If you’re applying to an MBA or Executive MBA program, you’ve probably heard the term “Executive Assessment” or “EA” floating around.
But do you need to take it?
Possibly. Here we’ll outline the three groups of people who need to take the EA in Dubai:
1. Anyone applying to an Executive MBA program locally or abroad should take the EA in Dubai
If you want to go to London Business School Dubai, INSEAD Abu Dhabi, or any of the other fantastic EMBA programs in the region, you’ll need to take the Executive Assessment. Almost all of them accept the test.
The EA has become “the” EMBA admissions test of choice over the GMAT. Many programs internationally also accept the test. If it’s not mentioned on their website, ask them.
Were you offered the choice of taking the EA or the GMAT?
Take the EA!
It’s shorter, tests fewer content areas, and is generally less difficult than the GMAT.
2. Anyone applying to an EMBA program within the next 5 years
Your Executive Assessment score is good for (valid) for 5 years, so you can take the test now and use the score later.
It’s the perfect time to prepare for and take the Executive Assessment now if:
You’re taking a career break.
You have more time than you will when you start working again. Use the time you have off wisely, and you’ll be happy you did!
You’re between jobs.
When you start working again, you won’t have as much time as you do now. Besides, it will help your mental health to have something career-oriented to focus on. Once you start working again, you’ll still have that score and apply to Executive MBA programs to further boost your career.
You’re planning to start a family but will return to work eventually.
Studying with a baby may seem daunting, but it will help you maintain your identity and individuality. You can study whenever you have time and at your own pace. Just imagine…you have the baby and your score will be good until she attends kindergarten!
You’re waiting on the next big project, idea, or otherwise.
Don’t let a slow economy or coronavirus get you down! Rather than stressing about the low workload, prepare and ace your EA, so that when it does pick back up, you’re ready to apply for your EMBA.
3. Anyone who took the GMAT or GRE more than 5 years ago
Maybe you thought you would do an MBA but didn’t. If you took the GMAT or GRE within the last 5 years, you can submit those scores with your EMBA application.
However, some programs may not accept a GMAT or GRE score over 3 years old, so check with the admissions department. In our experience, it usually depends on your undergraduate GPA as well. If you had a good GPA (3.0 and above) and a good GMAT or GRE score, they will more than likely assume you have consistent academic performance and accept the older score. If not, they will ask you to take the EA.
Frequently Asked Questions about Who Can Take the EA in Dubai
Is an EMBA the same as an MBA?
An Executive MBA is a Master’s in Business Administration for professionals who have more than 10 years of work experience and (usually) significant leadership experience. EMBA students tend to be later in their careers than MBA students. A Master’s in Business Administration is usually for students with two to eight years of experience. While EMBA and MBA students take the same courses, EMBA programs tend to provide a higher-level overview of topics from a management and leadership standpoint.
Does INSEAD accept the EA?
Yes, INSEAD does accept the EA. INSEAD typically requires a 151. In fact, we recommend you take the EA, not the INSEAD test. Check out our discussion on this topic to find out why.
Not Sure If You Need the Executive Assessment? Let’s Talk It Through.
Thinking about applying for an Executive MBA but not sure if the Executive Assessment (EA) is required, or worth preparing for? You’re not alone. Many top EMBA programs now accept or prefer the EA as a quicker, more relevant alternative to the GMAT.
Our expert advisor can help you:
✅ Understand whether the EA is right for your target schools
✅ Decide if a waiver makes sense, or if prep is your best move
✅ Create a smart, efficient study plan if the EA is required
Don’t guess your way through the process.
Book a free consultation today and get clear, honest guidance on whether the EA fits into your MBA game plan.
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