Removing Standardized Tests from MBA and Other Graduate Degree Applications

Presented by Michael Dixon, North Carolina State University

Reported by Amanda Selby, EdD, A.T. Still University

The discussion on removing test scores in higher education applications has been a hot topic for some time. As Michael Dixon, director of graduate admissions for the Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University, began his presentation by opening the floor to a general discussion about barriers applicants face in applying to graduate programs, it quickly became apparent that this was still the case. While many barriers were mentioned, Dixon focused his presentation on three – money, stress, and time. Dixon presented evidence showing how these three barriers disproportionally burden URM graduate applicants. These three factors also amplify the challenges presented to many URM students by requiring test scores as part of the application process.

In addition to mandatory test scores burdening URM applicants, they can burden program administrators who also face the hurdles of money, stress, and time. Dixon discussed his experience with Jenkins MBA programs and test scores. Some key highlights included how the program offers waivers for test scores such as the GMAT and GRE, but students must request this waiver.

Administrators must review and approve the request, at the cost of additional time and effort. Dixon provided data showing the benefits removing the GMAT/GRE requirement had on MBA programs at his university. Not only did overall applications increase but there was also an increase in URM applicants and female applicants. Dixon also highlighted programs at other universities that have removed or reduced the barrier to applicants created by required test scores.

The session concluded with a discussion of how other qualities besides test scores can and should be considered in selecting graduate students. The group was in agreement that a holistic application review approach is key in selecting and retaining qualified applicants. There was an acknowledgment that there are some cons to removing test scores. In some cases, students admitted without test scores may have academic struggles or require more support services than what is available. There is also the question of how to make test score waiver approvals fair and consistent. However, the general consensus was that the pros of removing test score requirements for admission outweighed the cons.