An MBA entrance exam (admissions test) is often required as part of the admission process. The results from the exam will usually play a significant role in the acceptance criteria. When an admissions test is required, it is usually the GMAT.
However some business schools also accept the GRE. See the descripton of each exam below.
Common Entrance Exams:
- Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT)
A majority of schools require that you take the GMAT. In fact, this test was created just for graduate programs in management (or business). Preparing for this exam is no small task. It contains the following sections: quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing. The GMAT is scored between 200 to 800.
- Graduate Records Examination (GRE)
The second most common exam is the GRE. This test was made for graduate studies in general. It is scored differently than the GMAT. When the GRE is an accepted admissions test, it is usually only as an alternative to the GMAT.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
If English is not an applicant's first language, that applicant will also have to take the TOEFL. This will verify the applicant's English proficiency. Understanding English is a must for programs in the U.S. and other English-speaking areas.
The business school should tell you which MBA entrance exam (or exams) are required. Some schools have no minimum score requirements. Instead, you compete with the scores of other applicants. Other schools have formulas that combine your exam score with your GPA to reach a certain acceptable score. Where the TOEFL is involved, it is usually required in addition to the GMAT or GRE.
No Entrance Exam:
Sometimes, an entrance exam is not required at all. This is becoming more common and is typically true in the case of online universities or schools for working adults. For example, the University of Phoenix does not require the GMAT or the GRE.
While the MBA entrance exam can be a big part of admissions, it is not the only criteria. Don't worry if you do not get the highest score. Admission committees look at the whole package. Make your application package the best it can be and your chances of acceptance will greatly increase.
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