Executive MBA in India Without GMAT
- Goalisb
- Apr 7
- 16 min read
The demand for an Executive MBA in India without GMAT is steadily rising as mid- and senior-level professionals seek flexible, career-enhancing programs that don’t require standardized tests. Whether you're aiming for leadership growth, industry switch, or global exposure — there are several world-class programs in India that do not require a GMAT, GRE, or entrance test.
In this blog, we explore the top Executive MBA programs in India without GMAT, their key features, who they're meant for, and how they compare.
Table of Contents
What is an Executive MBA Without GMAT?
Executive MBA (EMBA) programs are tailored for experienced professionals who want to enhance leadership, strategy, and management skills while continuing to work. Several top institutions in India now offer GMAT-free Executive MBA options, focusing on work experience, leadership potential, and profile fit over test scores.
Is GMAT required for Executive MBA in India?
It depends on the applicant's choice of the program. In 2025 there are many more Executive MBA programs in India one can choose from which do not require the GMAT score essentially for the admissions process.
Top Executive MBA Programs in India Without GMAT:
The ten Executive MBA programs that do not require a mandatory GMAT submission in 2025 are:
ISB PGPpro - No GMAT Scores Required
ISB PGPMAX - No GMAT Scores Required
UCLA PGPpro - No test Scores Required
SDA Bocconi IEMB - Test score required, GMAT not mandatory
IIM Indore PGPMX - Test score required, GMAT not mandatory
IIM Kozhikode EPGP - Test score required, GMAT not mandatory
HBS - SELPI - No GMAT Scores Required
INSEAD ILPSE - No GMAT Scores Required
IIT BOMBAY EXECUTIVE MBA - No GMAT Scores Required
IIMB PGPEM - Test score required, GMAT not mandatory
Choosing an Executive MBA program in India without GMAT largely depends on the career stage that the applicant is at. The two broad categories that an applicant may fall into are moving towards mid-level or senior leadership roles or moving towards top management roles.
To determine your eligibility and discuss your profile, get in touch with an admission expert at GOALisB.
Here are some of the most reputable EMBA or EMBA-equivalent programs in India that do not require a GMAT:
Program | Institution | Duration | Minimum Experience | Test Required |
ISB PGPpro | Indian School of Business | 18 months | 5 years | No |
ISB PGPMAX | Indian School of Business | 15 months | 10 years | No |
UCLA PGP PRO | UCLA Anderson (via Northwest) | 12 months | 7 years | No |
SDA Bocconi IEMB | SDA Bocconi Asia Center | 15 months | 9 years | Optional (Bocconi Test) |
INSEAD ILPSE | INSEAD + Emeritus | 12 months | 10 years | No |
IIML PGPWE | IIM Lucknow (Noida) | 24 months | 3 years | Yes – CAT/GMAT/GRE or IIML Test (excluded) |
IITB-WashU EMBA | IIT Bombay + WashU | 18 months | 7 years (5 in mgmt) | No |
Here are the top programs that applicants can consider:
ISB PGPpro: The ISB PGPpro offered by ISB at four locations across India, i.e. NCR, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad is an 18 months program that focuses on leadership and management skills for working professionals.
IIM Bangalore PGPEM: The Post Graduate Program in Enterprise Management at IIM Bangalore is a two-year program that focuses on developing leadership skills, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurship.
IIM Indore PGPMX: This program is designed for experienced professionals with a minimum of five years of work experience and focuses on leadership development, strategic thinking, and global business.
SDA Boconni IEMB: The International Executive MBA offered by SDA Boconni in partnership with MISB Bocconi is a 20-month program that focuses on leadership development, global business, and entrepreneurship.
UCLA PGPpro: The Executive MBA program offered by the University of California, Los Angeles is a two-year program that focuses on leadership development, strategic management, and innovation.
IIM Kozhikode EPGP: The Executive Post Graduate Programme (EPGP) in Management is a remarkable two-year master's degree programme in management offered by IIM Kozhikode on an Interactive Learning (IL) platform.
Detailed Comparison of Executive MBA without GMAT:
1. ISB PGPpro vs UCLA PGP PRO
Feature | ISB PGPpro | UCLA PGP PRO |
Duration | 18 months | 12 months |
Location | 4 cities in India | Delhi & Bangalore |
Global Immersion | Optional | No mandatory immersion |
Faculty | ISB + Global | UCLA Anderson faculty |
Fees | ₹31.96L + GST | $12,000 (₹10–11L) |
Minimum Exp. | 5 years | 7 years |
Alumni Status | Full ISB alumni | UCLA Exec Ed alumni |
2. ISB PGPMAX vs SDA Bocconi IEMB
Feature | ISB PGPMAX | SDA Bocconi IEMB |
Duration | 15 months | 15 months |
Degree | Certificate | Executive Master's (65 ECTS) |
Global Immersion | 2 (Wharton, Kellogg etc.) | 2-week Milan module |
Fees | ₹43.9L + GST | ₹21L + GST |
Experience | 10–25 years | 9+ years |
Peer Profile | CXOs, Entrepreneurs | Senior Managers |
3. INSEAD ILPSE vs IITB-WashU EMBA
Feature | INSEAD ILPSE | IITB-WashU EMBA |
Duration | 12 months | 18 months |
Credential | Certificate | Joint MBA Degree |
Global Modules | France + Singapore | St. Louis + Washington D.C. |
Fees | $50,000 (~₹41.5L) | ₹45L (inclusive) |
Experience | 15–20 years avg. | 10–15 years |
Ideal For | Business transformation | CXO/Leadership credential seekers |
ISB PGPMAX vs Harvard SELPI – Executive Leadership Program Comparison
Aspect | ISB PGPMAX | Harvard SELPI |
Institution | Indian School of Business (ISB) | Harvard Business School (HBS) |
Program Name | Post Graduate Programme in Management for Senior Executives (PGPMAX) | Senior Executive Leadership Program – India (SELPI) |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate in Management (EMBA-equivalent) | Harvard Business School Executive Education Certificate |
Program Duration | 15 months | 8 months |
Delivery Format | Modular: 12 week-long residencies every 5 weeks | 4 on-campus modules (6–7 days each) over 8 months |
Mode of Delivery | ISB Hyderabad/Mohali campuses + 2 global immersions | HBS campus (Mumbai & Boston) – in-person only |
Global Immersion | Yes – 2 mandatory modules at top global B-schools (e.g., Wharton, Kellogg, LBS) | Yes – final immersion at Harvard Business School, Boston |
Minimum Work Experience | 10 years full-time | 15–20 years recommended |
Average Age / Profile | 35–50 years, 16 years avg. experience | 40–55 years, CXOs, founders, MDs |
Faculty | ISB + Global visiting faculty (Wharton, Kellogg, LBS) | Taught exclusively by HBS faculty using case-method pedagogy |
Curriculum Themes | Strategic leadership, finance, innovation, governance, digital transformation | Leading organizations, growth strategy, digital disruption, global vision, value creation |
Peer Group | Senior leaders from India & GCC, family business owners, CXOs | CXO-level leaders from large Indian & global companies |
Alumni Benefits | Full ISB alumni status + 16,000+ global network | Harvard Executive Education alumni privileges (but not HBS MBA alumni) |
Career Services | Executive coaching, brand-building, peer networking | No placement; peer networking + leadership transformation tools |
Program Fee | ₹43.9 lakhs + GST (includes stay + global modules) | $52,000 (~₹43.3 lakhs) plus travel/accommodation costs |
Admission Requirements | Online application, essays, 2 recommendations, interview | Online application, CV, essay + selection by HBS |
Ideal For | Business owners, CXOs, family business successors, senior leaders in transition | High-impact senior executives aiming for global board roles and transformative leadership impact |
Global Exposure Without Test Scores
Here are programs offering international immersions even without requiring a GMAT:
Program | Global Modules |
ISB PGPMAX | 2 (Wharton/Kellogg or similar) |
ISB PGPpro | Optional (e.g., NUS Singapore) |
SDA Bocconi IEMB | 2-week Milan immersion |
IITB-WashU EMBA | 2 modules in USA |
INSEAD ILPSE | Singapore + France |
For those looking to move towards top management (Director/ VP level) leadership roles, here are the top Executive MBA programs in India without GMAT to consider:
ISB PGPMAX: The ISB PGPMAX is a fifteen month program that focuses on leadership, strategy, and global business for professionals with more than 10 years of work experience.
HBS - SELPI (Senior Executive Leadership Program, India): This program is offered by Harvard Business School and is designed for senior executives with over 20 years of work experience.
INSEAD ILPSE: The International Leadership Program for Senior Executives offered by INSEAD is a one-year program that focuses on leadership development, strategy, and global business.
UCLA Accelerated Management Program: The program is designed for senior executives with over 10 years of work experience.
Wharton CTO program: The Chief Technology Officer program offered by the Wharton School is a six-month program that focuses on leadership, innovation, and technology management.
IIT BOMBAY-WASHU EXECUTIVE MBA: This program is a joint collaboration between IIT Bombay and the Olin Business School at Washington University and is designed for senior executives with over ten years of work experience.
Get in touch with our expert in Executive MBA admissions at GOALisB to discuss your career prospects, the program suitable and application assistance for the same.
Is a GMAT-Free EMBA Worth It?
Yes — if you’re a working professional looking for:
Career acceleration or pivot
Global exposure without disrupting work
Peer learning from experienced leaders
Access to prestigious alumni networks
These programs are rigorous, recognized, and respected — minus the GMAT stress.
ISB Executive MBA vs IIM Executive MBA: Which One Should You Choose?
India’s top business schools offer exceptional Executive MBA (EMBA) and EMBA-equivalent programs designed for working professionals. Two of the most prestigious are from ISB (Indian School of Business) and the IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management).
While ISB offers PGPMAX and PGPpro as its EMBA formats, various IIMs offer Executive MBAs with different formats, degrees, and eligibility criteria. Let’s compare the most relevant options side by side.
ISB Executive MBA vs IIM Executive MBA
Criteria | ISB Executive MBA (PGPMAX / PGPpro) | IIM Executive MBA (EPGP / PGPEM / ePGP / PGPWE) |
Institutions | ISB Hyderabad & Mohali | IIMA, IIMB, IIML, IIMK, IIM Indore, etc. |
Credential | Post Graduate Certificate (EMBA-equivalent) | MBA/PGP Degree (usually full-time or blended) |
Duration | PGPMAX: 15 months PGPpro: 18 months | 1 to 2 years depending on program & institute |
Format | Modular (PGPMAX) or Weekend (PGPpro) | Full-time (IIMA EPGP), blended (IIMB PGPEM), weekend (IIML PGPWE) |
Eligibility | PGPpro: 5+ years PGPMAX: 10+ years | Typically 3–5+ years (varies by IIM) |
Test Requirement | No GMAT/GRE/CAT required | Yes – GMAT/CAT/GRE/IIM Test required (except some weekend formats) |
Global Exposure | PGPMAX: 2 global immersions PGPpro: Optional | IIMA: Global immersion included IIML/IIMK: Optional or limited |
Faculty | ISB core + global B-school faculty (Kellogg, LBS, Wharton) | IIM full-time faculty + visiting experts |
Alumni Network | Full ISB alumni status (16,000+) | Full IIM alumni status (varies by campus) |
Career Services | Coaching, peer network, lateral opportunities, branding sessions | Limited for exec formats; strong for 1-year full-time programs |
Program Fee (approx.) | PGPMAX: ₹44L+ PGPpro: ₹32L+ | IIMA EPGP: ₹31L IIMB PGPEM: ₹20L IIML PGPWE: ₹13L–15L |
Best Suited For | CXOs, entrepreneurs, experienced professionals not looking for degree | Mid-career managers, public sector, or degree-seeking professionals |
Degree vs Certificate | Certificate (industry-recognized, EMBA-equivalent) | Master’s degree (MBA/PGP from IIM) |
Key Differences:
ISB does not offer a degree, but its programs are globally respected and designed for leadership transitions, especially PGPMAX (for CXOs).
IIM Executive MBAs often award formal MBA degrees, making them attractive to those needing official credentials for government or academic positions.
ISB doesn’t require GMAT/GRE, making it test-free and ideal for seasoned professionals who don’t want to prep for entrance exams.
ISB vs IIM: How to Decide?
Choose ISB Executive MBA if:
You’re a senior professional (5–25 years exp.) aiming for board/CXO roles.
You want global immersion and a high-quality peer group.
You prefer a non-degree, industry-aligned credential without entrance tests.
Choose IIM Executive MBA if:
You need a formal MBA degree from an IIM for regulatory or academic reasons.
You are early-mid in your leadership journey (3–10 years exp).
You're okay with taking GMAT/GRE/CAT and attending regular sessions.
Application Process for Executive MBA Programs in India without GMAT:
Application Process for ISB PGPpro 2025:
The ISB PGPPro Executive MBA is a highly sought-after programme meant for working professionals at ISB with a minimum of 5 years of work experience. It is an exclusive weekend executive MBA-equivalent programme designed to cater to mid-career professionals. The programme offers a range of benefits, including an international immersion, in-campus residency weeks, and four cohorts located in NCR, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
The ISB PGPPro Executive MBA is an excellent option for mid-career professionals looking to expand their knowledge in strategy and leadership, with the option to choose either finance or marketing. Furthermore, the programme is an executive MBA in India without the need for a GMAT score.
The programme's duration spans 18 months, consisting of alternating weekend and online classes. Course offerings are available in Delhi (NCR), Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, with campus visits at Mohali and Hyderabad separately (1-week classes) at both the campuses. The ISB PGPPro Executive MBA also includes an international week in an Asian country as part of the curriculum. We have also discussed how good is ISB PGPpro.
The two-year weekend MBA programme is designed for senior working professionals across diverse sectors and industries who wish to enhance their management skills without interrupting their career. With cutting-edge curriculum, electives across programmes, and an independent project, participants get a chance to experience a student exchange programme as part of the Global Network for Advanced Management. The programme is flexible, allowing participants to take a break in the second year and resume when ready. They also become part of the IIMB alumni network and can benefit from scholarships.
Executive MBA from IIM Bangalore on the other hand is a full time one year residential program which again requires the GMAT or the GRE score to be submitted for the application process.
The IIM Ahmedabad BPGP of the IIMA Online MBA are designed for working professionals seeking IIMA’s academic rigor through a flexible format. Delivered via a mix of interactive online sessions and campus immersions, these programs focus on leadership, strategy, and data-driven decision-making. Ideal for mid-career professionals, the Online MBA offers the prestige of an IIMA credential without requiring a career break.
The Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) by IIM Lucknow is a 2-year, weekend-based MBA-equivalent program held at its Noida campus. Designed for professionals with 3+ years of work experience, it combines in-class learning, case studies, and leadership development modules. The program includes one international immersion and is recognized for its affordability, IIM degree credential, and peer-driven learning.
IIM Indore PGPMX:
IIM Indore offers a two-year PGPMX with classes on alternate weekends at its Powai, Mumbai campus which awards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The curriculum and rigour of the PGPMX are similar to those of the regular 2-year PGP, and distinguished faculty from IIM Indore and the industry are involved in teaching. Participants also have the opportunity to participate in an International Immersion Programme, attend the Indore Campus Module, and network with peers from diverse industries.
Five of Executive MBA from IIM programs are now ranked in the FT ranking 2023. This speaks volumes for the value that the IIM Executive MBA programs deliver for the graduates.
The program is geared towards executives who possess a minimum of 8 years of work experience or young entrepreneurs, with exceptions being made for exceptional profiles. The program is conducted through SDA Bocconi's Mumbai Campus. Applicants can take an online test crafted for professionals by SDA Bocconi or submit valid GMAT scores. The program fee is INR 18.60 Lakhs.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management offers the UCLA Post Graduate Program in Management for Professionals (UCLA PGP PRO), a one-year general management course meticulously crafted for working professionals keen on enriching their management prowess and propelling their careers.
This program caters to accomplished professionals boasting an evident career trajectory teeming with substantial responsibilities in either a corporate or entrepreneurial domain, and it mandates a minimum of seven years of work experience.
To be eligible for the EPGP in Management for Working Professionals program, applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in any discipline with a minimum of 50% aggregate mark or equivalent CGPA. Additionally, they must have at least three years of managerial, entrepreneurial, or professional experience after successfully completing their graduation, as of the deadline for submitting the online application.
All eligible candidates will undergo a selection process consisting of an entrance test called EMAT, followed by a personal interview.
IIM Kozhikode also delivers a full time Executive MBA at IIM Kozhikode campus which requires the GMAT or other test scores to be submitted for the application.
Executive MBA without GMAT for top Management aspirants:
To apply to the ISB PGPMAX the applicants must have a bachelor's degree and at least 10 years of full-time work experience. The duration of the program is 15-months for experienced professionals with 10 to 25 years of work experience.
HBS - SELPI (Senior Executive Leadership Program, India):
The Harvard Business School has announced an in-person program designed for experienced senior executives who are general managers or functional leaders, with a focus on those assuming new responsibilities or driving new growth initiatives.
The INSEAD ILPSE program is a one-year part-time general management and leadership blended program. The program is specifically designed for experienced professionals with a minimum of 10 years of business experience, including significant time in management.
The program is offered in a new blended format, which combines live virtual classes and on-campus teaching. This format provides the convenience of a flexible learning journey while allowing participants to apply their learnings in real-time.
IIT Bombay and Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) have come together to offer an Executive MBA (EMBA) program that aims to enhance leadership skills and fast-track careers for participants. The EMBA degree features a two-week international residency. Upon completing the program, participants join the alumni networks of both IIT Bombay and WashU, with the top 20% of the class earning membership in the prestigious global Beta Gamma Sigma network.
Executive MBA in India placements
ISB PGPpro Executive MBA program continually helps students in the identification of their desired goals and also helps in their search for jobs. For company-supported candidates, no job search support is offered. There is no formal placement process in place for ISB PGPpro.
ISB PGP pro MBA candidates need to know that getting a job after MBA is not a hard task. Job opportunities after MBA in India are extensive, and it is the duty of the students to pick up the right job from the choices existing. Students may have a lot of questions in mind as regards the job opportunities later than MBA in India, such as job range, work nature, roles, skills necessary, and others. It is always imperative to evaluate what transferable skills you bring to the table.
ISB PGPPro Executive MBA programmes at top business schools are gaining ground amid recruiters, with placement numbers showing how businesses are all the time more keen to take on professionals with a good portion of work within their belt.
The average salary offered to graduates of executive MBA programmes has been more than INR 18 lakh per annum, with top salaries nearing around INR 90 lakh.
In case of MNC organisations, students are by and large recruited at the mid-management level at the same time as smaller organisations occasionally recruit students for senior roles.
The intensive one-year non residential programme has been created exclusively for professionals with strong track records and 5 plus years of work experience across an extensive range of industries.
Executive MBA Placements
Higher-ranking professionals who get enrolled for this course do not take a time off from work; in its place, they’re requisite to take get their company’s support for the break from work and also generate a letter concerning the same.
For this very reason, ISB does not make available placement support to the ISB PGPMAX students, seeing that it would not represent the course in the right light. Students are expected to take advantage of their network to watch out for the jobs that they may be keen on.
Benefits of ISB PGPMAX Executive MBA
The program attracts higher-ranking professionals from varied industries; as a result, a lot of learning can take place all the way through interactions, giving out experiences and discussions along with peers.
You build strong associations for a lifetime.
Those following an EMBA get an opportunity to bring to their place of work all the learning that ensues in the class. This benefits both the learner and their employers.
You don’t have to take a time off from work, which denotes that you have a continuing income flow.
Get started with updating your resume and sharing with an ISB admission consultant at GOALisB for the best prospects for your profile. You can also whatsapp at +91 7719497187 or email us at contact@goalisb.com for a discussion.
Executive MBA Without GMAT – FAQs
Can I pursue an Executive MBA without GMAT?
Yes, many top Executive MBA programs, especially in India, such as ISB PGPpro and IIM Lucknow PGPWE, do not require GMAT or GRE scores. Admissions are often based on work experience, essays, and interviews.
Do IIM Executive MBA programs accept GMAT scores?
Yes, most 1-year full-time Executive MBA programs at IIMs, such as IIMA EPGP and IIMB EPGP, accept GMAT, GRE, or CAT. However, some weekend or blended formats like IIMB PGPEM or IIML PGPWE may not mandate test scores.
Is GMAT required for an Executive MBA in India?
Not always. While some IIMs require test scores, many top Executive MBA programs in India waive GMAT, especially for experienced professionals. ISB PGPMAX, ISB PGPpro, SDA Bocconi IEMB, and UCLA PGP PRO accept applications without GMAT.
Is the Executive Assessment (EA) easier than GMAT?
Yes, the Executive Assessment (EA) is shorter and less intensive than the GMAT. It’s designed for busy professionals applying to EMBA programs and is accepted at schools like INSEAD, Wharton, and Kellogg.
Which Executive MBA programs in India don’t need GMAT?
Top EMBA-equivalent programs without GMAT include:
ISB PGPpro
ISB PGPMAX
IIM Lucknow PGPWE
IIM Bangalore PGPEM
SDA Bocconi IEMB
UCLA PGP PRO (India format)These programs rely on work experience, essays, and interviews.
Is an Executive MBA as valuable as a regular MBA?
Yes. An Executive MBA offers equal academic rigor, but is designed for experienced professionals. While it may not offer placements, it delivers career acceleration, peer learning, and leadership transformation.
Who is eligible for an Executive MBA in India?
Typical eligibility includes:
A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
Minimum 3–10 years of work experience
Leadership potential or mid-to-senior managerial role
Some programs require test scores (CAT, GMAT, GRE), others don’t
What is the cost of an Executive MBA from top B-schools?
Executive MBA fees in India range from ₹13 lakhs (IIML PGPWE) to ₹44 lakhs (ISB PGPMAX). Global programs like Wharton or INSEAD EMBA can cost over $200,000.
Which exam is best for an Executive MBA?
If a test is required, the Executive Assessment (EA) is often preferred due to its shorter duration and relevance for senior professionals. GMAT or GRE is still common for full-time or globally ranked EMBAs.
Does Wharton Executive MBA require GMAT?
Yes, Wharton requires a standardized test for its EMBA program. Applicants must submit GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) scores — no waivers are offered.
Does Kellogg EMBA require GMAT?
GMAT/GRE is not required for most Kellogg EMBA applicants. However, if you do not hold a bachelor’s degree, a test score may be required after transcript evaluation.
Does Duke Executive MBA require GMAT?
Duke Fuqua accepts GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA). While not mandatory upfront, applicants must submit one valid score before admission confirmation.
Does Columbia Executive MBA require GMAT?
Yes, Columbia Business School EMBA applicants must submit GMAT, GRE, or EA scores. While you can self-report initially, official scores are required before enrollment.
Does INSEAD EMBA require GMAT?
INSEAD allows applicants to submit INSEAD Assessment, GMAT, GRE, or EA scores. It's flexible, but one test is mandatory for all EMBA applicants.
Does Oxford EMBA require GMAT?
Yes, Oxford’s Saïd Business School requires either the GMAT or Executive Assessment (EA). Waivers may be granted for highly experienced candidates on a case-by-case basis.
Does Yale Executive MBA require GMAT?
Yale EMBA applicants must submit one of the following: EA, GMAT, or GRE. No waivers are available; test scores are part of the holistic admissions process.
Does HEC Paris EMBA require GMAT?
HEC Paris EMBA applicants are encouraged to submit a GMAT or EA score. A competitive GMAT score (~690) improves chances, but it’s not mandatory if professional experience is strong.
Does Harvard SELPI require GMAT?
No. Harvard’s Senior Executive Leadership Program (SELPI) does not require GMAT or GRE. Selection is based on leadership experience, career trajectory, and essay-based applications.
Can I get into a top international Executive MBA without GMAT?
Yes. Top EMBA programs like Kellogg, INSEAD, Oxford, and UCLA may waive GMAT in favor of Executive Assessment (EA) or internal assessments — especially for experienced leaders.