Is It Possible to Study MBA in Europe Without GMAT?

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Study MBA in Europe Without GMAT

When it comes to pursuing an MBA abroad, the popular study destinations are the UK, Germany, France, the USA, Canada, Ireland, etc. Do you know what’s common between them? Most of these countries are located in Europe. Students across the world are moving to Europe to pursue their higher studies. There is an increase in the number of MBA education providers in the UK, which has nearly doubled in the previous ten years, owing to the increased number of applications to European schools. With the increased number of applicants comes greater competition. GMAT is a common entrance exam that MBA aspirants take to get admission in countries like Europe. But is it possible to study in Europe without undergoing the GMAT Exam? The answer is yes! In this blog, we will discuss some business schools that offer an MBA in Europe without the GMAT.

What is a GMAT Exam?

The Graduate Management Admission Test, or GMAT, is an essential aspect of the application process for business schools. The GMAT is a computer-based, computer-adaptive multiple-choice standardised exam that is frequently required for entrance to graduate business programs (MBA) worldwide. The GMAT assesses your ability to perform basic math, algebra, geometry, multi-source data processing, and grammar. More importantly, it assesses your ability to read and analyse the written information, as well as your ability to think critically and solve problems. 

Is the GMAT Required for an MBA in Europe?

While many colleges urge students to take the GMAT exam, not all colleges require it, as there are business schools that offer an MBA in Europe without the GMAT. If a student is unable to obtain a good GMAT or GRE score and does not wish to retake the exam, or do not have the time to prepare and give the GMAT exam again, they can try their luck in business schools that do not require the GMAT, where the emphasis will be placed on an overall assessment of the candidates.

Also Read: Study in Germany without IELTS

Other Requirements than the GMAT

Although each school’s application requirements may vary slightly, there are a few fundamental requirements that nearly all major schools demand, which entail the following:

Top Colleges to Study MBA in Europe without GMAT

It is difficult to select the right university because Europe is home to some of the finest institutions around the world. Here are the top colleges to study an MBA in Europe without GMAT:

Schools Offering MBA in Europe Without GMATCountry
Institut d’Economie Scientifique et de Gestion (IESEG)France
ISG Business SchoolFrance
RTU Riga Business SchoolLatvia
Kiel UniversityGermany
University of Sheffield Management SchoolUK
University of Exeter Business SchoolUK
University of BremenGermany
University of Bath School of ManagementUK
Strathclyde Business SchoolUK
Salford Business School, University of SalfordUK
University of UlmGermany
Nottingham University Business SchoolUK
Nottingham Business School (NTU), Nottingham Trent UniversityUK
University of StuttgartGermany
Lord Ashcroft International Business School, Anglia Ruskin UniversityUK
Kingston Business School, Kingston UniversityUK
Technical University of MunichGermany
Geneva Business SchoolSwitzerland

Also Read : January Intake in Europe for MBA

Universities with Alternate Options to GMAT in 2025

Many top universities around the world now accept alternative exams in place of the GMAT, especially if you have a strong academic profile, work experience, or relevant qualifications. Here’s a list of universities offering GMAT alternatives or waivers in 2025:

UniversityLocationGMAT Alternative
INSEADFrance/SingaporeGRE accepted
IE Business SchoolSpainIE Global Admissions Test (ieGAT), GRE
University of Oxford – SaïdUKGRE accepted
University of Manchester – AMBSUKGRE or relevant work experience
NUS Business SchoolSingaporeGRE accepted or GMAT waived for exceptional profiles
Rotterdam School of Management (RSM)NetherlandsGRE accepted
University of Toronto – RotmanCanadaGRE accepted

FAQs

Which countries do not require the GMAT for an MBA?

There are many universities and colleges in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand that do not ask for GMAT scores.

Can I do an MBA in Germany without GMAT?

Scores of MBAs are not mandatory, but it is generally recommended to do so, as it gives weightage to your application. Having said that, to answer the question, there are universities and colleges in Germany that won’t make GMAT scores a prerequisite to enrol students in an MBA program.

Is the GMAT compulsory for an MBA in Europe?

GMAT scores are a must in some universities and colleges for the MBA program in Europe, and the desirable GMAT score ranges from 550 – 730. Having said that, there are B-schools in Europe that do not ask for a GMAT score, and some of them are also listed in the top B-schools list by The Financial Times.

Is work experience necessary if I apply for an MBA in Europe without GMAT?

Yes, many European B-schools waive the GMAT if you have 2–5 years of strong work experience. It helps prove your practical knowledge and leadership potential during the application process.

Which country is the cheapest to do an MBA in Europe?

Germany is one of the most affordable options for an MBA in Europe. Public universities have little to no tuition fees, making them ideal for budget-conscious students.

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Planning to study abroad? We at Leverage Edu are all about helping students to realise this dream, which can open the door to many career opportunities. To get assistance in your application process, just register on our website or call us at 1800-572-000.

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