Looking to pursue an MBA abroad without GMAT? Check out colleges accepting NMAT scores. The NMAT by GMAC™ exam is gaining popularity among international students for its flexibility, section-wise adaptability, and the option to retake the test up to three times. It’s now accepted by top MBA colleges internationally.
With test centers in 31+ Indian cities and online options for the rest of the world, NMAT offers a practical route to global business schools. This blog covers the top NMAT accepting universities outside India, admission timelines, score requirements, and the application process for NMAT accepting colleges abroad.
Planning to use the NMAT score required for MBA in abroad colleges? Here are popular business options abroad:
In 2023, the median enrollment rate for business schools stood highest in Canada and the U.S. at 62%. Europe followed closely at 61%, while Asia and the Pacific Islands recorded 59%.
Overview of the NMAT Exam for International MBA Admissions
The NMAT by GMAC™ exam is a graduate management entrance test designed to help applicants target top colleges accepting NMAT scores across India and select international locations. These NMAT participating colleges offer MBA, PGDM, and related business programs that align with global accreditation standards.
The NMAT exam structure is designed for flexibility:
NMAT Exam Feature
Details
Conducted by
Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC)
Programs Accepted For
MBA, PGDM, MIM
Accepted Countries
South Africa, Philippines, Nigeria, Bhutan
Exam Format
Language Skills, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Skills
Score Range
36 to 360
Number of Attempts
Up to 3 times in one testing cycle
Mode of Exam
Online (both test centre and remote-proctored options available)
Score Validity
2 years
Scheduling Window
Flexible – candidates can choose preferred date, time, and location
International students increasingly consider the NMAT for its ease of retakes, section-wise flexibility, and wide acceptance among NMAT accepting universities outside India. If you're aiming for MBA abroad through NMAT, this format lets you maximize performance and shortlist B-schools that match your profile.
Countries with Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores in 2025
The number of colleges accepting NMAT scores abroad has grown steadily in recent years. The NMAT by GMAC™ exam, once limited to India, is now used for MBA and PGDM admissions in several countries with emerging business education hubs. These nations include South Africa, the Philippines, Nigeria, Hungary, and Morocco, among others.
Most NMAT participating colleges in these countries accept applicants from India, with eligibility based on your NMAT score, academic background, and language proficiency. These countries offer globally relevant MBA programs that are shorter in duration, more affordable than US/UK options, and aligned with industry needs.
Here’s an overview of regions where NMAT accepting universities outside India are located:
Globally ranked B-schools, strong industry partnerships
Nigeria
Emerging market focus, entrepreneurship and tech-driven MBAs
Hungary
European location, public and private MBA programs
Morocco
French-English bilingual MBAs, growing North African market
Bhutan
Limited programs, regionally recognized business schools
Many of these countries also offer MBA abroad through NMAT with hybrid or executive formats. Institutions in these regions accept online proctored NMAT scores, and in most cases, you can complete the entire application process for NMAT accepting colleges abroad from India.
Top Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores in 2025 – Country-Wise List
If you’re exploring colleges accepting NMAT scores abroad, you’ll find a growing number of credible, internationally recognized B-schools outside India. These institutions offer MBA, PGDM, and executive programs tailored to regional markets and global careers. From colleges in the Philippines accepting NMAT to NMAT by GMAC accepting colleges in South Africa, these universities provide flexibility, affordability, and industry relevance.
Top NMAT-Accepting Colleges in the Philippines
The Philippines has become a go-to hub for Indian students seeking MBA abroad through NMAT, thanks to low tuition fees, English-taught programs, and rolling intakes. Most universities here offer PGDM or MBA tracks aligned with global standards.
List of NMAT-Accepting Colleges in the Philippines
University Name
Program Type
Avg. Tuition (USD/INR)
Asian Institute of Management (AIM)
Full-time MBA (AACSB)
$18,000–$22,000 (₹15–18L)
Ateneo Graduate School of Business
MBA, MBA-HR, Executive
$10,000–$12,000 (₹8–10L)
University of the Philippines – Virata School of Business
MBA (Public B-school)
$6,000–$8,000 (₹5–6.5L)
De La Salle University
MBA, MS, PGCert
$7,500–$10,000 (₹6–8L)
St. Paul University Manila
MBA, PGDip
$6,000–$7,000 (₹5–6L)
Popular Specializations: Strategy, Marketing, Healthcare, Data Analytics NMAT Score Range: 200–240
Top NMAT-Accepting Colleges in South Africa
South Africa offers AACSB and AMBA-accredited MBAs with strong corporate ties. These NMAT participating colleges are known for executive formats, modular learning, and global faculty exposure.
Colleges in Nigeria accepting NMAT scores provide MBA tracks that focus on entrepreneurship, development finance, and African business strategy. Programs are affordable and delivered in full-time or part-time formats.
List of NMAT-Accepting Colleges in Nigeria
University Name
Program Type
Avg. Tuition (USD/INR)
Lagos Business School
Modular MBA
$8,000–$10,000 (₹6.5–8.5L)
JHU Business School – James Hope
Full-time MBA
$7,000–$9,000 (₹6–7.5L)
Lead City University
PGDM/MBA
$5,000–$6,500 (₹4–5.5L)
Afe Babalola University
MBA + Internships
$6,000–$7,000 (₹5–6L)
Specializations: Tech, Public Policy, Development Management Entry Score: 190–230 (varies)
Top NMAT-Accepting University in Hungary
Hungary provides a European degree with NMAT acceptance, especially at Corvinus, which is known for business and public policy education.
University Name
Program Type
Avg. Tuition (USD/INR)
Corvinus University of Budapest
MBA (English-medium)
$11,000–$14,000 (₹9–11.5L)
Top NMAT-Accepting School in Morocco
University Name
Program Type
Avg. Tuition (USD/INR)
Africa Business School
MBA + Leadership Dev
$12,000–$15,000 (₹10–12.5L)
Each of these institutions is part of the wider NMAT accepting universities outside India network. As you plan your application process for NMAT accepting colleges abroad, review your score, intake deadlines, and program fit carefully.
Not limited to NMAT? These globally popular options are also worth exploring:
Eligibility Criteria for Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores Abroad
To apply to colleges accepting NMAT scores abroad, students must meet academic and application standards set by each business school. While requirements vary by country, most schools follow a common baseline for international MBA or PGDM applicants.
Requirement
Details
Undergraduate Degree
A 3- or 4-year bachelor's from a recognized university (any stream)
Work Experience
0–2 years for early-career MBAs (required at some schools, optional at others)
NMAT Score Range
Minimum 200+ for most top MBA colleges accepting NMAT scores internationally
English Proficiency
IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (80+), or PTE (58+) for non-native speakers
Not always needed, but may be required for certain schools in South Africa or the Philippines
Some NMAT participating colleges also favour applicants with domain knowledge or leadership experience. Strong essays and a clear career plan can offset slightly lower NMAT scores.
If you plan to apply to MBA colleges accepting NMAT scores internationally for Fall or January intakes, it’s crucial to time your exam and application strategically. The NMAT by GMAC exam offers three attempts in a cycle and fast score reporting to help you meet tight B-school deadlines.
NMAT 2025 Exam Dates
Event
Date
Registration Start
Sunday, 5th January 2025
Registration End
Friday, 10th January 2025
Scheduling Window
5th – 10th January 2025
Exam Window
Monday, 13th – Friday, 17th Jan 2025
What to Know
Score Reporting Time: Unofficial scores are available immediately; official scores are sent within 72 hours.
Multiple Attempts: You can take the NMAT exam up to 3 times during the cycle.
Application Tip: Schedule your exam at least 3–4 weeks before international B-school deadlines. Most NMAT accepting universities outside India begin reviewing in rolling cycles.
To meet January 2026 intake deadlines, test latest by August–September 2025. For Fall 2026, attempt by November 2025.
How to Apply to NMAT Participating Colleges Abroad
The application process for international colleges that accept NMAT scores depends on the country and university. Some schools use their own admission portals, while others follow a centralized process. Most will ask you to send your NMAT score directly through GMAC.
You’ll also need to prepare documents like transcripts, a resume, SOP, and English test scores. Interview rounds are common for MBA programs. This section outlines what you need to apply and when to apply, based on the region.
Apply through official university websites in South Africa, Philippines, Nigeria, or Hungary.
Send your NMAT scores directly through the GMAC dashboard (first 5 reports are free).
Prepare documents: SOP, LORs, resume, NMAT report, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency.
Interview rounds are common at top business schools and may be held virtually.
Application deadlines vary by region. Most global MBA colleges accepting NMAT follow Fall (Aug/Sept) or Winter (Jan) intakes.
How to Shortlist Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores Abroad
To narrow down your list of NMAT participating colleges, look beyond the rank. You’ll want to look at the cost of study, how long the program runs, visa rules after graduation, and the kind of jobs past students have secured. Some programs are more practical and internship-based. Others are theory-heavy. Use this section to compare colleges by what they offer and how well they match your goals.
Factors to Compare:
Program Cost: Annual tuition + living cost
Curriculum Focus: General MBA, tech-MBA, MIM, entrepreneurship tracks
Work Visa Rules: Especially in South Africa, Hungary, and the Philippines
Get free counseling to shortlist NMAT-accepting colleges and start your application
FAQs About Colleges Accepting NMAT Scores Abroad
Can I apply to NMAT-accepting colleges abroad without prior work experience?
Yes. Many MBA colleges accepting NMAT scores internationally accept fresh graduates or applicants with under 2 years of experience, especially for general MBA tracks.
Is NMAT easier than GMAT for international MBA programs?
NMAT is often considered more flexible due to its structure and retake policy. While it’s accepted by fewer global B-schools than GMAT, it’s widely used in colleges accepting NMAT scores in South Africa, the Philippines, and parts of Africa.
Do NMAT-accepting colleges abroad accept final-year students?
Yes. Some NMAT participating colleges allow conditional admission to final-year undergraduate students, provided they submit degree proof before program start.
What is the typical ROI for MBA programs that accept NMAT scores abroad?
The ROI depends on the country, industry, and role. Many NMAT accepting universities outside India in South Africa and the Philippines offer MBAs with lower tuition fees, leading to quicker ROI for management, consulting, and operations roles.
Are there any NMAT-accepting colleges with January or rolling intakes?
Yes. Some colleges in the Philippines accepting NMAT, as well as B-schools in South Africa and Nigeria, offer rolling or Spring intakes for MBA and PGDM programs.
Can NMAT scores be used for dual-degree or exchange programs abroad?
Yes. Select NMAT by GMAC accepting colleges in South Africa and the Philippines offer exchange tie-ups or dual degrees with European or US partner universities.
How does the NMAT retake policy work for international applications?
You can take the NMAT up to three times in a testing cycle. Most colleges accepting NMAT scores will consider your best score for admission.
Do NMAT-accepting B-schools offer hybrid or executive MBA programs?
Yes. Some NMAT participating colleges abroad offer Executive or hybrid MBAs, particularly designed for working professionals in healthcare, finance, and logistics.
Is there any regional preference for applicants with NMAT scores?
While there is no strict regional quota, colleges in Nigeria accepting NMAT scores and South African B-schools often receive more applications from Africa and South Asia.
Are scholarships available specifically for NMAT applicants abroad?
Yes. Several NMAT accepting universities outside India offer merit-based scholarships, and some waive application fees for high NMAT scorers.
How long does it take to get a decision after applying with NMAT scores?
It varies, but most MBA abroad through NMAT applications receive admission decisions within 4–6 weeks of submission.
Can I apply with NMAT to MBA programs with a focus on entrepreneurship?
Yes. Certain MBA colleges accepting NMAT scores internationally offer electives or concentrations in entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development.
Do NMAT-accepting colleges consider career gaps in the application?
Yes. Career gaps are acceptable if explained in your SOP. Many NMAT accepting colleges value personal growth, maturity, and motivation.
Are there NMAT-friendly programs for healthcare or tech professionals?
Yes. You’ll find programs in colleges in the Philippines accepting NMAT and South Africa that cater to professionals from clinical, pharma, or IT backgrounds.
What are the job prospects after completing an MBA abroad with NMAT admission?
Graduates of NMAT cutoffs for international business schools often secure roles in banking, operations, project management, and logistics, depending on local demand and prior experience.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...
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