Accredited Online MBA Programs with No GMAT Requirement 2024
An MBA can be a powerful catalyst for career advancement, equipping professionals with the skills they need to excel in the business world and opening new opportunities. However, obtaining an online MBA often includes challenges such as leaving work for full-time study or facing the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
For many prospective students, the GMAT stands as a significant obstacle. Whether due to limited preparation time, high costs, test anxiety, or previous underperformance on standardized tests, the GMAT may seem unappealing. Additionally, individuals with substantial work experience or interests in entrepreneurial or creative fields may find the GMAT’s focus on analytical and quantitative skills less relevant to their career goals.
Thankfully, as we move into 2023, the higher education landscape is adapting. A growing number of reputable and accredited institutions now offer high-quality, affordable online MBA programs that waive entirely the GMAT requirement. These programs recognize that a single test score is not the sole measure of a candidate’s potential.
These programs don’t merely provide GMAT waivers but generally exclude the GMAT requirement entirely from the application process. Regardless of waiver eligibility or GMAT performance, these programs don’t consider the test in admissions decisions. This approach welcomes applicants from a broader range, affirming that they can showcase their potential in the business world in myriad ways beyond standardized testing.
This comprehensive guide explores some of the most affordable online MBA programs without GMAT requirements. We delve into admission criteria, curriculum specifics, faculty credentials, and attendance costs to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional eyeing the corporate ladder, an ambitious career switcher, or an entrepreneur seeking business insights, an online, no-GMAT MBA program is likely the perfect fit.
15 Cheapest Online MBA Programs No GMAT
This article will spotlight these fully GMAT-agnostic programs, exploring the most affordable online MBA options that neither require nor consider the GMAT. We meticulously designed our ranking methodology for the 15 Affordable Online MBA Programs with no GMAT requirement, focusing on accreditation, non-profit status, GMAT exemptions, and cost-per-credit affordability.
Initial Selection: We started with a comprehensive list of 370 100% online MBA programs to conduct an exhaustive evaluation.
Accreditation Filtering: To ensure the quality of education, we filtered out any schools not fully accredited by recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation is a testament to a school’s commitment to meeting specific quality standards and offering a rigorous academic experience.
Profit Status Filtering: Recognizing the importance of prioritizing education over profit, we filtered out all For-Profit schools, focusing solely on Public and Non-Profit institutions. This step resulted in the exclusion of 39 schools from our list.
GMAT Requirement Assessment: We confirmed the schools that do not require GMAT test scores or consider them in the application process. Our intention was to facilitate accessibility to quality education for those who may not have the resources or time to prepare for standardized testing. This process narrowed the list down to 46 schools.
Cost-Per-Credit Ranking: Finally, we ranked the remaining schools based on their reported cost per credit. Affordability is a crucial consideration for many prospective students, and ranking schools by this metric provides a clear and tangible way to assess the value offered by each program.
Selection of Top 15: Out of the filtered and ranked list of 46 schools, we have presented the top 15 programs with the cheapest tuition. These represent the most affordable online MBA options that do not require GMAT scores, offering a combination of quality, accessibility, and value for potential business leaders.
By employing this systematic approach, we ensured that our ranking is grounded in well-defined criteria that reflect academic quality and financial accessibility. It’s intended to serve as a reliable guide for prospective students seeking an affordable and quality online MBA program without the GMAT requirement.
1. Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg State University provides an online Master of Business Administration program, empowering working professionals to further their careers without disrupting their current obligations.
The application process to Fitchburg State’s online MBA program is seamless and features a rolling deadline for both U.S. and international students. The university impressively holds an almost 100% acceptance rate, having accepted 1,033 out of 1,034 applicants last year. The program does not require the GMAT and GRE for admission but emphasizes an applicant’s undergraduate GPA and qualitative attributes. The average age of new entrants is 36 years, reflecting a blend of fresh graduates and experienced professionals.
Accredited by the IACBE, the program operates on a semester system, offering eight distinct online master’s degrees in business, with 34 credit-granting courses available. The university employs 36 part-time instructional faculty, providing a comprehensive online experience. Students receive the same curriculum as on-campus students and can switch to campus-based enrollment if desired.
Fitchburg State’s online MBA is financially attractive at $284 per credit, making it significantly more affordable than national and Massachusetts averages. Although 41% of 2021-2022 graduates incurred some debt, the average debt is only $18,272. The institution is GI Bill certified.
In conclusion, Fitchburg State University’s online MBA program offers a blend of academic rigor, affordability, and flexibility, appealing to many prospective students.
2. Rogers State University
Rogers State University (RSU) in Claremore, Oklahoma, offers an online Master of Business Administration program tailored to the ever-changing marketplace. Focusing on agility, problem-solving, and leadership, RSU’s online MBA equips students with robust skills for various business endeavors.
RSU offers a rolling application deadline and a favorable acceptance rate of 78%. Neither the GMAT nor the GRE is required, enabling a more accessible application process. The program’s student body is diverse, with 36% of new entrants employed at the time of joining and an average age reflecting a balance of recent graduates and experienced professionals.
RSU’s online MBA offers an accelerated curriculum, allowing completion in as few as 18 months. With five start dates and eight-week online courses, flexibility is vital. The faculty consists entirely of full-time members, ensuring comprehensive expertise. Specializations range from Accounting to Sport Management, and the program accepts students with bachelor’s degrees outside of business, providing foundational courses as needed.
With a $449 per credit tuition rate, RSU’s online MBA is more affordable than national and Oklahoma state averages. The average debt for 2021-2022 graduates who borrowed is $20,787. RSU’s participation in the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program highlights its support for veterans.
3. Northern Kentucky University
Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY, delivers an esteemed online MBA program for today’s business professionals. The program’s structure combines relevant curriculum with the flexibility of online learning.
The application process at NKU is accessible, with rolling deadlines and a 61% acceptance rate. Though GMAT or GRE scores are not required, the program values a holistic evaluation. Remarkably, 97% of new entrants have prior work experience, averaging 115 months, demonstrating the program’s appeal to career-driven individuals.
NKU’s online MBA offers an enriched academic experience led by 38 full-time and six part-time faculty members. Seventy-four percent of the full-time faculty hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree, and many have an average of five years of online teaching experience. The program allows a General MBA or customizable options through various stack combinations, preparing students for real-world challenges.
NKU’s online MBA tuition is $460 per credit, significantly lower than national and Kentucky state averages. Fifty-six percent of 2021-2022 graduates incurred some debt, with the average amount being $26,001. Veterans can find support through the GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program.
4. Arkansas State University – Jonesboro
Arkansas State University Jonesboro‘s online MBA program emphasizes ethical leadership, international business, enterprising technology, decision-making methods, and social responsibility. The program’s designers tailor it to suit students with diverse academic or professional backgrounds, equipping them with the tools and skills needed for the global business environment. Building on a solid foundation in core subjects such as accounting, managerial economics, project management, and business analytics, students can choose electives from various concentration courses like financial planning and analysis, marketing, supply chain management, and agricultural business. The program features a faculty where 100% hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree, and the courses focus on sharpening strategic and analytical skills, broadening the understanding of business dynamics.
The application process for the MBA program is flexible, offering a rolling admissions policy. With a 67% acceptance rate, prospective students should possess an average undergraduate GPA of 3.2. The admissions department doesn’t demand GMAT or GRE scores but emphasizes undergraduate GPA and other components like essays and recommendations.
The tuition cost, at $460 per credit, is 45% cheaper than the national average and slightly higher than the Arkansas state average by 2.17%. The average debt for the 2021-2022 graduates who borrowed is $25,229, and 39% have debt. Veterans may note that the institution is GI Bill certified and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, helping ease the financial burden of education.
Arkansas State University Jonesboro’s MBA program represents a well-rounded opportunity for those aiming for business excellence. Its academic rigor and affordability make it an attractive option for potential business leaders.
5. The University of South Dakota
Situated in Vermillion, the University of South Dakota (USD) invites ambitious professionals to its affordable and nationally-ranked online MBA program. The designers crafted this program to integrate into the lives of individuals seeking to enhance their career prospects without disrupting their current paths.
The online MBA at USD’s Beacom School of Business delivers an enriching learning experience guided by 20 full-time and four part-time faculty members. An impressive 80% of the full-time faculty hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction from experts with rich academic and industry experience. The program offers customizable specializations in Business Analytics, Finance, Health Services Administration, Marketing, and Operations & Supply Chain Management. The experience is entirely online, but students can opt to take classes on campus, guaranteeing flexibility.
The school maintains a 99% acceptance rate, and although it considers high school completion requirements and GPA, it values a holistic review. Factors like the undergraduate field of study, recommendation letters, application essays, and work experience weigh heavily in admissions. Notably, the average age of new entrants is 31 years, reflecting a mature and experienced cohort.
USD’s online MBA is a wise investment, priced at $470 per credit. It is 43% more affordable than the national average and only 4.6% higher than the South Dakota state average. Students graduate with an average debt of $37,238, and 25% emerge without debt. USD also supports veterans through its GI Bill certification and participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, underlining its dedication to accessible quality education.
6. Marshall University
Located in Huntington, West Virginia, Marshall University creates an opportunity for ambitious professionals to pursue a top-tier MBA education without the constraints of a traditional classroom. Marshall’s Online MBA parallels its on-campus counterpart, delivered by the same esteemed faculty, melding flexibility and quality.
The online MBA program at Marshall centers on applying theory to real-world scenarios, equipping graduates to adapt to the evolving global marketplace. Faculty experienced in diverse fields such as finance, marketing, law, and more guide the program’s emphasis on honing management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. While tailored for those with a business background, candidates from other disciplines may need additional foundational courses. Given the program’s rigorous nature, understanding business fundamentals is essential.
Marshall’s application process accommodates varied educational backgrounds. Candidates should have an undergraduate business degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a GPA of 2.5 or higher in another field, along with two recommendation letters. Those with prerequisite business courses or a doctoral degree from an accredited institution are also eligible. Applicants can enhance their profiles with supplementary materials like statements of purpose or test scores, and conditional admission is available for those nearing undergraduate completion.
Marshall’s Online MBA offers a cost-effective option at $495 per credit, 40% lower than the national average and 23% cheaper than the state average. Although Marshall University did not disclose details about average graduate debt or the proportion of debt, the institution is GI Bill certified and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, making an MBA at Marshall a viable option for many.
7. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
In the active hub of Shippensburg, PA, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania features an online MBA program renowned for its quality and affordability. The Ship MBA Online delivers a robust AACSB-accredited curriculum, equal to its on-site counterpart, emphasizing quality, affordability, and convenience.
The program consists of 30 credits, including eight core courses and two electives, preparing students to succeed in domestic and international business. The curriculum is entirely online, blending asynchronous and synchronous elements with optional synchronous sessions for flexible scheduling. Courses run in accelerated eight-week sessions, facilitating focused learning. Twenty-two full-time and three part-time professionals instruct the classes, all holding a Ph.D. or terminal degree. Students can also specialize in concentrations like Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, Health Care Management, MIS, and Supply Chain Management.
Applying to Shippensburg University’s online MBA program is straightforward with its rolling application system. With a 99% acceptance rate and an average undergraduate GPA of 3.2, prospective students should emphasize work experience and the application essay. A minimum TOEFL score of 70 for internet-based tests is required, and the program is open to international students.
Shippensburg University takes pride in its affordability. The $526 per credit tuition fee is 37.16% below the national average and an impressive 79% lower than the Pennsylvania state average. Graduates of the program face an average debt of $26,675, with 32% of 2021-2022 graduates borrowing. While GI Bill certification is available, the university does not participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. Shippensburg’s reasonable tuition and distinguished reputation make its online MBA a compelling choice for prospective students.
8. Bowling Green State University
In the heart of Ohio, Bowling Green State University (BGSU) offers an online MBA molded by cutting-edge research and business innovation. Ideal for budding professionals, this program stands out with its dual accreditation in business and accounting from AACSB and inclusion in Princeton Review’s top business schools for over a decade.
BGSU’s online MBA empowers students with an immersive curriculum, focusing on fundamental business principles, strategies, and global financial management. With 20 full-time and six part-time faculty members, most holding a Ph.D. or terminal degree, students receive thorough instruction. The program offers concentrations in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management, tailored to prepare students for specific sectors. It allows the flexibility to complete coursework in as little as 12 months for seamless integration into professional lives.
Operating on a rolling application system, BGSU accepts both U.S. and international candidates, boasting a 100% acceptance rate. BGSU considers an average undergraduate GPA of 3.2 but doesn’t require GMAT and GRE. Instead, the university emphasizes undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters, and an application essay. International students need a minimum TOEFL score of 80 for online submissions.
Offering a tuition rate of $606 per credit, BGSU’s online MBA is 27% more affordable than the national average and 40% cheaper than the Ohio state average. Graduates carry an average debt of $28,861, with 48% of the 2021-2022 graduates having borrowed. Although not participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, the university demonstrates its commitment to veterans through GI Bill certification. This mix of affordability and quality reassures prospective students of the program’s value.
9. Texas A&M University-Commerce
Located in Commerce, Texas, Texas A&M University-Commerce boasts the state’s most extensive online MBA program, immersing students in academic excellence and practical business insights. Graduates don’t just receive an education; they join a vast professional network tailored for ambitious minds.
With a substantial online learning experience, Texas A&M – Commerce shines with 42 full-time and six part-time faculty members, most holding a Ph.D. or terminal degree. The curriculum allows students to explore diverse concentration areas, including Accounting, Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, and Real Estate. This array of specialization options meets varying interests and career goals. The Management Club offers unique opportunities like tours of global corporations like Amazon, resume-building sessions, and annual Lions Innovation Business Competition participation.
The program offers rolling application deadlines for U.S. residents and international students, boasting a 74% acceptance rate and an average undergraduate GPA of 3.1 for new entrants. Though GMAT and GRE aren’t required, the undergraduate field of study, application essays, interviews, and work experience are essential in the selection process. The acceptance standards are consistent across all online offerings, maintaining uniformity in academic quality.
The program costs $610 per credit, 27% more affordable than the national average and 30% cheaper than the Texas average, providing significant savings. The average debt for 2021-2022 graduates who borrowed is $32,851, and 44% carry some debt. While the institution doesn’t provide specific Yellow Ribbon Program information, it supports veterans through GI Bill certification and has provisions for financial support within the student community.
10. The University of Northern Colorado
Set against the scenic backdrop of Greeley, Colorado, the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) offers an online MBA through its Monfort College of Business. This flexible program shapes leaders capable of navigating global and diverse landscapes with expertise.
An elite team of faculty members at UNC curates the online MBA experience, committed to guiding students toward leadership roles. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, managerial accounting, international business, data analytics, improving competencies in critical business challenges, and strategic global decision-making. Notably, UNC offers 7-week course durations taught by dedicated professionals, many of whom maintain strong affiliations with prominent professional and industry organizations, fostering invaluable networking opportunities.
UNC adopts a rolling application process for U.S. residents and international students, with a welcoming 93% acceptance rate and an average undergraduate GPA of 3.3 for new entrants. Though GMAT and GRE aren’t required, international applicants may need TOEFL scores, with a minimum of 80 for internet-based tests. The student body reflects diversity, with an average age of 31 for new entrants and 29% being veterans.
Financially, UNC’s online MBA stands out at $627 per credit, 25% more affordable than the national average and 29% more economical than the Colorado state average. The value is clear, with an average debt of $31,978 for graduates who borrowed and 46% of graduates incurring some debt. UNC also supports veterans through GI Bill certification.
UNC’s focus on leadership in a diverse global context, along with its commitment to accessible, high-quality education, attracts those eager to forge their path in the business world.
11. Ferris State University
Dive into a transformative learning experience with Ferris State University’s online MBA, designed to accelerate your career in the dynamic world of business.
Ferris State University provides a robust online MBA emphasizing skills and knowledge essential for modern business leaders. With faculty possessing vast industry experience, students benefit from practical insights and a solid academic foundation. Every professor holds a terminal degree, ensuring top-tier instruction quality. The fully accredited curriculum by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) features eleven core courses crafted for innovators, entrepreneurs, and those who aim to spearhead change in their sectors. Though students can earn their degrees entirely online, the collaborative nature of assignments fosters rich peer interactions, even in the digital environment.
The program accepts 23% of recent applicants, indicating selective admissions. The average undergraduate GPA of new entrants is 3.4. A unique feature is the program’s flexibility regarding GMAT and GRE scores; prospective students can even begin their studies by taking the first two courses without these scores. This approach, coupled with a holistic review of an applicant’s profile, sets Ferris State apart in admissions methodology.
Affordability is a critical consideration for many MBA aspirants. Ferris State’s tuition per credit is $711, offering a 15% discount compared to the national average for online MBAs. However, it’s noteworthy that this figure is 44% higher than the Michigan state average. Financing education becomes more accessible through the institution’s participation in the GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program, benefiting veterans. Still, 39% of the 2021-2022 graduates carry educational debt, with the average debt amounting to $44,300.
12. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) ranks among the top programs nationwide. This program, delivered online, offers flexibility for full-time working professionals seeking advanced education without fixed class schedules. The curriculum emphasizes team-based cohort learning, fosters efficient student interactions, and nurtures lasting relationships. All faculty members, boasting graduate faculty status, are experts in their domains and skilled in providing high-quality online education. Students engage in two courses each term for five consecutive terms, completing the program in roughly 20 months.
Kennesaw State University’s rolling admission policy caters to U.S. and international applicants. Prospective students must possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and have at least two years of professional full-time work experience. The application process considers academic achievement in official transcripts, the nature and duration of work experience in resumes, and insights from two recommendation letters. The program’s acceptance rate is 77%, with the average undergraduate GPA of new entrants at 3.3.
At $739 per credit, the program’s tuition stands 1% below the national average, though it’s 7% above the state’s average. Recognizing some students’ financial challenges, Kennesaw State assists with the GI Bill and is a Yellow Ribbon Program member. On average, graduates of this esteemed program carry a debt of $32,686, with 48% of the 2021-2022 graduates having borrowed. This investment in education promises a robust return, especially as students continue in their full-time roles throughout the program’s duration.
13. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University’s Parker College of Business offers an internationally accredited Online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, providing a 21-month path to an advanced degree. The online format ensures flexibility and accessibility, and the program’s affordability distinguishes it from others.
The Georgia Southern University Online MBA stresses team-based learning, focusing on applying knowledge and skills in business. Students complete ten courses over five consecutive semesters, each consisting of two courses. Delivered through Desire2Learn Brightspace, the curriculum enhances the learning experience. A two-day orientation in Atlanta augments the interactive nature of the program, allowing students to meet and form teams.
Applying to Georgia Southern’s Online MBA program involves a rolling admission process for U.S. and international students. With a 90% acceptance rate, prospective students must supply their undergraduate GPA, TOEFL scores (if applicable), and other related documents. Business-related work experience, although optional, is highly valued. The application process also values the applicant’s character and personal qualities.
Tuition for the Online MBA program at Georgia Southern University is $739 per credit, a rate 12% below the national average but 7% higher than the state average. Graduates who borrowed have an average debt of $30,799, with 60% of the 2021-2022 graduates incurring some debt. While the program might lack specific information for Veterans on the GI Bill or Yellow Program, it’s affordability and professional accreditation make it a financially sound choice worth considering.
14. The University of North Carolina – Greensboro
Seeking an MBA tailored to your needs and ambitions? The UNCG online MBA program provides convenience, quality, and a sense of community, whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting in the business world.
The UNCG MBA consists of 45 credit hours and allows customization with over 30 elective courses across seven concentration areas. Instructors, students, and colleagues actively dialogue in the program’s design. With 92% of instructional faculty holding a Ph.D. or terminal degree, students receive quality education and personalized support. The program emphasizes real-world applications and includes concentrations like Business Analytics, Cyber Security, and Supply Chain Management. Additionally, students can complete the entire degree online.
The application process at UNCG is streamlined, with a 77% acceptance rate. Requirements include a minimum TOEFL score of 79 for international students and an application essay. Business-related work experience is unnecessary, making the program accessible to professionals at various stages. Those with more than five years of work experience may have conditions like the Basecamp (a one-day in-person orientation), Mentoring, and Internship components waived.
At $763 per credit, the UNCG MBA program offers substantial savings, standing 9% below the average online MBA tuition of $837 and 53% lower than the North Carolina state average. While the school does not readily provide details on average debt or the proportion of graduates with debt, it certifies GI Bill. It participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, offering maximum funding. The program’s competitive pricing makes it an appealing option for veterans, international students, and those seeking affordable, quality education.
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15. The University of Nevada – Reno
Embark on an enriching experience with the University of Nevada, Reno’s Online Executive MBA (EMBA) program, ranked 15th in DiscoverBusiness.us’s Affordable No GMAT Programs. This curriculum’s blend of theoretical and practical knowledge positions it as a highly sought-after option for mid-career executives and professionals.
The Online EMBA at the University of Nevada, Reno, consists of 12 fully online courses in a lockstep curriculum. Students start and complete the 36-credit program with a cohort in just two years, ensuring a collaborative learning environment. Taught by nine full-time and two part-time faculty members78% of whom hold Ph.D. or terminal degreesthe program integrates theory with professional practice. This approach emphasizes general management skills, ideal for mid-career executives and experienced professionals.
Applicants must meet specific criteria to apply to the University of Nevada, Reno’s Online EMBA, such as a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75, and at least five years of work experience. The university evaluates applications based on various elements, including work and academic history, career progression, and program fit, resulting in a 94% acceptance rate. The rolling application deadlines provide flexibility, making the process accessible to U.S. and international students.
Tuition for the Online EMBA program at the University of Nevada, Reno, is $833 per credit, in line with the national average, before considering financial aid or scholarships. The average debt is $32,716 for the 2021-2022 graduates who borrowed, and 33% of these graduates incurred debt. As a GI Bill-certified program, it offers support for veterans. While the school’s provision for financial aid is commendable, the percentage of graduates with debt may be a consideration for potential students.
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References:
1. AACSB, Best Business Schools: https://bestbizschools.aacsb.edu/aacsb-accredited
2. ACBSP, Business Schools:https://acbsp.org/page/accreditation-overview
3. IACBE, Business Schools:https://iacbe.org/accreditation/
4. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
5. Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA): https://www.chea.org/