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Universities in USA Without GRE for Masters in 2024

Updated on 29 January, 2024

Mrinal Mandal

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

GRE or Graduate Record Examinations is a standardized test required for getting admission in various master’s degree programs in countries like the USA, Germany, and Canada. The test measures the readiness of graduate students based on critical understanding, quantitative analysis, quantitative reasoning, and verbal analysis. If you don’t wish to take the GRE test or you find your score inadequate, you don’t need to worry. You can still study master’s in the USA without GRE. There are various universities and colleges, where the GRE score is waived off from the eligibility criteria.

There are scenarios when candidates with impressive academic records do not get admission to master’s programs just because of low GRE scores. But there are various reasons for waiving off the GRE score from the list of eligibility criteria. GRE is often criticized by universities and colleges because the examination alone cannot measure the capabilities of a student. If you are planning to pursue a master’s course in the US without GRE, you have to consider certain other eligibility factors that strengthen your profile. There are universities and colleges where one can study master’s in the USA without GRE.

What is GRE? 

GRE or Graduate Record Examinations is a standardized eligibility test 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. GRE is conducted by ETS (Education Testing System). It is taken by the students that 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. 

USA and GRE

Many ranked universities in the USA require prospective students to take the GRE exam for admission in master’s programs. GRE is an official prerequisite for technical master’s degrees like MS, MCA, MSC, MTech, 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 GRE. 

Students, especially from non-technical backgrounds, find 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 there are many international students that choose Canada, Germany, and Australia instead of the USA just to avoid taking the GRE. 

Read More: Masters in USA Costs

Top universities in the US for MS without GRE scores

The US is home to some of the top-ranked universities that offer various MS specializations without GRE scores. The students can opt for courses like MS in Computer Science, MS in Embedded Systems, MS in Wireless Communications, MS in Power Engineering, and MS in Management Information System from the below listed universities and colleges: 

  • University of Florida 
  • University of Boston
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • George Mason University
  • Park University
  • Washington University
  • Florida International University
  • Oklahoma University
  • Kansas State University
  • Idaho University
  • New Mexico State University
  • California State University
  • Johnson & Wales University
  • University of New Haven
  • West Texas A&M University
  • Southeast Missouri State University
  • National University
  • New England College 
  • Virginia International University
  • International Technological University
  • Fisher College
  • Marymount California University
  • Montclair University
  • Stratford University
  • IGlobal University
  • City University of Seattle
  • Concordia University Texas
  • Rivier University
  • Alliant International University
  • Point Park University
  • ECPI University

Read More: Post Study Work Permit in the USA

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Other universities to study masters in the USA without the GRE score

International students from all over the globe decide to take up a specialization in master's after graduating in the chosen field of study. But the GRE requirement acts as a major roadblock. Here are some other universities in the US for master's without GRE score requirements:

  • National Louis University
  • Missouri Western State University
  • Oklahoma University
  • Kansas State University
  • Monroe College
  • Trine University
  • Westcliff University
  • Stevens Henager College
  • Pace University, Westchester
  • Notre Dame de Namur University
  • Adler University, Chicago Campus
  • University of Utah
  • James Madison University

Is it possible to waive off GRE Requirements? 

GRE can be waived off as there are universities and colleges in the US that do not need a GRE score anymore. Some universities may not need it at all, while some may keep it as an optional factor for certain programs. The top-rated American universities like the University of Florida, Boston University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and California State University have waived off the GRE score requirement for master's programs. This has been both a relief and a challenge as the students need to perform extraordinarily to meet the academic requirements. 

Read More: Study in the USA from India

Applying for MS in the US without GRE

The global pandemic has been one of the main reasons for massive changes in the education system. Students can now get a sigh of relief as a GRE score is not required for taking admission to many universities. It will be applicable for all the international students for Spring 2021, Fall 2021, Summer 2021, and Spring 2022 course sessions. If you have taken the examination already, you can surely submit the score, but it will not make much of a difference. If you are applying for an MS in the US without GRE make sure you meet all the necessary eligibility criteria. Some of the top-ranked universities offer various MS specializations without GRE but the academic score requirements will be very high. If you wish to do an MS from a low-ranked University in the US, you will not need a GRE and the academic requirement will also be relaxed. 

Conclusion

Students from technical as well as non-technical backgrounds can take admission without taking the GRE test. As per the latest changes, there is no GRE requirement for MS and master’s students in the academic session 2021-2022 due to the COVID-19 situation. 
In conclusion, the increasing number of universities in the USA offering master's programs without the GRE requirement in 2024 signifies a shift towards a more holistic admissions process. This trend provides a broader opportunity for students who excel in areas beyond standardized testing. The absence of the GRE requirement allows applicants to focus more on other crucial aspects of their application, such as work experience, personal statements, and letters of recommendation, showcasing a more comprehensive picture of their capabilities. For students aiming to pursue their master's in the USA in 2024, this change means that a wider array of options is available, enabling them to choose programs that align more closely with their academic and professional aspirations.

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Important Resources For GRE/GMAT Exams

GRE Exam Registration

raduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the biggest and most popular global tests held by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is a standardized examination for entry into courses like MBA, MS, and others at universities worldwide.

GRE Registration

GRE Exam Dates for 2023

Booking GRE exam dates 2023 is a simple procedure. You can register by paying US$213 (approx. INR 15,700) and providing your valid passport copy or relevant ID.

GRE Exam Dates

GRE Exam Fees

The GRE exam fee in India is around $213 with effect from 1st July 2023. The examination fee in many other countries is $205 while the GRE exam fee for India is the same as countries like Turkey, Australia, China, and Nigeria. The fee for the GRE Subject

GRE Exam Fee

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

Mrinal Mandal is a study abroad expert with a passion for guiding students towards their international education goals. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering, earned in 2018. Since 2021, Mrinal has been working with upGrad Abroad, where he assists aspiring students in realizing their dreams of studying abroad. With his expertise and dedication, he empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of international education, making their aspirations a reality.

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The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.