Invest 30 seconds...
...for what may lead to a life altering association!
Help Line
- +91.8800.2828.00 (IND)
- 1030-1830 Hrs IST, Mon-Sat
- support@expertsglobal.com
...for what may lead to a life altering association!
Log in to your official GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS accounts, select your MBA programs, and send official scores. Use free reports where available, confirm program details, and track submission. Ensure scores are received before deadlines by checking each school’s application portal for confirmation.
Seek end-to-end MBA application support? Inquire for MBA admission consulting
Applying to MBA programs involves a series of important steps, and forwarding your standardized test scores is among the most critical. Most business schools require official GMAT or GRE scores along with proof of English language proficiency, usually through TOEFL or IELTS. Sending these scores to your target programs on time ensures that your application is considered complete. This article provides a detailed overview of how to forward each of these test scores, along with helpful tips, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
To know your current level on GMAT, take a free GMAT practice test
To know your current level on GRE, take a free GRE practice test
Technically, many MBA programs offer test waivers, but in practice, a GMAT or GRE score remains a de facto requirement at most reputable business schools. Though waivers exist, they lead to admits only to rare candidates with exceptional overall profile. In practice, most applicants still submit a GMAT or GRE score to remain competitive. A strong score strengthens your application, supports scholarship consideration, and demonstrates your readiness for the academic rigor of an MBA. For candidates from less traditional backgrounds, a strong GMAT or GRE score provides a standardized metric for evaluation. For those from over-represented or competitive pools, it can serve as a valuable differentiator in a crowded applicant field.
Hence, overall, for most serious applicants, a GMAT or GRE score is essential for admission into a reputable MBA program.
A TOEFL or IELTS score is generally required by many Western business schools, particularly in the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe, for applicants whose native language is not English. However, there are several important considerations:
To decide whether you need to take a language proficiency test such as the TOEFL or IELTS, review the specific requirements of each MBA program carefully. If the policy is unclear or your eligibility for a waiver is uncertain, it is advisable to contact the admissions committee of the relevant school directly. A clear response from the official source will help you make an informed decision and avoid unnecessary testing or delays. Taking the time to verify requirements early can ensure that your application remains complete and competitive across all your target programs.
Test scores are a core part of the evaluation process for MBA programs. Whether you choose the GMAT or GRE, and whether you take the TOEFL or IELTS, schools rely on official score reports to assess your readiness. These reports confirm that the scores are valid and officially issued. Delays or errors in forwarding scores may lead to missed deadlines or incomplete applications, which can be costly.
An unofficial score report is the preliminary result you receive immediately after completing the GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS. It shows your section-wise and overall scores but has not yet been formally verified by the testing body. Most business schools accept unofficial score reports during the application process to meet deadlines and begin initial evaluations. However, these reports are not a substitute for the official versions. Schools eventually require the official score report, sent directly by the testing agency, to finalize your application. Some programs need it before making an admission decision, while others require it only to confirm enrollment.
Official score reports are verified documents sent directly by GMAC, ETS, or IELTS test centers to business schools. They confirm your test results and identity, making them essential for completing MBA applications. Most schools require these reports before making a final decision or confirming admission.
When you take the GMAT, you may send your scores to up to five programs for free. This selection must be made either before the test or within 48 hours afterward. Beyond this, each additional report requires a fee.
Most programs receive the GMAT score report within one to three business days of submission. However, submit at least one week before the deadline to ensure timely delivery.
Like the GMAT, the GRE allows you to send four free official score reports if you select the institutions before or shortly after the test. Additional reports can be sent later for a fee per institution.
GRE scores are generally sent electronically to institutions within five business days. It is recommended to send them at least one week before your target program’s deadline.
TOEFL allows four free score reports if selected prior to the test. Once the official score is available, which usually takes about six days, it is sent automatically to these institutions. Additional reports may be requested for a fee.
TOEFL scores are typically delivered within four to seven business days. Always monitor the school’s application portal to confirm receipt.
Unlike other tests, IELTS does not include any free score reports. All score forwarding requests are subject to a fee.
Electronic delivery usually takes about five business days. Postal delivery can take significantly longer, so request score reports well ahead of application deadlines.
Many business schools begin scholarship reviews as soon as they receive official scores. If your score is strong, early submission can give you an edge. Conversely, if you plan to retake a test and expect a significant improvement, waiting may be more beneficial. Always check each program’s policy and balance the benefits of early consideration with the advantages of a better score.
Avoiding these mistakes will help prevent unnecessary delays and keep your application process on track.
GMAT mock tests and GRE mock tests or even TOEFL mock tests are most effective when taken consistently, not just near the exam. Regular mocks reinforce learning, sharpen strategies, build endurance, and help track progress. Spreading them across your preparation ensures steady improvement and readiness on test day.
Forwarding your GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS scores may seem like a routine task, but it carries significant weight in the MBA admissions process. It signals your readiness, organization, and respect for deadlines. By understanding the process, acting early, and double-checking every detail, you ensure that your strongest scores reach your target schools in time. This simple step, when done correctly, helps present your candidacy in the best light and keeps your entire application aligned and complete. Plan carefully, stay proactive, and move forward with confidence.
Explore our GMAT & GRE preparation course + MBA admission consulting bundle for complete support
