Planning to pursue an MBA abroad? Understanding the right entrance exams, eligibility criteria, and score requirements is the first step toward your global business career.
This guide by Blue Ribbon Overseas explains the key exams for MBA abroad, including GMAT, GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, along with eligibility details, minimum scores, and country-wise requirements.
Why Pursue an MBA Abroad?
An MBA from a top international university offers global recognition, higher salaries, and extensive networking opportunities.
Indian students choose countries like the USA, UK, Canada, France, and Australia for their world-class business programs, placement opportunities, and post-study work benefits.
The right exam strategy can determine your admission to top MBA programs abroad.
Top Exams for MBA Abroad
Here are the major entrance exams required by top universities across the globe 👇
| Exam | Purpose | Accepted In | Average Score Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) | Measures analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills | USA, UK, Canada, Europe | 600–700+ |
| GRE (Graduate Record Examination) | Tests reasoning and analytical writing | USA, UK, France, Australia | 310–325+ |
| IELTS (International English Language Testing System) | Tests English proficiency (academic) | All major countries | 6.5–7.5 overall |
| TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) | Alternative to IELTS | USA, Canada | 90–105 (iBT) |
| PTE (Pearson Test of English) | Computer-based English proficiency test | Australia, UK, Canada | 58–70 |
| Duolingo English Test | Online English proficiency exam | Many universities now accept it | 110–120 |
Most MBA programs require GMAT or GRE + English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL).
MBA Abroad Eligibility Criteria (2026 Intakes)
To apply for an MBA abroad, you’ll need to meet the minimum academic, exam, and professional requirements below 👇
| Eligibility Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 or 4 years) with 55–60% or above |
| Work Experience | 2–5 years (for most top MBA programs) — though some accept freshers |
| Entrance Exam | GMAT or GRE (some waive these for exceptional profiles) |
| English Proficiency | IELTS/TOEFL/PTE as per country requirement |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Required for admission and visa |
| Letters of Recommendation (LORs) | 2–3 professional or academic references |
Tip: Some business schools (especially in the UK and Canada) now offer MBA without GMAT if you have strong academic or professional records.
GMAT vs GRE for MBA Abroad
| Feature | GMAT | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Business & management programs | Broader (MS + MBA) |
| Sections | Quantitative, Verbal, Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning | Quantitative, Verbal, Analytical Writing |
| Duration | 3 hours | 3 hours 45 mins |
| Scoring | 200–800 | 260–340 |
| Accepted By | 2,300+ business schools worldwide | 1,000+ MBA and MS programs |
Choose GMAT if your focus is strictly MBA; choose GRE if you want flexibility between MBA and MS.
Country-Wise MBA Exam Requirements (2026 Intakes)
| Country | Mandatory Exams | Average Scores Required |
|---|---|---|
| USA | GMAT/GRE + IELTS/TOEFL | GMAT 650+, IELTS 7.0 |
| UK | GMAT (optional in many) + IELTS | IELTS 6.5–7.0 |
| Canada | GMAT/GRE + IELTS/TOEFL | GMAT 600+, IELTS 6.5 |
| France | GMAT/GRE + IELTS | GMAT 550+, IELTS 6.5 |
| Australia | GMAT (some waive) + IELTS/PTE | GMAT 550+, IELTS 6.5 |
| Germany | GMAT (optional) + IELTS | IELTS 6.5 |
Universities like INSEAD (France), LBS (UK), and Rotman (Canada) are GMAT-preferred, but some accept GRE equivalence.
MBA Abroad Without GMAT — Is It Possible?
Yes ✅
Several universities abroad now offer MBA programs without GMAT or GRE, especially for candidates with:
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Strong academic background
-
Significant work experience
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High GPA or leadership profile
Examples:
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Coventry University (UK)
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Deakin University (Australia)
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HEC Montréal (Canada)
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NEOMA Business School (France)
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University of Sunderland (UK)
Cost of Taking MBA Exams (Approximate)
| Exam | Fee (USD) | Equivalent in INR |
|---|---|---|
| GMAT | $275 | ₹23,000 |
| GRE | $220 | ₹19,000 |
| IELTS | $250 | ₹21,000 |
| TOEFL | $195 | ₹17,000 |
| PTE | $200 | ₹17,000 |
| Duolingo | $59 | ₹5,000 |
Keep a buffer of ₹50,000–₹60,000 for test registrations, rescheduling, and couriering official scores.
Documents Required for MBA Abroad
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Academic transcripts
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GMAT/GRE score report
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IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scorecard
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Updated resume
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SOP and LORs
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Passport & work experience certificates
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Financial documents for visa
Final Thoughts
Preparing for MBA abroad exams is your first real step toward global career growth.
Choose your target universities, shortlist the exams they require, and plan your preparation timeline 6–9 months in advance.
The better your exam strategy, the stronger your MBA application.
Get Expert MBA Abroad Guidance
At Blue Ribbon Overseas, we help you:
✅ Choose the right MBA destination
✅ Prepare for GMAT/GRE + IELTS
✅ Craft your SOP & visa documentation
✅ Apply to top MBA programs worldwide
👉 Book your free MBA abroad consultation today and let us guide your 2026 journey.
