The MIT Sloan MBA Program: Now Test-Optional
Back in March, Personal MBA Coach discussed a number of ways that COVID-19 would affect the MBA application process. Now more than six months later, the virus is still impacting MBA hopefuls. From canceled campus visits and remote interviews to online GMAT/GRE testing, coronavirus has reshaped the traditional MBA application process.
However, this is still a great time to apply for your MBA, and business schools throughout the world have responded quickly, many extending MBA application deadlines and implementing hybrid learning plans. Some schools, including Harvard Business School, even offered all MBA candidates planning to attend this fall the option to defer for one or two years.
A new major modification we’ve seen in response to coronavirus is MIT Sloan School of Management’s decision to go test-optional.
Taking into account the complications that the pandemic has presented regarding testing, MIT Sloan has now announced the following:
“The GMAT and GRE are components of the application process and play an important role in our holistic evaluation process. However, in view of challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, we will allow candidates for the 2020-21 admission cycle to submit their application without the test and review their submitted material as is and without negative inferences. If admitted, candidates will not be required to take a test.
Additionally, applicants are welcome to submit other pieces of evidence, such as expired test scores (GMAT, GRE, EA, etc.); MITx MicroMasters, CORe, edX, MBAMath, or any other non-degree coursework completed; or certifications earned such as CPA, ACCA, CFA, etc; all of which may assist the Admissions Committee in its evaluation process.”
These changes recognize the difficulties that MBA hopefuls may have faced accessing viable testing options. From technical difficulties to household distractions, online testing can pose a handful of challenges. In other instances, test centers were operating at lower capacities, making it difficult to secure a spot for in-person testing.
MIT Sloan is the first M7 to go test-optional since Harvard Business School did so for a duration of 11 years, beginning in 1985.
While MIT Sloan’s announcement means that 2020-2021 applicants DO NOT have to submit a GMAT or GRE score as a part of their application, the school still encourages those who with test scores to share them (even if they are expired):
“If you have a valid or expired test score, please include that as part of your application. We will consider both expired and valid test scores for the 2020-21 admission cycle.”
MIT Sloan’s decision to go test-optional is a reflection of the many ways that MBA programs are working to make accommodations for current and prospective students.
However, despite this flexibility, in most cases, if you are in a position to take the GMAT or GRE, Personal MBA Coach recommends that you do! In most circumstances, submitting a test score will work in your favor. This is especially true if you have a lower GPA or weaker quantitative background. In such scenarios, a strong GMAT or GRE school will be crucial to prove you can handle the analytical rigor of the MIT Sloan MBA Program.
If, however, you have a strong academic record and/or quantitative background and taking the GMAT/GRE is not feasible, the test-optional policy is likely welcome news and something candidates could consider taking advantage of. With the round 1 MBA application deadline approaching quickly, MIT Sloan’s policy change should make it easier for some candidates to submit in time for the October 1 MBA Application Deadline.
If you DO want to submit a test score and are still looking to improve it, Personal MBA Coach offers customized tutoring to help you! Our tutors will set up a customized schedule, create a study plan, and schedule regular meetings to help you reach your goals.
Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.
Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email [email protected] for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!
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