Bentley Graduate Admission Goes ‘Test-Optional’

Since its founding 50 years ago, the McCallum Graduate School of Business at Bentley has reviewed tens of thousands of applicants. In the recent past, we’ve given applicants the option to waive out of submitting a standardized test. This combined experience has taught us that a holistic approach to admission, which evaluates past work experience, prior academic performance, and existing advanced degrees or certificates, can be a strong predictor for a candidate’s success in graduate school and beyond. As a result, Bentley will become “test optional” or “test flexible” starting with applicants for fall 2023. 

The goal of this new policy is to help streamline the application process. This option also provides a more inclusive admission process for students who may lack the opportunity to take these exams, perform poorly on standardized tests, or have a proven record of professional achievement.  

Admission to the McCallum School of Business, one of the nation’s top business schools, will remain just as competitive. The Graduate Admission Committee is placing an increased emphasis on other components of the application.  

Those who apply without a standardized test score will be asked to demonstrate analytical proficiency for some of our programs and may be required to complete an admission interview so we can better understand the applicant’s previous professional experience. For some programs, the Graduate Admission Committee will look for relevant experience that demonstrates aptitude in statistics, mathematics, user experience design, engineering, or psychology. We may also consider relevant professional certifications such as being a licensed Certified Public Accountant or Chartered Analyst. Other considerations are made for students who have pursued certificate programs, non-degree course work, or training programs in a related field of study.   

All candidates who apply should do their research. If you are test optional, be sure to examine the specifics of our programs, attend information sessions, and meet with a member of the Graduate Admission team. Ultimately, test-optional admission policies provide an opportunity to skip test taking and instead show us you are ready for graduate school through your academic record, professional experience and motivation for studying at Bentley University.   

For details on the test-optional policy, visit our FAQ page.