If you’re considering pursuing an MBA degree but are concerned about the cost or the prospect of taking the GMAT, plenty of programs can accommodate your needs.
While many MBA programs require you to take the GMAT, it’s becoming increasingly common for universities to waive this requirement to make higher education more accessible to more people. With careful planning and a proactive approach, you can pursue an online MBA program without taking the GMAT and achieve your academic and career goals.
To help you get started, here’s an overview of the cheapest online MBA programs that don’t require GMAT scores.
How To Get Into an Online MBA Program
While the GMAT is often a requirement for admission into MBA programs, many schools have waived it, making admission more accessible for aspiring students. However, it’s important to note that these programs still have other admission requirements that applicants must fulfill.
Typical admissions requirements for online MBA programs include:
- Bachelor’s degree: Most programs require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The field of study is often flexible, allowing applicants from diverse academic backgrounds to apply, but generally, it should be related to business or finance.
- GPA requirements: Many schools have a minimum GPA requirement for admission. This requirement varies among institutions, but a competitive GPA is generally expected. Admissions committees consider the GPA to indicate an applicant’s academic preparedness and ability to handle the program’s rigor.
- Work experience: Some online MBA programs prefer applicants with professional work experience, while others may not have strict requirements. Work experience can demonstrate practical skills, leadership abilities, and industry knowledge, enhancing the learning experience and contributing to a diverse cohort.
- Letters of recommendation: Online MBA programs often require letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to an applicant’s academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in the program. These letters should come from supervisors, professors, or professionals who know the applicant well. Strong letters of recommendation can provide insights into an applicant’s skills and achievements.
Some programs may also require a statement of purpose or a personal essay where applicants can explain their career goals, motivations for pursuing an MBA, and how the program aligns with their aspirations.
Another important note — some universities make submitting GMAT scores optional, meaning that you may be competing against other students who have submitted test scores for admission if you don’t submit test scores. As a result, if you haven’t or don’t plan on taking the GMAT, take your time to make sure the rest of your application materials are as good as they can be to improve your chances for admission.
By ensuring you meet these requirements and submitting a compelling application, you’ll be better positioned to get accepted into an online MBA program, even if it doesn’t require the GMAT.
How To Reduce the Cost of Your MBA Program
Attending an online MBA program can be a significant financial investment. Education-related expenses, from tuition and fees to books and supplies, can add up quickly.
However, there are various things you can do to reduce the cost and make your education more affordable.
Find scholarship opportunities
Scholarships are a valuable resource for funding your MBA program. Several organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for MBA students. These scholarships help offset the cost of tuition and other expenses associated with pursuing an MBA degree.
Here are a few examples:
- Forté Foundation Scholarships: The Forté Foundation offers scholarships for women pursuing MBA degrees. These scholarships aim to increase gender diversity in business education and support women in pursuing leadership roles in the business world.
- The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management: This organization offers merit-based scholarships for underrepresented minorities pursuing MBA programs. The Consortium partners with prestigious business schools to provide these opportunities and promote diversity and inclusion in business education.
- Military MBA: Military MBA offers scholarships to any U.S. resident who has an undergraduate degree and served in the military. These scholarships recognize the unique experiences and leadership qualities that veterans bring to the business world and support their transition into civilian careers.
Researching and identifying scholarship opportunities that align with your background, goals, and circumstances is important. Explore additional scholarships through your chosen MBA program, professional organizations, and external sources to maximize your chances of securing financial assistance.
Remember to apply for scholarships as early as possible, as scholarship funds are often limited.
Enroll full-time
While many online MBA programs offer flexible schedules to accommodate working professionals, it’s worth considering enrolling as a full-time student. Some schools provide lower tuition rates for full-time students compared to part-time students.
By dedicating yourself to full-time studies, you may complete the program more quickly and save on overall tuition costs. However, carefully considering your ability to balance the demands of full-time studies with your other commitments, such as work and family responsibilities, is essential.
Take advantage of work-study programs
Work-study programs offer an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and earn income while pursuing your online MBA. These programs typically involve part-time work within the university or affiliated organizations. By participating in a work-study program, you can gain valuable insights, apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, and establish professional connections. The compensation received can help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, making your education more affordable.
It’s important to note that work-study opportunities may vary depending on the online MBA program and the resources available. Research your chosen program’s work-study options and explore how they can benefit your educational journey.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the cost of your online MBA program and make your education more affordable. Remember to thoroughly research and compare different programs to find the one that aligns with your goals, budget, and preferred learning format.
How we rank schools
This list features some of the cheapest online MBA (no GMAT) programs in the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of the cheapest online MBA (no GMAT) programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
Best 32 Cheapest Online MBA (No GMAT) Programs
Institution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
![U Miami Herbert Business School](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/university-of-miami.png)
U Miami Herbert Business School
Intelligent Score: 99.46Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $52,080
Out-of-state: $52,080
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $39,060
Out-of-state: $39,060
Test scores
SAT: 1250-1420
ACT: 28-32
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$2,310
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
42
![University of Minnesota](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/university-of-minnesota-at-twin-cities.png)
University of Minnesota
Intelligent Score: 99.07Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $13,318
Out-of-state: $31,616
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $17,580
Out-of-state: $17,580
Test scores
SAT: 1240-1460
ACT: 25-31
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$1,660
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
52
![Parker University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/parker-university.png)
Parker University
Intelligent Score: 98.75Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $21,622
Out-of-state: $21,622
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $12,870
Out-of-state: $12,870
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$775
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Tarleton State University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/tarleton-state-university.png)
Tarleton State University
Intelligent Score: 98.57Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $4,951
Out-of-state: $14,123
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $4,248
Out-of-state: $4,248
Test scores
SAT: 940-1120
ACT: 18-23
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
Resident: $509
Non-Resident: $775
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
30
![Fitchburg State University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fitchburg-state-university.png)
Fitchburg State University
Intelligent Score: 98.53Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $970
Out-of-state: $7,050
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $3,420
Out-of-state: $3,420
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$436
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
New England Commission of Higher Education
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
30
![Cameron University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cameron-university.png)
Cameron University
Intelligent Score: 96.93Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $4,740
Out-of-state: $14,160
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $3,564
Out-of-state: $3,564
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
Resident: $331
Non-Resident: $436
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
33-45
![Prairie View A & M University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/prairie-view-am-university.png)
Prairie View A & M University
Intelligent Score: 96.8Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $7,253
Out-of-state: $22,552
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $5,096
Out-of-state: $5,096
Test scores
SAT: 870-1040
ACT: 16-20
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
Resident: $363
Non-Resident: $872
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![University of the Cumberlands](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/university-of-the-cumberlands.png)
University of the Cumberlands
Intelligent Score: 96.36Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $9,875
Out-of-state: $9,875
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $4,282
Out-of-state: $4,282
Test scores
SAT: 930-1140
ACT: 19-24
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$315
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
46
![Chadron State College](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/chadron-state-college.png)
Chadron State College
Intelligent Score: 95.81Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $5,208
Out-of-state: $5,236
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $4,185
Out-of-state: $4,185
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$380
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
30-69
![McKendree University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/mcKendree-university.png)
McKendree University
Intelligent Score: 94.86Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $31,100
Out-of-state: $31,100
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,324
Out-of-state: $9,324
Test scores
SAT: 871-1277
ACT: 18-28
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$555
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
30-42
![Park University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/park-university.png)
Park University
Intelligent Score: 92.75Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $8,251
Out-of-state: $8,251
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $6,224
Out-of-state: $6,224
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$634
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Bryan College](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/bryan-college.png)
Bryan College
Intelligent Score: 91.64Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $16,900
Out-of-state: $16,900
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,630
Out-of-state: $9,630
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$475
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Southwestern College Professional Studies](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/southwestern-college.png)
Southwestern College Professional Studies
Intelligent Score: 91.01Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $33,100
Out-of-state: $33,100
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $11,934
Out-of-state: $11,934
Test scores
SAT: 870-1090
ACT: 17-22
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$845
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
33
![University of Mary](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/university-of-mary.png)
University of Mary
Intelligent Score: 90.44Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $17,980
Out-of-state: $17,980
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $16,875
Out-of-state: $16,875
Test scores
SAT: 1000-1220
ACT: 20-26
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$570
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Oklahoma Wesleyan University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/oklahoma-wesleyan-university.png)
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Intelligent Score: 89.53Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $27,424
Out-of-state: $27,424
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,540
Out-of-state: $9,540
Test scores
SAT: 930-1140
ACT: 18-23
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$550
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Plymouth State University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/plymouth-state-university.png)
Plymouth State University
Intelligent Score: 87.56Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $11,870
Out-of-state: $21,280
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $9,830
Out-of-state: $9,830
Test scores
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
Resident: $602
Non-Resident: $812
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
New England Commission of Higher Education
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36
![Bethel University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/bethel-university-minnesota.png)
Bethel University
Intelligent Score: 85.9Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $38,870
Out-of-state: $38,870
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $11,700
Out-of-state: $11,700
Test scores
SAT: 1040-1338
ACT: 21-28
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$650
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
30-42
![Spring Arbor University](/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/spring-arbor-university.png)
Spring Arbor University
Intelligent Score: 85.24Undergraduate Tuition
In-state: $29,872
Out-of-state: $29,872
Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,942
Out-of-state: $7,942
Test scores
SAT: 980-1190
ACT: 20-27
ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT
$752
DELIVERY FORMAT
Online
ACCREDITATION
Higher Learning Commission
REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE
36