Universities in USA Without GRE for Masters in 2024

Don’t believe a test alone can measure your capabilities? I can’t help but agree more with you here. This is why we have prepared a list of top universities in the USA without the GRE for pursuing a master's in 2024. 

But before that, I want to have an absolute understanding of what the GRE is.

What is GRE 

Graduate Record Examinations(GRE) is a standardized eligibility test conducted by ETS(Education Testing System) taken by students who have either graduated or will be writing the final examination in a year or so, or professionals looking out for a master’s degree in the US for taking admission to graduate courses in universities and colleges. 

It is an official prerequisite that influences the admission of candidates. The test is designed to evaluate the overall academic readiness of students for graduate school.

Though it is a standardized examination, there are various universities and colleges in the US that have waived off the need for GRE scores for admission.

USA and GRE

Many ranked universities in the USA require prospective students to take the GRE for admission to master’s programs. GRE is an official prerequisite for technical master’s degrees like MS, MCA, MSC, MTech, and MBA in countries like the US. But there are top-ranked universities like the University of Florida and the University of Boston that offer some MS courses without the GRE. 

Students, especially from non-technical backgrounds, find the GRE a tough examination to crack. Hence, most non-technical students look for educational institutions in the US that do not require GRE for admission.

Almost 70-80% of the universities in the US are offering some programs without the GRE requirement considering the needs of aspirants. This is also because many international students choose Canada, Germany, and Australia instead of the USA just to avoid taking the GRE. 

Is GRE Compulsory for MS in USA

Are you planning to get into a top university in the US? If yes, then you might be seeking to get a good GRE score for your application process. The GRE exam is considered an important admission criterion for students who are aspiring to pursue their MS in an international university. As a standardized test, the GRE will measure your aptitude to pursue a postgraduate program.

But are you aware that a few universities in the US don’t necessarily ask for a GRE score in their admission process?  Many universities are beginning to waive off the GRE as a predictor of the ability of the candidate to pursue and complete their master’s program. As a result, you can readily apply to your desired universities with SOPs, LORs, curricular activities, and other factors.  

Top Universities in USA Without GRE for MS  

Here, I have compiled the list of top universities in the USA that offer GRE waivers for masters in 2024. Let’s get started.

Name of the University	Location	Approximate Fee*	Courses offered without GRE
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	Boston	$82,730	MS Electrical Engineering and Computer Science MS Aeronautics and Astronautics
University of North	Texas	$27,937	MS in Data Science
Purdue University	Indiana	$9,992.00	MS Computer Science MS Electrical and Computer Engineering MS Environmental and Ecological Engineering
University of Southern California	California	$88,941	MS Computer Science MS Electrical Engineering
Concordia University Chicago	Illinois	$48,326	MS Information Technology (Not a mandatory requirement) MS Computer Science (Not a mandatory requirement)
University of Dayton	Ohio	$47,600	MS Civil Engineering MS Mechanical Engineering MS Renewable and clean energy
University of Bridgeport	Connecticut	$35,760	MS Biomedical Engineering MS Mechanical Engineering MS Electrical engineering
Northern Arizona University	San Fransisco	$27,600	MS in Climatic Science and Solutions MS in Mechanical Engineering

Read More: Masters in USA Costs

Read More: Post Study Work Permit in the USA

Is it possible to waive off GRE Requirements? 

Many US universities have decided to drop the GRE requirement for master's program admissions, while some now offer it as optional. Schools such as the University of Florida, Boston University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and California State University are among those waiving GRE scores. 

While this shift brings relief to applicants, it also means that academic performance is now under sharper focus.

Read More: Study in the USA from India

Applying for MS in US Without GRE

Now that you know the answer to ‘is GRE required for a master's in the USA? It's time to explore the admission process. Let me take you through the process of applying for an MS in the US without a GRE score.

• Meet the criteria - The criteria for applying for a GRE waiver university may vary based on the program. In general, to be eligible for admission, you should have a high GPA (above 3.0 or 3.5), relevant work experience, or a previously earned master’s degree.
• Apply online - Most universities in the USA require applicants to submit their applications online. I recommend you apply through their official website or a common application portal.
• Attach necessary documents - You will need to submit certain required documents, including your resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some universities also require proof of English proficiency, such as your TOEFL or IELTS score.
• Pay the application fee within the deadline - Check the university’s website to know the specific details of the application fee and any available waivers for your chosen program. Be aware of the deadline to ensure you can submit and complete the process on time. 
• Accept Offer Letter - Once you have applied, you will receive an offer letter if accepted. Then, you can seek visa approval and embark on your journey to your dream university.

Alternatives to GRE to Get Admitted at US Universities

After exploring whether the GRE is mandatory for MS in the USA, as a study abroad aspirant, I often seek alternative exams to qualify myself to study abroad. But before knowing the alternatives let’s understand the conditions to avail it.

Conditions for Waiver of GRE

1.Strong Letter of Recommendation: 

When applying to foreign universities, letters of recommendation are commonly required. These are typically obtained from previous professors, employers, or individuals who can attest to your academic or professional abilities.

A strong letter highlights your academic potential, research skills, achievements, and work ethic, potentially aiding in securing a GRE waiver.

2.Work Experience:

Longer work experience can often justify receiving a GRE waiver, particularly for programs like MBA or MCom, where professional background is valued. Providing a work experience certificate can substantiate this request effectively.

3.Outstanding Academic Performance:

A strong academic history is often a requirement for a GRE waiver. Students with excellent records from previous institutions may qualify, with universities typically preferring a GPA above 3.0. Exceptional performance in relevant fields can enhance your chances of receiving a waiver.

4.Interviews:

A very common way to get admitted to Universities in the USA is to give an interview that your university may ask you to give physically or virtually.

5.Portfolio and Writing Sample:

Not having a GRE score to measure your capability, Universities require other proofs from the candidate to assess their academic capabilities.

6.Subject-Specific Tests: 

A very common and valid reason to avail GRE waiver is completing a subject-specific test. Though the GRE provides subject-specific tests, you can take any alternate subject test to waive GRE requirements. Some of the popular subject-specific tests are listed below:

• GMAT- Instead of GRE scores, you can opt for the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test). The GMAT is a graduate admissions entrance exam designed for students who want to enroll in graduate school for business. 
• MCAT- The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is suitable for aspirants who plan to attend a medical school. These programs include allopathic, osteopathic, podiatric, and veterinary medicines in US universities. 
• LSAT - LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is the standardized test accepted by law schools accredited by the American Bar Associations (ABA).

Conclusion

In conclusion, more US universities are waiving off the GRE requirement for master's programs in 2024, signaling a shift towards a broader admissions process. This change benefits students who excel in various areas beyond standardized testing, allowing them to emphasize their work experience, personal statements, and recommendations. 

It provides a more comprehensive assessment of applicants' skills and goals. This shift offers prospective master's students in the USA a wider range of program choices that better match their academic and career aspirations.