Study MBA in Germany without GMAT: Top Colleges, Requirements, Cost

Dreaming of an MBA in Germany but worried about the GMAT? This ultimate guide on pursuing an 'MBA in Germany without the GMAT' unlocks the secrets to getting accepted into top German MBA programs without the GMAT.

In the business world, Masters in Business Administration - MBA is synonymous with the GMAT exam. Conducted by GMAC – the full form of GMAT is the Graduate Management Admission Test and is one of the mandatory requirements for admission to top MBA universities abroad. However, a lot of the MBA colleges in Germany are substituting GMAT scores for a good academic profile, work experience that stands out and outstanding LOR and SOP submissions. In this article, we are going to be majorly focusing on MBA colleges in Germany without GMAT. Note: The GMAT exam has now been replaced by the GMAT Focus Edition.

Germany is known for their world-class universities and their top-notch education industry. The Public universities in Germany are government-funded to allow more access to their high-quality education. Public universities in Germany do not charge a tuition fee to students taking admission. They charge an administration fee at the start of every semester which is usually between €300 – €500.

Can You Study MBA in Germany Without GMAT?

Yes, it is possible to pursue an MBA in Germany without GMAT scores. Many top MBA universities in Germany do not require GMAT, if you meet alternative eligibility requirements like work experience, strong academic performance, or managerial credentials. GMAT waivers in Germany are increasingly being provided to international students for specific programs.

Top MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT

In this section, we are going to be discussing the top MBA colleges in Germany without GMAT requirements. The B-schools mentioned below do not have a mandatory GMAT requirement as part of the application process.

Best MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT requirement

The table given below provides the best MBA colleges in Germany without GMAT:

 MBA in Germany – Specialization

The Master in Business Administration – MBA programme spans across industries. Hence the demand for specific skill sets also changes with the industry. Usually, the first year of the MBA programme is dedicated to core courses to build a strong foundation of all the concepts. In the second year, one chooses to specialize in a particular field. MBA in Germany specializations include:

• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Finance
• Information Systems
• Consulting
• Entrepreneurship
• Operations Management

Why Study MBA in Germany?

Germany with its state-of-the-art universities complete with modern amenities has proved itself to be a leader in the field of business studies. Popular reasons to study in Germany for Indian students include:

• Low tuition fee
• Low cost of living
• State-of-the-art universities that combine knowledge with practical training
• 18 month stay back period
• Candidates are allowed to work a total of 120 full or 240 half days per year
• Merit-based German scholarships

MBA in Germany without GMAT – Admission Requirements

A lot of popular business schools in Germany are letting go of their mandatory GMAT score requirement. However, they would require candidates to show exceptional academic prowess to successfully apply to MBA colleges in Germany without GMAT. In this section, we are going to be talking about profile application requirements for students looking to study MBA in Germany without GMAT.

Exceptional academic performance at the undergraduate level, relevant work experience and Letters of Recommendation from your university/employer preferably on a letterhead vouching for your skills and abilities is a fail-proof method of standing out from the crowd and impressing the admissions office even without a GMAT score.

Eligibility Criteria for MBA in Germany Without GMAT

1. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is the most basic requirement for getting into an MBA programme
2. A GPA of 3.0 or above in the bachelor’s degree
3. Substantial work experience of a minimum of 2 – 3 years
4. GRE scores (optional)
5. English Language proficiency tests like IELTS/ TOEFL
6. Statement of Purpose
7. Letter of recommendation
8. Resume/CV

How to Apply for an MBA in Germany Without GMAT?

The Step-by-Step Application Process to apply for MBA in Germany without GMAT are: 

1. Research Programs: Identify universities and check their GMAT requirements.
2. Prepare Documents: SOP, resume, LORs, transcripts, English test scores.
3. Apply Online: Submit applications directly through university portals or via Uni-Assist.
4. Check for Waivers: If required, write to the admissions committee requesting a GMAT waiver with a strong justification.
5. Attend Interviews: Some universities may require personal interviews.

MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT - Admission deadlines

Universities in Germany have rolling admissions or fixed admission deadlines. Read: Admission Deadlines for German Universities

Cost of Studying MBA in Germany without GMAT

As informed earlier, the cost of studying at Public universities in Germany is free. However, though the tuition fee is waived at public universities, they are still required to pay an administration fee ranging from €300 – €500 at the start of every semester. When we talk about private universities in Germany, the cost of studying MBA in Germany can go up to 40 lakhs at a private university for the first year.

Cost of Living in Germany

Cost of Living in Germany: Candidates looking to live in Germany are required to open a German Blocked Account. The Blocked Account has the required living expenses for a student. This amount is decided by the government in Germany. As of January 1, 2023, keeping the rate of inflation in mind, the mandatory amount required in the Block Account for studying in Germany is €11,208 for an entire year or €934 for a month.

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MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT – Scholarships

All German universities recognize talent and they value this talent by providing merit-based scholarships that can be found listed on the official website of universities. Candidates should also get in touch with admission officers to inquire about scholarships and ways to apply for them.

Candidates should note that it is important to apply to universities well ahead of deadlines to keep room for any special requests that the university might have as part of the scholarship application process. There are several study abroad scholarships that are available to students wanting to study abroad provided by public and private organizations to promote education abroad. Candidates can check out the list of study abroad scholarships on our website. 

German Student visa

Candidates going to study in Germany would require a German Student Visa for their entire duration of stay. The student visa would also allow students access to part-time work for 20 hours a week for the entire duration of the study or 120 full or 240 half days per year Candidates should note that on completion of their study, they would be allowed an eighteen-month (18 months) post-study period to find employment in their field of study.

On getting employment within the said time frame they would be required to convert their post-study visa into a work visa and within two years of being on a work visa, they can apply for a permanent resident permit. In the unfortunate case that the candidate is unable to secure employment in the said 18-month period, he would be required to return to his home country.

MBA Colleges in Germany without GMAT – Job Prospects

Many MBA graduates have just one goal in mind while pursuing their degree - to work abroad. After spending substantial resources on studying MBA, it makes financial sense to work abroad. Whether it is a boom or a downturn, demand for MBA graduates is going to always be there. People having exemplary business skills will get a chance to prove their talent.

1. Finance: One of the most sought-after careers includes working in corporate finance. One can work as a Financial Consultant, Financial Analyst, Finance Manager, or Finance Director. One can earn anywhere ranging from €55,000 to €78,000 at an early stage of their career.
2. Finance and Economics: Considered as the hub of financial activities, there are enormous opportunities in Finance and Economics. Here, one can work as a Portfolio Manager, Financial Consultants, and Director of Operations. The salary ranges from €51,000 to €60,000 in the starting stage.
3. Operations Management: Nowadays there is a surge in demand for people having expertise in managing the line of operations in the manufacturing or services industry. The new methodologies and skills taught in MBA programmes help companies adopt new technologies and formulate strategies that maximize profits.