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No GRE, No Problem: Unveiling the Best MS Programmes
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test for admission to graduate programmes. Many globally-ranked universities are removing the once obligatory GRE requirement for master’s programme admissions. Many suggest that GRE scores are not a predictor of graduation success. In response to recent research showing little correlation between GRE scores and graduate school success and concerns that the test disadvantages minority groups, many programmes exclude the GRE from their application requirements. Let’s look at some of the best MS programmes without GRE scores.
Is GRE Required for Master’s?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test that examines students’ cognitive skills, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and numerical performance. Despite its widespread use, the GRE’s relevance for master admissions is increasingly being questioned. As a result, many universities no longer require GRE scores for MS programs. The universities accept applicants based on essays, letters of recommendation, undergraduate transcripts, higher GPAs, extracurricular activities, and work experience instead of the GRE.
Types of Graduate School Waivers for GRE
For Indian students, the GRE burden poses an extra barrier beyond just academic credentials. Thankfully, many globally esteemed universities now offer GRE test waivers. While waiver eligibility criteria vary across colleges, some common grounds include:
1. Previous Earned Graduate Degree
If you have a degree in a similar field, some colleges will waive the GRE requirement based on your experience. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is an example of such a degree. For example, Marquette University and Yale University require additional graduate degrees instead of GRE.
2. Work Experience
Many reputable colleges and universities allow you to substitute work experience for admission procedures instead of the GRE. Applicants exhibiting leadership, technical prowess, research, or academic excellence through work profiles gain favourable consideration, especially for programmes focused on applied learning. University of Chicago, Duke University, and the University of Pennsylvania are some of the best-known universities.
3. Undergraduate GPA Range:
You’ll be happy to know that many colleges don’t require students to take the GRE if their GPA falls within a specific range. A notable example of a GRE waiver is the Illinois Institute of Technology, which allows students with a minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA to be admitted to professional graduate programmes without submitting a GRE score.
4. No GRE Policy
Many graduate programmes do not require applicants to take the GRE test. This policy is generally followed by higher education institutions that emphasise your research work and previous experience. You can always find a school with a “No GRE” policy.
You can unlock global academic opportunities with Career Launcher‘s expert guidance on studying abroad without a GRE.
Universities without GRE requirement – By Programmes
Here is the list of top universities that offer some MS programmes without GRE scores:
| Field of Study | Colleges/Universities | Other Popular Fields of Study | Key Strengths/Unique Offerings |
| Accounting | University of California-Irvine | MAS in Criminology, Law & Society, MA in Urban & Regional Planning, MA in Legal & Forensic Psychology | No GRE required for certain programmes, strong in Legal & Forensic Psychology |
| University of Washington-Seattle Campus | MBA & MA in Business Analytics | Emphasis on Business Analytics, no GRE for select programmes | |
| The University of Idaho | MS Geology, MS Computer Science, MS Engineering, MS Architecture, MS Philosophy, MS Metallurgy & MS Biological Engineering | Diverse engineering programmes, strong in Geology and Biological Engineering | |
| California State University-Fullerton | MS in Chemistry, MS in Civil Engineering & MS in Mechanical Engineering | Well-known for Engineering and Chemistry, comprehensive MS programmes | |
| Business | Temple University | MS in Computer Science | No GRE for CS programme, strong industry connections |
| American University | MS in Data Science | Data Science programme with strong industry ties, no GRE required | |
| Colorado State University | Executive MBA – Global Business & the Executive MBA – Management Technology | Global and Technology-focused MBA programmes, strong business network | |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Notable for its engineering and business integration | ||
| Communications | George Washington University | MS in Public Health | Public Health with a strong focus on policy and management |
| Colorado State University-Fort Collins | Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering (ONLINE) & Mechanical Engineering | Wide range of engineering disciplines, strong in Environmental Engineering | |
| California State University-Chico | MA in Public Relations | Reputed in Public Relations and Communications | |
| Computer Science and Technology | Florida Institute of Technology | Biostatistics, Data Science, Cell and Molecular Biology and Health and Bioinformatics | Diverse STEM programmes, focus on Health and Bioinformatics |
| Grand Valley State University | MS in Civil & Infrastructure Engineering, MS in Health Informatics, MS in Applied and Physical Engineering | Strong in Health Informatics and Civil Engineering | |
| George Mason University | MS in Accounting | Accounting programme with practical industry applications | |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | MS in Data Science | Notable Data Science programme, strong research focus | |
| Johns Hopkins University | Renowned for its engineering and technology programmes | ||
| Psychology | Sacred Heart University | MPH Programme | Public Health programme with a community focus |
| North Chung-Ang University | MS in English Literature | Strong in English Literature, diverse humanities programmes | |
| The avant-garde university | MS in Arts, History, Criticism & Conservation | Unique offerings in Arts and History, focus on conservation | |
| Grand Canyon University | MBA | MBA with a strong emphasis on practical business skills | |
| University of Southern California | MS in Computer Science & the MS in Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineering and Computer Science with cutting-edge research |
Final Thoughts
Top overseas universities are expanding STEM graduate programmes open to talented Indian applicants without rigid GRE score requirements. Research your options thoroughly as you begin your journey to MS programmes without GRE scores. Choose a path that aligns with your career goals and leverages your unique strengths.
