Table of Contents
- Which Top Business Schools Accept Lower GMAT Scores?
- Warwick Business School (UK)
- Rutgers University (USA)
- University of Manchester (UK)
- Cass Business School (UK)
- University College Dublin (Ireland)
- University of Pittsburgh (USA)
- University of Strathclyde Business School (UK)
- University of Birmingham (UK)
- Durham University Business School (UK)
- University of Edinburgh (UK)
- Tips for Indian Students Applying to B-Schools with Lower GMAT Scores
Key Takeaways:
-Top B-Schools for Lower GMAT Scores include programs where 25-40% of the admitted class scores below 650
-Nearly 15 schools ranked in the top 100 have median GMAT scores under 680, proving high rankings don't always require astronomical scores
-Strengthening other application components can effectively offset GMAT scores that fall 30-50 points below school averages
-Many quality programs offer GMAT waivers for candidates with substantial professional experience
Getting an MBA from a top business school can change your career and give you better job opportunities. But many students worry that their GMAT score is too low to get into a good college. The good news is that many top colleges look at more than just your GMAT. They also check your work experience, leadership skills, and personal achievements.
Some Top B-Schools for Lower GMAT Scores accept students even if their score is below 700. In fact, around 30% of students at top-50 MBA programs have GMAT scores lower than the average. This guide will help you understand how to apply to such schools and still get a great MBA education.
Which Top Business Schools Accept Lower GMAT Scores?
Many students think a high GMAT score is the only way to get into a top MBA college. But that’s not true. Several top business schools accept students with GMAT scores below 700. These schools focus on your full profile—including your work experience, leadership skills, and academics not just test scores.
So, if your score is in the 600–690 range, you still have a good chance. The Top B-Schools for Lower GMAT Scores look at who you are beyond the numbers.
Here’s a list of top business schools that accept lower GMAT scores:
| School | Country | Average GMAT Score | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warwick Business School | UK | 615 | £31,620 |
| Rutgers University | USA | 595 | $27,048.00 |
| University of Manchester | UK | 595 | £49,000 |
| Cass Business School | UK | 585 | £50,400 |
| University College Dublin | Ireland | 585 | €36,990 |
| University of Pittsburgh | USA | 575 | $95,000 |
| University of Strathclyde Business School | UK | 565 | £38,400 |
| University of Birmingham | UK | Not Required | £35,850 |
| Durham University Business School | UK | Not Required | £28,000 |
| University of Edinburgh | UK | 555 | £40,900 |
Warwick Business School (UK)
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Known for its rigorous academic environment and a strong focus on innovation, Warwick Business School offers students a global perspective and access to a vast network of alumni.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: 615
- Tuition Fees: £31,620
Rutgers University (USA)
Rutgers University is one of the top public research universities in the USA. Its MBA program focuses on experiential learning and gives students the opportunity to gain real-world business insights.
- Country: USA
- Average GMAT Score: 595
- Tuition Fees: $27,048.00
University of Manchester (UK)
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With its strong emphasis on social responsibility and a diverse student body, the University of Manchester provides a balanced MBA program that combines academic theory with practical experience.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: 595
- Tuition Fees: £49,000
Cass Business School (UK)
Cass Business School is located in the heart of London, offering students ample opportunities to engage with the city's dynamic business ecosystem. Its MBA program is known for its flexibility and innovation.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: 585
- Tuition Fees: £50,400
University College Dublin (Ireland)
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As Ireland's leading university, University College Dublin provides a well-rounded MBA program that emphasizes leadership, entrepreneurship, and global business strategy.
- Country: Ireland
- Average GMAT Score: 585
- Tuition Fees: €36,990
University of Pittsburgh (USA)
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Pitt Business has an MBA program with a strong reputation for excellence in research and teaching. It offers hands-on learning experiences through internships and real-world projects.
- Country: USA
- Average GMAT Score: 575
- Tuition Fees: $95,000
University of Strathclyde Business School (UK)
This school is well-known for its innovative approaches to business education, offering one of the most comprehensive MBA programs in the UK.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: 565
- Tuition Fees: £38,400
University of Birmingham (UK)
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The University of Birmingham’s MBA program is globally recognized and does not require a GMAT score, making it accessible to a wider range of applicants.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: Not Required
- Tuition Fees: £35,850
Durham University Business School (UK)
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Durham offers a strong MBA program with a focus on personal development, leadership, and ethics, and does not require the GMAT for admission.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: Not Required
- Tuition Fees: £28,000
University of Edinburgh (UK)
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The University of Edinburgh offers an MBA program that combines academic excellence with real-world business insight. The school is particularly welcoming to candidates with diverse experiences.
- Country: UK
- Average GMAT Score: 555
- Tuition Fees: £40,900
Tips for Indian Students Applying to B-Schools with Lower GMAT Scores
If you're an Indian student with a GMAT score below 700, don’t worry you can still get into a good MBA college abroad. Many top business schools don’t just look at your GMAT score. They also focus on your work experience, career goals, and overall profile.
Below are useful tips to help you apply to Top B-Schools for Lower GMAT Scores and increase your chances of getting accepted:
1. Show Strong Work Experience
If you have 2–5 years of work experience, highlight your projects, promotions, and leadership roles. Schools value real-world skills, even more than just test scores.
2. Write a Clear SOP
Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) is where you explain why you want to do an MBA. Use simple language to share your goals, experience, and why you’re a good fit—even with best MBA low GMAT.
3. Get Good Recommendations
Ask managers or professors who know your work well to write recommendation letters. These letters should talk about your teamwork, performance, and dedication.
4. Prove Your Academic Strength
If your college marks are good, mention them. Or, take a short online course related to business to show that you’re ready for an MBA.
5. Apply to GMAT-Flexible Colleges
Some schools don’t require GMAT or offer waivers. Look at options like Purdue, University of St. Gallen, or Warwick. These Top B-Schools for Lower GMAT Scores focus more on your full profile.
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Conclusion
A low GMAT score is not the end of your MBA dreams. By focusing on other strengths in your application, such as work experience, academic background, and strong personal statements, you can still secure a spot at some of the world's top business schools. Take advantage of the programs listed above that are open to applicants with lower GMAT scores, and ensure that the rest of your application truly shines.
