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  1. 3. Yale University

    New Haven, CT
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    Yale University’s School of Management requires executive MBA applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score to be considered for admission. On average, Yale executive MBA students have 14 years of work experience. There are three application rounds in November, January, and March, and students have to submit two letters of recommendation. International students don’t need to submit TOEFL scores to be considered for admission. In 2022, there were 68 students who graduated from Yale’s EMBA program.
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    Yale University’s School of Management requires executive MBA applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  2. 4. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

    Philadelphia, PA
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    University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) requires applicants to its executive MBA program to submit a GMAT or GRE score. Applicants may submit an EA score if they have more than eight years of experience. On average, incoming executive MBA students at Wharton have 12 years of work experience. Applicants must submit two essays and two letters of recommendation to qualify for admission.The second round application deadline for the EMBA class entering in 2023 is Jan 18, 2023. 
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    University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) requires applicants to its executive MBA program to submit a GMAT or GRE score...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 12
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Yes

  3. 6. Northwestern University (Kellogg)

    Evanston, IL
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    Northwestern University (Kellogg) does not require applicants to submit GMAT or EA scores. To be admitted, prospective students must submit the all of the supporting materials for the online application, be interviewed virtually, submit two letters of recommendation, and write two essays. On average, students in the Kellogg EMBA program have15 years of prior work experience. The round one application deadline is April 19, 2023 and the round two application deadline is June 7, 2023. 
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    Northwestern University (Kellogg) does not require applicants to submit GMAT or EA scores...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  4. 7. New York University (Stern)

    New York, NY
    New York University’s (Stern) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT or GRE score to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 13 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 60 credits hours to graduate. There are 276 students enrolled in this program.
    New York University’s (Stern) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT or GRE score to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  5. 8. University of California–Berkeley (Haas)

    Berkeley, CA
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    The University of California–Berkeley (Haas) requires applicants to submit an official GMAT, GRE or Executive Assessment score to be considered for admission to its executive MBA program. On average, a Haas EMBA student has 13 years of work experience with 8 years spent in management. Applications are due April 12, and currently the program enrolls 138 students. Haas EMBA students have a $150,000 median starting salary before enrolling in the program. TOEFL scores are required from international applicants. The program takes 19 months to complete.
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    The University of California–Berkeley (Haas) requires applicants to submit an official GMAT, GRE or Executive Assessment score to be considered for admission to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  7. 9. University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson)

    Los Angeles, CA
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    The University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson) gives EMBA applicants the option of whether or not to submit their GMAT or GRE scores. Incoming students to Anderson’s EMBA program, on average, have a 3.26 undergraduate GPA. Before the program, students have an average of 14 years of work experience with 9 years spent in management. Applications to UCLA’s executive MBA program are due May 1. Applicants must provide contact information for two recommenders who can complete an online recommendation form. The program takes 22 months to complete.
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    The University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson) gives EMBA applicants the option of whether or not to submit their GMAT or GRE scores...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  8. 10. Duke University (Fuqua)

    Durham, NC
    Duke University’s (Fuqua) executive MBA program requires applicants to submit EA, GMAT, or GRE scores to qualify for admission, although waivers are available. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 11 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. One letter of recommendation is required and students must complete a minimum of 51 credits hours to graduate.
    Duke University’s (Fuqua) executive MBA program requires applicants to submit EA, GMAT, or GRE scores to qualify for admission, although waivers are available...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 11
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  9. 11. Case Western Reserve University (Weatherhead)

    Cleveland, OH
    Case Western Reserve University (Weatherhead) doesn’t require applicants to its executive MBA program to submit GMAT scores, but the school will accept them. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.3 and more than 18 years of work experience, with 14-plus years spent in management. The median base salary for incoming executive MBA students at Weatherhead prior to enrolling is $140,000. Applications are due June 9, and 48 credits are required to graduate. There are 45 students currently enrolled.
    Case Western Reserve University (Weatherhead) doesn’t require applicants to its executive MBA program to submit GMAT scores, but the school will accept them...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 18.4
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  10. 12. Texas A&M University–College Station (Mays)

    College Station, TX
    Texas A&M University–College Station (Mays) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program. In 2021, Texas A&M’s Mays accepted 75% of applicants to its executive MBA program. The program currently enrolls 60 students and applications are due June 14, 2023. The program costs $99,500 per year and requires 45 credits to graduate. Students on average have 18 years of work experience, with 11 years spent in management. 
    Texas A&M University–College Station (Mays) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 18
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  11. 13. University of California–Irvine (Merage)

    Irvine, CA
    The University of California–Irvine (Merage) doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores, but applicants to the executive MBA program can submit Executive Assessment, GMAT, or GRE scores. Incoming students on average have a 3.12 undergraduate GPA and more than 18 years of work experience, with 11 years spent in management. The program costs $76,720 per year to attend, and applications are due December 1. The executive MBA program at University of California–Irvine (Merage) currently has 106 students enrolled. Students need to complete 76 credits in order to graduate.
    The University of California–Irvine (Merage) doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores, but applicants to the executive MBA program can submit Executive Assessment, GMAT, or GRE scores...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 18.57
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  13. 14. University of Georgia (Terry)

    Athens, GA
    The University of Georgia (Terry) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score to apply to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.18 and 18 years of work experience, with 13 years spent in management. Before enrolling, students have a median base salary of $140,000. The program costs $74,750 to attend, and requires 51 credits in order to graduate. The executive MBA program at the University of Georgia (Terry) currently has 79 students enrolled. Applications are due June 30.
    The University of Georgia (Terry) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score to apply to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 18
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  14. 15. Boise State University

    Boise, Idaho
    Boise State University’s executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 19 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Three letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 40 credits hours to graduate. There are 37 students enrolled in this program and applications are due June 15. 
    Boise State University’s executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 19
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  15. 16. William & Mary

    Williamsburg, VA
    William & Mary doesn’t require applicants to its executive MBA program to submit GMAT scores, and admissions are made on a rolling basis. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.3 and an average GMAT score of 660. Students come to the program with 15 years of work experience and a $130,000 median base salary, on average. In 2021, William & Mary admitted 83% of applicants to its executive MBA program. The program costs $115,000 per year to attend and requires 48 credits in order to graduate.
    William & Mary doesn’t require applicants to its executive MBA program to submit GMAT scores, and admissions are made on a rolling basis...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  16. 17. Cornell University (Johnson)

    Ithaca, NY
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    Applicants to Cornell University’s EMBA Metro NY program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is more than 12 years and the average amount of management experience is more than 8 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete 60 credits to graduate. 
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    Applicants to Cornell University’s EMBA Metro NY program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 12.55
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  17. 18. Columbia University

    New York, NY
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    Columbia University accepts scores from the Executive Assessment, the GMAT, or the GRE as part of its EMBA program application. EMBA students at Columbia on average have 10 years of work experience, and a $132,00 median base salary prior to enrolling. Currently, Columbia has 535 students enrolled in its EMBA programs: the Friday/Saturday and just Saturday options. Applications require one letter of recommendation, and international students don’t have to submit a TOEFL score to be considered for admission. Columbia EMBA students need to complete 60 credits to graduate.
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    Columbia University accepts scores from the Executive Assessment, the GMAT, or the GRE as part of its EMBA program application...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 10
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  19. 19. Rice University (Jones)

    Houston, TX
    Rice University’s (Jones) executive MBA program waives GMAT and GRE test requirements for qualified applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 16.5 years. International students may be required to submit TOEFL scores. One letter of recommendation is required and students must complete a minimum of 54 credits hours to graduate. Currently, 122 students are enrolled in the program and applications are due by May 15.
    Rice University’s (Jones) executive MBA program waives GMAT and GRE test requirements for qualified applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16.5
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  20. 20. University of Connecticut

    Mansfield, CT
    The University of Connecticut doesn’t require prospective students to submit GMAT or GRE scores to apply to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.1 and 17 years of work experience. Before enrolling, students have a median base salary of $110,000. In 2021, the University of Connecticut admitted 96% of applicants to its executive MBA program. Applicants are due in late July, and the program currently enrolls 33 people. Students need to complete 48 credits in order to graduate from the program. 
    The University of Connecticut doesn’t require prospective students to submit GMAT or GRE scores to apply to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 17
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  21. 21. University of Minnesota–Twin Cities (Carlson)

    Minneapolis, MN
    Getty Images
    Applicants to the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities (Carlson)’s executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 16 years and the average amount of management experience is 11 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Three references—one of which is from a supervisor—are required and students must complete 52.5 credits to graduate. Applications must be submitted by July 15 and 73 students are enrolled.
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    Applicants to the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities (Carlson)’s executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  22. 22. University of Tennessee–Knoxville (Haslam)

    Knoxville, TN
    Applicants to the University of Tennessee–Knoxville (Haslam)’s executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior management experience is 15 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 45 credits to graduate. Currently, there are 59 students enrolled in the program. 
    Applicants to the University of Tennessee–Knoxville (Haslam)’s executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  23. 23. University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler)

    Chapel Hill, NC
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    The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler) no longer requires applicants to submit either a GMAT or GRE score to apply to its executive MBA program. The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler’s average incoming EMBA student has a 3.2 undergraduate GPA and 13 years of work experience. The school offers admissions to its EMBA program during four application rounds in April, July, September, and November, and the program is offered both in the evenings and on weekends. Applicants must submit two recommendation forms to be considered for admission.
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    The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler) no longer requires applicants to submit either a GMAT or GRE score to apply to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  25. 24. University of Texas–Austin (McCombs)

    Austin, TX
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    Applicants to the University of Texas–Austin’s (McCombs) executive MBA program may submit a standardized test to be considered for admission, although test waivers are available. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is more than 14 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores if they have been in the U.S. for less than two years and were educated in a language other than English. One letter of recommendation is required and students must complete a minimum of 42 credits hours to graduate.
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    Applicants to the University of Texas–Austin’s (McCombs) executive MBA program may submit a standardized test to be considered for admission, although test waivers are available...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14.25
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  26. 25. University of Maryland–College Park (Smith)

    College Park, MD
    University of Maryland
    Courtesy of University of Maryland
    The University of Maryland–College Park’s (Smith) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admissions. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 17 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. One letter of recommendation is required and students must complete a minimum of 54 credits hours to graduate.
    University of Maryland
    Courtesy of University of Maryland
    The University of Maryland–College Park’s (Smith) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admissions...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 17
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  27. 26. Purdue University (Daniels, Jr.)

    West Lafayette, IN
    Purdue University–West Lafayette (Krannert) provides a GMAT waiver to qualified executive MBA program applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 16 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate. 
    Purdue University–West Lafayette (Krannert) provides a GMAT waiver to qualified executive MBA program applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  28. 27. University of Notre Dame (Mendoza)

    Notre Dame, IN
    Applicants to the University of Notre Dame’s (Mendoza) executive MBA program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission, although some candidates may be asked to take the GMAT or Executive Assessment. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is nearly 16 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 50 credits hours to graduate. 
    Applicants to the University of Notre Dame’s (Mendoza) executive MBA program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission, although some candidates may be asked to take the GMAT or Executive Assessment...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15.75
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  29. 28. University of Pittsburgh (Katz)

    Pittsburgh, PA
    The University of Pittsburgh (Katz) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score to apply to its executive MBA program. In 2021, University of Pittsburgh (Katz) accepted 56% of applicants to its executive MBA program. On average, incoming students have 16 years of work experience, with 9 years spent in management. The program currently has 62 students enrolled. Applications to the executive MBA program are due August 15. The program costs $47,500 per year and students need to complete 45 credits in order to complete the program.
    The University of Pittsburgh (Katz) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score to apply to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  31. 29. University of South Florida

    Tampa, FL
    The University of South Florida’s executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 17 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Three letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 49 credits hours to graduate.
    The University of South Florida’s executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 17
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  32. 30. University of Texas–Dallas

    Richardson, TX
    Applicants to the University of Texas–Dallas executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior management experience is 10 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Three letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 53 credits to graduate. Applications must be submitted by August 7 and there are 61 students enrolled.
    Applicants to the University of Texas–Dallas executive MBA program aren’t required to submit GMAT or GRE scores to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  33. 31. Santa Clara University (Leavey)

    Santa Clara, CA
    Santa Clara University’s (Leavey) executive MBA program requires applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admission, although waivers are available. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 17 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 62 credits hours to graduate.
    Santa Clara University’s (Leavey) executive MBA program requires applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admission, although waivers are available...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 17
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  34. 32. Brigham Young University (Marriott)

    Provo, UT
    Brigham Young University (Marriott) requires prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.5 and an average GMAT score of 596. Before enrolling in the program, students have, on average, 12 years of work experience and a $141,138 base salary. Applications are due May 1, and in 2021 Brigham Young University (Marriott) accepted 75% of applicants to its executive MBA program. The program currently enrolls 67 students.
    Brigham Young University (Marriott) requires prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Yes

  35. 33. University of Houston (Bauer)

    Houston, TX
    The University of Houston (Bauer) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.17, and 79.1% of applicants were accepted to the program in 2021. Students come to the program with an average of 18 years of work experience and a median base salary of $137,450. Applications are due in early June, and the total program costs $74,750. The University of Houston (Bauer) currently has 36 students enrolled in its executive MBA program. 
    The University of Houston (Bauer) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 18.1
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  37. 34. University of Alabama (Manderson)

    Tuscaloosa, AL
    Applicants to the University of Alabama (Manderson)’s executive MBA program don’t have to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission if they meet certain criteria. Among incoming students, the average undergraduate GPA is 3.1 and the average amount of prior work experience is 14 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate. Applications must be submitted by July 17 and 78 students are enrolled in the program.
    Applicants to the University of Alabama (Manderson)’s executive MBA program don’t have to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission if they meet certain criteria...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  38. 35. Auburn University (Harbert)

    Montgomery, AL
    Auburn University’s (Harbert) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE scores from applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is more than 15 years and the average amount of management experience is 8.5 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 39 credits hours to graduate.
    Auburn University’s (Harbert) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE scores from applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15.1
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  39. 36. Georgetown University (McDonough)

    Washington, D.C.
    Courtesy of Georgetown University
    Georgetown University (McDonough) doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment test score, but they can be submitted optionally or upon request. The average incoming EMBA student at McDonough has a 3.17 undergraduate GPA and 14 years of work experience with more than 8 years spent in management. Applications to Georgetown University (McDonough)’s executive MBA program are due June 15. McDonough currently has 101 students enrolled in its executive MBA program. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores as part of the application.
    Courtesy of Georgetown University
    Georgetown University (McDonough) doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment test score, but they can be submitted optionally or upon request...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  40. 37. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey–Newark and New Brunswick

    Newark, NJ
    Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey–Newark and New Brunswick requires applicants to its executive MBA program to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score with an application to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have, on average, 14 years of work experience with 10 years spent in management. Applications for the executive MBA program at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey–Newark and New Brunswick are due on July 1, and the program costs $51,732 per year to attend. Currently, there are 79 students enrolled in the program. 
    Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey–Newark and New Brunswick requires applicants to its executive MBA program to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score with an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Yes

  41. 38. University of Utah (Eccles)

    Salt Lake City, UT
    The University of Utah’s (Eccles) executive MBA program provides GMAT and GRE waivers for most applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 15 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores, but waivers are available in some circumstances. One letter of recommendation is required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate.
    The University of Utah’s (Eccles) executive MBA program provides GMAT and GRE waivers for most applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  43. 39. Washington University in St. Louis (Olin)

    St. Louis, Missouri
    Washington University in St. Louis (Olin) doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores to apply to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.2 and 13.5 years of work experience, with nearly 8 years spent in management. Coming into the program, incoming students have a median base salary of $175,000. In 2021, 92% of applicants were accepted to the program, which costs $69,975 to attend each year. Students need 60 credits in order to graduate.
    Washington University in St...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13.5
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  44. 40. Tulane University (Freeman)

    New Orleans, LA
    Tulane University’s (Freeman) executive MBA program requires GMAT and GRE scores from applicants, although waivers are available. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 17 years. International students may be required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate.
    Tulane University’s (Freeman) executive MBA program requires GMAT and GRE scores from applicants, although waivers are available...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 17
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  45. 41. University of Oregon (Lundquist)

    Eugene, OR
    The University of Oregon’s (Lundquist) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is more than 14 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 76 credits hours to graduate.
    The University of Oregon’s (Lundquist) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14.66
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  46. 42. Baylor University (Hankamer)

    Waco, TX
    Baylor University’s (Hankamer) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 13 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate.
    Baylor University’s (Hankamer) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores to qualify for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  47. 43. University of Florida (Warrington)

    Gainesville, FL
    Getty Images
    The University of Florida (Warrington) doesn’t require EMBA applicants to submit test scores to be considered for admission. On average, incoming students have a 3.24 undergraduate GPA and 15 years of work experience. Prior to enrolling, Warrington EMBA students have a median base salary of $122,000. In 2021, Warrington accepted 71% of applicants and currently enrolls 97 EMBA students. Applications are due July 1 and 48 credits are needed to graduate. International students must submit TOEFL scores to be considered for admission, and all applicants must send in two recommendation letters.
    Getty Images
    The University of Florida (Warrington) doesn’t require EMBA applicants to submit test scores to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 15
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  49. 44. Pepperdine University (Graziadio)

    Los Angeles, CA
    Getty Images
    Applicants to Pepperdine University’s (Graziadio) executive MBA program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 16 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete 45 credits to graduate. Applications are due by August 14 and there are 129 students enrolled.
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    Applicants to Pepperdine University’s (Graziadio) executive MBA program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  50. 45. Marquette University

    Milwaukee, WI
    Marquette University waives its GMAT and GRE requirement for qualified EMBA applicants who meet specific education and work experience criteria. Incoming EMBA students at Marquette, on average, have a 3.36 undergraduate GPA and 16 years of work experience. Applications are due on July 31. Two letters of recommendation are needed to apply, and the program costs $79,500 per year. In 2021, 89% of applicants to Marquette University’s executive MBA program were accepted. Currently, there are 24 students enrolled in the program.
    Marquette University waives its GMAT and GRE requirement for qualified EMBA applicants who meet specific education and work experience criteria...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 16
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  51. 46. Southern Methodist University (Cox)

    Dallas, TX
    Southern Methodist University (Cox) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score in an application to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.08 and more than 11 years of work experience with almost 9 years spent in management. Before enrolling, students have mean base salaries of $122,304. In 2021, Cox accepted 98% of applicants to its executive MBA program. Applications to the program are due July 15, and the program costs $126,495 per year to attend. 
    Southern Methodist University (Cox) doesn’t require prospective students to submit a GMAT score in an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 11.7
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  52. 47. University of Arizona (Eller)

    Tucson, AZ
    The University of Arizona (Eller) doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores with an application to its executive MBA program. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.12 and 11 years of work experience, with nearly 9 years spent in management. Students come to the program with a median base salary of $117,500. Currently, the University of Arizona (Eller) has 46 students enrolled in its executive MBA program, which costs $38,500 per year to attend. Applications are due June 1, and students need to complete 43 credits in order to graduate.
    The University of Arizona (Eller) doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores with an application to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 11
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  53. 48. Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)

    Atlanta, GA
    Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller) requires prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program, but there are exceptions made with waivers. Incoming students have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.2 and a 640 GMAT score. Before enrolling, students have a median base salary of $150,000 and 14 years of work experience. In 2021, Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller) accepted 72% of applicants to its executive MBA program. Applications are due June 30, and the program costs $82,500 per year to attend. Currently, there are 65 students enrolled in the program. 
    Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller) requires prospective students to submit a GMAT score with an application to its executive MBA program, but there are exceptions made with waivers...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 14
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  55. 49. Fordham University (Gabelli)

    New York, NY
    Fordham University (Gabelli) has a test-optional policy for its executive MBA program. Incoming students, on average, have a 3.2 undergraduate GPA and 460 GMAT score. The mean base salary for incoming students yet to enroll is $134,000. Students have an average of 13 years of work experience with 5 years spent in management. Gabelli’s executive MBA program has an 87% acceptance rate, and applications are due on March 25. The program costs $111,000 per year and requires 60 credits in order to graduate. There are currently 45 students enrolled in the program.
    Fordham University (Gabelli) has a test-optional policy for its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  56. 50. Kent State University

    Kent, OH
    Kent State University requires prospective students to submit GMAT scores and two letters of recommendation with applications to its executive MBA program. Incoming students to the program have an average undergraduate GPA of 2.9 and 13 years of work experience, with 6 years spent in management. Currently, Kent State University has 23 people enrolled in its executive MBA program, which costs $43,900 per year to attend. Students need to complete 32 credits in order to graduate. Applications are due August 1. 
    Kent State University requires prospective students to submit GMAT scores and two letters of recommendation with applications to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  57. 51. Vanderbilt University (Owen)

    Nashville, TN
    Getty Images
    Vanderbilt University’s (Owen) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or EA test to qualify. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 13 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 48 credits hours to graduate.
    Getty Images
    Vanderbilt University’s (Owen) executive MBA program doesn’t require applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, or EA test to qualify...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • Flexible

  58. 52. University of Oklahoma (Price)

    Norman, OK
    Applicants to the University of Oklahoma (Price)’s executive MBA in aerospace and defense program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission. Among incoming students, the average undergraduate GPA is 3.17 and the average amount of prior work experience is 13 years. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores. Letters of recommendation aren’t required and students must complete 32 credits to graduate. 
    Applicants to the University of Oklahoma (Price)’s executive MBA in aerospace and defense program don’t need to submit a standardized test to be considered for admission...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  59. 53. Hult International Business School

    Cambridge, MA
    Hult International Business School doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores to apply to its executive MBA program. Incoming students to Hult International Business School’s executive MBA program have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.1 and 11 years of work experience, with 7 years spent in management. The mean base salary for students who are enrolling in the program is $125,260. The program costs $42,500 per year to attend, and the program currently has 290 students enrolled. Applications to the program are due September 1. Students need 90 credits in order to graduate from the program.
    Hult International Business School doesn’t require prospective students to submit test scores to apply to its executive MBA program...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 11
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  61. 54. University of Iowa (Tippie)

    Iowa City, IA
    The University of Iowa’s (Tippie) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 13 years. International students aren’t required to submit TOEFL scores. No letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 46 credits hours to graduate.
    The University of Iowa’s (Tippie) executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT and GRE scores from applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 13
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

  62. 55. Xavier University

    Cincinnati, OH
    Xavier University’s executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE scores from applicants. Among incoming students, the average amount of prior work experience is 7 years and the average amount of management experience is 3.5 years. Two letters of recommendation are required and students must complete a minimum of 50 credits hours to graduate.
    Xavier University’s executive MBA program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE scores from applicants...
    • AVERAGE NUMBER OF YEARS OF WORK EXPERIENCE
    • 7
    • GMAT REQUIREMENT
    • No

MBA versus EMBA 

Both an MBA and an executive MBA (EMBA) are designed for professionals who want to land a role in the C-suite, but also want to keep working and advancing their careers while enrolled in school. The two programs have many comparable aspects. EMBA programs are typically designed for working professionals with at least eight years in a supervisory role and demand a larger time commitment. 

Is an executive MBA as good as an MBA? 

Earning an EMBA can help you get ahead in the tech world, in addition to preparing you for a C-suite role in other fields. Most MBA students have fewer years of work experience under their belts than EMBA students do. One advantage of EMBA programs is that many students are able to maintain their full-time work schedule, while taking courses. This enables professionals to keep gaining experience and advancing their careers while pursuing a degree. 

When should you get an EMBA? 

While a traditional MBA can be advantageous to professionals at any point in their career, most people who pursue an EMBA begin their program after having at least eight years of work experience in a role supervising others. Ideal EMBA candidates are typically working in middle management roles, and seek advancement into a senior leadership position.

What are the disadvantages of an executive MBA? 

One disadvantage to getting an executive MBA is that it can be harder to change careers after earning the degree and diving into a particular career path—thought it is possible.

Is an MBA harder than an EMBA? 

Most MBA programs are designed for students with fewer years of work experience, while most EMBA programs are designed for current leaders with several years—usually eight or more—of experience in a supervisory role. Comparing the two programs and determining your own educational needs will help decide which program will be a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an executive MBA equivalent to MBA?

Not necessarily, although both are advanced degrees in business administration. The two programs vary in structure and tend to cater to different types of students. Traditional MBA programs offer students the opportunity to advance in their careers or even switch careers, with training geared toward management roles. Meanwhile, an executive MBA is really meant for full-time professionals looking to move up in their fields. Digging deeper, an MBA is typically for professionals at any point in their career, but the ideal candidate for an executive MBA is usually someone in their late 30s or early 40s (with management experience) looking to become a C-suite executive.

Is an executive MBA worth it?

An executive MBA can increase your earnings, expand your networking, and give you the push you need to move up the corporate ladder—and that’s why thousands of students find these programs to be incredibly valuable. The degree is designed for people who want to complete a program while working full-time, and it teaches these working professionals leadership skills and gives them a better understanding of financial outcomes in their industries. What’s more, an EMBA program can also help students who want to switch careers entirely because the core curriculum of finance, accounting, marketing, and operations can be applied in almost any industry.

Will an executive MBA increase my salary?

An executive MBA can increase your salary. Most people who earn an executive MBA see a “pretty substantial rise in salary” five years after they’ve finished, as Caryn L. Beck-Dudley, president and CEO of AACSB International, told Fortune. Meanwhile, graduates typically see a “double-digit salary increase,” Michael Desiderio, executive director of the Executive MBA Council (EMBAC), told Fortune.

What does an executive MBA do for you?

An executive MBA allows students to work full-time while earning an advanced business degree—and it also gives you the opportunity to use, in real-time, both the skills you’ve learned in your career and in class. By exercising these skills alongside other professionals, that can help you to draw on learnings and advance in your career. Ellen Johnson, who graduated from New York University Stern’s EMBA program, told Fortune that earning an MBA was “the best decision” she ever made and helped her to advance to the role of chief financial officer (CFO).

Is an executive MBA easier than an MBA?

An executive MBA is no easier or harder than a traditional MBA. Choosing which program you’d like to pursue depends on your personal circumstances and career goals. Those people who are working to complete an executive MBA are typically looking to deepen their already established knowledge so that they can move up to higher roles—and they’re less likely to switch careers completely (though it is possible).

How much does an executive MBA cost?

The cost of executive MBA programs can range from roughly $60,000 to $200,000, making the prospect of earning this degree a substantial investment. Top-ranked schools typically have a higher associated cost—like UC Berkley’s executive MBA program, ranked No. 10 by Fortune, has an estimated cost of $196,000. That said, some employers may help defray costs, and Toby McChesney, the vice provost for graduate programs at Santa Clara University’s business school, offered some valuable advice for prospective students: “Don’t be afraid of the price tag and ask about scholarship money.”

Do companies sponsor executive MBAs?

In some instances, and to varying extents, companies do sponsor the cost of attending an executive MBA program for employees. The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business estimates that 70% of applicants for its executive MBA program get full or partial financial support from their employers. It’s helpful to check if your company has tuition reimbursement policies already in place, and if so, ask your manager if sponsorship for an executive MBA program is possible.

Does an executive MBA application require the GMAT?

The Executive Assessment, a standardized exam similar to most entrance tests, is more common for those people applying to executive MBA programs than the GMAT.  Some schools don’t require exams at all, including: Northwestern University, MIT, and New York University—all of which are within the top 10 of Fortune’s ranking of online executive MBA programs.

Which Ivy Leagues offer an executive MBA?

A few Ivy League schools offer an executive MBA program, including: Yale University, the University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), Columbia University, and Cornell University—all of which are considered the best online executive MBA programs by Fortune’s ranking. Columbia and Wharton often fight it out for the top spots on national rankings.

Who’s a good fit for an executive MBA?

To earn an executive MBA you have to be completely dedicated because returning to school brings a whole new meaning to time management. In addition to balancing a 40-hour (or longer) workweek with 20 or so hours of studying, you must also juggle personal commitments. To be successful in an EMBA program, you must be focused, determined, and organized.

Which executive MBA ranking is best?

Fortune’s executive MBA ranking is built using information collected from the university, along with data from companies and executives—providing a comprehensive look into each program on the list.