If you are considering pursuing an online MBA, you may have stumbled upon the term “AACSB-accredited” in your research. This accreditation is highly valued in the business world and can make a significant difference in the quality of education you receive.
However, many professionals are deterred from pursuing their MBA due to the GMAT requirement. Fortunately, AACSB-accredited online MBA programs are available that do not require the GMAT. In this article, we explore the options for pursuing an AACSB online MBA without the GMAT.
What is AACSB Accreditation?
The AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is an international organization dedicated to advancing quality business education. AACSB accreditation is widely recognized as the highest standard of excellence in business education.
AACSB accreditation is awarded to business schools that meet rigorous standards for quality and continuous improvement. Accreditation is voluntary and schools must undergo a thorough review process that includes peer evaluation to become accredited.
Why is AACSB Accreditation Important?
AACSB accreditation ensures that a business school’s curriculum, faculty, students, and overall operations are of the highest quality. This means that students who attend an AACSB-accredited business school can have confidence in a quality education that not only exposes them to valuable curriculum, but prepares them for success in the business world.
Employers also recognize the value of AACSB accreditation. For many employers, hiring a graduate from an AACSB-accredited business school is a mark of quality and a sign that the applicant has received a rigorous education that has prepared them for the challenges of the workplace.
In addition, AACSB accreditation is important for the school itself. Accreditation is a way for a school to demonstrate to the public that it is committed to continuous improvement and meets high-quality standards. Accreditation can also enhance a school’s reputation and help attract top faculty, students, and resources.
How is AACSB Accreditation Awarded?
AACSB accreditation is a rigorous process that involves a thorough review of a business school’s curriculum, faculty, students, and overall operations. Usually, it takes several years to complete the accreditation process. This process consists of a team of peer evaluators who are experts in the field of business education.
To begin the accreditation process, schools must submit an initial self-evaluation report. Within this information should be a detailed overview of the school’s operations and serves as the basis for the accreditation review process.
Once the self-evaluation report has been submitted, a team of peer evaluators is assigned to review the report and conduct a site visit. During the site visit, the evaluators meet with faculty, students, and administrators to better understand the school’s operations and assess whether they meet AACSB standards.
Following the site visit, the peer evaluators prepare a report outlining their findings and making improvement recommendations. The school must then develop a plan of action to address the evaluators’ requests and demonstrate that it has made significant improvements before being awarded AACSB accreditation.
What are the Benefits of AACSB Accreditation?
AACSB accreditation can provide many benefits for business schools, students, and employers. Some of the key benefits of AACSB accreditation include:
- Enhanced reputation and visibility
- Increased resources and funding opportunities
- Quality faculty and students
- Greater success in job placement and career advancement for graduates
- Improved teaching and learning practices
- Continuous improvement and innovation
It’s important to note that AACSB accreditation is not a one-time achievement. Schools must undergo a rigorous review process every five years to maintain their accreditation status, ensuring they continue to meet high standards for quality and continuous improvement.
How to Check if a Program is Accredited?
If you are a student seeking AACSB-accredited institutions to continue your education, there are a few steps you can follow.
First, check with the institution itself. Most schools will have information about their accreditation status on their website or in their admissions materials. Look for language that indicates the institution is accredited by a regional or national accrediting body. Some institutions may also be certified by program-specific accrediting bodies.
If you cannot find information about a school’s accreditation status, check with the Department of Education’s accrediting body database. This database lists all accrediting bodies recognized by the Department of Education. You can search for a specific institution or program to see if it is accredited.
Another resource for checking accreditation is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CHEA is a non-governmental organization that reviews and recognizes accrediting bodies. Their website contains a database of institutions and programs accredited by recognized accrediting bodies.
Not all accrediting bodies are created equal. Regional accrediting bodies are generally considered more prestigious than national accrediting bodies. Additionally, some accrediting bodies are not recognized by the Department of Education or CHEA. That’s why you need to research to ensure the accrediting body overseeing your program is reputable and recognized.
What is the GMAT?
The Graduate Management Admission Test, commonly known as the GMAT, is a standardized test used as a part of the admissions process for many graduate business programs worldwide. It is accepted by more than 7,000 programs in over 2,300 schools in over 100 countries.
The GMAT measures the skills most relevant to succeeding in a business program, such as critical thinking and reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and analytical writing skills. The test is computer-adaptive, meaning that the difficulty level of the questions adapts to the test-takers’ performance. The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), a non-profit organization.
What is the Structure of the GMAT?
The GMAT is divided into four sections, with an optional fifth section:
- An analytical writing assessment, which measures your ability to analyze and evaluate arguments and communicate ideas clearly and concisely.
- An integrated reasoning section, which tests how you analyze and synthesize data from various sources and solve complex problems.
- A quantitative section that assesses your ability to reason quantitatively, solve mathematical problems, and interpret graphical data.
- A verbal section that evaluates your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material for grammar and usage.
- (Optional) The GMAT also includes an experimental section, which is not scored and could be any of the four sections mentioned above.
The test lasts for three hours and thirty minutes, including breaks. The order of the four scored sections is not fixed and varies between test takers.
What is the GMAT Score?
The GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments. The score is based on your performance in the quantitative and verbal sections of the test, and the total score is the sum of the two section scores. The mean GMAT score is around 550, and a score of approximately 600 is considered competitive for admission to most business schools.
The analytical writing assessment and the integrated reasoning sections are scored separately on a scale from 0 to 6 and 1 to 8, respectively. These scores are reported separately and do not contribute to the total score.
Why is the GMAT important?
For some business school applications, the GMAT is a critical component. This test measures the skills and aptitude of the test taker and, for some institutions, can increase the likelihood of receiving scholarship offers.
However, it is important to note that the GMAT is just one component of the admissions process, and schools also consider other factors such as work experience, undergraduate grades, and recommendation letters when evaluating candidates.
AACSB Online MBA Without GMAT Makes Sense
Although the GMAT is an important component of certain MBA program applications, you should still apply to different types of schools. A school that is AACSB-accredited and does not require the GMAT is still a prestigious opportunity for students. Remember that any school with AACSB accreditation has been rigorously reviewed by experts to ensure the programs meet the highest academic standards.
An online MBA accredited by AACSB is an excellent investment in your career.
Online MBA Without GMAT
Traditionally, the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) was required for MBA program admission. However, many schools have begun to waive this requirement in recent years for various reasons. This has opened the door for more professionals to earn their MBA while working full-time, without the stress and expense of studying for and taking the GMAT.
Why Pursue an AACSB Online MBA Without GMAT?
Earning an AACSB Online MBA without GMAT has numerous benefits. First, it eliminates the financial burden and stress of taking the GMAT. It also allows students to spend more time and resources on their education and personal life. This means these programs can attract more students who may not have otherwise applied for an MBA due to the GMAT requirement. Now, these students have a range of options to receive an outstanding education.
What To Look for in an AACSB Online MBA Program?
When considering an AACSB Online MBA program, there are several important factors to consider:
- Faculty – Seek out schools with experienced faculty members who bring real-world experience into the classroom.
- Curriculum – Look for a program that balances theory with practical applications and covers a broad range of topics useful in today’s business world.
- Program Flexibility – Look for programs that offer part-time and online options, which allow students to continue working while earning their degree.
- Reputation – Look for schools with a strong reputation that will be recognized globally.
- Cost – Look for a program that offers an affordable price or financing option to avoid additional financial burdens.
Remember to seek counsel from any business professionals you know or former MBA students. Universities also often have resources you can use to explore their program options before making a decision.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
In addition to following the tips listed above, here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Choosing a program based solely on its cost – While cost is important, it should not be the only factor taken into consideration.
- Choosing a program solely based on its rankings – While a high ranking generally means a high-quality program, rankings should not be the sole consideration.
- Not thoroughly researching the program – It’s important to research a program’s curriculum, faculty, student services, and reputation to make an informed decision.
- Not considering long-term goals – Your long-term goals must align with your AACSB online course choice. Consider how the school’s alum base, for example, may help you in the future.
Resources for AACSB Online MBA Programs
There are various resources available for individuals interested in AACSB Online MBA programs without a GMAT. These include school websites, rankings like US News & World Report Best Online MBA Programs, The Princeton Review Best Business Schools, and QS Top MBA. In addition, Career prospects can be assessed by program graduates, employers’ testimonials, academic advisors, and MBA portals.
Always take the advice of trusted sources for selecting AACSB online MBA programs rather than investing time and money blindly.
AACSB Online MBA Sans GMAT: How To Get Entrance Exams Waived
Now that we have reviewed the importance of AACSB accreditation, let’s take a look at the application process. If you’re considering pursuing an MBA, you might be wondering if and how you can get the entrance exams waived. The good news is that many AACSB member institutions offer online MBA programs that don’t require applicants to take the GMAT or GRE.
As mentioned, the GMAT is a standardized exam that measures skills deemed essential for success in an MBA program, such as critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and verbal communication. The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a similar exam more commonly used for graduate programs outside of business. While these exams are essential for certain MBA applications, they aren’t applicable everywhere.
Why Do Some MBA Programs Waive the GMAT?
The GMAT can be an expensive and time-consuming exam to prepare for and take, which can deter potential applicants and limit the pool of candidates for MBA programs. Additionally, some argue that the GMAT isn’t an accurate predictor of success in an MBA program or future career performance. For these reasons, some MBA programs and institutions choose to waive this score as a requirement for admission.
However, waiving the GMAT doesn’t mean an MBA program is less rigorous or valuable than one that requires it. AACSB-accredited MBA programs must still meet certain standards of quality and rigor, regardless of their admissions requirements. Furthermore, some MBA programs that waive the GMAT may have alternative admissions criteria. For example, they may require a higher undergraduate GPA or several years of work experience in a relevant industry.
How Can You Qualify for a GMAT Waiver?
Each MBA program that waives the GMAT may have its own specific eligibility criteria and application process. However, here are some common ways to qualify for a GMAT waiver:
- Professional Work Experience: Some MBA programs waive the GMAT for applicants with several years of relevant work experience. The number of years required can vary by program and industry.
- Advanced Degrees: If you’ve already earned a graduate degree or have an advanced degree in a relevant field, some MBA programs may waive the GMAT requirement.
- Undergraduate GPA: MBA programs may waive the GMAT for applicants who earned a high undergraduate GPA, typically above 3.0 or 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. However, some programs may require a higher GPA or have additional application requirements.
- Professional Certifications: If you hold a professional certification in a relevant field, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Project Management Professional (PMP), some MBA programs may waive the GMAT requirement.
What Are Some Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for GMAT Waivers?
If you’re applying for a GMAT waiver, here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Assuming Every Program Waives the GMAT: While many AACSB-accredited programs offer GMAT waivers, not all do. Research the admissions requirements for each program you’re interested in.
- Not Meeting Other Admissions Criteria: Just because a program waives the GMAT doesn’t mean you’re automatically eligible for admission. Make sure you also meet any other requirements, such as work experience or undergraduate GPA.
- Not Using the Waiver to Your Advantage: If you qualify for a GMAT waiver based on your work experience or other qualifications, make sure to highlight those strengths in your application and personal statement.
- Taking a GMAT Prep Course Anyway: If you’re applying for GMAT waivers, there’s no need to spend time and money on a GMAT prep course. Focus on strengthening other parts of your application instead.
What Are Some Other Entrance Exam Options?
If you don’t qualify for a GMAT waiver or prefer to take a different entrance exam, some MBA programs offer alternative options. Here are a few:
- Executive Assessment (EA): The EA is a shorter, more focused exam designed specifically for EMBA candidates. Some MBA programs may accept the EA instead of the GMAT.
- GRE: While the GRE isn’t commonly used for business school admissions, some MBA programs do accept it as an alternative to the GMAT.
- Internal Admission Tests: Some MBA programs may have their own internal exams or aptitude tests that applicants can take instead of the GMAT.
Conclusion
Getting a GMAT waiver for an AACSB-accredited online MBA program can be a great way to save time and money while furthering your education and career goals. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes for each program you’re interested in, avoiding common mistakes, and considering alternative entrance exam options, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your MBA dreams.
AACSB Online MBA Without GMAT Programs
While the GMAT is a widely accepted measure of academic readiness for graduate management programs, some students may prefer an alternative pathway to earning an online MBA. Here are five AACSB online MBA programs that do not require the GMAT.
Program 1: Xavier University
Xavier University’s online MBA program helps students take their careers to new heights. Accredited by the AACSB, our online MBA is recognized for its academic rigor, quality and value, and preparation of graduates to make an immediate impact in the business world.
Our online MBA program is taught by respected faculty who are prepared to educate students for the future by taching the latest business trends and enabling them to confidently take the next step in their careers. By attending classes online, full-time students can finish the online MBA in just over 1.5 years or 2-3 years studying part-time. In addition to our online MBA, we offer an executive MBA, MBA for Emerging Leaders, X-ccelerated MBA, part-time MBA, and non-degree MBA. No GMAT or GRE is required to apply to any of our MBA programs.
Program 2: Northeastern University
The online MBA program at Northeastern University is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers. The program does not require the GMAT but considers a range of admission criteria, including academic transcripts, professional experience, and recommendations.
Program 3: Florida International University (FIU)
The online MBA program at FIU does not require the GMAT for admission. Instead, the program considers multiple factors such as work experience, undergraduate GPA, and professional recommendation letters. The program has a focus on international business, entrepreneurship, and strategic leadership.
The program also offers a selection of concentrations such as international business, marketing, finance, real estate, and healthcare management.
Program 4: George Mason University
The online MBA program at George Mason University does not require the GMAT for admission. The program emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, strategic analysis, and ethical leadership. The program allocates a significant portion of the curriculum to experiential learning opportunities and offers courses in strategic management, healthcare management, and marketing.
Program 5: Pepperdine University
The online MBA program at Pepperdine University does not require the GMAT for admission. The program emphasizes values-based leadership and ethical decision making. The program offers concentrations in leadership and managing organizational change, finance, marketing, and General Management.
Tips for Choosing an AACSB Online MBA Without GMAT Program
When choosing an AACSB online MBA without GMAT program, it’s essential to consider factors such as program reputation, accreditation, curriculum design, and faculty expertise. Here are some tips for selecting the best AACSB online MBA program.
- Check the Accreditation Status: Choose an accredited AACSB online MBA program that has met the rigorous academic and ethical standards set by the accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets international education standards, and its degrees are recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
- Consider the Curriculum Design: Choose an AACSB online MBA program that offers a curriculum that aligns with your career goals and interests. Consider the program’s core courses, elective courses, concentration options, and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, simulations, and case studies.
- Evaluate Faculty Expertise: Choose an AACSB online MBA program that has a faculty with relevant industry experience and academic qualifications. Consider factors such as the faculty-to-student ratio, faculty backgrounds, research experiences, publications, and industry affiliations.
Common Mistakes
When applying for an AACSB online MBA without GMAT programs, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Failing to Research: It’s crucial to research different AACSB online MBA programs to ensure that you select a program that aligns with your goals and interests. Avoid the mistake of overlooking program rankings, accreditation status, curriculum design, tuition fees, and faculty experiences.
- Waiting to Submit your Application: Submitting your application late can hurt your chances of admission. Admissions committees often evaluate candidates on a rolling basis, so it’s essential to submit your application early to increase your chances of admission.
Variations
Some AACSB online MBA programs without GMAT programs may have variations in their admission requirements, admission criteria evaluations and selection processes, coursework requirements, program formats, schedule types, duration, tuition fees, and resources available. Prospective students should carefully consider these variations and select programs that best meet their needs.
Resources
Here are some useful resources for finding AACSB online MBA without GMAT programs:
- The AACSB Global MBA Directory
- The Princeton Review’s list of “The Best Online MBA Programs”
- The U.S. News & World Report’s list of “Best Business Schools”
- The QS MBA by Specialization Rankings
Prospective students should use these resources to gather information on programs’ rankings, tuition fees, curricula, and admission requirements, amongst others.
Start Your MBA Journey at Xavier University
If you’re ready to begin your journey at an online AACSB-accredited institution, look to Xavier University. Our online MBA program equips students with the skills they need to thrive in a changing business environment.
In addition to our experienced faculty and relevant curriculum, graduates will also find that Xavier gives you lifelong dividends. Masters Program graduates enjoy access to a professional network of 17,000+ alumni, including national business leaders and global innovators.
Ready to get started? Visit us online today to learn more.
FAQs: AACSB Online MBA with No GMAT Required
What is AACSB Online MBA?
AACSB Online MBA is a postgraduate degree that prepares students for leadership in a constantly changing business environment. It is designed to equip students with a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge of business concepts and their applications.
Is GMAT required for AACSB Online MBA?
No. Many AACSB accredited schools have waived their GMAT requirement in the last few years. This has been done to make the program more accessible to students from different academic backgrounds and to diversify the student population.
What are the advantages of AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required?
The advantage of AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required is that it allows students who may not have excelled in standardized tests to have access to a highly regarded MBA program. With no GMAT required, students can focus on other admission requirements such as work experience, academic qualifications, and essays.
What are the admission requirements for AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required?
Each school has its own admission requirements. However, some of the typical admission requirements for AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher, satisfactory work experience, and essays or personal statements that show a clear understanding of the business world and how an MBA degree can help them achieve their goals.
What is the duration of AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required?
The duration of AACSB Online MBA with no GMAT required varies from school to school. However, most programs are typically designed to be completed in two years on a part-time basis. Some schools also offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as one year.
