Getting into a top MBA program doesn't always require a very high GMAT score. Many reputable business schools understand that test scores aren't the only indicator of a candidate's potential. If you have a GMAT score around 600 or below 650, you still have great options. This article lists the best MBA colleges accepting low GMAT scores, including top colleges accepting 600 GMAT, and also guides you on how to get MBA admission with low GMAT score.
Top Indian B schools Accepting Low GMAT Score
Many aspirants worry that a low GMAT score might hold them back, but several top Indian B-schools offer opportunities with comparatively lower scores. These institutes consider academics, work experience, and personal interviews alongside the GMAT. Let’s explore leading B-schools in India accepting low GMAT scores.
| Institute | Programs Accepting GMAT | Eligibility / Requirements | Batch Profile |
| IIM Indore (Public) | Executive MBA, Doctoral Programs, Full-time 2-year MBA (for NRI/PIO/abroad-based Indians) | GMAT accepted (CAT exemption for abroad-based Indians) | Exec MBA 2023-24: 38 students, avg. 8.5 yrs work experience |
| IIM Udaipur (Public) | One-year MBA in Digital Enterprise Mgmt., One-year MBA in Global Supply Chain Mgmt. | GMAT (valid within 5 yrs), bachelor’s degree, min. 36 months work experience | Focus on digital & supply chain leadership |
| IIM Tiruchirappalli (Public) | Executive MBA | GMAT/CAT exempts written test; application form + fees required | Electives: Retail Mgmt., Behavioral Finance, Data Visualization |
| IIM Raipur (Public) | PhD program | GMAT valid for past 2 years | Specializations: Strategy, Finance, Marketing, Operations |
| IIM Rohtak (Public) | Doctoral Program in Management (DPM) | Selection based on academics, GMAT/CAT, PI & work experience | 4-year full-time residential doctoral program |
| IMT Ghaziabad (Private) | MBA, PGP Management | GMAT valid up to 4 years before application | 43% non-engineering, ~40% with work experience, avg. age 23 |
| TAPMI Manipal (Private) | MBA programs | GMAT accepted | YLP program for leadership skills + internships |
| MICA Ahmedabad (Private) | Business programs (esp. Strategic Marketing & Communication) | GMAT accepted | Specialized in Marketing & Communication |
| XIM Bhubaneswar (Private) | MBA, EMBA | GMAT accepted | Diverse community; 356 students placed in 2023 |
| Great Lakes Chennai (Private) | PGP Management | GMAT accepted | Avg. age 26 yrs, avg. 3.4 yrs work experience |
| IMI New Delhi (Private) | MBA / PGDM | GMAT + academic record | Mostly engineering & commerce backgrounds |
| FORE School of Management, New Delhi (Private) | PGDM | GMAT accepted | 369 students (40% female); 33% Marketing, 24% Finance, 15% Intl. Business |
Top International Colleges Accepting Low GMAT
A GMAT score of 600 is considered moderate, and several respected business schools accept students within this range. Here are some top colleges accepting 600 GMAT:
- Rotterdam School of Management, Netherlands: Known for its international curriculum and strong ROI, RSM accepts candidates with GMAT scores starting around 600, especially with strong academic or professional backgrounds.
- University of Liverpool Management School, UK: This school focuses on holistic applications. A GMAT score of around 600 is considered acceptable if supported by good work experience or academic record.
- SDA Bocconi Asia Center, India: SDA Bocconi’s International Master's in Business program considers profiles with GMAT scores around 600, especially for candidates with leadership potential and work experience.
- University of Edinburgh Business School, UK: They offer MBA programs where applicants with GMAT scores around 600 can be considered, particularly if the rest of the profile is strong.
Also, check the GMAT study material
Top Business Schools Accepting GMAT Below 650
There are numerous top business schools accepting GMAT below 650 that still offer quality education and global recognition:
- ESSEC Business School (France / Singapore): While higher scores are preferred, ESSEC considers applicants with GMAT scores in the 600 - 640 range, particularly for the Global MBA program.
- HEC Montréal, Canada: One of the top schools in Canada, HEC Montréal evaluates applications holistically and may accept GMAT scores below 650.
- Indian School of Business (ISB) - Early Entry Option: For candidates applying through the Early Entry route, ISB sometimes considers applicants with scores below 650 if they show promise in other areas.
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Gies College of Business, USA: This program may accept students with GMAT scores in the 600 - 640 range, especially if they demonstrate strong academic and work credentials.
- Babson College, USA: Babson has a strong entrepreneurship focus and takes a balanced view of GMAT scores. Applicants with scores in the 600 range are frequently considered.
Also Check,Top Colleges Accepting GMAT Scores In India 2025
How to Get MBA Admission with a Low GMAT Score?
Getting into an MBA program with a low GMAT score is possible. Here's how to improve your chances:
- Focus on Your Profile: Highlight your work experience, leadership roles, academic achievements, and unique skills. A strong resume and compelling story can outweigh a lower GMAT score.
- Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP): Use your SOP to explain your goals, your career plan, and why an MBA is essential. If your GMAT score is low, you can address it briefly and shift focus to your strengths.
- Secure Impressive Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendation letters from managers or professors who know your capabilities well can significantly boost your application.
- Consider Schools with a Holistic Admission Process: Some schools value your overall profile more than test scores. Research and apply to colleges that assess applications holistically.
- Look for GMAT-Optional or Test-Flexible Programs: Many business schools have started waiving GMAT requirements or offering test-flexible options. Schools like Kellogg (Northwestern), Foster (University of Washington), and others provide flexibility.
- Retake the GMAT if Needed: If time and resources allow, consider retaking the GMAT. Even a small improvement of 20 - 30 points could open more doors.
Also, take Free GMAT Mock Test
Best MBA Colleges Accepting Low GMAT Scores: Conclusion
While a high GMAT score can be helpful, it's not the only way to secure admission to a reputable MBA program. Many of the best MBA colleges accepting low GMAT scores look at the overall potential of the candidate. Whether you're aiming for the top colleges accepting 600 GMAT or exploring top business schools accepting GMAT below 650, remember that your work experience, personal drive, and clarity of goals can make all the difference.
