog.

Megalist: Here is the list of top Universities for Master’s in Marketing without GMAT or GRE in 2025

University

School

Course

Duration

STEM-eligible

LSE

 

Master of Science in Marketing

12 months

-

University of Manchester

Alliance Manchester Business School

Master of Science in Marketing

12 months

Yes

The University of Texas at Austin

McCombs School of Business

Master of Science in Marketing

10-month

Yes

ESCP

ESCP Business School

Master of Science in

Marketing & Creativity Specialisation

18-21 months

-

ESCP

ESCP Business School

Master of Science in

Marketing & Digital Media specialization

15 months

-

ESSEC

ESSEC Business School

MSc in Marketing Management and Digital (MMD)

12 months

-

George Washington University

GW School of Business

Master of Science in Marketing

18 months

Yes

NYU

Stern

Master of Science in Marketing

18 months

Yes

The University of Arizona

Eller Colege of Management

Master of Science in Marketing

12-16 months

Yes

University of Maryland

Robert H. Smith School of Business

Master of Science in Marketing Analytics

12 months

Yes

University of Edinburgh

University of Edinburgh Business School

Master's in Marketing

12 months

-

University of Michigan-Dearborn

 

Master of Science in Marketing 

10-16 months

Yes

John Hopkins University

Carey Business School

Master of Science in Marketing (full-time)

12 months

Yes

University of Minnesota

Carlson School of Management

Master of Marketing

9-months

No

Interested in studying Marketing in the USA? Check out our Top universities for a Master’s in Marketing in the USA in 2025. Confused between an MBA or a Master’s in Marketing in 2025? We got you covered! Check out the major differences between a Master’s or MBA in Marketing and identify which is more suitable for you!

Check out our list of Top Affordable Masters in Marketing in 2025 offered by top Business Schools!

Master's in Marketing

GMAT/GRE Alternatives to Admission for Master’s in Marketing in 2025

Some Universities expect you to sit for other exams or have certain conditions under which you can apply for a GMAT waiver. Some of them are mentioned below.

University

Alternative (if any) or GMAT waiver conditions

NYU

Executive Assessment (EA) 

The University of Texas at Austin

Optional GMAT or GRE

University of Maryland

You can avail of a GMAT waiver if you have:


  • Quantitative degree with a GPA of 3.2/4, 4/5, 8/10, or 80/100
  • A minimum of 24 months of relevant post-undergraduate experience

University of Michigan-Dearborn

You can opt for the GRE

John Hopkins University

GMAT or GRE is accepted

University of Minnesota

Tests are optional so you don't need GMAT or GRE

The University of Arizona

Tests are optional so you don't need GMAT or GRE

Do check out our Guidebook to Master of Science in Marketing in 2025 to understand the syllabus, curriculum, and top schools to do a Master’s in Marketing in 2025 and land high-paying marketing jobs.

Conclusion

If you’re passionate about advancing your marketing career, GMAT or GRE requirements shouldn’t hold you back. With many world-class universities offering alternatives, you can focus on showcasing your unique talents, experience, and ambitions. Book a call with our founder and let us help you in your study abroad journey!

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