Want to pursue an Online MBA but don’t want to take CAT, MAT, GMAT, or any entrance exam? You’re in luck. In 2025, many top Indian universities offer online MBA programs with no entrance exam required — and they’re fully UGC-approved too. Whether you’re a working professional, a career switcher, or someone getting back into education, this path is open to you.
In this blog, I’ll cover everything you need to know: which universities offer online MBAs without entrance tests, eligibility requirements, and tips to choose the right one.
Why This Blog Matters
Entrance exams can be time-consuming, stressful, and sometimes irrelevant—especially for people who already have work experience. Thankfully, many Indian universities now allow direct admission to online MBA programs based on your academic or professional background, not test scores. This blog is your shortcut to finding them.
️ Top Universities Offering Online MBA Without Entrance Exam
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These universities don’t require CAT, MAT, XAT, GMAT, or any other entrance test for admission.
1. NMIMS Global (SVKM’s NMIMS)
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Entrance exam: ❌ Not required
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Eligibility: Graduation + 2 years of work experience preferred
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Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Analytics, HR, more
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UGC Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: nmims.edu
2. Amity University Online
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Entrance exam: ❌ Not required
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Eligibility: Graduation (no work experience required)
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Specializations: 10+ including Digital Marketing, FinTech
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UGC/DEB Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: amityonline.com
3. Manipal University (Online Manipal)
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Entrance exam: ❌ No test required
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Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
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UGC Entitled: ✅ Yes
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Website: onlinemanipal.com
4. UPES Online (University of Petroleum & Energy Studies)
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Entrance exam: ❌ Not required
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Eligibility: Graduation + optional work experience
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Focus Areas: Energy Mgmt, Supply Chain, Marketing, Analytics
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UGC Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: online.upes.ac.in
5. Jain University Online
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Entrance exam: ❌ No test needed
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Eligibility: Graduation with 50% marks
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Specializations: Aviation, HR, Finance, Sports Mgmt
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UGC Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: onlinejain.com
6. DY Patil University Online
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Entrance exam: ❌ Not required
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Eligibility: Graduation (any stream)
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UGC-DEB Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: dypatiluniversityonline.com
7. ICFAI University
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Entrance exam: ❌ Not needed
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Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree
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Affordable Option: Fees start around ₹60,000
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UGC Approved: ✅ Yes
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Website: icfaiuniversity.in
Key Benefits of an Online MBA Without an Entrance Exam
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No prep needed: Skip the coaching classes, practice tests, and sleepless nights.
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Faster admission: Apply anytime (rolling admissions for many colleges).
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Work-study balance: Designed for professionals who can’t afford test prep time.
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Career-focused: These programs emphasize skills, not scores.
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Wider access: Many programs welcome students from non-business backgrounds.
✅ Basic Eligibility Criteria (Even Without an Entrance Test)
Even if no exam is required, you still need to meet some basic conditions:
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Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
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Minimum percentage: Usually 50% marks (some flexibility for SC/ST or working professionals)
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Work experience: Preferred, but not mandatory in most cases
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English proficiency: Some colleges may check your command of English (informally or via short screening)
How to Choose the Right Online MBA Program Without an Exam
Here’s a simple checklist:
| Criteria | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| UGC/DEB Approval | Non-negotiable for recognition and legitimacy |
| Specializations | Align with your industry or career shift goals |
| Fee structure | Transparent costs + EMI options |
| Learning model | Live sessions, recorded lectures, app access |
| Career support | Placements, resume help, mentorship |
| Alumni feedback | Real student reviews and outcomes |
What About the Cost?
Online MBA programs without entrance exams are just as affordable (sometimes more so) than full-time MBAs. Here’s a fee range:
| University | Total Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| IGNOU | ₹62,000 |
| ICFAI | ₹60,000 – ₹1 lakh |
| DY Patil Online | ₹99,000 |
| Jain University | ₹1.2 – ₹1.8 lakhs |
| Amity Online | ₹1.7 – ₹2 lakhs |
| NMIMS Global | ₹1.5 – ₹1.8 lakhs |
Tip: Some colleges offer early bird discounts, EMI plans, and scholarships.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a CAT score or GMAT prep to unlock big career opportunities. With a UGC-approved online MBA that doesn’t require an entrance exam, you can upskill on your terms—faster, more affordably, and without compromising on quality.
Thinking of applying soon? I can help you compare 2–3 top programs based on your career goals, budget, and preferences. Just let me know!
♀️ FAQs
Q: Is an online MBA without entrance exam valid in India?
Yes, if the university is UGC-DEB approved.
Q: Can fresh graduates apply without work experience?
Yes, many programs accept freshers, though some prefer working professionals.
Q: Do I still get placements without an entrance exam?
Yes. Placement support depends on the university, not whether you took an entrance test.
Q: Is there any disadvantage to skipping the exam?
None. If the program is UGC-recognized and industry-ready, you’re good to go.
