No GMAT. No barriers.
Just opportunity.
Just opportunity.
No GMAT. No barriers.
Just opportunity.
Just opportunity.
Online MBA Admission Requirements
Ready to advance your career? We've made it straightforward.
The CSUMB Online MBA welcomes professionals from diverse backgrounds who are ready to lead with purpose and impact. With no GMAT requirement and a flexible application process, we're looking for motivation, experience, and potential—not just test scores.
January, June, and August
Program starts:
$70
Application fee:
Rolling admissions
Application deadline:
No GMAT Required
We believe your professional experience and ambition matter more than a standardized test score. That's why the GMAT is not required for admission to the CSUMB Online MBA.
What you'll need to apply:
Required for all applicants:
- Completed online application
- $70 application fee
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Undergraduate GPA of 2.9 or higher (4.0 scale)
- Current resume or CV
- Personal statement
Work experience:
- Minimum 12 months of professional work experience
- This requirement is waived for applicants with an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher
Special circumstances:
- Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 2.9 will complete a brief video interview with the admissions committee
International applicants must also provide:
- TOEFL or IELTS scores
- Course-by-course foreign transcript evaluation
Optional for all applicants:
- A letter of recommendation is optional. Applicants can submit up to two letters of recommendation, ideally from a supervisor or manager
Lead with purpose. Advance with confidence.
CSUMB's Online MBA program prepares you to become the kind of leader today's world needs. With no GMAT requirement, 100% online flexibility, and one of the lowest tuition rates among online MBAs in California, we've removed the barriers that keep talented professionals from advancing their careers.
Accessibility is just the beginning. Through our Responsible Business framework, you'll gain the strategic skills to drive results while learning to lead with integrity, balance profit with impact, and create success that extends beyond dollar signs. Study one course at a time with faculty who are committed to your growth, in a community where goals and values go hand in hand.
Download our guide to learn more about:
- The Online MBA program
- Faculty in the CSUMB College of Business
- The online student experience
- Career outcomes
- Admission requirements
Download Program Brochure
This will only take a moment.
How Applications Are Reviewed
The MBA admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering:
- Your complete academic record, including your bachelor's degree and transcripts
- Your personal statement, which tells us about your goals and motivations
- Your resume or CV, highlighting your professional experience and accomplishments
- Your letters of recommendation (optional)
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. We review each application individually.
Submit Your Materials
Mailing address:
California State University, Monterey Bay
Graduate Admissions/MBA Program
Office of Admissions
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA 93955
Graduate Admissions/MBA Program
Office of Admissions
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA 93955
E-transcripts: admissions@csumb.edu
All materials will be reviewed through the online application portal.
International applicants: View additional requirements and instructions.
You're Not Alone in This Process
From application to graduation, you'll have support every step of the way. CSUMB pairs you with an admissions outreach advisor who specializes in the Online MBA program—someone dedicated to guiding you through admissions, helping you get oriented to online learning, and ensuring you have what you need to succeed.
Faculty members are also available for advising via office hours, phone, or email throughout the program.
Questions? We're here to help.
Start Your Application Today
The business world is evolving quickly—and the CSUMB Online MBA prepares you to lead in it. With a curriculum grounded in Responsible Business, real-world projects, and a supportive community, you'll gain the skills and confidence to advance faster and make an impact.
Tuition includes e-books. No hidden fees.
Ready to get started?
Apply now or call us at 844-302-1424
Important note
California State University is in the process of requesting state authorization for our distance education programs. At this time, we cannot accept students from the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, and Utah.
Download the Application Guide
A step-by-step walkthrough of the application process.
FAQs
Application Deadlines
Does your office need to receive all application materials by the application deadline?
It's beneficial to submit your application and all required documentation before the deadline. Please note that classes fill up quickly, so the earlier your application is complete, the better.
How often does the program start?
This program has three (3) start dates: spring, summer, and fall.
Transcripts
What are the transcript requirements for admission?
One official copy of transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended is required. If any credits for an undergraduate degree were rendered from an international college or university, all foreign coursework (transcripts) must be accompanied by a course-by-course evaluation, whether or not a degree was earned at the international college or university. (Please contact an admissions outreach advisor with questions about foreign coursework evaluations.)
Where should I send my transcripts?
Official transcripts from each college or university you have attended, should be sent to:
Graduate Admissions/MBA Program
Office of Admissions
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA 93955
eTranscript email address: admissions@csumb.edu
Graduate Admissions/MBA Program
Office of Admissions
100 Campus Center
Seaside, CA 93955
eTranscript email address: admissions@csumb.edu
Do you accept secure electronic transcript delivery service e-transcripts sent directly from the issuing institution?
Yes. Electronic transcripts are preferred and result in shorter processing time. CSUMB accepts electronic transcripts from select colleges. Check to see if your institution provides electronic transcripts.
Please have secure electronic transcripts sent directly from the issuing university to admissions.csumb@elearningctr.com .
Please have secure electronic transcripts sent directly from the issuing university to admissions.csumb@elearningctr.com .
Can I scan and submit a physical transcript document? If so, what email address should I use?
Copies of official transcripts can be scanned and submitted during the application process for an initial review. However, transcripts that come from applicants or that have been in the applicant's possession are not considered official. Official e-transcripts must be sent from the issuing institution and can be sent to admissions.csumb@elearningctr.com. If you're unsure of how to upload the document, feel free to send it to your admissions outreach advisor.
Do I need to obtain copies of all my transcripts, even if I only took one course at an institution?
Yes. Official transcripts from each college or university you have attended are required.
I do not have a bachelor's degree from the U.S. What official documents does CSUMB require?
Applicants who earned their bachelor's degrees from colleges or universities outside the United States must utilize services approved by CSU Monterey Bay to have a course-by-course evaluation performed of their undergraduate transcript(s). For more information, please contact an admissions outreach advisor if you have questions about this process.
Test Scores
Is the GMAT or GRE required?
The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission.
Do you accept the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for International Students?
Yes. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international students. For more details refer to the English proficiency requirements for graduate study at CSUMB.
If you have any additional inquiries concerning test scores or testing options, please contact your admissions outreach advisor.
If you have any additional inquiries concerning test scores or testing options, please contact your admissions outreach advisor.
Tuition and Financial Aid Questions
How much does tuition for the Online MBA program cost?
The total MBA program tuition is $36,000. Each of the 30 MBA course units costs $1,200. Books and the international consulting project are included in the tuition.
View more details about tuition and financial aid here.
View more details about tuition and financial aid here.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available. To learn more about available options and to find out if you qualify for assistance, please visit the tuition and financial aid page. You can also contact an admissions outreach advisor for more information.
General Admissions Questions
Can I transfer credits from another university?
Transfer credit requests will be evaluated post acceptance. A maximum of nine credits may be transferred.
My GPA does not meet the minimum requirement. Can I still apply?
Yes. An undergraduate GPA of 2.0 or higher is required; however, this may be waived for applicants with substantial professional experience. All applicants with a GPA of 2.9 or below are required to conduct an online interview with a member of the admissions committee.
Please contact an admissions outreach advisor for details.
Please contact an admissions outreach advisor for details.
Is there an interview required for admission? If so, how is that conducted?
Interviews are not required for all applicants. However those with an undergraduate GPA of 2.9 or below are required to conduct an online video interview as referenced in the answer directly above.
How long does my personal statement need to be?
Your application must include a personal statement that is one to two pages in length.
What should my personal statement include?
You must submit a personal statement that is one to two pages in length and addresses the following question: What makes you a strong candidate for our Online Responsible Business MBA program? Be sure to discuss your professional background and goals in your answer.
If your undergraduate GPA is 2.9 or lower, please articulate any mitigating circumstances in your personal statement.
If your undergraduate GPA is 2.9 or lower, please articulate any mitigating circumstances in your personal statement.
When will I be notified of an admission decision?
Most admissions decisions will be posted within two (2) weeks of your application entering review.
Who should write my letter of recommendation?
Professional and/or academic letters of recommendation are optional parts of your application. If you choose to submit them, please request them from individuals who are well-qualified to judge your character, knowledge, and professional capabilities. One must be from a current supervisor, while the second letter may be from a past employer, professor, or other academic supervisor, or someone in a leadership position in a nonprofit or volunteer organization.
Is the application deadline flexible?
No. The application deadline is firm.
Can I meet with a program faculty member during the application process?
Not at this time.
How does CSUMB's cohort model allow for unplanned breaks in the program? Am I able to take a leave of absence if necessary?
Students may take up to two leave of absence (LOA) which may be consecutive or separate. Students requesting more than two (2) LOAs will be required to reapply to the program.
What if I'm a non-native English speaker?
International student applicants are required to demonstrate satisfactory proficiency in English before gaining admission to the Online MBA program. International student applicants are required to demonstrate satisfactory proficiency in English before gaining admission to the Online MBA program. Find more information on our International Applicants page.
Online Application Questions
How do I start my online application?
You can start your online application by clicking here and following the instructions. For detailed instructions, please refer to our How to Apply page.
What if I forget my password?
Please click "Forgot Password" to reset it.
What if I have problems while completing the application?
If you are having issues with our online application system, please contact an admissions outreach advisor at 831-920-3453.
What if I cannot find my school listed on the application?
If you cannot find your school, attempt to submit a different search term (i.e.: full school name instead of an abbreviation). If you still cannot find your school after several attempts, click on "Can't find your school?" and manually enter your school information into your application.
Can I save my application and work on it later?
Yes. You can manually save your application at any time during the online application process and return to it at a later time. You will need your username (email) and password to log back in and finish the application.
What if I need to resend the email reference request to my recommender?
You can resend a request to any recommender who has not responded to your initial request. Locate your application dashboard and click on "Program Materials", then click on "Business Administration (MBA)", and then click on "Recommendations". From this screen, you can see the list of your recommenders and choose an action for each. Click on the pencil icon located to the right of the recommender's name, scroll down to the bottom of the page, and click on "Resend This Recommendation Request".
Schedule Planning
Is there a part-time option available for the Online MBA program?
Currently, there is not an option for a part-time program. The program is mindfully structured for working adults to be completed in 16 months and allows for financial aid eligibility.
What kind of weekly time commitment does this program require?
The Online MBA program generally requires only 20 to 25 hours of work per week, including time spent with lectures, research, and coursework.
Is it possible to complete this program while also working a full-time job?
Yes. The Online MBA program has been designed specifically with the goals of working professionals in mind. Students can log in, view lectures and assignments, and submit required classwork as their schedules allow.
Approximately how many courses should I expect to complete each year?
You are required to complete three (3) courses during the fall term, three (3) courses during the spring term, and two (2) courses during the summer term, for a total of eight (8) classes per year.
How do graduation proceedings work? Can I attend the on-campus commencement?
Yes. Online students are welcome to participate in on-campus commencement activities.
Program Details
How will I interact with my cohort peers?
Students in the Online MBA program can expect to collaborate and communicate with their cohort peers primarily through video conferencing, live chat, discussion boards, and email messages related to course assignments. Similarly, faculty will communicate with students through these same channels, along with scheduled phone conversations which are available upon request.
What types of students and/or professionals typically apply for this program?
CSUMB admits students from various majors, backgrounds, and experience. You can learn more about CSUMB students here.
What are the technology requirements for this program?
To complete the program you will need to have access to a computer that can run the latest standard version of MS Office 365. MS Office Online and other simplified versions of MS Office are not sufficient. The most up to date minimum computer requirements for Masters of Business Administration students can be found here under Baseline Computer Configuration (table 1).
Learn more. Connect with us.
There’s so much to know about California State University, Monterey Bay’s Online MBA program that you’re bound to have questions. We’re here to help. For information and support, schedule a call with Brad or Fred. They’re knowledgeable, friendly admissions outreach advisors who’ll make sure you get all the answers.
Keep Moving Forward
Apr
10
Application Deadline
April 10
Summer 2026 Term
May
25
Class Start Date
May 25
Summer 2026 Term