Is GRE / GMAT needed for MBB? I got into the MBA (esade) without one using their in-house test, but I am wondering if I should focus on it?

Hi there,

For MBB, the GRE/GMAT is not a strict requirement for experienced hire or post-MBA recruiting. However, it can be a useful differentiator, especially if your academic background or test scores were not a strong point.

Since you got into ESADE without it, focus on case prep and networking instead. Only take the GRE/GMAT if you feel your profile needs a boost (e.g., weaker undergrad GPA). Otherwise, MBB primarily cares about your problem-solving skills, leadership, and case performance.

Best,

Evelina

Hi there,

GRE/GMAT is not a requirement for MBB—especially in post-MBA recruiting. What matters far more is the strength of your university, work experience, and how well you perform during the actual interview process (which is their main assessment tool).

Consulting firms care much more about your problem-solving skills, leadership, and ability to structure and communicate under pressure than about a standardized test score.

Given how time-consuming GRE/GMAT prep can be, my recommendation is to focus that energy elsewhere:
✔️ Craft a strong CV and cover letter
✔️ Build a clear, compelling story about who you are and why consulting
✔️ Start early with casing and personal fit prep

Happy to chat if you'd like support on any of those areas—feel free to book a free 15-min intro call.

Best,
Patricia

Do MBB Firms Require the GMAT/GRE?

No, GMAT/GRE are not required by MBB globally. However, they can be helpful in some cases. Here’s the breakdown:

✅ When You Don’t Need a GMAT/GRE Score

• You’re attending a top MBA program like ESADE (which is well-known in Europe).

• You have a strong academic record and/or quantitative background (e.g., engineering, finance).

• Your in-house test performance was solid, and you can demonstrate problem-solving strength through case interviews.

⚠️ When a GMAT/GRE Could Help

• If your undergrad GPA or school is less known or not strong in math-heavy subjects.

• If you’re coming from a non-traditional background or want to signal analytical ability.

• If you’re applying to off-cycle roles or geographies where recruiters use GMAT scores as a filtering mechanism

So Should You Take It?

Since you’re already in ESADE, unless you have a weaker academic record or no evidence of strong analytical skills, you likely do not need to take the GMAT or GRE.

But—if you have the time and want to strengthen your application, a good score (~700+ GMAT or 320+ GRE) could be a nice-to-have differentiator.

Hey ?,

Congrats on getting into ESADE—that’s already a great step toward MBB! ?

For MBB recruiting, you don’t need the GRE/GMAT if you’ve already been admitted to a top MBA and the firm doesn’t explicitly request it. In most cases, ESADE + strong GPA + clear story + good interviews are enough. That said:

? If you feel your academic background is not super strong (e.g., low GPA, non-quant background), a strong GMAT score could help as a signal of analytical strength—but it’s definitely not required.

So unless a specific office or recruiter tells you otherwise, I’d recommend you focus on casing + personal fit prep instead of the GMAT right now ?

Happy to help with that if you need support!
Best,
Alessa ?

Hi there,

Q: Is GRE / GMAT needed for MBB?

You don't need to take the tests to apply to MBB.

If you already have a good score, it is fine to put it in your CV, it can have a positive effect.

However, if you haven’t taken the tests, I would not recommend taking them just for the MBB application. That time could be better spent on case prep, networking to get referrals and improving your application material.

Good luck!

Francesco

GMAT is not relevant if you already hold an MBA.

Best,

Alberto

—

Explore my latest case inspired by a real MBB interview: Sierra Sprints - New Product Launch

Hey! 

I'm currently doing an MBA so happy to chip in.

I believe only BCG asked for GMAT and you didn't have to put it in to the application if you didn't want to.

Equally we got shown some stats by our career service that showed that there is no correlation between GMAT score and getting an offer from MBB. 

To summarise my answer would be don't bother and focus more on what you can do to get an interview e.g. coffee chats, referrals.

Happy to chat about how you should approach it!

Will

Hi there, 

no need to have a GRE/GMAT for MBB per se. Can be a differentiator for the screening phase but university would be more important. Once you enter the case phase, it does not matter anymore. 

Best, 
Sebastian

Hi there,

Not required, not relevant :-)

Cheers,

Florian

Hi there, 

As long as you have a good MBA (Esade is one of them), there is no need for GRE/GMAT scores. Nobody would ask you for that and you don't need to disclose. Don't worry about it. 

Best,

Emily

No, those tests are only relevant to get into an MBA, not for the consulting firms.