How to write successful GMAT waiver request letters?

An MBA is often seen as a key to securing a coveted position with a substantial income. MBA programs are gaining popularity steadily, as they offer a combination of valuable knowledge and expertise.

Every aspiring candidate harbors the dream of studying at some of the world’s most renowned universities and colleges. However, in leading business schools, GMAT scores are deemed a crucial component of the application. For certain students, one of the most challenging aspects of the application process is getting ready for standardized tests, either due to time constraints for proper preparation or because these students struggle with test-taking.

This is where the notion of a GMAT waiver comes into play. We will furnish you with comprehensive details about the GMAT waiver and offer tips on crafting a successful GMAT waiver request letter.

*Note: In this article, “GMAT waiver essay” and “GMAT/GRE request letters” are one and the same and used interchangeably. Most schools do not have any essays for GMAT waivers and hence only ask for a letter to request for getting a GMAT waiver.

WHAT IS A GMAT WAIVER?

GMAT-waiver

Briefly, a GMAT waiver enables an MBA program applicant to skip submitting a test score, especially if they meet specific criteria related to work experience, degrees, academic history, or other specified conditions.

Schools grant GMAT/GRE exemptions at the discretion of admission officers, who assess each GMAT/GRE waiver request letter or GMAT waiver MBA essay. Nevertheless, certain institutions automatically provide waivers to qualifying individuals without requiring an additional GMAT/GRE waiver request letter.

Universities like Syracuse University, UNC (University of North Carolina), and GW (George Washington University) automatically extend GMAT waivers to applicants with over five years of work experience. Conversely, NJIT (New Jersey Institute of Technology) exempts GMAT requirements for individuals holding an advanced degree.

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER APPLYING FOR A TEST WAIVER?

You may be contemplating whether to submit a GMAT/GRE waiver letter. There are factors to consider if you choose to apply. If you are confident in demonstrating your abilities adequately through the exam, have met the eligibility criteria but are facing challenges in taking the GMAT/GRE exam, you might consider composing a GMAT/GRE waiver request letter. Below, we will elaborate on the key elements of successful GMAT waiver request letters.

However, if you can attain a score higher than the average for your target program and meet the eligibility criteria, it is advisable not to consider a waiver. This can bolster the strength of your candidacy, so we recommend proceeding and submitting your scores. 

Yet, if you lack adequate work experience, leadership skills, a strong academic record, quantitative coursework, or if your application is weak, seeking a GMAT/GRE waiver may not be a strategic choice. The likelihood of your GMAT/GRE waiver letter getting approved is minimal, as admissions committees seek students capable of handling the school’s challenging academic program and contributing positively to their community. So, we advise you to pull up your socks and start preparing early so that you do not regret it at the end of the deadline. 

MAJOR CONSTITUENTS OF SUCCESSFUL GMAT WAIVER REQUEST LETTERS

GMAT-waiver

When assessing applicants, admissions committees take into account career trajectory, achievements, past academic performance, and quantitative experience as more reliable indicators of ability than arbitrary cut-off marks. These factors serve as the golden answers to the question of how to secure a GMAT waiver.

Schools are assigning increased importance to prior coursework, work experience, and professional certifications to choose the most highly qualified applicants from the same limited pool.

Below Paragraph deals with all the major constituents that are included in successful GMAT waiver request letters.

  • WORK EXPERIENCE: IMPORTANT FACTOR TO A GOOD GMAT WAIVER MBA ESSAY 

Work experience constitutes the primary reason why B-schools offer test score waivers to applicants. “A real-world experience that an applicant would bring to a program is likely to be more valuable than scoring over a certain number on a test.” 

Business schools acknowledge the additional workload and pressure that entrance exams impose on experienced working professionals. Consequently, an increasing number of schools are simplifying the application process by granting GMAT waivers. While some B-schools adhere to a broad interpretation, many of the top institutions define “relevant work experience” according to their own criteria. 

Hence, work experience will become an important constituent to creating successful GMAT waiver request letters and a key solution to how to get GMAT waived.

  • ACADEMIC HISTORY & ACHIEVEMENTS

Another factor influencing the evaluation of successful GMAT waiver request letters is your academic performance. Each school has varying academic preferences, encompassing undergraduate performance, additional coursework, certifications, and even advanced-level degrees. Several top B-schools set a minimum GPA threshold, typically ranging from 3.0 to 3.4, when considering waiver requests.

Universities, such as Pepperdine University, even require that students have degrees in quantitative economics or science, engineering, technology, or mathematics disciplines for evaluating the successful GMAT  waiver request letters.  

  • PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS- MAJOR REQUIREMENT TO GET GMAT WAIVED

Professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), and similar licenses are taken into consideration by many B-schools when awarding waivers.

  • LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

If your work experience showcases qualities indicative of leadership, it would be advantageous to highlight this experience in your GMAT waiver letter. Schools seek students who can tackle challenges not only for themselves but also for their team and the community, motivating everyone to strive towards becoming better versions of themselves. We suggest you back up your remarkable efforts by learning how to maximize the strength of your recommendations from senior management and colleagues, who can witness your leadership skills and professional integrity in the face of problems.

  • PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS

GMAT tests are crafted to highlight problem-solving skills in comprehending various issues. The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR), and particularly the quantitative sections assess applicants’ performance in specific scenarios. Choosing a GMAT waiver presents an excellent opportunity to exhibit your problem-solving skills, drawing from your experience in your GMAT waiver letter.

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY FOR A TEST WAIVER?

There are two types of schools in this scenario. The first category of school requires you to submit your GMAT waiver letter before your application. If the GMAT waiver is not granted, then you must take the exam before completing your application. The second category incorporates the GMAT waiver request within its application. This means that if you are applying for a GMAT waiver, you need to submit your full application before determining whether or not you still need to take the test. We recommend thoroughly reading the instructions of your chosen school and conducting comprehensive research in advance because sometimes the deadline for GMAT waiver requests is just a week ahead.

STEPS TO GET A MBA WITHOUT GMAT

Frequently, MBA aspirants grapple with uncertainty regarding the adequacy of their profiles and other standardized test scores to qualify for a GMAT waiver. Similarly, candidates harbor concerns that obtaining a GMAT waiver might adversely impact their chances of admission to their desired school.

1. In such a scenario, we urge MBA aspirants to follow these steps for initiating a GRE/GMAT waiver with any B-school.

  • Understand the significance of the GMAT for your TARGET SCHOOLS and look at their criteria to get a GMAT waiver.
  • Understand what qualities GMAT reflects in your application and how you can exhibit them with other aspects of your application
  • Every school has different criteria for accepting case-by-case waivers; ensure you are well-versed with them!

2. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 

  • It should be your biggest strength for applying to MBA programs that don’t require GMAT. 
  • Professional experience is the best way to showcase your decision-making, analytical, and quantitative skills through practical examples.
  • Build a compelling case for career progression that highlights your professional growth and exemplary leadership instances. 

3. Bring DIVERSITY to your application.

For anyone applying with a GMAT waiver for the 2024 intake, diversity is one of the most important aspects of your application!

Emphasize the diversity of perception, thought, and perspective, underscoring how your unique contributions will enrich the MBA communities of your target school. This will make a compelling statement in front of the Adcoms.

4. Draft a unique & Stellar GMAT WAIVER LETTER

  • Comprehend the formatting requirements of the particular program to which you are applying for a GMAT waiver by reviewing successful examples of GMAT waiver letters used by others.
  • Open with a Clear Statement to Highlight the Letter’s Purpose!
  • Demonstrate relevant skills acquired through professional work experience without the necessity of taking a GMAT.
  • Add specific examples to support your claims.

We follow a unique framework to guide applicants in exploring their work experience, leadership potential, strengths, weaknesses, etc., and organize all their essays, including GMAT waivers, in a manner that can create the desired impact!

APPLYING FOR A MBA WITHOUT GMAT BASED ON CFA PROGRAM EXEMPTION

If you have a good level of achievement in the CFA Program, for example, having a specific group of the CFA Program(e.g., Level 1, Level 2) or being a charter holder, Congrats! You are eligible for a GMAT/GRE waiver and even might be eligible for an additional course waiver. 

Top US MBA programs like Darden, Cornell, Duke, Emory, Dartmouth, John Hopkins, and many more offer exclusive exemptions for candidates who have cleared a specific level of the esteemed CFA exam to acknowledge their achievements by providing course waivers and other benefits! For detailed information on top MBA programs offering GMAT waivers for the MBA 2024 intake based on CFA program exemption, refer to our article titled “MBA GMAT Waiver 2024: CFA Exemptions.”

APPLYING FOR AN MBA WITHOUT GMAT AS AN ARMY VETERAN

Numerous top B-schools highly appreciate the leadership and decision-making skills cultivated during military service. In recognition of their commitment to the country, these institutions extend a GMAT waiver to all eligible candidates with a military background. Furthermore, these B-schools also grant a waiver for candidates with an army background to underscore the significance of diversity. The aim is to include students from varied backgrounds and experiences, enhancing the richness of content in classroom discussions and learning.

Below are some veteran-friendly programs that value their military experience and support them with a GMAT waiver for their military background. These MBA Programs Without GMAT Requirements are-

MBA ProgramSchool
Johnson MBACornell University
Fuqua MBADuke University
Kelley Direct MBAIndiana University
Kellogg MBANorthwestern University
McCombs MBAUniversity of Texas at Austin
MSU Broad MBAMichigan State University
Owen MBAVanderbilt University
Questrom MBABoston University
UMD Smith MBAUniversity of Maryland

ARE GMAT SCORES IMPORTANT?

mba-gmat-waiver

While the GMAT adds significant value to your candidacy, there is a growing trend among business schools to waive entrance exams and admit students who do not submit GMAT or GRE scores, even at highly ranked programs.

If applicants meet one or more of the GMAT waiver eligibility criteria, they are exempted from providing their GMAT scores as part of the application process. This approach was adopted to address the concern that numerous high-potential applicants with extensive work experience were either hesitant or limiting their application to MBA programs due to lower GMAT scores.

Among top B-schools, which include the University of North Carolina, the University of Delaware, George Washington University, NJIT, and Syracuse University, most admitted students did not provide GMAT or GRE scores with their applications; only less than three percent of admitted students provided scores.

However, for the Top 25 MBA programs, a strong GMAT score remains a crucial requirement. Even if you are submitting a GMAT/GRE waiver request letter (assuming the school is waiving the GMAT requirement and you qualify for it), you must present exceptionally strong essays and an overall compelling application.

HOW TO IDENTIFY WHICH SCHOOLS I SHOULD APPLY FOR WITH A GMAT WAIVER? 

Check with specific institutions for criteria to be eligible for a GMAT waiver. MBA program applicants should confirm their alignment with eligibility guidelines before submitting a GMAT waiver request letter. Each program establishes the specific eligibility requirements they wish to apply.

If you qualify for the requirements, you can submit a GMAT waiver request letter.

However, there is another aspect to consider. If you are aiming for M7 or T10 schools with a waiver, you must possess a strong quantitative background, substantial achievements, a promising career trajectory, and a compelling narrative to present in your MBA application.

TOP B-SCHOOLS WAIVING AND ITS CRITERIA: BASIC CRITERIA FOR GMAT WAIVER.

These are some general points you must have before submitting the GMAT waiver request letter:

  • Ten years of professional working experience
  • Exceptionally high GPA scores and academic records
  • An Advanced master’s degree or a recognized certification in any alternative field.
  • Three recommendation letters
  • Copies of transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate schools.
  • A formal GMAT waiver request letter that conforms to all the parameters of the school.

The below table enlists the Top notch B-schools providing GMAT waivers for deserving candidates. Carefully go through the eligibility criteria for each of them before applying.

Sr No.UniversitiesEligibility Criteria
1.George Mason UniversityEvaluates previous academic performance, undergraduate major, post-baccalaureate degrees/certificates, quantitative background, and type of professional work experience.

The Admissions Committee will review your transcripts and resume when evaluating the waiver request. International applicants must submit transcript evaluations and English proficiency test scores for the committee’s review. You will receive a waiver decision via email.
2.John Hopkins UniversityYour undergraduate and/or graduate record, especially in analytical or quantitative courses.

The progression of your career, nature of your work experience, professional certifications, and post-MBA career goals. If applicable, performance on graduate-level standardized testing other than the GMAT or GRE, such as the MCAT or LSAT.
3.New Jersey Institute of Technologyhttps://www.njit.edu/admissions/masters-programs
4.Pepperdine UniversityGMAT waivers may be granted to candidates who meet specific criteria who demonstrate quantitative competency and readiness for our rigorous MBA curriculum. GMAT waivers are not automatic, and admission is not guaranteed based upon their disbursement.
5.Queens University of Charlottehttps://www.queens.edu/academics/majors-minors-programs/nursing-bsn.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6NmHBhD2ARIsAI3hrM13YztYxbnCipi3YzDIDnUuHHBRISfhObWd2t5y74KYVXHZ-GD1sUoaAkouEALw_wcB
6.Rider UniversityGraduated from a regionally accredited UG program with a bachelor’s degree. A minimum CGPA of 3.0 in UG.5 or more years of professional experience (reviewed on a case-by-case basis). Applicant has earned a graduate degree from a regionally accredited program. Passed a business-related, professional certifying exam, such as the CPA, CFA, CMA, etc. (reviewed on a case-by-case basis).
7.Seton Hall UniversityOverall UG GPA of 3.4 or higher.

A graduate degree in any discipline, from an accredited academic institution.
Completion of a Stillman School of Business graduate certificate within the last 5 years with a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Successful completion of a professional certifying exam from the United States (i.e., CPA, CFA, etc.)
5 years of significant professional, quantitative or entrepreneurial work experience.
8.Syracruse UniversityWork experience is preferred; candidates are

Evaluated individually, with special consideration given to professional experience and accomplishments, including the potential for career growth and advancement.
9.The George Washington Universityhttps://business.gwu.edu/graduate-applications
10.University of Alabama BirminghamApplication form including 3 professional letters of reference.
Statement of purpose.
Current resume detailing work experience.
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended sent directly by the Registrar or responsible head of the institution to the UAB Graduate School
11.University of California – DavisUndergraduate degree from a U.S. institution with a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher
Graduate (master’s or doctoral) degree or professional credential such as CPA or CFA
Five or more years of professional work experience after completing undergraduate degree.
Four or more years of military experience.
Hardship due to COVID19 pandemic
12.University of DaytonA bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, computer science, mathematics, economics or business from an accredited college or university
A minimum 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA
A minimum 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate mathematics courses
OR
A minimum of three years of technical work experience
A minimum 3.2 overall undergraduate GPA
B’s or better in all your undergraduate mathematics courses
13.University of Delawarehttps://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/grad/prospective-students/grad-admissions/test-scores/
14.University of DenwareGMAT is optional.
Required 2 years of professional work experience (3 years is preferred)
Required a Professional Résumé
15.University of MarylandOn a scale of 4.0, a minimum 3.0 GPA in related certifications like CFA, CPA, PMP, PHR, PE, CAP or Six Sigma
Minimum 70th percentile score or higher in MCAT or LSAT
A graduate or terminal degree in business or STEM-related courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college
16.University of North CarolinaUndergraduate and graduate course work in quantitative subjects Grades
Educational background
Previous work experience
Current job responsibilities
Professional certifications
17.Washington State Universityhttps://www.tacoma.uw.edu/uwt/business/mba#permalink-36978
18.Winthrop UniversityAn undergraduate degree with overall 2.75 GPA from a regionally accredited institution with at least four quantitative courses that average a 3.0 GPA.
A minimum of 3 years of professional experience with increasing levels of responsibility.
An earned professional credentials such as a CPA, CFP, PE license, CMA, CFE, CIA, etc. OR a graduate degree from an accredited program

TOP MBA PROGRAMS OFFERING A GMAT WAIVER:

Top MBA ProgramsAcceptance RateAverage GMATTuition Fees (US Dollars)Median Salary (US Dollars)
University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)18%733$47,668$155,000
New York University (Stern)19%729$82,326$155,000
Ross20%720$73,196$153,465
Duke University (Fuqua)19%713$60,244$140,000
University of Virginia (Darden)30%715$78,800$144,500
Dartmouth College (Tuck)23%724$53,490$150,000
Cornell University (Johnson)29.45%704$61,015$140,000
University of Washington (Foster)35%704$114,825$130,000
University of Rochester (Simon)24%655$52,500$121,750
University of Notre Dame (Mendoza)42.20670$63,440$121,900
Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)27%682$40,752$125,000
Michigan State University (Broad)46%650$54,780$110,000
Boston University (Questrom)34%675$31,899$111,500
Georgetown Washington University43%560$55,961$174,000
University of Florida (Warrington)26.68%664$27,619$110,000
University of Maryland–College Park (Smith)43.28%641$58,238$117,000
University of Pittsburgh (Katz)44.58624$46,920$93,000
William & Mary57%615$40,089$97,500
University of Denver (Daniels)55.35%625$80,750
University of San Francisco59%575$52,920$100,500
University of Massachusetts–Amherst (Isenberg)32%640$36,075$85,000
University of Houston (Bauer)68.20614$53,600$76,000
HULT29%614$74,000$92,100

GMAT FEE REDUCTION PROGRAM/ WAIVER

Some applicants might find both concepts confusing, but these are two distinct waivers. The GMAT waiver exempts the applicant from taking the GMAT test, while the GMAT fee waiver reduces the costs associated with a GMAT exam. GMAC doesn’t directly offer GMAT fee waivers to applicants. Instead, they recommend that schools grant GMAT fee waivers only to students facing financial difficulties. Business schools that submit a request to GMAC receive up to 10 fee waivers per year. GMAC provides a code to the school, which the school uses based on the needs of the applicants.

HOW TO WRITE  SUCCESSFUL GMAT WAIVER REQUEST LETTERS: GENERAL TIPS

  • Conduct thorough research. Familiarize yourself with all eligibility criteria and other guidelines. Keep in mind that not every school providing a GMAT waiver will have identical criteria.
  • Stay concentrated and address particular aspects that showcase quantitative and analytical skills for the successful processing and evaluation of information.
  • Clear & Concise style of Writing.
  • Instead of exaggerating, concentrate on two or three of the most crucial skills and emphasize them significantly.
  • Revising & Proofreading  

HOW TO ASK FOR A GMAT WAIVER/HOW TO WRITE A GMAT WAIVER ESSAY- GMAT/GRE WAIVER REQUEST LETTER SAMPLE

ideal-gmat-waiver

University name:-

University Address:-

Subject:-

Salutation- Sir or Madam

1st Paragraph: About Yourself

Introduce yourself and provide a concise overview of the specific criteria that make you eligible to submit the GMAT/GRE waiver request letter. Explain the purpose of your letter, detailing why you are writing and specifying the nature of your request.

2nd Paragraph

Expand upon your academic and professional achievements while avoiding exaggeration. Overstating your qualifications may be perceived as bragging. Ensure that each accomplishment, no matter how significant, contributes to the purpose of convincing admissions; otherwise, it shouldn’t be included.

3rd Paragraph

Offer valid certificates and awards as evidence. Highlight your achievements that align with their requirements, aiding in your quest for a GMAT waiver. Ensure to delve into specific aspects of your professional work experience that align with the skills the GMAT is designed to assess. This will bolster your argument for applying for a waiver.

4th Paragraph:

Ending statement. Thank the reader for taking the time to read your letter. Make it as well polished as you can.

Signature

Contact details.

This is it from our side; we know it’s quite long. But we hope you got some great insights about the GMAT waiver request letter. If you require an expert to give your application or essay the light that can shine in the eyes of adcoms, you can count on us.

We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week to maximize your chances. We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

01.

HOW DO I GET A GMAT WAIVER?

You need to have strong elements on your profile like work experience, academics, professional certifications, etc.

Also, you need to see the criteria for your target schools and see if you meet the requirements. If yes, you can go ahead and submit a GMAT waiver request letter (if required).

02.

WHICH BUSINESS SCHOOLS ARE WAIVING THE GMAT?

You can see the list of business schools waiving GMAT in 2021-22 and their criteria in the table above.

03.

IS GMAT WAIVED FOR 2022?

Yes, many schools are waiving the GMAT for 2022 intake. Some top schools include MIT, Ross, Kelley and Darden.

04.

WHAT IS AN ACCEPTABLE GMAT SCORE?

For all the schools, there is generally no minimum limit or “acceptable GMAT score” as such. However, you may look into the class profile of your target schools to know what can be a good GMAT score to target. If you are an over-represented applicant (like Indian or Chinese), you may want to add 20+ in the average range to target a good GMAT for yourself. 

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