MBA in UK without GMAT: Top Universities, Eligibility, Cost

MBA in UK without GMAT: Studying MBA abroad can be a life-transforming experience. Most MBA abroad require a valid GMAT or GRE score. However, it is possible to pursue an MBA in UK without GMAT. In this article, we will look at the top MBA universities in UK that do not require a GMAT score.

Students willing to take on graduate studies in the business domain abroad need to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) to prove their readiness for college to universities. Students need to take this test to get admitted to courses like the MBA, MS in Finance, MS in Accountancy, etc. However, there are many universities in the UK that may give you admission without needing a GMAT score. In this article, we have listed several such universities in the UK that do not require a GMAT score. However, one must note that there may be other alternating requirements in place for such cases. 

Why Study in UK?

Studying in the UK offers a range of benefits and opportunities for international students. Here are some reasons why studying in the UK can fetch you good returns:

• Academic Excellence: The UK is known for its high-quality education system and prestigious universities. Many universities in the UK consistently rank among the top in the world, offering internationally recognized degrees.
• Wide Range of Courses: Students can select from a variety of academic subjects and specialisations thanks to the wide range of courses and degrees offered by UK universities.
• Job Opportunities: Students can avail of the facility of part-time work in the UK during their studies, allowing them to gain valuable work experience and support themselves financially. After graduation, the UK also provides work options, through the post-study work permit UK, to international students.
• Research Opportunities: Universities in the UK perform cutting-edge research in a variety of sectors, making it a centre for innovation and research. Students can conduct research projects and get access to cutting-edge resources.
• Scholarships: Scholarships for UK universities are an excellent way to make education more accessible and affordable.
• Quality of Life: The UK has a high level of life, as well as strong social, medical, and infrastructure systems. In addition to cultural and recreational hobbies, there are a lot more to choose from.

Why Pursue MBA in UK?

Before we move on to the MBA colleges in UK without GMAT, let us look at the top reasons to study at top MBA colleges in UK without GMAT:

• Quality Education: UK universities are known for their high standards of education and rigorous academic programs. The MBA courses offered in the UK maintain a high standard of teaching and provide a strong foundation in business and management skills.
• Global Recognition: Global recognition and respect are accorded to UK degrees, especially MBAs. An MBA from a renowned UK business school can improve your work prospects and provide access to opportunities abroad.
• Networking Opportunities: Students get the chance to interact with a multicultural and international student population by studying in the UK. This generates beneficial networking chances that may result in partnerships, collaborations, and new job opportunities.
• Employment Prospects: Job sectors in the UK offer a wide range of job opportunities for MBA graduates. Many UK universities have strong ties with industry partners, providing access to internships, placements, and recruitment opportunities.
• 1-Year Programmes: Many MBA programs in the UK are designed to be completed in just one year, offering a faster path to obtaining a degree compared to programs in other countries.

Top UK Universities for MBA without GMAT

In this section of the article, we will look at the MBA colleges in UK without GMAT. Important details of the UK universities for MBA without GMAT have also been covered.

1) University of Edinburgh Business School

The University of Edinburgh Business School holds accreditations from AMBA, AACSB, and EQUIS. It is ranked at the 58th spot on the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025. Moreover, the University of Edinburgh is ranked 27th spot on the QS World University Rankings 2025. Here are the essential details:

• Course: MBA (Full-time)
• Fees: £43,300
• Admission Requirements: Minimum 3 years of managerial work experience, an equivalent of a UK first-class or 2:1 honours degree (more than 60% for Indian students) + 7.0 on the IELTS (at least 6.0 in each section), 100 on TOEFL (at least 20 in each section) or 70 marks (minimum 59 on each section) in the PTE test. 
• GMAT: GMAT is required only when a student is not able to meet the minimum academic requirement (60%+ in graduation). If a student can meet this criterion, a GMAT score is not required.

2) University of Birmingham

University of Birmingham is ranked at =80th spot on the QS World University Rankings 2025. The MBA programme offered by the University of Birmingham is amongst the top 150 on the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, and 3rd position on the High Fliers Research 2023. Here are the essential details of the MBA programme:

• Course: MBA (Full-time)
• Fees: ₹38.07 L
• Admission Requirements: 2:1 honours degree + 5 years of work experience + 7.0 on the IELTS (at least 6.5 in each section), 95 on TOEFL (at least 22 in each section), or at least 67 in all skills of PTE.

3) University of Liverpool

University of Liverpool Management School has accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS. Some of the top recruiters of MBA graduates of the University of Liverpool include Bank of America, Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, and Saudi Aramco, amongst others. Here are the important details of the course:

• Course: MBA (Full-time)
• Fees: ₹34.99 L
• Admission Requirements: 2:1 honours degree + at least 3 years of work experience + personal statement + 6.5 on IELTS (at least 6.0 in each section)

4) Glasgow Caledonian University

Glasgow Caledonian University has been ranked on the 1001-1200 range on the QS World University Rankings 2025. The Global MBA course ranked 18th on the Better World MBA ranking 2022. Here are the necessary details of the course:

• Course: Global MBA
• Fees: ₹21.02 L
• Admission Requirements: 2:2 honours degree + 6.0 on IELTS (at least 5.5 in each section)

5) The University of Reading

The University of Reading is ranked at 172nd position on the QS World University Rankings 2025. The Global Executive MBA, offered by Henley Business School at the University of Reading, is a triple-accredited course by AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB. Here are the details of the course:

• Course: Executive MBA – Global
• Fees: £25,850 
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree + 3 years of work experience + personal statement + 2 professional references + 7.0 on the IELTS (with at least 6.0 in each section)

6) Birmingham City Business School

Birmingham City University is ranked in the 1001-1200 range on the QS World University Rankings 2024. Birmingham City Business School, at the Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, provides an International MBA course. Here are the necessary details of the course:

• Course: International MBA
• Fees: £19,020
• Admission Requirements: 2:2 honours degree + 6.0 on IELTS (at least 5.5 in each section)

7) Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff School of Management at Cardiff Metropolitan University an internationally recognised MBA. Here are the important details of the course:

• Course: MBA
• Fees: ₹20.71 L
• Admission Requirements: 2:2 UK degree + 6.0 on IELTS + Interview

8) Durham University Business School

Durham University is one of the oldest universities in England and is a part of the Russel Group universities. The MBA provided at Durham University is ranked 8th in the UK and 23rd in Europe on the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2023. The following points provide important details of the course:

• Course: MBA
• Fees: ₹39.82 L
• Admission Requirements: First or Upper Second Class Bachelor’s Degree + 3 years of work experience + 7.0 on IELTS (with at least 6.0 in each section) or 102 on TOEFL (with at least 23 in each section)

9) Lancaster University Management School

Lancaster University is ranked at =141st position on the QS World University Rankings 2025. It ranks at 131-140 for the full-time MBA (QS Global MBA Rankings 2025). Here are the important details of the course:

• Course: MBA
• Fees: ₹41.41 L
• Admission Requirements: 2:1 honours degree + 3 years of work experience + 2 references + personal statement + interview + 6.5 in IELTS (with at least 6.0 in each section)

10) University of Strathclyde

University of Strathclyde is ranked =281st on the QS World University Rankings 2025. Its MBA has triple accreditations of AMBA, AACSB & EQUIS. Moreover, the MBA programme was ranked on the Corporate Knights Better World MBA 2022. Here are the details of the course:

• Course: MBA
• Fees: ₹40.77 L
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree + 6.5 on IELTS

Eligibility for MBA in UK without GMAT

Now that we have looked at the UK universities for MBA without GMAT, it is important to know the eligibility for pursuing an MBA in UK without GMAT. The following points will inform you about the same:

• Bachelor's Degree: You will typically need to hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution. The minimum GPA requirement is usually around 60% or a GPA of 6.0.
• Work Experience: Many MBA programs in the UK prefer candidates with work experience. The required work experience may vary, but 3-5 years of professional experience is often considered desirable.
• English Language Tests: English language proficiency is needed for international students. IELTS or TOEFL are the two most often approved English language exams. An IELTS score of 6.5 or higher is frequently required, though the minimum level necessary may vary.
• Application Documents: You might be required to submit application documents such as a statement of purpose, 2-3 reference letters, an updated resume, admission essays, etc.

Admission Requirements for MBA Colleges in UK without GMAT

The following points will provide admission requirements for the top MBA colleges in UK without GMAT:

• Formal Schooling with a certain minimum percentage
• Bachelor’s degree with a certain CGPA (vary as per the university requirements)
• Academic or Professional experience (depends on the university requirements)
• English language proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
• Latest resume
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• LORs (Letters of recommendation)

• Admission Essays

Cost of MBA in UK without GMAT

The cost of an MBA program in the UK without GMAT can vary depending on the university, program duration, location, and other factors. However, the cost may range from £18,000 to £45,000 per year. The tuition fees given above have been sourced from the official websites of the universities. However, these are subject to change and students are advised to check the fees from the official website before applying. It is important to note that in addition to tuition fees, there may be other costs associated with studying an MBA program, such as accommodation, living expenses, textbooks, and additional fees. It is recommended to consider these factors while planning for your MBA studies in the UK.

MBA in UK without GMAT and Work Experience

Obtaining an MBA in the UK without GMAT and work experience is possible at certain universities and business schools. While some institutions may require work experience as a prerequisite for their MBA programs, there are others that offer programs specifically designed for graduates without prior work experience. Here are a few universities in the UK that offer MBA programs without GMAT and work experience requirements:

• Coventry University
• Leeds Beckett University
• University of Northampton
• Bedfordshire University
• Staffordshire University
• Teesside University
• University of Sunderland
• University of South Wales
• University of Greenwich

MBA in UK for Indian Students without GMAT: Conclusion

It may be a good choice for Indian students who are thinking about getting an MBA in the UK without having to take the GMAT. Due to the fact that not all UK colleges require GMAT results for admission to their MBA programmes, Indian candidates who may not have taken the exam or received a low grade now have more options. A variety of advantages might come from doing an MBA in the UK, including the chance to network internationally, exposure to a diverse international student body, and access to world-class instructors. The UK also enjoys a solid reputation for its MBA programmes and business institutions, which can improve job opportunities and offer beneficial skills and expertise.

For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.