[joonpark1212]

Im looking into MBA programs and of course GMAT scores are necessary. But i was wondering if having passed the CPA uniform exam can replace a GMAT score.

[Recked]

When I talked to a SUNY (State school in NY) rep I was lead to believe that they might be able to waive the GMAT for access into the MBA if I had passed the CPA. I asked if passing the EA would exempt me from the GMAT as I had not yet taken the CPA and the guy was “going to look into it” but I never heard back from him and I did not ask again because the tuition was too much for what I wanted. I was really looking for an MT, but the local 4 year state uni only offered MBA, which meant more than the 30 credits I needed to be licensed for CPA.

So to answer your question, it depends on the school.
I would think that any school worth having an MBA from is not going to waive the GMAT requirement, but I could be wrong.

[rp 12]

There're are some schools that waive GMAT requirement. But it might depend on the type of MBA program you're trying to get into. I.e online, part-time, etc.

It all depends on what type of schools, your financial budget, need for getting an MBA – just to meet CPA requirements or you eventually want to get into a Mgmt side of a business, etc.

My suggestion is that don't only factor your MBA decision based on GMAT requirement. Look for all the aspects. There're AACSB accredited schools for MBA that fits financially to get this degree, but could you reap benefits for long term career in Mgmt or any other discipline it's tough to say.

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[mtaylo24]

It depends. It helped me get into my MBA program without taking the GMAT, but I'm only doing a part-time evening AACSB program. CPA was specifically listed on the GMAT waiver requirements. If you were trying to go to a Full Time top MBA (top 20ish) it probably wouldn't help. Once again, we would need a little more info…it depends on the program.

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[aaronmo]

A whole lot of MBA programs don't require GMATs…or have exception processes for them. On the flip side, those that do are probably the few programs offering an MBA that means much. Basically any CPA can get an MBA…the reverse is not true.

[joonpark1212]

Really appreciate the insights. For those who took or taking MBA classes could you share how the program can benefit you? The CPA journey was very rough but was much rewarding although I feel like Im containing 30~40% of the study material at best as it disperses each day.

[alloverit]

Yes! It helps in a couple ways. First, it can help you get the GMAT waived. I attend St. John's and they waived it for me. Also, since I had a gap in the amount of time I had been out of school, the CPA also allowed me to take a more specialized track of 30 hours versus the more generic track which was 33.

Only difference is I'm in an MS program.

[ohiocpacma]

I'd caution you to investigate the MBA program that you choose. Some MBA programs that are short (1 year – 18 months) focus on basic business courses with one or two electives. If you have an undergrad in Business, then these classes will not help you compared to an engineer who's never taken business classes (finance, accounting, marketing, etc.). But, a program that requires more electives would allow you to specialize in an area where you've never studied in depth. Make sure that you draw value from it rather than hoping for a promotion, because what is the point of education if you're really not stretching your skills?

[Demha]

*Slow Clap*

Great point! @Ohiocpacma

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