Tepper School Extends MBA Test Score Waiver

Waiver option extended to qualified candidates applying to the Full-Time, Part-Time Online Hybrid, and Part-Time Flex MBA programs during the 2020-21 admission cycle.

Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business announced that it will extend the GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA) test score waiver policy instituted last year, in response to ongoing disruptions to testing due to COVID-19. This decision to selectively waive the standardized test requirement for MBA program candidates applies to the rest of the 2020-21 admission cycle.

“Our intention is to address concerns about access to testing centers and potential inequalities in online testing,” stated Kate Barraclough, Head of the MBA program. Standardized tests are intended to level the playing field for candidates, and testing centers provide a consistent setting for all candidates.

“Now, many MBA candidates must take the online test, which does not ensure equal footing for all candidates.”

Kelly R. Wilson, Executive Director of Masters Admissions at the Tepper School, shared, “We are offering a standardized test waiver to qualified candidates who can demonstrate their mathematical preparedness through advanced quantitative coursework.”

Waivers will be granted on a case-by-case basis but interested prospects are encouraged to explore their options and apply for a waiver.

Tepper School Dean Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou recognized the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on candidates. 

“COVID-19 has created an environment unlike any we’ve experienced before. We are empathetic to the unusual challenges posed in recent months and must come together to problem-solve, innovate, and collaborate to ensure we emerge from the current crises stronger and wiser than before," she said.

To qualify for the waiver, prospective MBA students should note the following conditions:

• Waivers will be evaluated based on mathematical preparedness demonstrated through advanced quantitative classes in undergraduate or graduate work. These classes include, but are not limited to, calculus, linear algebra, and statistics.
• A waiver decision by the admission committee does not signal an admission decision. The admission decision will be based on a holistic review of the application.
• Candidates admitted without a standardized test will be required to successfully complete the Tepper School “Calculus Fundamentals” course to complete their admission to the program.

View more information about the admission process and details about the waiver.