The UC Carl H. Lindner College of Business requires applicants to submit Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)* scores in order to be considered for admission into graduate programs. The GMAT is an internationally used entrance exam measuring verbal, mathematical and analytical writing skills for students applying to graduate business programs. It is specifically designed to help graduate management programs assess the qualifications of applicants for advanced study in business and management. Learn more about the GMAT from the official site | mba.com or review our FAQs below.

* MS-Informations Systems, MS-Marketing and MS-Business Analytics are exceptions—these programs will accept either GMAT or GRE scores.

GMAT FAQs

Why do I need to take the GMAT?
The GMAT is a standardized test used as a graduate programs entrance exam and is a dependable predictor of your ability to do the coursework necessary to complete a graduate degree. Most graduate programs require an entrance examination.

Do all UC College of Business graduate program applicants take the GMAT?
Yes, almost everyone—the only exception are those who earned a terminal degree, e.g., PhD, JD, PharmD, etc.

Is the GMAT used for any other reason?
Yes. The UC Lindner College of Business also uses your GMAT scores to help determine scholarship awards. Your GMAT score is not the only determining factor for scholarships, but it does play an important part in how we decide who receives scholarships and how much money they receive.

Do all of the UC College of Business programs accept the GMAT?
Yes. All of the programs accept the GMAT.

What about the GRE?
Some of our programs accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), but not all of them. The MS-Accounting and the MBA programs do NOT accept GRE scores; however, all of the programs accept the GMAT. If in doubt, take the GMAT.

What is the difference between the GRE and the GMAT?
The GMAT and GRE are similar in structure but the GMAT content is more relevant to business and graduate-level business coursework. The GRE is more widely used in graduate programs outside of business.

What are the required scores for the GMAT?
Required GMAT scores vary from program to program within the UC Lindner College of Business, so check with the program director of your desired program. Average scores run from 550 to 600, with a few programs, such as MS-Information Systems (MS-IS) and MS-Quantitative Analysis (MS-QA) requiring higher quantitative scores.

What are the components of the GMAT?
There are three components to the GMAT: a verbal section, a quantitative section and an analytical writing section. To learn more, visit the official GMAT website at mba.com

How is the GMAT graded?
The highest possible score on the GMAT is 800. The highest possible score on the analytical writing portion is 6.0. As the GMAT is a computer-administered test, you will receive your score on the verbal and quantitative portions as soon as you have completed the test. This score is referred to as your unofficial score. The analytical writing portion is graded after you have completed the test and is included with your official scores.  Official scores are available to you and the UC Lindner College of Business approximately three weeks after you have taken the test.  

Does the UC College of Business need my official scores to evaluate my application?
No. We can evaluate your application with your unofficial scores. If the deadline for admission is fast approaching, please submit your unofficial scores to us as soon as possible so we may consider your application.

How can I ensure the UC College of Business receives my scores?
Before you begin your test, the system will ask you to list the schools to which your scores should be sent.

What if I don't do as well as I would like on the test?
You may retake the test as many times as you like, but you are limited to one time per month. You need to register and pay the $250 fee each time you take the test.

Will I be penalized for taking the test more than once?
No. In fact, we encourage taking the test a second time if necessary. We automatically use your highest total score when evaluating your application.

Should I study for the GMAT?
Absolutely! We recommend at least three weeks of preparation, but this depends on your familiarity and skill in regard to taking standardized tests.

What is the best way to prepare?
The best way to prepare depends on you and your learning style. There are a variety of practice test and preparation books and CDs to choose from; many are available at bookstores and the library. Practice tests are also available online. Preparation classes are offered through a number of private schools, such as Kaplan and Princeton Review. The University of Cincinnati offers a prep class through the Communiversity. For more information about UC's class visit uc.edu/ce/commu or call (513) 556-6932. If you decide to take a prep class, we recommend scheduling the test shortly after completing the class.  

Are my scores still valid if I took the GMAT several years ago?
Your GMAT scores are valid for five years.

Do I need to take the GMAT for the certificate programs?
No. You do not need the GMAT for acceptance into the UC Lindner College of Business certificate programs.

Free GMAT Prep Course**

To qualify for the FREE two-day GMAT prep course ($165 value), you must attend** an information session at either our Clifton or Blue Ash locations.

To learn more, register for an information session or contact the Graduate Programs Office at (513) 556 7020 | graduate@uc.edu

GMAT Prep Course Dates
Check back soon for new dates!

**GMAT Prep class space is limited; information session attendance does not guarantee class placement.