The GMAT test is often used interchangeably with the Masters in Business Administration, or MBA, in the business world. One of the criteria for admission to top MBA programmes overseas is the GMAT, administered by GMAC and is officially known as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). But many MBA programmes in Germany are substituting GMAT scores for stellar LOR and SOP submissions, a solid academic record, and outstanding job experience. Moving forward, we will narrow our focus to MBA institutions in Germany that do not require the GMAT.
Germany is renowned for its top-notch educational system and world-class universities. Government funding supports Germany's public universities so that more people can benefit from their high standards of instruction. In Germany, applicants to public colleges are not required to pay tuition. Every semester, they impose an administrative fee that ranges in price from $150 to $300.
Most of us know very well that Germany is one of the best places in the world for international students. The nation has highly regarded MBA institutions, business schools, and affordable educational opportunities. Even though GMAT (Graduate Management Entrance Test) scores are often required for admission, you can still be able to complete your MBA in Germany without one. The following advice will be helpful.
Why Study MBA in Germany?
Germany has become a leader in business studies because of its cutting-edge institutions of higher learning and upscale facilities. Indian students frequently choose Germany for studies for the following reasons:
- Affordable tuition
- The cost of living is low
- Modern educational institutions that integrate academic study with hands-on training
- The 18 months of inactivity
- Candidates may work a total of 120 full days or 240 half days annually.
- Merit-based financial aid
MBA in Germany—Specializations
Various sectors are covered by the Masters in Business Administration - MBA curriculum. Because of this, the need for particular skill sets also varies by industry. Typically, core courses are the focus of the first year of the MBA programme to lay a solid basis for all the topics. One chooses to concentrate on a particular subject during the second year. MBA specializations concentrations available in Germany include:
- Human Resources Marketing
- Finance
- Systems for Information
- Consulting
- Entrepreneurship
- Operations Administration
Is GMAT a must for an MBA in Germany?
In Germany, earning an MBA is seen as worthwhile. For the interested students, it is offered full-time, part-time, and online. A full-time MBA programme lasts one to one and a half years, whereas an executive MBA programme lasts two years. In regards to the topic of whether the GMAT is necessary for an MBA in Germany, the answer is yes. It is a crucial qualifying requirement for many colleges in Germany. There are, however, specific colleges in Germany that do admit candidates to their MBA programme without a GMAT.
Top MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT
In this part, we'll talk about the best MBA programmes in Germany without a GMAT requirement. The GMAT is not a prerequisite for admission to any of the B-Schools listed here.
- Technical University of Munich
- Reutlingen University
- Offenburg University of Applied Sciences
- Accadis Hochschule Bad Homburg
- Witten/Herdecke University
- University Of Kiel
- HHL Leipzig Graduate School Of Management, Leipzig University
- Berlin School of Economics and Law
- University Of Tubingen
- Ludwig Maximilian University Munich
- University Of Stuttgart
- Dresden International University
- Cologne Business School (CBS)
Admissions to MBA without GMAT in Germany
In Germany, the timelines and requirements for admission vary amongst various business schools. Information about MBA admission to a few prestigious German universities is provided here.
MBA at TU Munich
The best European university, TU Munich, has campuses in Garching, Munich, and Freising-Weihenstephan. It provides three variations of the part-time executive MBA programme appropriate for applicants with non-business backgrounds and with experience in the only business.
- Deadlines for applications: Rolling enrollment all year long
- Time: two years
- At least five years of work experience, evidence of English language ability, and acing the admissions interview are all prerequisites for admittance.
- The institution recommends a GMAT score of 600 as the minimum requirement. The GMAT certificate submission, however, is entirely optional.
MBA at Ludwig Maximilian University Munich
LMU's MBA programme emphasises project-based learning and a robust research component. Five specialisation options are available to MBA candidates: accounting, finance, marketing and strategy, innovation and leadership, and human resources.
- The application deadline is May 15.
- Duration: 2 years
- To be admitted, you need a business administration bachelor's degree or a degree in a discipline closely related, job experience, a solid command of the English language, etc.
- GMAT Requirement: Admission requires a GMAT score of 600. To get GMAT exemptions, students can take a written exam at the Faculty of Management.
MSBA at the University of Kiel
The University of Kiel also provides specialised MSBA degrees in addition to master's degrees in management in fields like finance, economics, etc. (masters in science and business administration program). The University of Kiel's MSBA programme strongly focuses on developing students' soft skills to enhance their critical thinking ability.
- Winter semester application deadlines are August 15 and January 31. (summer semester)
- Time: two years
- Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree in a related discipline, three years of professional experience, proficiency in English, etc.
- GMAT Requirement: Kiel does not need the submission of GMAT results.
MBA at the University of Tuebingen
The University of Tuebingen's MBA programme provides excellent chances for leadership development and professional progress. The university not only has no tuition fees but also offers unique possibilities for cultural learning.
- Deadline for applications: May 15 (winter semester)
- Time: two years
- Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, professional experience, a letter of motivation, letters of recommendation, fluency in English, etc.
- GMAT Requirement: Admission to the MBA programme does not need either the GRE or the GMAT. LORs do, however, significantly impact the University of Tuebingen application procedure.
MBA at the University of Stuttgart
Students must prepare for leadership positions in their jobs or even start-up businesses through the University of Stuttgart's MBA programme. This university's master's degree is sometimes referred to as a bachelor's consecutive programme since it continues where an undergraduate leaves off in college regarding skills and knowledge.
- January 15 is the deadline for applications.
- Time: two years
- A Bachelor's degree certificate, recommendation letters, proof of appropriate job experience, etc., are all prerequisites for admission.
- GMAT Requirements: Admission to this programme does not require the submission of GMAT scores.
MBA at Berlin School of Economics & Law
Berlin School of Economics & Law's MBA programme, which lasts 15 months, begins in September. The course gives its pupils specialised career help.
- Application: begins on December 1
- Period: 15 months
- Admission requirements include a UG degree, three years of relevant job experience, and English language fluency.
- GMAT Requirements: The Berlin School of Economics and Law does not require GMAT scores for its MBA programme.
MBA in Germany without GMAT – Admission Requirements
As previously mentioned, many prestigious business schools in Germany are dropping their need for a minimum GMAT score. However, in order to be accepted into MBA programmes in German universities without the GMAT, applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic ability. In this part, we will discuss the profile application criteria for candidates wishing to pursue an MBA in Germany without the GMAT.
Outstanding undergraduate grades, relevant work experience, and letters of recommendation from your university or employer—preferably on letterhead—attesting to your skills and abilities—are surefire ways to stand out from the competition and win over the admissions committee even in the absence of a GMAT score.
Application Requirements for MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT
- The most fundamental prerequisite for admission to an MBA programme is a bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
- A 3.0 GPA or higher for the Bachelor's degree
- Substantial experience working for at least two to three years
- GRE results (optional)
- IELTS and TOEFL examinations for English language competency
- Purpose Statement
- Recommendation letter
- MBA Resume or CV
German Student visa
For the entire length of their stay, applicants who are planning to study in Germany need a German student visa. For the course of their studies, or 120 complete or 240 half days each year, students would also be able to work part-time for 20 hours per week on a student visa. Candidates should be aware that they will have an opportunity to obtain employment in their field of study for eighteen months (18 months) after their studies are over.
When they find a job within the allotted period, they must change their post-study visa into a work visa, after which they can apply for a permanent residency permit within two years of being on the work visa. If the applicant cannot find a job within the allotted 18 months, he will be forced to return to his native country.
Cost of studying for MBA in Germany without GMAT
As was already said, attending public universities in Germany is completely free. Although there is no tuition charge at public colleges, students are nevertheless expected to pay an administrative fee at the beginning of each semester that can range from $150 to $300. The first year of an MBA programme at a private university in Germany costs INR12.60 lakhs if we talk about private universities in Germany. (source: Shiksha.com)
German living expenses for foreign students
The globe is widely aware of Germany's excellent academic standards, first-rate academic and research infrastructure, and vibrant environment and culture. Germany is comparatively affordable in terms of education and living expenses compared to other study-abroad countries like the US and the UK. Students should be aware of the costs of studying in Germany before leaving.
According to the official German visa website, students in Germany spend an average of EUR 850 a month on living expenditures. Students wishing to enrol in an MBA programme in Germany without taking the GMAT must demonstrate to the immigration office that they have at least EUR 10,236 in their bank account in order to be granted a German student visa.
MBA in Germany without GMAT scores for Free
In Germany, certain business institutions provide free MBA programmes without GMAT prerequisites. Although there is no tuition charge, overseas students may be required to make a small payment each semester for semester fees, student union dues, and other costs. A list of German business schools that provide free MBA programmes is shown below:
- University of Kiel
- Ludwig Maximilian University Munich
- University of Stuttgart
- University of Tubingen
MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT – Scholarships
All German universities appreciate the brilliance and reward it with merit-based scholarships, which are mentioned on each institution's official website. Additionally, candidates should speak with admissions staff to learn more about scholarships and how to apply for them.
Candidates should be aware that it's crucial to submit applications to colleges well in advance of deadlines in order to allow time for any particular requirements the institution may have as part of the scholarship application process.
Advantages of MBA in Germany
It is one of the major nations with unique educational systems, employing a distinctive blend of academic and practical knowledge together with a standardised grading system. Here are some compelling arguments for choosing to get an MBA in Germany and studying there:
Top MBA Programs Worldwide:
According to QS Rankings 2021, five German business schools were listed among the top 100 MBA programmes. Along with an excellent curriculum and extensive industry expertise, the nation also offers MBA degrees that are certified by the EU for aspiring business professionals.
Affordability of Education:
Higher education in Germany is mainly offered for free or at low tuition rates, addressing one of the key reasons students choose to study abroad. In Germany, the cost of an MBA programme may not be as much of a concern as it is for public universities in the country. Other benefits of earning your master's degree here include low housing and living expenses.
Scholarships:
The German government offers several scholarships each year to international students. These financial aid programmes are often available to both deserving students and those from underprivileged backgrounds. DAAD Scholarships, The Deutschland Stipendium, Erasmus+, and other well-known awards are just a few of the prestigious scholarships available to students choosing an MBA in Germany.
Outstanding Curriculum:
The MBA programmes given by German institutions do not just concentrate on conceptual learning; instead, they are created with intriguing criteria that are intended to provide students exposure to the industry expertise of the topic of study they choose to specialise in. in order to provide the students with a well-rounded education, the schools also encourage them to participate in research projects and apprenticeships.
MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT – Job Prospects
Many MBA graduates pursue their degrees with the sole intention of finding employment overseas. It makes financial sense to work abroad after investing significant money in an MBA programme. The need for MBAs will exist in either a boom or a slump. People with outstanding business talents will undoubtedly have the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
- Finance: Working in corporate finance is one of the most sought-after professions. Financial Consultant, Financial Analyst, Finance Manager, or Finance Director are all possible careers. At the beginning of a job, one might make anywhere between €55,000 and €78,000. A Masters in Finance can also pave the way for Finance related jobs.
- Finance and Economics: Well known as the heart of financial operations, there are profound changes in Finance and Economics. A Portfolio Manager, Financial Consultant, or Director of Operations can all be employed here. Starting off, the pay varies from €51,000 to €60,000.
- Operations Management: There is a growing need in the industrial or service sectors today for professionals with experience in managing the line of operations. Companies may embrace new technology and create profit-maximising plans with the assistance of the cutting-edge approaches and skills taught in MBA programmes.