How To Get Into A Top MBA Program With A Low Test Score

Every year, Personal MBA Coach works with clients who struggle to achieve the test scores they desire. While we pride ourselves on our expert tutors, who often work their magic with applicants who have struggled despite taking classes, studying on their own, or working with other tutors, we recognize that many applicants do not have the necessary time or money to invest in test preparation. Others struggle with test anxiety or do not find standardized tests to be the best match for their talents.

If this rings true for you, do not despair. There are lots of options for applicants with less-than-ideal test scores.

Let’s look at a few of the most common options for MBA applicants who haven’t yet achieved their target test score.

1. Try Taking a Different Admissions Test

All top MBA programs accept both the GMAT and the GRE, and many now accept the EA. While historically the GMAT was the test of choice for MBA applicants, an increasing number of candidates take the GRE. In fact, some schools are reporting that close to half of their applicants are taking the GRE. Additionally, more and more top MBA programs are accepting the EA (check out this blog for more details). This shorter test, originally developed for executive MBA applicants, is often considered easier to take, particularly for those with limited time to prepare. So, if you are struggling to reach your target score, take a practice exam on another test, which may be a better match for you!

2. Look for Programs That Offer Test Waivers

An increasing number of MBA programs offer test waivers. In some cases, applicants must apply for this waiver, and in others, candidates simply submit their application without a test score – for more details, check out this blog.

While a waiver may seem like a convenient option, the vast majority of accepted applicants do submit a test score with their applications. This means you should consider a waiver only if you have maximized your potential score and still have a score that is well below your target school’s average.

Also important to note: You should not consider a waiver if you have a low GPA. Admissions committees need some evidence of academic potential, so those with weaker academic records should not waive the testing requirements.

3. Present Alternative Evidence of Academic Potential

Schools that require a standardized test do so for one main reason – to confirm that an applicant can handle the academic rigor of an MBA program. If you cannot demonstrate this with your test score, it is particularly important that you look for other ways to do so in your application, especially if your quantitative abilities might be questioned.

Even if a school does not accept a waiver, seek out other opportunities to demonstrate your potential throughout the application process. This can include highlighting analytically heavy projects you have completed or taking (and sharing results from) additional coursework. At times, candidates might also offer in their application to take additional classes before enrolling in a program.

4. Highlight Your Specific Uniqueness and/or Track Record of Leadership

All programs accept applicants with a test score well below their average. In most cases, this is because the applicant has impressed the admissions committee enough that they are willing to take a risk. If you know that your test score is weak, it is particularly crucial that your application shows why you are special! This is where your personal story and track record of leadership must really shine!

Ready to apply? Reach out to Personal MBA Coach today to find out how we can help you maximize your chances of success!

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Founded by Scott Edinburgh, a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 17 years and has the most positively reviewed consultant globally on Poets&Quants. Last year our clients earned over $11M in scholarships.  

All Personal MBA Coach clients work directly with Personal MBA Coach’s founder or a former M7 Admissions Director. We have no junior consultants, and our small team regularly connects with admissions directors, after which we meet weekly to discuss all clients and share our insider knowledge. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, comprehensive MBA application support, school selection, essay editing, and mock interviews with former M7 and T10 admissions interviewers.