Program FAQs

The GMAT and GRE test score requirement is optional for applicants to Rady School of Management’s Full-Time MBA program for Fall 2023. Applicants able to demonstrate strong quantitative skills through their prior academic work and recent professional experiences may apply for admission to the Full-Time MBA without a GMAT or GRE test score. International applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an official GMAT or GRE test score as part of the application.

Should I consider applying without a GMAT or GRE score? What factors make an applicant most competitive to submit an application without a GMAT or GRE score?

Applying test optional is only recommended for applicants who meet the following criteria:

• have a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in the United States;
• have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher;
• have a minimum of 36 months of full-time post-undergraduate work experience by program start date;
• have completed coursework in calculus, statistics, or other highly quantitative coursework at the undergraduate or graduate level and earned at least a B grade or higher.

How can I demonstrate quantitative and program readiness if I’m applying without a GMAT or GRE score?

Applicants considering applying without a GMAT or GRE should show:

• strong quantitative or analytical ability demonstrated throughout educational records, with a GPA at or above average as listed on the class profile;
• an undergraduate, masters, or other advanced degree in STEM or another quantitative focused major, with strong performance in multiple quantitative or analytical courses;
• clearly demonstrated quantitative or analytical professional work experience and/or professional certifications in quantitative-related fields (i.e. CPA, CFA, PE, etc.)

Applicants are reviewed on a holistic basis and all elements of the application including transcripts, resume, essays, recommendations, and interviews are considered in addition to the above mentioned criteria.

Meeting the above criteria does not ensure admission to the Rady Full-Time MBA program. The MBA Admissions Committee may request that an applicant submits a GMAT or GRE score, or other information, as needed to evaluate preparedness for the program.

Would it be helpful to submit a GMAT or GRE test score?

There are many cases in which we may encourage applicants to submit a test score, including:

• If you have an undergraduate GPA below the class average (as listed on the class profile). The GMAT or GRE may help demonstrate quantitative readiness or mitigate concerns regarding academic preparedness.
• Though recruiting practices vary, a strong GMAT or GRE score can be a consideration in finding employment. Employers in some industries, particularly finance, investment banking, and consulting, could request GMAT or GRE scores in their screening and hiring process.
• A strong standardized test score can strengthen your qualification for fellowships and scholarships.

If I have already reported a test score to the Rady School of Management for an application to the Full-Time MBA program, will it be used in the admissions process??

Yes, if you have already reported test scores, these scores will be reviewed and considered as part of your application for admission. If multiple test scores are submitted, your strongest score will be considered.

Who do I contact if I have questions that are not addressed here about applying without a GMAT or GRE score?

All applicants who are considering applying without a GMAT or GRE test score should contact the Full-Time MBA Admissions Advisor and schedule an advising appointment to discuss your specific application.

Yes. Under the GMAT/GRE section on the application indicate when you are scheduled to take the exam. We will assemble your application and do a preliminary review while waiting for the results. No admission decision will be made until we have your GMAT/GRE scores and your application is complete.

Demonstrated proficiency in the English language is required for all international applicants whose native language is not English. Students are eligible for a waiver if they have received at least a B average while studying full-time for one uninterrupted year at a university-level institution in which English is the language of instruction and in a country in which English is the dominant language. If an applicant is not eligible for a waiver, the applicant must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking and receiving passing scores on one of the below exams:

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): The minimum TOEFL score for admission is 550 for the paper based test (PBT) or 80 for the internet based test (iBT). TOEFL information and forms are available at the TOEFL website.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Training exam: The minimum IELTS score is Band 7.0. IELTS registration information is available on the IELTS website.

The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic). The minimum PTE academic score required for graduate admission is overall score 65. Registration and test information is available on the Pearson website.

Official academic records must be issued in the language of instruction and accompanied by official English translations. Acceptable documentation includes:

• Originals issued by the university bearing the original stamp or seal and the signature of the authorized official.
• Official copies issued by the degree granting university bearing the stamp or seal and signature of the authorized official.
• Official literal (word-for-word) English translations issued by the degree-granting institution or official authorized translation services.

The calculus prerequisite is not a requirement for an admission decision. Admitted students who have not satisfied a year of calculus with a B or better will be provided options on how to fulfill the calculus prerequisite before the start of the MBA program in September.

Recommendations should generally be from your professional network — someone who knows you well enough to provide us with insight regarding your professional qualifications and potential for contribution. The most effective recommenders are those willing to speak on your behalf and supplement the application materials. Two recommendations are required; both do not need to be from your place of employment.

There is no automatic transfer to the Rady MBA. You must submit an application for admission consideration. Any transfer of credits would be on a case-by-case basis and generally, only a limited number of electives would be considered.