Find French Lessons in Birmingham

Find French Lessons in Birmingham Opportunities to Learn French in Birmingham ChaptersWhy Learning a Language will be the Best Thing You Will Ever DoBefore Your First French Lesson.Why Birmingham is a Great City to take French Classes.So, you want to learn French? You’ve definitely come to the right place!It’s a great first step, and it’s a step that we should all be taking. Because, whilst there are so many wonderful reasons to learn a language, it’s not something that a lot of us Brits do. And, honestly, that’s both a terrible shame and something terribly silly.Because, whilst more than half of Europeans are able to hold a conversation in a second language, only thirty eight percent of Brits can do it. This happens to be the worst rate in Europe â€" and for some reason this is something which we sort of laughingly pride ourselves on.However, more fool us, really. Because being able to speak a foreign language is good for business, good for your own mental performance, and good for the culture in which your based. And, honestly, it just looks much b etter if you travel abroad and can manage a little something, even if that is ‘bonjour’ and ‘merci’ or ‘buongiorno’ or ‘grazie’.So, guys, let’s sort it out. Whether you’re interested in learning a new language because you have fallen in love with someone from a different country. Whether you’re intending to get out into the world and travel. Or if you’re being relocated for work. Whichever is the motivating factor, be assured that taking language classes will be the best thing you’ll do.And, whilst this article is focused on French language courses in Birmingham, if you are living elsewhere across the UK, don’t worry. We have information on French language instruction in London and on French language training in Edinburgh too!

Lets Learn How to Play the Cittern.

Let’s Learn How to Play the Cittern. What You Need to Know Before Learning to Play the Cittern. ChaptersWhat is the Cittern?Some Famous Cittern Performers.How to Play the Cittern.Where to Find Cittern Lessons.We imagine that the world is split into two types of people: those who have never heard of the cittern, and those who desperately want to get their hands on this musical instrument and get playing.Considering that you have found yourself here, we are guessing that you belong in the second category â€" although you might not put it in those terms. And our project here is to have you fulfil your desire: to get you playing this stringed instrument and taking its music to everyone in that first category.And we’ll admit it. Out of all the musical instruments that you can possibly learn in the world, the cittern is up there with the mandolin or the harpsichord as one of more obscure stringed instruments. It’s not exactly like the modern guitar, is it, or violins, for which you can find lessons and training on pretty much every corner of every street.No, it isn’t. If you wa nt to learn to play the cittern, you have to make a bit more of an effort. You need to find out how to tune it, what notes the strings are supposed to be â€" and then find the correct strumming or plucking technique, and all the pieces in the repertoire that you’ll want to play.You’ll never take for granted how easy it is to learn the guitar ever again.So, here, we’re going to give you all the information that you might need before you sit down and start learning the cittern: a bit of the instrument’s history, some famous citternists you need to know, and some basic techniques.And we’ll finish off by pointing you in the direction of some cittern teachers â€" to make your life a bit easier. Why not learn the cittern? (image from Magills) PeterGuitar Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EdgarGuitar Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PaulGuitar Teacher 5.00 (12) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToddGuitar Teacher 4.75 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamueleGuitar Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KurtGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RyanGuitar Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is the Cittern?If you have read our article on learning to play the mandolin, you may well think that this instrument known as the cittern is really just another of the family of mandolins.In fact, many of its features are very similar: it often has eight strings arranged into four two-string courses â€" although it can often have six courses too â€", it h as a box-shaped body and resonator, and it is strung with metal strings. However, where with a mandolin you use a plectrum, on the cittern you primarily just use your fingers.Meanwhile, whilst mandolins are reasonably widespread as instruments, citterns are not so much. And, importantly, they only come in one shape. There are not all these differences between flat-backed and bowl-shaped citterns that you find in mandolins. Citterns are flat-backed â€" making them easier and cheaper to make.However, the primary difference between the cittern and the mandolin is in their history. They are two distinct instruments with two distinct trajectories. But, given their history â€" and the fact that the cittern is a primarily historical instrument â€" all of these terms tend to become a little confused.And so, despite the cittern’s history, it can often be very similar â€" and often confused â€" with a mandolin, a mandola, or even a bouzouki.A Brief History of the Cittern.The cittern comes f rom the family of lutes and it was popular across Europe in the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. It is generally thought to have developed from the earlier instrument, the citole, which is considered to be the ancestor of the modern-day fiddle.Whilst most string instruments during the Renaissance used gut strings, the cittern made use of metal, which were placed over a fretted neck and what is known as a ‘pear-shaped body’ â€" as opposed to the contemporary guitar’s double-shouldered shape.Just as the guitar is now, the cittern was a popular instrument, with popular in the sense of it being an instrument of the people rather than, say, of the aristocracy. There are even references to citterns being in barber shop waiting rooms, so that people could play as they waited.However, by the end of the eighteenth century, the guitar had started to push the cittern aside, in terms of popularity and distribution. Apart from in Germany and Switzerland, where citterns were still bei ng commonly made and played, they generally stopped being used across Europe.Stefan Sobell, an English luthier, has, since the seventies, been making instruments that he calls ‘citterns’. This is essentially an octave mandolin but with five courses â€" again suggesting that the distinction between the mandolin and the cittern is not so rigid.Check out how to learn the ukulele too! 'The Duel', by Cornelis Saftleven - featuring the citternSome Famous Cittern Performers.Well, okay, maybe ‘famous’ is pushing it a little; as in the world of the lute and other string instruments, no-one is exactly famous in the world of the cittern.However, it is good to know that there are some citternists out there from whom you can draw some inspiration. Because that, really, is what folk music is all about: listening to other composers and players of traditional music and developing it in a way that suits your taste.So, let’s look at two citternists who can show you a bit about how this instrument is played. And yes, whilst famous is a push, these guys may well be considered rockstars in the world of the cittern.Ale Carr.Let’s start with Ale Carr, the cittern player with the Denmark-based band Dreamers’ Circus. These guys play awesome classical-inspired folk music, combining Carr’s cittern and a fiddle.Carr shows you what contemporary cittern-playing can be â€" and t he tunes he plays on his five-course (ten-string) cittern are really incredible.You can find some solo performances on YouTube. Otherwise, you can find him on the folk circuit across Europe and beyond.Gregory Doc Rossi.Meanwhile, Gregory Doc Rossi is something of the boss of traditional cittern music. As something of a specialist in the cittern, he has established the Cittern Society â€" an organisation that promotes cittern music â€" he has given lectures and research on the history of the cittern, and he has recorded music from forgotten manuscripts of scores for cittern.Regarded as something of an expert of the cittern, he performs all over the world on this string instrument.How to Play the Cittern.The cittern is traditionally plucked with the fingers â€" as opposed to the mandolin, for which a plectrum or a quill was traditionally used.However, these days, it is common to use a plectrum â€" as both Rossi and Carr do.Whilst anyone with knowledge of the classical or acoustic guit ar would be able to play a cittern, the primary â€" and not insubstantial â€" difference is in the cittern’s courses. This means that with every note that you fret, you are required to actually fret two strings simultaneously. Whilst this is a bit tough on the fingers at first, you will soon get used to it.On the other end of the instrument, however, you have to be able to pluck both strings simultaneously too. This is why the plectrum has become a bit more popular than fingerpicking on the cittern.Whilst picking, it is crucial that you engage both of the strings, otherwise your tone will be affected. If only one string sounds, you won’t get as much volume or as much depth of tone. Learn all of these amazing string instruments.How to Tune a Cittern?As citterns are traditional instruments, there is no single standard tuning that is used. Rather, there are as many as is convenient for you.We get that this does not provide a huge amount of guidance! However, many citternists use one of the following tunings:CGDADDGDADDADADIf you have a four-course cittern, traditional tunings areBGDEAGDEWhere to Find Cittern Lessons.A good teacher is always a gift when you are starting out on a new instrument. And even if you are a guitarist with a good technique nailed, teachers can be useful for all sorts of other things too: for providing you with repertoire or inspiration, general advice, or jamming practice.And whilst there is not a whole load of cittern tutors out there, there are some. Let’s take a look.Find a Private Cittern Tutor on Superprof.One way to find someone to help you to learn the cittern would be through Superprof, a platform that connects students to tutors worldwide.We have hundreds of different tutors of the mandolin, the lute, the cittern, and a whole raft of other string instruments across the world.All you need to do is get in touch. So, search for a cittern tutor near you and get started!Online Resources.You can find plenty of resources to help you in your quest to master the cittern online too. From YouTube to music forums, there are so many people out there who can talk you through the basics.Check out how to learn the banjo too!

A College Students Guide to Applying to Grad School

A College Student's Guide to Applying to Grad School For some college students, the eventual completion of their four-year degree signifies not a sigh of relief or an entry-level position with a company, but instead more school! For these individuals, applying to an advanced degree program contains its own unique set of challenges and expectations. If you are one of these students, here are three tips to help you along your path to graduate school. 1. Examine your decision to attend graduate school then examine it again Pursuing a graduate degree upon completion of your Bachelors is not an inherently poor choice. It is, however, a decision that can prompt a surprising number of negative reactions from family, friends, and professors. While the majority of these responses will ultimately be of little consequence to you, two are valid. First, does your intended field of study prefer its applicants to possess real world experience? Certain programs, such as business management and creative writing, feel professional expertise and time outside the college bubble can deepen the impact and success of their curricula. In some instances, this is a suggestionin others, a requirement. Second, are you prepared to devote an additional two to seven years to academia? Both a Masters and a Doctorate degree require intense devotion to a given subject. Do you have the necessary drive and focus immediately following four years of college? Or would a gap year do you well? You may also want to take a look at this information to determine if grad school is the right option for you. 2. Develop a schedule that balances your various graduate and undergraduate commitments If you are still confident in your decision to attend graduate school, congratulations! Young graduate students often lend enthusiasm and a uniqueness of perspective to their programs. Note, however, that the application process can be grueling. Organization and time management are imperative for success. Here are the best classes for grad school admissionsthat you may want to take a look at as well. Typically, graduate school applications are due late in the fall semester or at the start of the spring semester. If possible, schedule difficult undergraduate classes in the latter half of the yearor, if you decide upon graduate school as a junior, complete them then. Designate one or two days per week to create and polish your personal statement, resume, etc. Adhere to this arrangement. A graduate school is unlikely to accept you if your grades plummet as a result of your application preparation, so give equal focus to your undergraduate commitments to avoid this predicament. These are some great tips on how to write an application essay for grad school. 3. Establish and abide by important wellness measures It is very likely that your senior year of college will be a stressful one. For the majority of prospective graduate students, this potential reality is well worth weathering. Walking at graduation can be especially meaningful with an acceptance letter in hand, as well as the comfort of a clear future. To minimize the effects of stress, eat well and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Do not allow yourself to work late into the night on an application or assignmentthe quality of your effort is liable to be poor, as a result. Instead, arrange meals with friends. Socializing is excellent for your state of mind. Reserve weekends or other periods of time for recreation you enjoy. See a film or sporting event, or visit a new city. And exercise often. Physical exertion sharpens your senses and relieves tension. Best of luck with your applications!

Changes Likely For NCLB

Changes Likely For NCLB Earlier this year, the Obama administration discussed plans to change the No Child Left Behind act with the media. Journalists and education administrators alike thought Obama was bluffing, trying to create action in policy makers. It was no bluff. The Obama administration asked Congress to rewrite the No Child Left Behind law on Monday, March 14, in an effort to accelerate its public education overhaul, one of Obamas major goals, according to an article in the Washington Post. The Obama administration has been aggressively pursuing education reform and plans to have the new version of No Child Left Behind law implemented by the fall of 2012. I want every child in this country to head back to school in the fall knowing that their education is Americas priority, Obama said in a speech at Kenmore Middle School in Arlington, Virginia. Lets seize this education moment. Lets fix No Child Left Behind. Education Secretary Arne Duncans announcement that 82 % of public schools could be labeled failing in 2011 up 37% from 2010 sparked this action. But, some education experts believe that Duncans numbers are inflated. However, lawmakers may not have enough time to change this bill before next fall. Other debates such as merit-based teacher salaries, teacher tenure and public vouchers for students to attend private schools could further complicate the process. With his changes, Obama plans to take most of the federal oversight out of average- and well-performing public schools but then use aggressive measures and oversight to fix underachieving schools. The original bill was created in 2002 by former President George W. Bush to addresses school performance ratings, standardized testing, teacher quality, academic standards and equity for lower-income students. Currently, the No Child Left Behind law requires schools to test their students every year in reading and math, measuring their progress in closing achievement gaps. Schools that do not test well can face penalties as strict as a state takeover. Lawmakers have been meeting for over a year to reach a bipartisan agreement for this bill. Obama met with House and Senate education leaders in mid-March. Changing the original No Child Left Behind Law was first debated in 2007; however, Congress took no action then.

Get Instant Solutions with a Click - Online Tutoring At Your Door Step

Get Instant Solutions with a Click - Online Tutoring At Your Door Step 0SHARESShare It is not that all can be achieved by self help in this current educational set up. Other help like that of online is necessary for comfort, convenience, strong subject knowledge and hassle free learning. How can you gain help online in an instant manner to resolve the educational difficulties you come across in your academics? When do you need help? When you struggle with the new concepts of Math while entering  new grades and know no way out of the difficult situation When you get stuck up with an assignment topic and are not able to source out the material When you are not able to furnish an academic essay as per the  prescribed deadlines and guidelines When you face problems in doing Physics concepts or Chemistry equations When you break your mind over a project in Science or a prep for a Science Fair You get instant solutions like- Online homework help for all subjects and for   Math  with its specific help like Geometry help Assignment help for all topics be it Probability or Basic Accounting help Writing help or Reading help as per your needs and demands Unlimited supply of materials for your science doubts, queries and choice of topics Tutor Pace. Com provides online solutions for all the educational problems faced by the students. [starbox id=admin]

5 Things to Do Before Your Internship Starts

5 Things to Do Before Your Internship Starts Securing an internship is an exciting and vital aspect of your college education. Regardless of whether this is your first internship or not, youre likely experiencing some level of uncertainty leading up to your start date. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to ease these nerves. Before your internship starts, establish your goals, familiarize yourself with the company, and ask your supervisor any questions you may have. Are you looking to begin your internship with confidence? Here are five things to do before your internship starts: 1. Before your internship starts, verify your schedule Be sure to double-check your schedule before your internship begins. Note your established start time each day, as well as any key dateslike your start and end date, any holidays that fall during your internship, and any dates youll need to request off. The sooner you can ask your supervisor for the days you need off, the better. Being aware of important dates ahead of time can help you have a better idea of how to juggle deadlines and manage your time over the course of your internship. [RELATED: Why You Should Pursue an Internship in College] 2. Before your internship starts, establish your goals Before you get caught up in the daily tasks of your new role, take some time to reflect on what youd like to get out of your internship, especially considering that you likely have limited time in this position. In order to establish your goals, ask yourself the following questions: What skills are you hoping to develop? What kinds of events would you like to attend, if possible, and what tools or programs would you like to practice with? How do you envision making connections with colleagues and supervisors? If youre a goal-oriented person, now is a great time to set one or two that are measurable and realistic. While you may not know all of the different opportunities available at your internship before starting, thinking about these questions will give you a leg up once youve begun work. Later, you can always return to your initial reflection and build on it. 3. Before your internship starts, familiarize yourself with the company and your role Ahead of your start date, take some time to refresh what you know about your specific role. Look over your job description and any notes you took during the interview process. Beyond this, take time to research your organizationits mission, its goals, and anything else youre able to learn from their website or outside news sources. Lastly, research the larger field and industry, which will help you understand where your organization or company fits into the bigger picture. [RELATED: How to Get Real-World Experience in Your College Major] 4. Before your internship starts, plan your commute Youll want to make a good impression on your first day, and being late is not the way to do this. Set aside time to plan out your routewhether youre walking, biking, taking public transportation, or driving. Regardless of your method of transportation, be sure to allow ample time to arrive at your destination and factor in unknown circumstances, like rush-hour traffic and weather. Its much better to arrive early and pass the time by waiting in your car or stopping to get coffee, rather than running into the office late. 5. Before your internship starts, address any questions you have with your supervisor If you have a question about your internship, dont be afraid to reach out to your supervisor or other contacts within the organization. You may need clarification on the dress code, parking policies, and where you should go on your first day. That being said, you dont want to inundate your supervisor with correspondence. Compile a list of any questions you have, and include them in one concise email. [RELATED: 4 Career Skills for Students to Develop] When starting an internship, its important to enter your first day with confidence. If you educate yourself on company policies, establish your internship goals, and ask any questions you need answered before your first day, youre sure to set yourself up for success. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.

Home Schooling Support Top 8 Benefits!

Home Schooling Support Top 8 Benefits! 8 Benefits Of Homeschooling ChaptersAbout Homeschooling In The UKHomeschooling Pros And ConsBenefits Of A Home EducationCan I Teach Myself For A Level?3 Quick Tips To Successful Home SchoolingHome education or homeschooling (blanket terms covering a wide range of non-school-based learning) is currently a hot topic.There are many reasons why families choose to take their children out of the formal education system; illness, ideology, problems with bullying, special needs, disengagement. Equally, there are many different forms of home education, such as flexi-schooling, de-schooling or unschooling.It also appears that the numbers of children being homeschooled are on the rise.  The Guardian reported in April 2016  that the numbers of home educated primary aged children rose by 60% in the three academic years to 2014/15. For secondary aged children, the number was  37%. Although the actual numbers of children are small (0.5% of the total pupil population) it is an interesting trend.With the widely reported  parent al dissatisfaction with SATs tests for year 2 children, there may be even more parents looking at new ways to educate their children.The idea of going to school to be educated may seem like something that has always existed. If we think about it, it can be hard to think about what we did before mainstream schools were invented. Even the concept of the ‘invention of school’ seems ridiculous. Surely they have always been there, otherwise, where did children go to be taught, where did they receive their education? I doubt the benefits of homeschooling or alternative forms of education would come to mind.The idea of school is such a stable and ingrained part of our society that we hardly know what we would do if it didn’t exist. But the reality is that mainstream schooling is still a relatively modern concept. Before the second half of the 19th century, the mainstream and compulsory educational system had not been developed, leaving millions of children without access to formal ed ucation.Before the latter half of the 19th century, the vast majority of Children had had access to education in one of 2 ways. The first was via the church which afforded an education heavy in religious study. Children could learn to read and write, with the only textbook being the bible. The second form of education came from home, with families and tutors responsible to educate the children.An excellent benefit of homeschooling is that you can personally create the program of your homeschool. You can decide what to teach your child and how to teach them. Perhaps you will follow a formal plan in line with the school system, Or maybe you will create your own program based on what you feel is best for your child.However, you choose to teach your child it is important to remember that you don’t have to stick to one kind of program. You are free to create the program that will bring the best out of your individual child. Try to create a flexible schedule that both you and the child will enjoy.Avoid Most Of The Common Colds And VirusesAnother bonus of homeschool is that your child is not going to get every bug, cold or flu that goes around. They will be able to remain relatively healthy and well while in the homeschool environment.   Further, if they do get sick, they can still study as they would be at home anyway.Your child is unlikely to pretend to be sick so that they can stay home either. Since at home they have to study and continue their set learning schedule.Integrating Learning Into Your Natural EnvironmentTeaching your children at home has the massive benefit of preparing them to see things with new eyes. You can incorporate education into everything that you do. A walk in the park can become a science project to learn about the trees or grass. A neighbourhood tour could turn into a history lesson or a lesson about design and architecture. Even cooking the family meal can become a home economics class.Learning and education are not just contained with in random school subjects. Every moment brings a new opportunity to learn something new opening your child's mind to this will make them a stronger and more curious student.What are the differences between home learning and online learning?Freedom to follow the child's natural interests. Photo Source: UnsplashFreedom To Follow The Child's Natural InterestsA huge benefit of homeschooling is that as a parent teaching your child, you will have the opportunity to monitor the child and learn their interests. You will be able to see where they blossom and where they struggle.This gives you the option of integrating their interests and using that as a propellor to retain the engagement of the child and accelerate their learning. For example, if they love cars, then you can use this interest to create a school curriculum which will focus on teaching teach history, maths, geography etc.This flexibility is a crucial strength of homeschooling, and it is essential to retain this flexibility in the learning of the child. Allowing them to co-create their own educational program via their natural talents and interests and introducing lessons on a variety of topics.Instil Self-confidenceMoving away from an authoritarian way of teaching and allowing your children to express themselves. While taking an active part in their own learning will validate your child, helping them to feel confident and empowered. Responsibility and trust are central motivators for self-confidence, and these are easy to instil in the homeschool environment.Wider Learning ExperiencesWhile teaching your child the world is your oyster, you can go out to museums to see what you are learning about, or arrange visits to an office to understand how to apply mathematics into the real world. You could even take a year off and go to travel the world and learn about history, languages and culture on the way.Home schooling does not mean you have to be confined to your home. Homeschooling does not require a set phy sical location to be successful. This freedom allows you to explore and discover new ways to engage, teach and excite your child about the world around them.Application Of Learning Into Everyday LifeFrom cooking to paying the household bills, to budgeting, and dealing with challenges. The list is endless, but a key strength of homeschool learning is the way that children can learn to apply what they are learning to real life and with this relevance. Learning takes on a whole new meaning, going from arbitrary pieces of information to fundamental skills to survive successfully in the future.Allowing your child to take part in and experience of most forms of adult life will enable them to use this learning as preparation for their own futures.Freedom From Peer Pressure And BullyingA significant challenge in public school today is safety and security, but when teaching your child at home. You don’t have to be concerned about the harmful effects of peer pressure, the devastatingly viol ent effects of bullying or the life-threatening impacts of in-school violence.Your child will be 100% assured a safe and secure environment to learn and focus on growing up into a happy, confident individual.Don’t try to fit too much into one day. Photo Source: UnsplashCan I Teach Myself For A Level?A topic that seems to come up more and more on education super-discussion board The Student Room is that of home education in sixth form. Students are interested in home education for many different reasons; a feeling of lack of support in school, problems with bullying, disagreements with teachers or simply that the subjects they want are not being offered.The three main questions asked are usually:Am I legally allowed to teach myself at home?Yes â€" as long as your parent or guardian agrees, you have a legal right to be homeschooled. The local authority need to be notified, however, if you are leaving  school. Make sure you understand the extent of the task, and are able to acquire the necessary text books. Consider engaging the  services of a private tutor, either regularly or as and when necessary.How can I enter for exams if I’m not in school?Some schools will accept outside candidates, but you will probably end up  sitting your exams as a private candidate at an exam centre. You will need to pay for each exam.  The exam board AQA  has a page answering questions on this subject.Will I still be able apply to university?Yes â€" you will apply through UCAS in the usual way. The ‘school/college’ question can be filled out in the way that you feel best suits your situation, but your personal statement should detail your home education experience. Having the motivation and drive to self-study is a big plus point, and students need not feel they have to hide the fact they have been studying outside a school setting. You will, however, need to consider who would be able to act as an impartial referee to comment on your academic ability, character and extra-cu rricular activities. This person cannot be a member of your family, but other possible referees could be a private tutor, religious leader or employer.3 Quick Tips To Successful Home SchoolingDon’t try to fit too much into one day, you will become tired and burnt out quickly.Join homeschool support groups and organise regular field trips and outings with other homeschoolers.Use multimedia technology and the internet, there are lots of things such as languages which could be best taught by an expert. Plus there are free curriculums, lesson plans, worksheets, and other homeschooling resources.Mainstream schooling is still the popular option when it comes to educating children. But it doesn’t have to be, with the dramatic rise of in-school bullying, in-school violence, the questionable educational system, and the less than promising economic climate. How does mainstream schooling compare to homeschooling?Homeschooling has become not just a secondary option. But a key consideration in keeping children safe while preparing them for a successful future in which they can thrive as happy members of society.Now discover this step by step guide to home schooling your learners...

How to Get a GMAT Waiver From an MBA Program

How to Get a GMAT Waiver From an MBA Program GMAT MBA Admissions Blog Earning an MBA could mean substantially boosting your earning power and lowering your risk of unemployment. MBA graduates typically see pay rises of 50 percent over their pre-business-school salaries, and five years after graduation, they’re typically earning about 80 percent more than those already-higher post-graduation salaries. In 2016, 88 percent of students graduating from a ranked business school found a job within three months of graduation. While those statistics might sound tempting, you’re probably intimidated by the prospect of taking the GMAT - most MBA applicants are. At this point, we must pause and note that the GMAT likely seems far more daunting than it needs to. The GMAT really and truly is a test that you can prepare for. It’s not some sort of IQ test that measures innate talent. With a customized study plan, deliberate practice, and fair amount of hard work, and perhaps some private GMAT tutoring, many students can see their scores rise from the low 400s in initial practice tests to 650 or even 700+ when they take the official GMAT. But without a doubt, achieving a 700+ GMAT score requires commitment, hard work, and time. But what if you could get into a good MBA program without taking this daunting standardized test? Let’s pause one more time here. You can’t get into a top 50 MBA program without taking the GMAT. And, if one of the main reasons you want to attend business school is to associate yourself with a prestigious business school education brand, you probably need to take the GMAT. But if you want to earn an MBA to acquire new skills and learn about new business functions or industries, there are many good programs out there which will, in the right situations, waive the GMAT. While many MBA programs still require most applicants to take the GMAT, some programs don’t - and others will waive testing requirements for students with previous work experience, another advanced degree, and/or an exceptional undergraduate GPA. Here’s what you need to know about getting your GMAT requirement waived: Look for GMAT-Optional or No-GMAT Programs The first step to getting a GMAT waiver for your MBA application is to look at the right programs. Some programs will never waive the GMAT requirement, no matter how much experience you have, how educated you already are, or how great your undergraduate GPA was. A few schools, like Rutgers and Texas AM, don’t require GMAT scores from any student. Many other schools are willing to waive the GMAT requirement for students who can demonstrate through other means that they’re capable of doing the work required of an MBA program. Smaller schools are more likely to waive GMAT requirements. Online programs, too, may be more willing to waive GMAT requirements, because these programs typically attract non-traditional students who may already be in full-time roles. Study the Waiver Requirements Carefully Each MBA program will have a different policy regarding the issuing of a GMAT waiver. Find a written copy of that policy for each program that interests you, and study it carefully. Chances are you’ll need to demonstrate several years of professional experience in business, previous leadership experience, a strong undergraduate GPA, and previous experience with post-graduated education. If you already have a post-graduate degree, that will work in your favor when seeking a GMAT waiver, especially if your degree is in a STEM field that emphasizes math, statistics, or other quantitative skills. You’re not completely out of luck if you don’t have a master’s degree already; professional certifications like a CFA or CPA can also help you get out of having the take the GMAT. Write a GMAT Waiver Letter If you want to get a GMAT waiver from the program of your choice, you’ll need to write a GMAT waiver letter that explains to the admissions committee why your application should be considered without GMAT scores. Your GMAT waiver letter should: Describe your current role and your level of professional experience in business; Show your level of experience with team-based roles and leadership; Demonstrate how you’ve developed analytical skills through your professional experience; and Provide concise examples to back up your assertions. Your waiver letter should also discuss other aspects of your background that you feel should qualify you for a waiver, such as your undergraduate GPA, and any existing post-graduate degrees, graduate certificates, or certifications you have. Are You Sure You Want a GMAT Waiver? Even if the school to which you’re applying doesn’t require GMAT scores or is willing to issue a waiver, taking the GMAT could strengthen your application or help you earn financial aid. A strong GMAT score could help admissions committee members overlook poor undergraduate grades, for example. Many schools, even those that don’t require them, use GMAT scores to award scholarships or to decide whether accepted students should be required to take prerequisite courses. Ask whether taking the GMAT could benefit you before applying for a waiver. Conclusion A GMAT waiver could allow you to get into a top-quality MBA program without the need to take an expensive and grueling standardized test. There are schools that are happy to grant a GMAT waiver to an applicant with lots of professional experience, another advanced degree, and a good undergraduate GPA. With a GMAT waiver, you could save time, money, and trouble, while still becoming another MBA success story.