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Graduate Schools That Don’t Require GRE Scores for 2023-2024

Most prospective US graduate school applicants from around the world take the GRE if they are interested in pursuing a master’s degree, MBA, or JD. GRE scores are used to supplement applicants’ undergraduate records, recommendation letters , and other qualifying materials for graduate admissions because they are a common way to measure applicants.

However, if you are wondering if there are schools that don’t require GRE scores, the good news is that many schools do NOT require applicants to take this exam. Although it is widely used and commonly required, there are still many schools offering GRE waivers. This article breaks down what the GRE is used for and lists schools that do not include GRE scores as an essential requirement for acceptance to their graduate programs.

Table of Contents

• What is the GRE?
• When Not to Submit GRE Scores?

Factors Influencing Application to Schools Offering GRE Waivers

• Graduate Schools That Don’t Require a GRE

What is the GRE exam?

The Graduate Record Exam , or GRE, is a standardized test designed to determine the likelihood of a graduate school applicant’s successful completion in graduate education, at a master’s or doctorate degree level. The GRE test is a common requirement for graduate programs. 

Today, the number of schools in the US offering GRE waivers is increasing–but to be specific, only in certain circumstances. Nonetheless, just because a school does not require that applicants take the GRE does not mean that it has low academic standards.    

When NOT to Submit GRE Scores?

It may be a difficult decision to make whether or not to submit GRE test scores when applying to schools offering GRE waivers. The following may help you answer the question of when not to submit GRE score or any other standardized test scores:

• COVID-19 limits the opportunity for applicants to take the exam. Due to current global circumstances, many schools consider it acceptable for students to decide not to take the test out of an abundance of caution.
• Applicants may focus on essays, SOPs, and other requirements while the application deadline is fast approaching.
• Test results do not reflect the achievements and potential of the applicants. Students can demonstrate their abilities and strengths through essays.
• The schools that waive GRE scores would not perceive the absence of scores negatively but they might consider moderate or low scores as a negative indicator.

However, acceptable conditions for omitting the GRE notwithstanding, the question still remains: “Should I take the GRE?” Here are a few facts that might help you make this decision:

• Submitting GRE scores when applying to graduate schools with GRE waivers may increase your chance of getting a scholarship. 
• If you believe your GPA is not strong enough, you may consider appealing your quantitative qualities through test scores.
• If your professional experience does not meet the minimum requirement for the program you are applying for, your GRE score will allow the admissions committee to better understand your strengths.
• If you are not confident that your essays will strongly appeal to the admissions committee, submitting GRE scores may give you an opportunity to get through.

If you decide not to submit your GRE score, you can certainly focus on other factors that will help you stand out. The factors would include academic history, professional experience, SOP, Letters of Recommendation, CV/Resume, etc.

• Academic History : A student’s undergraduate GPA is likely to be the most important factor reviewed by the graduate admissions committee. Usually, grad school applicants are required to obtain at least a 3.0 on 4.0 scale in their undergraduate studies. If your GPA is lower than a 3.0, it could be a good idea to take the GRE. ( Get assignment editing for college and university work )
• Professional Experience : Not every graduate program requires professional experiences or internships, but some MBA programs and clinical psychology degrees hold professional experience in higher regard than do other academic departments or programs. 
• Graduate Statement of Purpose (SOP) : Most graduate programs will require 1-2 pages of personal statement to better understand applicants’ academic potential and writing skills. The universities will provide instructions or questions for applicants’ to answer through their SOP and require an explanation of academic background and professional goals. ( Get personal statement editing or Statement of Purpose editing )
• Letters of Recommendation : Applicants are required to submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation from faculty and/or previous employers. An important tip is to find an appropriate person (usually a professor or professional manager) with a basic understanding of your achievements and academic records willing to write the letter of recommendation for you. ( Get recommendation letter editing )
• Academic CV/Resume : Graduate schools requiring prior experience are likely to ask for a resume or academic CV. Applicants may add details such as awards, recognitions, community involvement, projects, etc. You could use these documents in lieu of a GRW if you choose not to take the exam. ( Get CV and resume editing )

Which graduate schools don’t require GRE scores?

Applying to graduate schools that do not require GRE scores can be a great opportunity for non-traditional applicants to pursue a master’s or another higher-learning degree. Whether a GRE is required or not, the most important factors to consider when applying for graduate schools are what degree you want to pursue and which academic institution you want to attend to earn the degree.

It is important to do some extensive research using the admissions websites of prospective graduate schools and through consultation with the graduate admissions office(via email and/or phone). 

Below is a list of 20 graduate schools and programs that do not require a GRE.

• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
• Western Governors University
• Purdue University Global
• Strayer University
• Capella University
• Walden University
• Colorado Technical University
• Northcentral University
• Liberty University
• University of Southern California
• Simmons University
• Nova Southeastern University
• University of Scranton
• Benedictine University
• American University
• NYU School of Social Work
• Boston University
• Antioch University
• Utica College
• Ashford University

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If you want to go to graduate school, you might consider the GRE a big hurdle. Maybe you don’t think you have time to properly prep. Or maybe you already took the test and got a lower score than you wanted.

The good news is that it’s possible to get into graduate school without the GRE! In this guide we’ll describe several program types that often don’t require the GRE and some common GRE score-waiving policies. We’ll also discuss some things to consider when deciding to apply to graduate school without GRE scores. Finally, we’ll close out with a list of schools with no GRE required policies.

Can You Get Into Graduate School Without GRE Scores?

The short answer: yes, you can! There are many programs that don’t require the GRE in a range of disciplines, including Master’s, PhD, and MPH programs . There are also programs that allow you to waive the GRE requirement under certain circumstances. Still others only require the GRE if you are applying for funding or fellowships. Furthermore, there are even programs that, while they may require the GRE, strongly de-emphasize it in the admissions process. In this case your score really doesn’t matter very much.

Graduate Program Types Without GRE Scores Required

There are a few specific graduate school program areas and types that frequently have a “No GRE Required” policy. We’ll describe those here:

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MFA Programs

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs are advanced degrees for those involved in the creative pursuits—music, film, theater, creative writing, painting, and so on. MFA programs frequently either waive the GRE score requirement or strongly de-emphasize it in admissions. Instead, what typically  matters most in MFA admissions is a portfolio of your creative work. You will be evaluated and offered admission primarily based on the strength of that work; GRE scores just aren’t that important. You are better off putting your hours into your portfolio or audition rather than into GRE prep.

Executive Programs

Programs designed for working professionals frequently do not require the GRE. This is because these programs are designed to expand specific professional skills, making   work experience more salient than test scores. Additionally, those with established careers may have less patience and time to prepare for a standardized test. Not requiring the GRE can make these programs much more attractive to professional applicants.

The catch is that you frequently have to have a certain amount of work experience (often 5+ years) to apply. But if you do have robust work experience and you don’t want to take the GRE, look for an executive program. These can also be called professional programs. They are often offered through a university’s school of continuing or professional studies.

Online Master’s Programs

Another area where you may find many master’s programs without GRE score requirements is online. Students getting their master’s degrees online don’t have to be fed, housed, placed in classrooms, and so on. Thus, it doesn’t take as many resources to accommodate them. This means online programs can afford to take more students and don’t necessarily need to be as rigorously selective in admissions as in-person programs.

The flip side is that some consider  online master’s programs less legitimate than in-person programs. In the early days of online education, bogus schools and programs proliferated rapidly, offering low-quality instruction with little value in the real world. However, many well-established schools and universities now offer legitimate, high-quality online programs in addition to their on-campus ones.

Some employers also value online programs less because student-student and student-faculty interaction create a big part of the value of any degree, and it’s harder to facilitate that in an online program. In-person programs also have the benefit of making it much easier to do research or projects with professors, which is another thing that adds a lot of value to a degree.

Additionally, many online programs are for-profit. Degrees from for-profit institutions are typically not well-respected because these institutions aren’t really learning-driven so much as profit-driven. This is something to be aware of when considering a pricey investment like graduate school. And no matter what institution of higher learning you choose, make sure that a legitimate accrediting body has accredited it.

Of course, there also are some online programs that do require the GRE. So make sure to double-check before you assume!

Common GRE-Score Waiving Policies

There are a few other common policies you may find that allow you to waive the GRE at a variety of programs.

Undergraduate GPA Cutoff

Schools frequently offer waivers to applicants who meet certain undergraduate GPA requirements.  For example, at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the GRE is waived for all master’s degree applicants (except in Architecture) with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0/4.0.

A requirement of 3.0 on a 4-point scale to waive the GRE is common for these types of policies. However, don’t assume you won’t qualify for a GPA-related waiver anywhere just because your undergraduate GPA isn’t that high. For example, Indiana University’s Master in Public Health program waives the GRE for applicants with a GPA of 2.8+ .

Other Graduate Degree

You may also find programs that are willing to waive GRE requirements if you hold another graduate degree. For example, the University of Illinois’ Library and Information master’s degree program waives the GRE for applicants holding a JD or PhD (they have an undergrad GPA waiver, too)! University of New Hampshire waives the GRE for MPH applicants with a previous master’s degree or five years of relevant professional experience.

Professional Experience

Many schools will also waive the GRE requirement for applicants with professional work experience, especially relevant experience. At American University’s Master of Public Affairs program, the GRE can be waived for students with five years of relevant experience . Five years seems like the standard amount of expected experience for waiving the GRE. But definitely look around if you have at least several years of experience!

Applying to Graduate School Without GRE Scores: What You Need to Know

If you’re hoping to apply to graduate schools without GRE scores—either because you don’t want to take the test or your scores were lower than expected— here are the questions to consider.

Should I Apply to Programs With No GRE Required?

So you know that there are programs that don’t require you to send in GRE scores with your application. But is it worth it to apply to them? And should you avoid the GRE altogether just because you can?

There are instances where the no-GRE options are considerably less prestigious than GRE-required programs. They may be less selective or not as highly ranked as their GRE-requiring counterparts. You can assess how important the level of prestige is to you and how much that affects your willingness to invest in graduate school.

That said, if you scan the list below, you will see that there are some very well-reputed institutions and programs with no-GRE required graduate programs. Some examples include Johns Hopkins, Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Illinois, UC-Berkeley, Georgetown, NYU, Northwestern, and MIT. So whether or not no GRE necessarily means less highly-ranked schools is going to depend a lot on what you want to study.

It’s also worth considering why you’re trying to apply to programs with no GRE required. If you just think the GRE is a hassle that you want to avoid, that’s not necessarily a great reason to only apply to no-GRE programs. This is especially true if there aren’t very many of those in your discipline. You will invest a lot of time and money into graduate school; limiting your options will constrain your ability to choose the program that truly works best for your needs and interests.

Of course, if you already have a pretty good idea of exactly what you want in a program and your dream program just happens to not require the GRE, that’s great! Then you may really not need to take the test.

You may also be looking for no-GRE programs because you already took the test and didn’t do as well as you expected or hoped. First, remember this: GRE scores are typically not the most important part of your graduate school application. Thus, a lower score than you hoped is not necessarily the death knell at schools that require the GRE. Second, it absolutely is possible to improve your GRE score through preparation . So I would advise you to get back on that horse and take the test again in a few months. And if your scores are still a little low or you don’t have time to take the test again, consider applying to a mix of no-GRE and GRE-required schools. You won’t know if those scores will keep you from getting admitted if you don’t apply.

Will Not Sending Optional GRE Scores Hurt My Chances?

There are a number of programs that have GRE-optional policies, or say that the GRE is used as “supplemental” information. You may wonder if not sending GRE scores in this case hurts you.

If the GRE is truly optional, then not sending scores aren’t likely to directly hurt your chances of admissions. However, good GRE scores will definitely help you, at least a little bit. They clearly aren’t super-important to the admissions committee since they aren’t required. However, good scores will be a finger on the scale.

That said, some schools do say that they “recommend” the GRE or are up-front that sending GRE scores increases your chance of admission. In this case, it’s in your best interest to send GRE scores.  A potential exception is if your scores are far lower than your goal score and you don’t have time to retake the test before the deadline.

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A List of Graduate Schools With No GRE Required

Below, we’ve provided two lists: the first includes master’s programs without GRE score requirements and the second list cover PhD and other doctoral-level degrees like PsyDs and DPTs. We’ve included schools throughout a range of selectivity, program ranking, and geography, but this is far from an exhaustive list. We have excluded for-profit institutions.

If not taking the GRE is important to you, these lists are a good starting place. However, you probably want to do additional research. You’ll notice that some institutions appear on the below lists several times, indicating that they have multiple programs that don’t require GRE scores. For example, NYU and Johns Hopkins both appear five times and Purdue University appears four times. This suggests that there may be some broader policy or trend at that institution where they do not require or de-emphasizes GRE scores. So if you see a school on this list multiple times, definitely check it out if you are looking for other programs that don’t require the GRE.

Now for the lists!

Master’s Programs Without GRE Scores Required

If you’re looking to get a master’s degree without GRE scores, the below list of programs that don’t require GRE scores to apply is a great starting place for your research!

PhD Programs Without GRE Scores Required

The following chart lists PhD programs without GRE scores required.

Key Takeaways: Applying to Graduate School Without GRE Scores

If you want to go to graduate school but you’ve been dreading the thought of taking the GRE, you should know that you can get into graduate school without GRE scores!

While you can find at least a few programs in all disciplines that don’t require the GRE for admission, there are several program types where there are many options for no GRE required graduate programs:

• MFAs tend to focus more on your creative work as a criteria for admission.
• Executive programs are aimed at working professionals with specific program needs.
• Online programs can accommodate more students and thus may not need to use the GRE to screen applicants.

There are also several common policies that may allow you to waive the GRE if:

• Your  undergrad GPA  meets a certain threshold (commonly 3.0/4.0)
• You already have a graduate degree
• You have some years of relevant professional experience (usually 5+)

Here are some things to consider when applying to programs without the GRE:

• In some disciplines, no-GRE programs might not be as prestigious or selective as GRE-required programs (though there are of course exceptions).
• If you just don’t want to take the GRE, be aware that you are limiting your application options by only applying to no-GRE programs.
• If you want to apply to no-GRE programs because you feel you did poorly on the GRE, consider prepping and taking the GRE again. You can also always apply to a mix of GRE-required and no-GRE schools to give yourself your best chance of admission.

Here are things to consider for GRE-optional programs:

• In general, sending good GRE scores will help you a little, and not sending GRE scores won’t hurt you.
• However, some programs recommend the GRE or state that those who send the GRE have better chances of admission, in which case you should send GRE scores if you can.

Finally, our lists of master’s and PhD programs without GRE score requirements gives you a good starting place for looking for programs that you can apply to without GRE scores!

What’s Next?

Need more information on graduate school and admissions tests? You can learn more about graduate school from our experts . You can also get expert guidance on whether to take the GRE or the GMAT for business school!

Worried about taking the GRE? Let us advise you on how hard the test really is .

Worried about your scores? See more on interpreting what your GRE scores really mean and what makes a good GRE score for you .

If you’ve decided to take the GRE plunge, let us guide you through the process! See our step-by-step guide to GRE registration , when to take the GRE , and how long to study for the test .

Ready to improve your GRE score by 7 points?

Author: Ellen McCammon

Ellen is a public health graduate student and education expert. She has extensive experience mentoring students of all ages to reach their goals and in-depth knowledge on a variety of health topics. View all posts by Ellen McCammon

20+ Schools That Don’t Require the GRE in 2024

Graduate schools across the country are waiving the GRE or loosening their GRE requirements in 2024 to accommodate the needs of their applicants during this crisis—and for very good reason. After all, some countries are unable to offer the new GRE at-home option. Even if GRE students have access to the online test, taking the GRE at home may be a less-than-ideal situation for some test-takers. In this post, we’ll go over grad schools that don’t require the GRE in 2024, along with programs that have changed their GRE policy due to COVID-19, and what all this means for you.

Table of Contents

Graduate schools that are waiving the gre for all programs and all students, specific graduate programs waiving the gre, graduate programs waiving the gre in 2024 under certain conditions, what if my school is not listed above.

• Which professional programs don’t require the GRE?
• Which non-doctoral programs don’t require the GRE?
• Which online graduate programs don’t require the GRE?
• Other Considerations
• Additional FAQs

Grad Schools That Don’t Require the GRE in 2024

Graduate schools are making changes to their GRE requirements in a variety of ways. Some schools are going the whole nine yards, waiving the GRE at all or most of their graduate programs for every student applying this year. Other schools have somewhat stricter or less expansive requirements. Some schools are even allowing applicants to submit their ACT or SAT scores instead .

Read on for different examples of how schools and programs are responding to this crisis.

• Bowling Green State University
• California State University Long Beach
• Duke University (with a few exceptions)
• Florida State University (only select programs)
• Illinois Institute of Technology (applicants to doctoral programs are still required to submit their scores)
• Middle Tennessee State University
• Mississippi State University (only select programs)
• University of Texas at San Antonio
• Texas Tech University

Particular programs that are waiving the GRE requirement, even if their school is not waiving the requirement across all programs, include:

• American University School of Public Affairs (master’s programs only)
• Harvard University Department of Comparative Literature
• University of Louisville program in Sociology
• The University of North Texas School of Public Health
• Some graduate programs at the University of Illinois

Several business schools have also made test requirement exceptions. Click here for a comprehensive list of these schools as well as other business programs that have changed their standardized testing policy in light of this crisis.

Some schools and programs only waive the GRE for students who are simply unable to take the test or meet other requirements for a waiver. The following programs will consider GRE waivers from students but may not automatically grant the waiver:

• University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management
• UC Davis Graduate School of Management
• University of Rochester Simon Business School

The above lists are clearly not exhaustive, so we highly recommend that you check the websites of specific programs that you’re interested in. If the information about GRE waivers is not readily available, it’s probably safe to say that the program hasn’t made any changes to their policy (yet). Still, it might be worth shooting an email to admissions just to be absolutely certain.

In general, it’s a good idea to stay abreast of any updates released by the schools you’re considering. Many programs, particularly the ones with deadlines at the end of 2024, might still be waiting to see how the crisis develops before changing their standardized testing policies. The uncertainty of the current situation means that things can change at any moment, so it’s best to be prepared by keeping tabs on your programs of choice.

What if my program isn’t listed above?

A general rule of thumb: when it comes to determining whether or not you need to take the GRE (in COVID-19 times and beyond), it’s often a question of which programs , rather than which schools don’t require the GRE. Admissions to grad school tend to be on a program-by-program basis.

If you’re not sure whether your grad school program requires the GRE, it may be worth your time to do some research! Program admissions requirements change all the time, and the best place to get this information is straight from the horse’s mouth. If you can’t find this info on the graduate program admissions websites, email or call the admissions office to see if the program requires the GRE.

Here’s a quick breakdown of which program types may not require the GRE. We’ll explain each type more below as well.

Which professional programs don’t require the GRE?

The good news: there are a few graduate programs for which you almost certainly won’t have to take the GRE. The bad news: these are the programs that usually have their own admissions tests for the field: LSAT for law school, GMAT for business school (although not always— an increasing number of business schools now accept GRE scores ), MCAT for medical school, and so on. No, you almost certainly won’t have to take the GRE in addition to the professional-school test, but some testing, for most programs, is unavoidable.

These programs include:

• MBA programs (though these can be GMAT-optional, and in a few cases, such as at Emory University , you can apply for a test waiver altogether)
• JD (Law) programs
• MD (Medical) programs
• Some MJ (Journalism) programs, but not all. Check with the program before foregoing the test; for some of the most prestigious in the country, however, like Columbia University and UC-Berkeley , the test is no longer required for admission, but may qualify you for dual-degree programs or fellowships.

Which non-doctoral programs don’t require the GRE?

Many don’t, some do. In many cases, your scores don’t matter for your admissions portfolio, but are required because of general graduate school requirements at the university. Once again, this is a “check with the admissions committee” scenario (but aren’t they all)! Some examples of programs that don’t require the GRE:

• Many graduate programs at The New School
• Most graduate programs (but not all!) at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts
• University of the Arts , where the GRE is “encouraged,” but not required

Which online graduate programs don’t require the GRE?

Many of them! Again. . . not all. But here’s a handful:

• Southern New Hampshire University
• University of Maryland Global Campus
• The University of Illinois online Master’s of Computer Science (though not all University of Illinois programs will waive the requirement!)
• Other specific programs through different online platforms; check with yours to be sure!

Other Considerations for Grad Schools That Don’t Require the GRE

However, just because a program doesn’t require the GRE, don’t assume that it’s less prestigious or less worthwhile than programs that do. Many “Executive” programs (think “Executive MBA”), targeted at people who have worked in the field for at least several years, require work experience, rather than test scores, as an admissions criterion. Similarly, if your undergrad GPA is outstanding (think over 3.0), programs may waive their GRE requirements. And then there are some schools—but very, very few!—that have decided not to use the GRE as an admissions factor for a variety of graduate programs.

• The University of Maryland, Baltimore County , like some other schools, doesn’t require GRE scores if your undergraduate GPA was above 3.5 (but you may need to submit a waiver request—common in these scenarios)
• If you’re applying to Johns Hopkins University’s Engineering for Professionals programs, you don’t have to take the GRE, but you do need to meet other stringent admissions requirements (another common scenario)
• Some universities, such as Georgia State University , have begun to remove GRE requirements for particular programs (at GSU, these are primarily education-based.

More FAQs on Graduate Schools Waiving the GRE in 2024

As one of Magoosh’s Blog Editors, Anika relies on her nearly 20 years in education and youth leadership spaces to produce empowering, student-centered content across Magoosh’s blogs. Anika has a BA from Grinnell College and an MPP from Harvard University. Her experience includes serving two years as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Malaysia, an SAT tutor for Kaplan, and currently, as the Executive Director of Youth Activism Project , a nonprofit that she co-founded when she was 12 years old. Anika’s work has been featured in The Washington Post , The Boston Globe , and Yahoo! Money . She has also spoken at panels and given presentations at New York University and Harvard University . If you’d like to keep up with Anika, you can check out her LinkedIn , Instagram , and Twitter .

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Rachel has helped students around the world prepare for various standardized tests, including the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT, and she is one of the authors of our Magoosh ACT Prep Book . Rachel has a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature from Brown University, an MA in Cinematography from the Université de Paris VII, and a Ph.D. in Film Studies from University College London.

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2 responses to “20+ Schools That Don’t Require the GRE in 2024”

University of florida waived off GRE for spring 2022?

It depends on the program, so be sure to check your specific program requirements! And if you are in doubt, reach out to the program admissions office to confirm 🙂

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Graduate Programs with No GRE Requirement

Do you want to enroll in graduate school but don’t want the extra time and expense of taking the GRE? Luckily, not every graduate program requires this test. Continue reading to learn about online and on-campus programs that have no GRE requirement, as well as ways to have it waived.

For many graduate school hopefuls, the obstacle standing between them and a master’s degree is the dreaded GRE. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) aims to determine a an applicant’s likelihood of grad school success. And while the GRE used to be a go-to method for gauging academic ability,

These days, the GRE still has its place in higher education. But as graduate schools begin to approach admissions more holistically, having a low GRE score, or no GRE score at all, doesn’t mean you can’t gain entry into a prestigious grad program. Learn which schools are forgoing the GRE and find the program that fits your academic and professional goals while working towards your master’s degree.

Getting into Grad School: Do I Need the GRE?

Whether or not you need to take the GRE depends on the field you want to study in addition to the school you want to attend. The current trend among grad schools is away from requiring GRE scores from applicants. However, many factors impact GRE requirements. Some schools still require it for admissions, and some indicate it as a way to bolster your chances of getting accepted. Consider the following questions and answers to help you decide if you should take the GRE.

What is the GRE?

The GRE is a computer-based, standardized exam that measures the analytical writing, critical thinking, and verbal and quantitative reasoning skills of test-takers. These general skills are not exclusive to a specific field of study but applicable to all fields. GRE test scores are a requirement for admissions to hundreds of graduate programs throughout the U.S., Canada, and some other countries.

Are there graduate fields that don’t require the GRE?

Many graduate fields of study – such as those detailed below – do not require applicants to submit GRE scores for admission. GRE requirements now have more to do with specific schools rather than specific majors, and the current trend of graduate schools is away from GRE requirements. The biggest determining factor in whether the GRE is required or not is often if it exists as a school requirement for all graduate applicants. Relatively few individual programs require the GRE if the school does not require it for all its graduate programs.

Can I get into grad school with a poor GRE score?

A poor GRE score, though possibly indicative of a general struggle with reasoning and thinking, is likely not a death sentence to grad school ambitions. Most grad programs consider several factors when selecting students for graduate degree programs. These typically include undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, personal statements indicating clearly defined career goals and a passionate interest in the field of study, and prior experience in the major field. Also, if you’re applying to a program that does not require a GRE score for admission, you don’t have to share your poor score with them.

Test Not Required: Grad School Programs with No GRE

In the past, taking the GRE was a common requirement for entering a master’s or doctorate program at any school and in any major in the U.S. That’s no longer the case. Here’s a look at some of the many master’s and doctoral degree programs that no longer require the GRE.

Common Master’s Programs with No GRE Requirement

The following 10 programs are among the most popular master’s degree programs today that don’t commonly require submission of GRE scores for admissions.

Master’s in Criminal Justice

An online master’s in criminal justice provides criminal justice professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in criminology and the workings of the criminal justice system. The GRE is rarely required for admission into criminal justice master’s programs, likely because most applicants have several years of professional experience in the field, indicating that they already possess the skills tested for by the GRE. Online master’s in criminal justice programs are plentiful, too. Arizona State University’s MA in Criminal Justice is just one example of the many online criminal justice master’s degree programs with no GRE requirement.

Master’s in Cybersecurity

Because of increasing struggles with digital security breaches and ransomware attacks around the globe, cybersecurity has become one of the most in-demand fields today. The enormous shortage of professionals in the field is likely a major factor in cybersecurity master’s programs not requiring GRE scores from applicants. There are dozens of excellent no-GRE online cybersecurity master’s programs to choose from, as well as campus-based programs. One of the best of these programs is the GRE-optional online Master of Information and Cybersecurity from the University of California Berkeley .

Master’s in Education

An online master’s in education prepares current educators with knowledge and skills to enhance their impact in a range of classroom settings. Since most education master’s students are presently employed as K-12 teachers with several years of classroom experience, many colleges and universities do not require GRE scores for admission into their education master’s programs. There are several quality online master’s programs in education available with no GRE requirements, including the M.Ed. from the University of San Diego .

Master’s in Emergency Management

An emergency management master’s degree online and similarly-titled degrees provide a broad-based, practical education to prepare students for the prevention, management, and recovery aspects of emergency and disaster events, both natural and man-made. Emergency management leadership positions include those with federal, state, and local government agencies; hospitals, colleges, and universities; and private security firms. GRE scores are often not required for these programs, especially for applicants with substantial experience in emergency services or closely related fields. Many programs, including Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Master’s in Emergency Management , are available in either fully online or partially online formats.

Master’s in Homeland Security

Homeland security master’s degrees holders take on advanced analysis and management positions within the Department of Homeland Security as well as other federal and state government agencies and private consulting firms. Students come from a range of security and emergency services backgrounds, including the military, EMT work, and law enforcement. They typically already possess skills tested by the GRE, which negates the need to require it for admission. Campus-based, and fully online master’s in homeland security programs exist. An example of a fully online program with no GRE requirement is the MS in Management with Homeland Security Management Specialization from the University of Maryland Global Campus .

Master’s in Library Science

An online master’s in library science (MLS) and Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degrees prepare students for careers in public and private libraries and library systems as well as with universities, municipal agencies, corporate and nonprofit archives, and any setting where information is stored, cataloged, and accessed. Fully- and partially-online programs are available from several colleges and universities throughout the U.S. GRE scores are sometimes required but often waived for applicants meeting other qualifications, like a high undergraduate GPA, previously completed graduate-level coursework, or substantial work experience in library science or a closely related field. For example, applicants to the Master of Library & Information Science program at Louisiana State University having a bachelor’s or graduate degree earned with a 3.0 or higher GPA are not required to submit GRE scores.

Master’s in Political Science

An online master’s in political science prepares graduates for professional careers in fields such as public administration, political campaign management, international relations, public policy and analysis, and more. Political science is among the most popular master’s majors out there, and it’s also one of the most common online degree offerings that often does not require the GRE. Submission of GRE scores is optional, for example, for admission into the University of Nebraska Omaha’s 100% online MS in Political Science program.

Master’s in Public Health

Public health master’s degrees online prepare students for leadership positions in planning, developing, and managing public health programs in a range of settings, including government public health agencies, community organizations, public and private healthcare facilities, and more. Surprisingly, there are quite a few public health master’s degree programs available online, some even fully online, with no GRE scores required. The University of Nevada Reno’s no-GRE Master of Public Health in Public Health Practice program, for example, can be completed entirely online with no residency requirements.

Master’s in Public Policy

An online master’s in public policy degree provides students with a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum consisting of coursework in policy analysis and development, political and ethical concepts, communication, and leadership for careers in politics, government, and the private and nonprofit sectors. No-GRE public policy master’s programs are available in on-campus and online formats from many quality schools throughout the U.S. A good example is the Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University . which can be completed entirely online, entirely at Northwestern’s Chicago or Evanston campuses, or through a combination of online and on-campus classes. The GRE is not required for admission; however, strong GRE scores may bolster your chances of acceptance into the program.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

MSW students gain the skills and training needed to advance their social work careers into director, supervisor, and other leadership positions as licensed clinical social workers (LCSW). GRE scores for MSW programs are often not required, primarily because most applicants come into programs with extensive experience in the social work field best demonstrated through other application materials, such as the applicant’s resume and personal statement. Online social work master’s programs with no GRE requirement, including the MSW program at The Ohio State University , are numerous and available from public and private colleges and universities throughout the U.S.

Common Doctoral Programs with No GRE Requirement

As with master’s programs, there is a growing number of grad schools no longer requiring doctoral applicants to submit GRE scores in order to gain admissions. Below are 10 of the most common no-GRE doctoral majors available.

Doctor of Computer Science

Computer science doctoral degrees are for select students interested in pursuing careers in research and academia (PhD) or top-level positions in applied practice (DCS, DCSc). GRE scores requirements depend on the specific program’s admissions requirements. Emory College’s Ph.D. in Computer Science and Informatics is an example of a quality no-GRE computer science doctorate program. If you’re interested in pursuing your computer science doctorate online, your options are quite limited since most programs require on-campus class attendance. One exception is Northcentral University’s 100% online Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science , which also does not require GRE scores for admission.

Doctorate in Criminal Justice

Criminal justice professionals wanting to become top-tier leaders in their field may want to consider earning a doctoral degree, either a PhD in Criminal Justice or a Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ). PhD programs are more prevalent than DCJ programs, particularly online ones; however, you’ll find campus and online criminal justice degree programs. Examples include Northeastern University’s campus-based PhD in Criminology and Justice Policy (GRE optional) and St. Leo University’s online Doctor of Criminal Justice (with Education and Homeland Security specialization options).

Doctor of Education (EdD)

The Doctor of Education (EdD) degree prepares graduates for the highest level leadership and administration jobs in the field, including as principals, superintendents, college deans, university presidents, and department directors. One example of an online EdD program with no GRE requirement is the Doctor of Education program at Maryville University . Students interested in careers geared more toward education research and postsecondary academia may want to consider pursuing a PhD in Education degree, such as the no-GRE PhD in Education from the University of Arizona .

Doctor of Healthcare Administration

The Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA) is a practice-based degree designed primarily for experienced executives seeking advanced training to take on senior positions in the healthcare field. GRE test scores are typically not required since applicants demonstrate competency through the successful completion of their master’s degrees and work experience as professional educators. DHA degree seekers have a large selection of both on-campus and online no-GRE programs available. Examples include the DHA programs at Central Michigan University (hybrid) and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (fully online).

Doctor of Information Technology

Through the study of theoretical knowledge and development of advanced applied skills, information technology doctoral degree programs prepare graduates for leadership positions in research and academia as well as with government agencies and private businesses. GRE scores are often needed for admission into IT doctorate programs, though a small number of programs, particularly online ones, do not require them. A good example of a no-GRE online IT doctorate is the Doctor of Science in Information Technology (DScIT) offered by Middle Georgia State University . This program’s curriculum is fully online except for two brief campus residencies attended at the beginning and end of the program.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares RNs to become top-tier leaders in the advancement of nursing policy and patient care throughout their profession. GRE scores are often not a requirement for admission to DNP degree programs, likely because students accepted into these programs must possess current RN licensure and have substantial practice experience. Both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP programs are available in fully online or hybrid formats. Among the many of these programs with no GRE requirement is the DNP program at the University of California San Francisco , which combines online coursework with select in-person immersions. Like all CCNE-accredited DNP programs, students must also complete a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical practice hours.

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

The DrPH is a practice-oriented degree designed to prepare graduates for leadership positions in a range of public health practice settings. Students whose professional interests lean more toward research or academia may want to consider a public health PhD program instead. A GRE score may not be needed to apply to the DrPH program, since programs often accept an applicant’s previously-earned MPH degree and substantial work experience in its place. In addition, many DrPH programs offered in online formats do not require GRE scores for admission. Traditional and online doctor of public health programs makes earning your doctoral degree doable while maintaining a full professional life.

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

An online social work doctorate (DSW) is designed for current social work professionals seeking careers in social services administration and leadership or advanced social work practice as licensed social workers. Admission into most DSW programs requires a previously-earned MSW or closely-related degree along with substantial post-master’s professional experience, negating the need to test for the skills covered by the GRE. One such program is the DSW program from the University of Alabama that combines online coursework with short-term on-campus summer residencies.

PhD in Cybersecurity

Doctoral programs in the cybersecurity field come in several degree types (e.g., PhD, DSc) and specializations (e.g., Cybersecurity, Cyber Operations, Information Assurance, etc.) All these degrees prepare students to become top leaders in government and private industry in the highly in-demand cybersecurity field . Online PhD in cybersecurity programs are readily available, many with no GRE score submittal requirements. One such school of particular note is Capitol Technology University, a small private institution located in Washington, D.C., which, along with its PhD in Cyberpsychology , offers four other no-GRE cybersecurity-related online doctoral degree options .

PhD in Human Services

The PhD in Human Services degree prepares current healthcare professionals for advanced careers in human services research and physiological and wellness services geared toward vulnerable populations. GRE scores are often not required for admission into human services doctorate programs since program applicants typically possess extensive professional experience in human services or any one of several related fields.

A small number of online human services PhD programs are available, and they typically consist of fully online didactic coursework combined with short-term, on-campus residencies and/or dissertation presentations. The PhD in Human Services offered by the University of Arizona Global Campus , for example, features a curriculum that is primarily completed online but also includes in-residence weekend workshops.

Going Around the GRE: Ways to Get Exam Waivers

Along with the growing list of colleges and universities offering degree programs with no GRE requirements, there are many that waive GRE scores for applicants meeting certain qualifications. Waiver requirements vary from program to program, but you may be able to forego the GRE if you meet one or more of the following criteria detailed below.

Have solid professional experience

Substantial professional work experience in the major field of study is often accepted in place of GRE scores. Factors commonly considered in the waiver decision include the number of years of full-time work experience along with the type and substance of that work. Confirmation of applicants’ professional work experience is often evidenced by letters of recommendation submitted with their applications.

Submit a portfolio

Some graduate majors, particularly those in architecture and the performing and fine arts, have traditionally required students to submit portfolios of their work as part of the admissions process. These portfolios confirm the competencies needed for success both academically and professionally. Additionally, samples of prior professional work in other forms – like academic papers, scholarly articles, creative writing samples, etc. – are increasingly being accepted by graduate programs as proof of the sorts of skills tested by the GRE, thus making the need to submit GRE scores unnecessary.

Choose a high demand field

High job demand in a particular occupation or field, like cybersecurity, often plays a determining role in whether GRE scores are required for admission into degree programs in that field. Grad schools want to incentivize enrollment in majors that prepare students for high-demand careers, and ditching GRE requirements is one way to do that.

Earn a high GPA

Possibly the most common ground upon which graduate degree programs waive GRE requirements is an applicant’s high GPA on previously completed undergraduate or graduate coursework. Specific requirements vary among programs, particularly regarding meeting a stated GPA level. Also, one program may accept a student’s high cumulative GPA while another may only consider the GPA for a degree or coursework in the specific major subject.

Choose an online program

Online graduate programs are much more likely to be GRE-free than their campus-based counterparts. This is because online grad programs tend to cater to working students whose work experience serves as proof of competence in the skills tested for in the GRE and because a major selling point for online degree programs has always been their convenience. And what’s more convenient than waiving the requirements for GRE test scores?

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25 Best NO GRE Master’s Degrees for 2020

Featured Programs

As a general rule, most degrees that focus on science and humanities will require a GRE for a master’s level degree. A masters degree without GRE or GMAT test requirements may focus on specific areas of study. For example, a school may waive the test for students who study social work or nursing, since the GRE does not have subject tests in those fields. Public health, criminal justice, and other fields of study that do not directly relate to the topics studied in the test may not require a GRE.

Ranking No-GRE Master’s Programs Online

To rank the best no-GRE master’s programs online, Best Master’s Programs editors did a thorough search for accredited, well-respected colleges and universities that make a point of not requiring the GRE, or of waiving GRE requirements under certain circumstances. From there, we ranked the programs according to factors important to graduate degree seekers: Cost, Salary Potential, and Student Satisfaction, based on data from College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Niche.

1. Northcentral University

A key reason Northcentral University stands apart as an accredited school is the flexibility. Students can take online courses that allow them to work at their own pace. The accelerated courses allow students to finish their master’s degree within one year. Alternatively, students can slow down and take more time for their degree if they have a complicated schedule or need more time to study. That allows students to focus on their personal goals and plans. Northcentral University offers a Legacy Scholarship, which covers the cost of tuition for six students who qualify for the scholarship each year.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : Many

2. Colorado State University Global

A key way Colorado State University Global differs from other programs is the focus on adult learners. The fully online programs are designed around the needs of working adults who may have personal obligations or responsibilities. That flexibility allows students to accomplish their goals and work on their degree at a pace that fits their situation and lifestyle. Colorado State University Global is a military-friendly option that offers discounts on tuition to active duty military servicemen and women, as well as veterans and military families.

3. University of Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin offers real-world and hands-on experience to students in the engineering program. It encourages students to focus on their studies and explore options in relation to their work. The hands-on approach ensures that students are prepared for rigorous careers and fast-paced work environments that may test their abilities as they work in engineering. The University of Wisconsin offers hybrid online programs in engineering that allow students to keep up with their obligations and work. The hybrid programs require students to take some courses on-campus.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MEng – no GRE for engineering online

4. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers students an opportunity to network with professionals in the field of education. That allows students to advance in their career as an educator or in an educational leadership role. It sets the school apart because it focuses on the needs of students who may be looking into long-term opportunities to advance in their career while working on a master’s degree. The University of Arkansas offers scholarships to students in the master’s program. That helps cut the costs of a higher level of education.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MEd – no GRE for education masters

5. University of Miami

A key way the University of Miami stands apart is the focus on holistic education. The degree program does not expect students to focus on only one aspect of their studies. It encourages students to explore different perspectives through their online system. It also helps students stay on task with their education without leaving the comfort of home. It is designed around the needs of working adults who have personal and professional obligations. The University of Miami allows online students to participate in online and in-person networking opportunities that help with career objectives.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MPA – GRE waived for experience

6. American University

American University stands out by offering students an in-person global immersion that helps with their education. The global immersion helps students gain an understanding of how to navigate different international and global cultures when working in business or an international relations position. It gives students hands-on experience with handling situations in an international environment that prepares them for the rigors of working in international business settings. American University offers an accelerated online program that takes only 18 months to complete and prepares students for a career in international business positions.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MS in International Relations and Business

7. Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph’s University stands apart by offering uncommon master’s degree programs through their online format. The Food Marketing degree or the Business Intelligence degree focus on specific areas of education that help students with their career objectives. It gives students the specialized education they need for particular jobs and career objectives. Saint Joseph’s University offers certifications to further enhance a master’s degree program and improve student options for specialized career paths.

8. Gonzaga University

A key way Gonzaga University stands apart is the opportunity to select a concentration that enhances student skills in a specific area of organizational leadership. That helps students focus on their career goals and study topics that relate directly to their plans. Students can select from four concentrations when studying for their master’s degree. Gonzaga University offers study abroad options for students focusing on organizational leadership degrees.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MA in Organizational Leadership

9. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco differs from other programs by focusing on innovative and up-to-date online learning opportunities. The school uses the latest technology to ensure that online degree programs and courses are immersive and focused on the needs of students. It adapts and improves over time to keep up with modern advances in technology and to give students a positive experience. Classes sizes at the University of San Francisco are small, which allows students the opportunity to talk to professors and get help when concerns or questions arise.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MSN, MPH, MPA – no GRE for online

10. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University stands apart from other programs by focusing on quality education with top-tier professors. The online programs offer an education from the same respected professors as the on-campus programs. That ensures that students have access to professionals who can answer their questions and help them prepare for a challenging career. It also gives students the opportunity to gain insight based on a professor’s personal experiences as a leader. The online masters in Leadership from Louisiana State University offers accelerated courses so students can complete their degree in one year.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MS in Leadership – GRE waiver with experience

11. Boston University

A key way Boston University stands apart is the wide array of online programs. Students can study multiple topics that range from Art Education to Criminal Justice. The variety of online master’s programs ensures that students can find a program that fits their long-term career objectives. It gives students a flexible option to keep up with their plans. Boston University allows students to enhance their skills through individual online courses as well as professional certifications.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE or GMAT for Metropolitan College online programs

12. Florida International University

Florida International University focuses on the research aspects of criminal justice as well as the potential long-term goals of students. The online program is designed around students who plan to pursue a higher level of education for their career. Since it focuses on research and higher studies, it offers fast-paced courses that are designed around the rigors of a career in the criminal justice field. Florida International University offers credit for internships when students pursue an internship for hands-on experience.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MS in Criminal Justice – no GRE

13. University of Vermont

A key way the University of Vermont stands apart for their online program is the focus on flexibility. Students are encouraged to work on their classes when it fits their needs. That flexible approach ensures that students are able to keep up with their obligations to an employer or family while they finish a master’s degree for their future. The University of Vermont is ranked in the top 50 schools for master’s degrees in public health studies.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MPH

14. Ohio University

Ohio University was established in 1804. Ohio University is a member school of the University System of Ohio. The school’s 1,800± acre- college town campus is home to more than 20,000 students. OU’s total student enrollment across all the university’s campuses is nearly 35,000. Ohio University holds the distinction of being the institution of higher education chartered by the United States Congress.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE for online masters

15. Regis University

Regis University is a coeducational institution of higher education that was established in 1877. Regis University is affiliated with the Roman Catholic (Jesuit) Church. The school’s 80+-acre campus, located in the Mile-High city of Denver is home to more than 8,300 students studying for academic degrees from Regis University’s five colleges/schools. Regis University is a member school of the Association of Jesuit Colleges & Universities.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : Many business programs

16. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati was established in 1819 as a research institution of higher education. UC operates with several campuses in Cincinnati. Together all UC campuses serve nearly 46,000 students. US News recognizes UC as the 75th best public university in the country. The University of Cincinnati holds the distinction of being the oldest school in the city of Cincinnati, and the second biggest university in Ohio.

17. Maryville University

The Maryville University of St. Louis was established in 1872 as a private institution of higher learning. The school’s suburban campus is home to nearly 6,500 students studying for the 90-degree programs offered. Maryville University was originally established in St. Louis by the Society of the Sacred Heart. The board of trustees of Maryville University still must include five members of the laity.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE for most online masters

18. Ball State University

Ball State University was established in 1918 as a public institution of higher education. The school’s Muncie campus covers more than 1,000 acres and serves more than 22,000 students. Ball State University operates with eight colleges/schools that offer more than 300-degree programs. Ball State University began with a gift to Indiana from the industrialists — the Ball Brothers.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MA in Elementary Education , MA in Journalism , MA in Interior Design

19. Wilkes University

Wilkes University was established in 1933 as a private institution of higher learning known as the Bucknell University Junior College (BUJC). Wilkes University offers degree programs from the seven colleges/schools. Wilkes University’s Wilkes-Barre campus is home to more than 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Originally, Wilkes University was established as a satellite facility of Bucknell University.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : MSN

20. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University was established in 1949 as a nonprofit private institution of higher education. The school is affiliated with the Evangelical Christian Church. Grand Canyon University’s student enrollment on-campus exceeds 20,000 students. GCU’s online student enrollment is approximately 70,000 students. By total enrollment on-campus and online, Grand Canyon University is recognized as the largest Christian University in the world.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE is minimum GPA is met

21. Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University was established in 1969 as a public institution of higher education. Texas A&M International University is a member school of the Texas A&M University System. The school’s 300+- acre campus is home to more than 7,400 students studying for degrees from the school’s four colleges/schools. Texas A&M International University has been recognized among the top regional universities in the west.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE for online programs

22. University of New England

The University of New England was established in 1831 as a coeducational university. The University of New England operates with additional campuses in Portland, ME and internationally in Morocco. The school’s rural campus serves more than 6,000 students at the undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral level. The University of New England has recognized among the best universities by US News, Forbes, The Princeton Review, and Money Magazine.

23. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University was established in 1964. The school’s 475+-acre campus in Fort Lauderdale is home to nearly 21,000 students studying from the various level degree programs offered by Nova Southeastern University’s 18 colleges/schools. Nova Southeastern University’s campus was built upon what was once a Naval outlying Landing Field from WW II.

24. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota was established in 1912. The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is affiliated with the Roman Catholic (Lasallians) Church. The school’s campuses serve more than 4,700 students. Additionally, the school’s campus is home to the immaculate heart of Mary Seminary. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota operates several campuses through the State of Minnesota and internationally in Jamaica and Kenya.

25. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University was established in 1910 as a teacher’s training normal school. West Texas A&M University’s campus is about 12 miles to the south of the metropolitan city of Amarillo. Through its six colleges/schools, West Texas A&M University offers about 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The school’s suburban campus serves more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate degree students. West Texas A&M University is a member school of the Texas A&M University System. The renowned southwest artist, Georgia O’Keefe was the school’s Art Department chair.

No-GRE Master’s Degrees : No GRE for online

Do I Need to Take the GRE?

When you are planning to attend a graduate-level degree program, you may have questions about the application process and the requirements for the school. While every school has specific standards, a common question is when should I take the GRE? As a general rule, identifying when to take the GRE depends on the school you plan to attend.

Do I need to take the GRE for my degree? In most cases, you will need the test to qualify for many graduate programs. The standards may vary based on the school and program, so you will want to look into the details of the school before you determine that you do not need the test. The GRE doesn’t make grad school harder to get in, but it may not be to your advantage.

The challenge in relation to your GRE is the test score. How many times can you take the GRE to get the result you want? In general, you can take the test up to five times in one year. Each retest requires you to wait 21 days before you sit for the test. By retaking the test, you may improve your scores; however, you should be aware that the GRE does limit the number of times you qualify to take the test each year.

Keep in mind, we’re not saying not to take the GRE – we’re just saying you might not have to. Even if you are looking into a program that does not require a GRE, there are situations that may require the test. In some cases, the school waives the GRE test scores if you meet specific qualifications for your work experience or for your grades in an undergraduate program. Plus, unless you’re only applying to programs that do not require the GRE, some program you want to apply to will require it. Due to the variety of potential options, you may need to take the test to avoid complications with your application. Don’t shut yourself out of the running just because you’re afraid of the test.

What Fields Do Not Usually Require the GRE?

When you are looking into no GRE masters programs, you may notice that schools do not always require the GRE for every major or area of study. In some cases, the school differentiates its standards based on your plans for a degree. Some fields that consider the GRE less important include:

• Public Administration
• Public Health

A key factor that may impact a school’s standards is your plans for where to study. An online master’s no GRE or GMAT test solution may help students who want to avoid the test while still finishing a degree. Online programs set different standards for admissions when compared to programs on-campus, so students have a variety of options in relation to a school’s standards for admissions.

Should I Bother Applying with a Bad GRE Score?

When you are looking into schools that do not require a GRE score, it may bring into consideration whether to apply with a bad score or avoid the GRE entirely. Is the GRE difficult? As a general rule, the test focuses on knowledge students with an undergraduate degree should know based on their studies.

In many cases, the test is used when students have a low GPA on their transcripts or to assess potential in students. It may not be necessary if you meet other requirements and standards in relation to your grades and education.

The determining factor is identifying when you have a bad score. What is a bad GRE score? Ultimately, it depends on the program. As a general rule, it is considered a good score if students have a cumulative score of 305 or higher when adding the math or verbal scores. The average student scores between 150 and 152 on different sections of the GRE. When students meet or exceed the average, it improves their chance of getting into a better school. A bad score is anything below the average score, particularly if it is significantly lower than average.

Is the GRE Worth the Cost?

The GRE is worth the cost if a school or program requires the test scores for students to qualify for a program. How much is the GRE? It depends on your situation. The cost of the standard test through most of the world is $205; however, students may pay more in some countries. Registering for the test late will result in an additional fee.

While the basic cost relates only to the test, expenses associated with preparation may vary significantly. Students should be aware that preparation courses or programs may increase the cost of the GRE. Depending on your learning style and your preferences, you may add a few dollars or a large fee to your costs. You will want to evaluate your needs and goals before you determine if paying for study materials is worth the additional cost.

Related Rankings:

25 Best Online Master’s in Education Degree Programs 25 Best Master’s in Public Health Online Top 25 Online Master’s in Public Administration Top 25 Online Master’s in Nursing Degree Top 25 Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration

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Online Master’s in Counseling With no GRE Requirements

One of the most common testing requirements for students entering into master's-level programs is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). This test is taken after your undergraduate degree is completed and can contribute to your acceptance into colleges across the U.S. But, did you know that you can still enroll in a master’s degree program without taking the GRE? Master's degree in counseling online and in-person programs with no GRE requirements can be found at multiple universities across the U.S. These universities offer mental health counseling coursework that will guide students to complete their master's programs to become mental health counselors. 

Read on to learn more about master’s in counseling degree programs that don’t require you to take the GRE today and compare highly rated programs.

What Is an Online Master’s in Counseling Degree With no GRE Requirement?

In the past, applicants seeking a graduate degree for career counseling must endure a lengthy and challenging application process for a graduate program with an accredited institution.

However, as more counseling master's programs look to increase affordability and accessibility, many graduate schools offer counseling programs that don’t require the GRE for their counseling degree.

Instead of relying on the strict GRE scores, many online master's in counseling programs have no GRE requirements and open the door to career counselors by focusing the admission process on a candidate's undergraduate grade-point average (GPA), letters of recommendation, and personal goals for career development.

If you are looking to pursue a professional counseling career and have a strong undergraduate GPA, you should consider an online school counseling program with no GRE-required standard to meet.

GRE waivers are usually only allowed for applicants who show a strong undergraduate GPA, have a certificate in a related educational program, or already have their master's degree.

What Are the Admissions Steps for Online Programs With no GRE Requirements?

No GRE requirements allow some M.S. or M.A. in Counseling programs to base admissions requirements on your undergraduate degree, work experience within the counseling area, and recommendations, among other criteria.

Students who are considering enrollment into Master of Counseling programs may be required to complete several different steps during the application and acceptance periods. Completing online courses for an undergraduate degree is one of the major components to getting accepted into these programs.

Why Choose an Online Master’s in Counseling with No GRE Requirements?

Even without the GRE requirement, these higher education programs show students the methodology to assist patients with various human development steps to address mental illness. Students can achieve the same level of learning with an online master's degree as they could achieve with traditional on-campus education.

Numerous programs — particularly online counseling programs — are either providing GRE waivers or entirely removing the GRE requirement for all students applying for their Master of Counseling program to make the admissions process more straightforward.

The Master of Counseling Degree

An online master's in counseling with no GRE requirement helps learners prepare for careers helping people in need. The curriculum for this degree program includes courses that can educate enrollees on the history of psychology and counseling, explore the fundamental topics of normal and abnormal mental health, and teach techniques for therapeutic intervention for clients in different age groups.

Typical Length

Programs can take around two years to complete for most students, with the additional time needed after graduation for supervised clinical experience. Different colleges may have in-person experience requirements within their course list to help prepare students for their clinical experience, while other programs may be entirely online.

Typically, the GRE requirements (or lack thereof) do not affect the length of a graduate counseling degree.

Specialization Tracks

If you choose to enroll in a Master of Counseling program, you may have the option to pursue studies in different specializations. One of the most popular specialized paths for counseling learners is the clinical mental health discipline, leading to many different careers in the mental health field.

Alternative specialized paths include career counseling, marriage and family counseling, and school counseling. Adding specializations to your degree program can change your curriculum to include additional components for later success.

If you have already worked in a particular area of counseling, you might qualify for a specialization track that waives the GRE based on your work experience. Be sure to speak with the admissions representative for the programs you are considering.

Choosing a specialization at the onset of your online master's in counseling can help you create the perfect degree program from the very beginning. Students who have already completed a Master of Counseling program can add to the quality of their education by enrolling in post-master's certificate programs down the road.

Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

What Is the GRE and Why Is It Sometimes Required?

The Graduate Record Examination ( GRE ) is a skill and knowledge test for graduates of undergraduate degree programs. Some colleges require those incoming students to complete this assessment before being approved into their graduate-level degree programs, making it an additional step on students’ educational path.

This exam tests students in areas including analytical writing, quantitative analysis, and verbal skills. After completing the exam, students are assigned a score based on their cumulative progress in each section.

Different colleges have different expectations for scores required for admissions. Colleges that have a higher admissions rate may utilize these test scores to determine which applicants are accepted into their programs.

With this added barrier to entry for some colleges, students may seek out online master's in counseling with no GRE requirement. Multiple schools throughout the U.S. do not require the GRE for entry, many of which offer online flexible course options.

Admissions Requirements for No GRE Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs

Some universities can use the GRE as a method for further screening applicants for their programs. In college programs that do not utilize the GRE as a method for enrollment, students may need to provide documentation to support their previous achievements and degree programs prior to enrollment.

Typically, universities require that students provide proof of their undergraduate degree program and transcripts at the time of application. Students applying to universities with no GRE requirement may also be required to hold a minimum GPA of 3 or higher, depending on their enrollment.

Additional requirements may vary depending on the schools you are applying to. In some cases, schools may substitute graduate-level testing requirements with work experience, including a one- or two-year requirement for admissions.

Each school may have slightly different expectations for learners interested in applying to their programs. You should always review the requirements of each institution before submitting your final documentation.

CACREP Accredited Online Master’s in Counseling With no GRE Requirement Options

In today’s educational setting, students may prefer the benefits of utilizing the internet during their learning experience. Online master's in counseling programs can provide students with optimum flexibility and convenience from start to finish, which can be vital factors for busy adults with little free time to dedicate to education.

• Northwestern University currently provides a CACREP-accredited online Master of Arts in Counseling to students interested in making a difference in the lives of others. This program can take 18-39 months to complete and prepare students for completing the National Counselors Examination.
• The University of Denver also provides an online school counseling program with no GRE requirement. Its Master of Arts in School Counseling option can help you learn techniques appropriate for children needing guidance in school settings.

View counseling programs by state to find programs near you or view the online master’s in counseling programs .

Counseling Career Options

One of the most exciting aspects of counseling programs that don’t require a GRE is that they can lead to the same counseling careers as their GRE-requiring alternatives. The GRE does not designate the type of program you are permitted to participate in but simply acts as an admissions filter for higher-demand universities.

Before embarking on a counseling career, however, you must first obtain licensure. An online master's in counseling can prepare you for the completion of the National Counselors Examination, which is a standard precursor for licensure in each state. Once you have graduated from your degree program, you can begin your supervised clinical experience that can last around two years for most participants.

There are many career options for graduates with a master’s degree in counseling. Check out the examples below to see how you can pursue an exciting and rewarding career in the field of counseling.

Licensed Counselor

Licensed counselors can work for mental health agencies that provide care to a broad range of clients. Suppose you are interested in administering general counseling to the public. In that case, you could apply for a substance abuse counselor role in a hospital or private practice, work as a family therapist, or take on a host of other positions in the healthcare field. You could also go on to other specialized forms of clinical mental health counseling to assist patients with a wide range of mental health concerns. 

Learn more about becoming a licensed counselor:

• LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor 
• LCPC: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional counselors (substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors) make an average salary of $49,710 per year as of May 2022. 

The BLS reports that the outlook for this field is strong, with employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors expected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average growth of all careers. The increasing focus on treatment for substance abuse instead of incarceration is a major factor in this growth.

School Counselor

Specialized career options in counseling can be found in the educational setting, with a large number of degree programs available to prepare learners for careers in school and career counseling , including online school counseling programs with no GRE requirement. 

In some areas, child and adolescent counselors can work in the school system (through group counseling, for example) as an added resource for students. According to the BLS, school and career counselors make an average salary of $60,140 per year as of May 2022. Roles for these counselors are expected to grow 5% from 2022 through 2032 as rising school enrollment necessitates more school counselors.

Military or Nonprofit Counseling

Counselors can be great tools for support in a wide variety of settings. As a licensed professional, you can work for other organizations that require counselors on staff during your career, including the military and even large nonprofits like the Red Cross.

Family Therapist

As a family therapist, you can focus on ways to support couples and families. Typical duties include evaluating mental health, communicating to help resolve conflicts and discuss ways to improve ongoing relationships between family members. Some professionals focus on either family or marriage counseling, while others provide the full range of services to clients in a private practice or other setting.

The median pay for family therapists is $56,570 per year as of May 2022, according to BLS. These professionals work in the offices of health practitioners, in outpatient care centers, and in hospital settings. BLS estimates that the number of family therapists will increase by about 15% between 2022 and 2032.

Rehabilitation Counselor

Consider a career as a rehabilitation counselor to work with clients who may struggle to find employment or live independently. Rehabilitation counselors evaluate clients and arrange for support services that promote independent living. Many clients with physical and/or mental disabilities may need additional support to identify a rehabilitation plan and access the community services in their area.

According to BLS, the median annual wage for these professionals was $39,990 in May 2022 . The number of rehabilitation counselors in the United States is expected to grow about 2% from 2022 to 2032, which is a typical growth rate.

Community Health Worker

Combine counseling support and essential health care as a community health worker. This role requires not only an in-depth understanding of health care service but also case management skills and the ability to provide culturally appropriate care.

As of May 2022, the median salary for community health workers was $46,190 , according to BLS data. This fast-growing career is expected to see a 14% employment growth between 2022 and 2032.

Social Worker

While a career as a social worker typically only requires a bachelor’s degree, a master’s in counseling graduate can also use their skills and passions for this fast-paced career option. Social workers, whether working in schools, mental health facilities, or in hospitals, evaluate, monitor, and respond to client needs. They typically work with a whole host of community organizations to provide the layers of support many clients need.

According to BLS, the median annual wage for this career was $55,350 as of May 2022. The number of social workers in the United States is expected to grow by 7% between 2022 and 2032.

Psychologist

As a psychologist, you can not only work with clients in a counseling setting but also conduct research in the field of psychology. Many psychologists have a doctorate degree, but a master’s in counseling online degree is a major step toward qualifying for this career path.

The number of psychologists in the nation is expected to increase by 6% between 2022 and 2032 , according to BLS. As of May 2022, psychologists earned a median annual wage of $85,330.

Learn More: What Can I Do with a Master's in Counseling Degree?

Explore Highly Rated Master’s in Counselor Online Degrees without GRE Requirements Today

You don’t have to worry about preparing for and taking the GRE test to start your master’s in counseling degree journey. Review the rewarding counseling career options and connect with top-rated universities offering programs to earn an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirements. See how you can work toward your degree in a way that fits your personality and personal situation. Take time to discuss your options with your advisors to see if you are eligible for a GRE waiver today.

Master of Counseling with No GRE Requirements FAQs

Do i need to take the gre to become a counselor.

No, many institutions offer counseling programs that don’t have a GRE requirement. 

How many hours is a master’s in counseling?

Many master’s in mental health counseling programs require students to complete 60 credit hours over two or three years. 

Is a master’s in counseling worth it?

Graduates who pursue professional counseling can launch their careers in a number of human services fields, and the demand for this profession is growing.

List of Programs

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Still Looking for a Counseling Degree?

• Online Counseling Degrees
• Online Masters in Counseling
• Bachelors in Counseling
• Masters in Counseling

Counseling Schools by State

• Counseling Career Guide
• Highest Paid Counseling Jobs

Online Counseling Programs

• 100% Online Counseling Programs
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• All Online Counseling Programs

Top Counseling Degrees

• Online Counseling Degrees:
• List of Online Masters in Counseling Programs
• Online Counseling Program Overview
• Online MA in Counseling
• Online MA in Counseling Psychology

Top Masters in Counseling Programs

• No GRE MA in Counseling
• Online Master of Arts in Counseling
• Schools with an Online Master of Counseling
• Accelerated MA in Counseling
• Hybrid MA in Counseling
• Dual Masters in Counseling Degrees
• By Online Counseling Program Specialization:
• Online Masters in Behavior Analysis
• Online Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Online Masters in Counseling Psychology
• Online Masters in Mental Health Counseling
• Online Master of Rehabilitation Counseling
• Online Masters in School Counseling
• By Accreditation:
• Online CACREP Accredited Masters Programs
• Online MPCAC Accredited Programs

Degrees in Counseling

• Bachelors (BA | BS)
• Masters (MA | MS | MAC)
• Doctorate (PhD | EdD)
• Review of 40+ Online Masters in Counseling Programs
• Search Counseling Degrees by State

What is CACREP?

CACREP is the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs. Nearly every state requires counselors to have a graduate degree from a CACREP-accredited institution. There are currently 785 counseling programs in the US accredited by CACREP.

Counseling Programs

• Online MA: No GRE Required
• Behavior Analysis
• Master of Behavior Analysis
• Counseling Psychology
• Masters in Counseling Psychology
• Career Counseling
• Child Development
• Cultural Counseling
• Cognitive Therapy
• College Counseling
• Color Therapy Counseling
• Crisis Intervention
• Depression Counseling
• Developmental Counseling Psychology
• Domestic Violence Counseling
• Eating Disorder Therapy
• Educational Counseling
• Family and Marriage Counseling
• Genetic Counseling
• Geriatric Counseling
• Grief Counseling
• Guidance Counseling
• Mental Health Counseling
• Master of Mental Health Counseling
• Military Counseling
• Music Therapy Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling
• School Counseling
• Master of School Counseling
• Spiritual Counseling
• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Transformational Counseling

Counseling Careers

• Highest Paid Counseling Careers
• Careers with a Bachelors in Counseling
• Careers with a Masters in Counseling
• Types of Counseling
• Counseling Licensure
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Steps to Become a Counselor
• Licensure by State

Types of Counseling Licensure

• Counseling Licensure Guide
• State Counseling Licensure
• What It Takes to Become a Counselor
• LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor
• LMFT: Marriage and Family Therapist
• LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• LMHC: Licensed Mental Health Counselor
• CCMHC: Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor
• MAC: Master Addictions Counselor
• BCBA: Board Certified Behavior Analyst
• NCC: National Certified Counselor
• NCSC: National Certified School Counselor
• LCPC: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
• LPCC: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

FAQ: Counseling Careers & Degrees

• Counselor vs. Therapist
• School Psychologist vs. School Counselor
• Masters in Counseling vs. Masters in Psychology
• Counseling vs. Social Work
• CACREP vs. MPCAC: What is the Difference?
• What Does It Take to Become a Counselor?
• What is a LPC?
• What is a LMFT?
• What is a LCSW?
• What is a LMHC?
• What is a BCBA?
• What is a NCC?

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Do You Need to Take the GRE for a Ph.D. Program?

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• Many graduate schools no longer require GRE scores for Ph.D. programs.
• A good GRE score may make you more competitive at a test-optional school.
• Ph.D. programs that don't require GRE scores often prioritize other admission requirements.

Typical Ph.D. admission requirements include recommendation letters , a statement of purpose , and a resume .

You may also need Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Standardized tests such as the GRE predict your graduate school readiness and help master's and doctoral programs evaluate applicants.

Standardized tests can feel stressful, though, especially if you last took one many years ago. Fortunately, some programs now waive the GRE for Ph.D. admissions. Top reasons for waiving this requirement include the exam's high price and its content not aligning with some majors.

Keep reading to learn more about popular doctoral and Ph.D. programs that don't require GRE scores and when you should consider taking the GRE.

Featured Online Doctorate Programs

10 popular doctorates and ph.d. programs that don't require gre scores.

You can find GRE-optional Ph.D. and doctoral programs in many academic fields. These programs may instead require other application materials, such as an academic writing sample and curriculum vitae .

Ph.D. programs without GRE requirements may still recommend submitting scores. Good scores can help you stay competitive if your application falls short in other areas. Make sure to check all application requirements closely before applying to any doctoral programs.

1. Doctorate in Business Administration

A Ph.D. in business or a doctor of business administration (DBA) can offer specializations in areas like leadership, strategic management, and tourism management. Some online programs let you graduate in just three years.

Some doctoral business programs require or recommend the GMAT — a business-oriented admissions exam — instead of the general GRE. GMAT questions better assess your ability to do well in a graduate business program.

Featured Doctorate in Business Programs

Popular dba programs without gre.

• Bellevue University
• Florida International University
• Marshall University
• National University
• University of Maryland Global Campus

2. Doctorate in Computer Science

A Ph.D. in computer science prepares you for careers in academia, computer science research, and leadership. You'll take courses in subjects like artificial intelligence , computer networking, and social computing.

Ph.D. in computer science programs with no GRE requirements tend to look for applicants with strong resumes, impressive portfolios, and compelling recommendation letters. You can also impress admissions officers with a persuasive statement of purpose.

Featured Doctorate in Computer Science Programs

Popular computer science ph.d. programs without gre.

• Arizona State University
• Clemson University
• University of California, Santa Barbara
• University of Connecticut
• University of Minnesota

3. Doctorate in Criminal Justice

Consider doctorate in criminal justice programs if you want to work as a correctional supervisor or criminology professor. First-year classes may include seminars in police administration and police socialization.

Although you can find many criminal justice Ph.D. programs with no GRE requirements, it's a good idea to submit scores if you need departmental funding and other institutional financial aid .

Featured Doctorate in Criminal Justice Programs

Popular criminal justice ph.d. programs without gre.

• Tarleton State University
• University of Louisville
• University of Maryland
• University of New Haven

4. Doctorate in Data Science

A Ph.D. can take your data science career to the next level with classes in machine learning, big data, and probability and statistics. Research classes prepare you for the lengthy dissertation process . Other graduation requirements include teaching undergraduates.

Admissions officers prefer applicants with a bachelor's or master's in mathematics, computer science , or engineering .

Featured Doctorate in Data Science Programs

Popular data science ph.d. programs without gre.

• Boston University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• New York University
• University of California, San Diego
• Yale University

5. Doctorate in Education

Consider a Ph.D. in education or a doctor of education (Ed.D.) degree if you want to teach the next generation of teachers and school administrators. Top programs let you select an emphasis, such as learning and mind sciences or school organization and educational policy.

Applying to an education Ph.D. without GRE scores means your recommendation letters, teaching experience, statement of purpose, and academic record will likely carry the heaviest weight.

Featured Doctorate in Education Programs

Popular education ph.d. programs without gre.

• Drexel University
• Stanford University
• University of California, Davis
• University of California, Irvine
• University of Colorado Boulder

6. Doctorate in Healthcare Administration

Hospitals and other healthcare settings require well-trained professionals to oversee operations. A doctorate in healthcare administration prepares you for this role with coursework in population health and leadership strategies.

Admissions officers look for applicants with strong undergraduate grades and shining recommendation letters. Other requirements may include an interview with department faculty.

Featured Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Programs

Popular health administration ph.d. programs without gre.

• The Ohio State University
• University of California, Los Angeles
• William Carey University

7. Doctorate in Nursing

Like many Ph.D. programs that don't require the GRE, doctorate in nursing programs feature several concentrations for you to choose from. Your program — a Ph.D. in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) — may offer concentrations in health promotions, health outcomes, or nursing education. Your program may take less time to complete if you already hold an MSN .

Nursing programs not requiring the GRE for Ph.D. admissions may use an undergraduate GPA cutoff and interview. Other application materials may include a statement of purpose and a resume.

Featured Doctorate in Nursing Programs

Popular nursing ph.d. programs without gre.

• University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
• University of Northern Colorado
• Wilkes University

8. Doctorate in Pharmacy

All licensed pharmacists must hold a doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Core classes in Pharm.D. programs include the principles of drug development, bioanalytical methods, and molecular spectroscopy. You'll also complete a research project and dissertation.

Admissions officers will review your undergraduate transcripts, resume, recommendation letters, and essays.

Featured Pharm.D. Programs

Popular pharmd programs without gre.

• Nova Southeastern University
• University of Illinois Chicago
• University of Michigan

9. Doctorate in Psychology

Top doctorate in psychology programs — whether you're getting a Ph.D. in psychology or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) — let you choose a specialization, such as cognition, developmental science, or clinical psychology.

All degree-seekers take introductory coursework in statistics for psychology. You'll earn your Ph.D. or Psy.D. after you successfully defend your dissertation.

Featured Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Popular psychology ph.d. programs without gre.

• University of Nevada, Las Vegas

10. Doctorate in Social Work

The best doctorate in social work programs — either a Ph.D. in social work or a doctor of social work (DSW) — take about four years and require classes in areas like professional social work issues, correlation and regression, and qualitative data analysis. You may also need to complete a teaching practicum if you wish to become a social work professor.

DSW and social work Ph.D. programs with no GRE typically require a master's degree, professional experience, and coursework in statistics.

Featured Doctorate in Social Work Programs

Popular social work ph.d. programs without gre.

• Columbia University
• University of Denver
• University of Washington

How Do Ph.D. Programs Use GRE Scores?

Graduate schools use GRE scores for a variety of reasons, including as a way to judge your academic readiness.

Some schools use the GRE to make admission decisions, some use it for merit-based financial aid, and some require it but don't weigh it heavily, said Ben Paris , a tutor and test prep expert with over 25 years of experience. Paris also served as curriculum director at Kaplan Test Prep.

A high GRE score suggests you're well prepared for the rigor of a graduate program.

But not all Ph.D. programs use GRE scores the same way.

According to Paris, Programs may consider different parts of the GRE and not others. For example, English grad programs care less about your Quantitative score, and engineering grad programs focus less on Verbal.

Before you apply to any grad schools, consider reaching out and asking how the program uses GRE scores to evaluate applicants.

Asking your target programs about how they use the GRE gives you helpful information and demonstrates interest, which helps your application, said Paris.

Should You Submit GRE Scores to Test-Optional Programs?

Whether you should submit GRE scores to test-optional grad schools depends on many factors, including how high you're likely to score and how competitive your programs are.

Find out if your program has competitive admissions, recommended Paris. For competitive programs, the GRE can be an advantage if you've got good scores that are higher than those of typical admitted students.

A high GRE score can also help negate a less-than-impressive undergraduate GPA.

Students with lower GPAs especially benefit from submitting stellar GRE scores, as those scores can compensate for low grades, said Paris.

Finally, your academic field can affect whether you should submit GRE scores. An excellent Quantitative score can set you apart if you're applying to STEM programs, whereas high Verbal and Analytical Writing scores can boost an application to a humanities or liberal arts Ph.D. program.

Many grad schools publish the average GRE scores of admitted applicants on their websites. Knowing what other students scored can help you determine whether to submit your own GRE scores.

Look up scores of admitted students, advised Paris. That will give you a sense if your scores are competitive or if you should invest in more preparation for a higher score.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ph.D. Programs That Don't Require GRE Scores

What is a good gre score for a ph.d. program.

A good GRE score will depend on the expectations of the Ph.D. programs you're applying to. Some program websites may explicitly state what they consider to be a good GRE score . They may also report the average GRE scores for the latest incoming class.

You'll want to meet or exceed any GRE score a Ph.D. program uses for admission purposes. A score within this range can make your application more competitive.

When should you take the GRE for a Ph.D. program?

You should take the GRE well before your application deadlines, ideally at least 1-3 months in advance. ETS lets you take the exam once every three weeks, giving you many opportunities to improve your score if needed.

Can you get into a Ph.D. program with low GRE scores?

You can get into a Ph.D. program with low GRE scores if you submit strong transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters.

That said, you'll need every advantage when applying to competitive Ph.D. programs. Use GRE practice tests to identify your areas of weakness and create a long-term study plan.

What is the minimum GRE score required for a Ph.D.?

There is no universal GRE score cutoff for a Ph.D. Although some doctoral programs may require a minimum GRE score for admission, many do not (or don't require GRE scores at all).

Some programs may require a combined minimum Verbal and Quantitative score, while others may require only a minimum Verbal or Quantitative score. In general, you can expect more competitive Ph.D. programs to maintain a higher GRE score cutoff.

Explore More College Resources

Best online graduate schools & master’s programs [no gre required].

A Complete Guide to GRE Registration and Fees (With Pictures)

How to prepare for the gre: test day checklist.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.

Best MBA Programs for 2024 – No GMAT/GRE Required

MBA programs can be the key to boosting your career and amplifying your earning potential. In fact, half of the business schools that participated in Fortune’s Best MBA ranking in 2022 reported median salaries of $110,000 or more. However, preparing for the standardized tests required by some MBA programs can be expensive and time-consuming. Using data from our best MBA programs ranking, Fortune has compiled a list of the best MBA programs that do not require the GMAT or GRE. This list serves as a tool for those looking for degree program options that do not require submission of test scores to apply. This ranking was last updated March 2023.

The Online MBA From Syracuse University

UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

• ACCEPTANCE RATE
• AVERAGE GMAT
• GMAT REQUIREMENT
• MEDIAN BASE SALARY OF NEW GRADS

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)

3. New York University (Stern)

Harvard Business Analytics Program

4. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor (Ross)

5. duke university (fuqua).

6. Cornell University (Johnson)

7. Dartmouth College (Tuck)

8. University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson)

UC Davis Master of Management

9. University of Washington (Foster)

10. Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)

11. University of Rochester (Simon)

12. Michigan State University (Broad)

13. University of Florida (Warrington)

Maryville University Master of Science in Data Science | Online

14. Fordham University (Gabelli)

15. University of Maryland–College Park (Smith)

16. Southern Methodist University (Cox)

17. William & Mary

18. CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College (Zicklin)

The online mba from rice business.

19. Babson College (Olin)

20. University of Pittsburgh (Katz)

21. American University (Kogod)

22. university of massachusetts–amherst (isenberg).

23. University of Denver (Daniels)

24. University of San Diego (Knauss)

25. Syracuse University (Whitman)

26. Hult International Business School

27. bentley university.

28. Morgan State University (Graves)

29. University of Cincinnati (Lindner)

30. Lindenwood University

31. college of charleston.

32. John Carroll University (Boler)

33. Kent State University

34. xavier university, why many mba programs no longer require the gmat or gre.

Good news for professionals looking to apply for MBA programs—more and more top MBA programs are loosening their testing requirements .

Professionals who think their experience speaks to their management competency and would like to skip tests altogether might be happy to hear that many full-time MBA programs no longer require any test scores to be submitted at all.

The top-ranked schools are an indication of a broader trend in MBA admissions policies, a trend that started before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic but was expedited in the past two years, according to Esther Magna, a principal MBA admissions consultant at Stacy Blackman , an MBA admissions consulting company. Top schools want to ensure diversity in their incoming cohorts—diversity of both personal and professional backgrounds—and maintaining a GMAT requirement somewhat limits the types of students who apply, Magna adds.

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Online MBA Programs with No GMAT Requirement 2024

Masters programs that don't require the gre 2024, best nationally accredited online colleges & universities 2024, the most affordable online master's programs 2024, 6 month certificate programs that pay well 2024, easiest phd and shortest doctoral programs online 2024, accelerated bachelor's degree online, cheapest law schools online 2024.

For admission to a graduate program of study, the Graduate Record Exam, or GRE, is usually required.

Find Your School in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

The GRE is a standardized test intended to determine a graduate school applicant’s outlook of success in graduate education, at the Master’s or Doctorate degree level.

GRE requirements vary depending on the university or program of study. If the university requires the GRE as an application requirement, the requirement may be simply that the prospective student has taken the exam before applying. However, a program within the university, may require a specific score in order to be considered.

Universities or specific graduate programs might also recommend, rather than require, a GRE score for admission consideration. This distinction should be clearly displayed in the university’s application requirements listing, but it’s a good idea to check with the admission office or program director for more detailed information on this distinction.

Recommending rather than requiring the GRE often means providing a greater opportunity to students who might not have the strongest application, who might, for example, have an undergraduate GPA on the lower end of the scale. In this case, a high GRE score demonstrates the applicant’s potential to succeed in graduate school, in spite of his or her less-than-desirable performance as an undergraduate student.

If an applicant chooses not to provide a GRE score to a program that recommends rather than requires them, they should make sure their application and supporting materials are highly competitive otherwise.

Some universities and programs, however, do not require the submission of a GRE score for admission consideration whatsoever.

Grad Schools That Don’t Require the GRE

The university or program may have a general policy against exempting applicants from the GRE requirement, or it may decide on an individual basis. Regarding the latter, universities or programs that do require the GRE may waive the requirement for applicants who meet certain criteria.

Related Programs That Might Interest You

The applicant might not be required to submit a GRE score if they have already received a graduate degree, for instance. MFA, or Master of Fine Arts, programs typically require a portfolio of work instead of a GRE score, and programs designed for working professionals tend to value industry experience over a GRE score.

Outside of these individual exemptions, there are universities or programs that do not require the GRE for admission. There’s been a movement toward a more holistic applicant review in recent years, with the GRE score requirement being seen by some university admission departments as an impersonal, black-and-white criterion blocking potentially successful prospective graduate students from having the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment and ability.

Studying for and completing the Graduate Record Exam can be a timely and expensive process, a roadblock for many applicants who lack the time and money to prepare for and take the exam. Still, most graduate degree programs that do not require a GRE score for admission consideration are online schools, some with and others without brick-and-mortar campuses.

Potential students may view admission to an online degree program as an easier option, especially if the online university or program does not require a GRE score.

A university or program not requiring the GRE, however, whether online or on-campus, may actually be more difficult to gain admission to. In the absence of a straightforward GRE cut-off score requirement for admission consideration, the program may utilize stricter, more competitive admission requirements. These may include higher undergraduate GPAs, more extracurricular, industry, or research experience, and essays and writing samples held to a greater standard.

18 Grad Schools that Don’t Require the GRE

• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
• Western Governors University
• Purdue University Global
• Strayer University
• Capella University
• Walden University
• Northcentral University
• Liberty University
• University of Southern California
• Simmons University
• Nova Southeastern University
• University of Scranton
• Benedictine University
• American University
• NYU School of Social Work
• Boston University
• Antioch University
• Utica College

Master’s Programs That Do Not Require the GRE

It is far very common to find Master level programs not requiring the GRE than it is to find Doctorate level programs. Most, if not all, Master’s degree programs that can be taken on campus are offered online, too, either through the brick-and-mortar university offering the on-campus option or a university that operates solely online.

Many of the most popular and in-demand degrees can be earned online, including those leading to a profession in health care or the social service field.

When searching for and deciding upon a Master’s program to pursue, the single most important consideration is to make sure the program is accredited by whichever governing body oversees the education and licensing of professionals in its field. This is true of programs offered through both online universities and those that are part of a university with a physical campus.

Accrediting agencies ensure that programs of study offer coursework needed to be considered a qualified professional in the field. If student enrolls in and completes a graduate degree program that is not accredited appropriately, he/she may not realize the mistake until the program is finished and licensing or other qualifications are impossible to obtain. The only option at that point would be, enroll in the same program of study with an accredited university.

Too many for-profit online universities can take advantage of eager applicants seeking in-demand careers. Before submitting your application it is important that you conduct research.

13 Masters Programs – No GRE Grad Schools

• Masters in Healthcare Administration – SNHU
• Masters of Business Administration (MBA) – Purdue University Global
• Masters of Human Resource Management – Ashford University
• MS In Education – Walden
• Masters in Taxation – Villanova University
• Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Capella University
• Executive MBA – Loyola University
• Masters of Cybersecurity – Roger Williams University
• Master of Science in Social Work (MSW) – Capella University
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) – Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
• Masters of Public Health (MPH) – California Baptist
• Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Capella University
• Masters of Public Administration (MPA) – Seton Hall

Traditional Master’s Programs That Don’t Require the GRE

Occupational therapy.

An Occupational Therapist supports individuals with disease, injury, or developmental delays that may affect the individual’s independence and overall quality of life. Occupational Therapy is a quickly growing field of study, and you can earn your Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy online. It is imperative to make sure the online program you are interested in pursuing is accredited by the  American Occupational Therapy Association . The AOTA accredits several online programs offering Master’s level degrees in Occupational Therapy that don’t require the GRE for admission.

Occupational Therapy Programs that Don’t Require the GRE

• A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
• University of Minnesota
• Nebraska Methodist College

Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants are Master’s level medical professionals, and these professionals are in high demand. Physician Assistants examine, diagnose, and treat patients in clinical settings without having to spend as much time and work as medical school students do. This degree can be earned from several programs accredited by the  Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant , and though it’s less common to find a program of study in a science field that doesn’t require the GRE, such programs are out there.

93 PA Schools That Don’t Require the GRE

• Augsburg College Physician Assistant Program
• Bay Path University Physician Assistant Program
• Bethel University (Minnesota) Physician Assistant Program
• California Baptist University
• Charles R. Drew University Physician Assistant Program
• College of Saint Mary
• Concordia University Physician Assistant Program
• Cuyahoga Community College Cleveland State University Physician Assistant Program
• D’youville College Physician Assistant Program
• Daemen College Physician Assistant Program
• Dominican University of California
• Drexel University Physician Assistant Program
• Duquesne University Physician Assistant Program
• Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program
• Franklin College Physician Assistant Program
• Franklin Pierce University Physician Assistant Program
• Frostburg State University
• Gannon University Physician Assistant Program
• Gardner-Webb University Physician Assistant Program
• Heritage University Physician Assistant Program
• Hofstra University Physician Assistant Program
• Howard University
• Interservice Physician Assistant Program
• Kean University
• King’s College Physician Assistant Program
• Le Moyne College Physician Assistant Program
• Loma Linda University Physician Assistant Program
• Marshall B. Ketchum University Physician Assistant Program
• MCPHS University Physician Assistant Program (Boston)
• MCPHS University Physician Assistant Program (Manchester) New Hampshire
• MCPHS University Physician Assistant Program (Worcester) Massachusetts
• Mercy College Physician Assistant Program
• Miami-Dade College
• New York Institute of Technology Physician Assistant Program
• Northeastern University Physician Assistant Program
• Oklahoma City University
• Our Lady of the Holy Cross College
• Pace University Physician Assistant Program
• Pacific University Physician Assistant Program
• Pace University, Pleasantville
• Pennsylvania College of Technology Physician Assistant Program
• Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Physician Assistant Program
• Philadelphia University Physician Assistant Program
• Quinnipiac University Physician Assistant Program
• Red Rocks Community College Physician Assistant Program
• Rochester Institute of Technology Physician Assistant Program
• Rocky Vista University
• Rutgers University Physician Assistant Program
• Sacred Heart University Physician Assistant Program
• Saint Francis University Physician Assistant Program
• Saint Louis University Physician Assistant Program
• Samuel Merritt University Physician Assistant Program
• Seton Hill University Physician Assistant Program
• Slippery Rock University Physician Assistant Program
• Southern California University of Health Sciences Physician Assistant Program
• Springfield College Physician Assistant Program
• St. John’s University Physician Assistant Program
• Stony Brook University Physician Assistant Program
• Sullivan University Physician Assistant Program
• SUNY Downstate Medical Center Physician Assistant Program
• The CUNY School of Medicine
• Thomas Jefferson University Physician Assistant Program
• Touro College (Bay Shore) Physician Assistant Program
• Touro College (Manhattan) Physician Assistant Program
• Touro University Physician Assistant Program (California)
• Towson University CCBC – Essex Physician Assistant Program
• Union College Physician Assistant Program
• University of Bridgeport Physician Assistant Program
• University of California-Davis Physician Assistant Program
• University of Dayton Physician Assistant Program
• University of Findlay Physician Assistant Program
• University of Incarnate Word Physician Assistant Program
• University of La Verne
• University of Manitoba
• University of Nevada, Reno
• University of North Dakota Physician Assistant Program
• University of Saint Joseph Physician Assistant Program
• University of South Dakota Physician Assistant Program
• University of Tampa
• University of the Pacific
• University of the Sciences of Philadelphia Physician Assistant Program
• University of Toledo Physician Assistant Program
• University of Toronto
• University of Utah
• University of Wisconsin – Madison Physician Assistant Program
• Valparaiso University
• Wagner College Physician Assistant Program
• West Coast University
• West Liberty University Physician Assistant Program
• Western Michigan University
• Western University of Health Sciences Physician Assistant Program
• Westfield State University
• Wichita State University Physician Assistant Program

A Master’s degree in Psychology will award you to work a profession in mental health counseling or research or take you one step closer to a PhD or PsyD in the field. Several reputable universities give applicants the opportunity to study psychology at the graduate level without requiring a GRE score as part of the admission criteria.

10 Psychology Graduate Programs That Don’t Require the GRE

• Sacred Heart University
• Vanguard University
• California Southern University
• Saybrook University
• Lynn University
• Grand Canyon University
• The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• Argosy University

Online Master’s Programs that Don’t Require the GRE

Earning a MS in Psychology online could be a great choice if you have already received your undergraduate degree in psychology or a related social science field. You can further your education and knowledge from your undergraduate studies in addition to working, whether in a related field or somewhere else. This is just one of the many benefits of applying to graduate psychology programs online without taking the GRE.

10 Online Master’s in Psychology No GRE

• Ball State University
• Medaille College
• University of North Dakota
• George Mason University
• Penn State University-World Campus
• Pepperdine University
• Southern New Hampshire University
• Touro University-Worldwide

Master of Public Health

A Master’s degree in Public Health qualifies you to work in the community on initiatives in the prevention of injury, disease, and violence as well as in the overall promotion of citizen health and safety.  The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health  identifies programs offering the coursework necessary to lead to an accredited Master of Public Health, or MPH degree in several areas of focus, including epidemiology, minority health, maternal health, environmental health, and health policy. The  MPH can be earned online , and the ASPPH accredits several highly reputed universities with programs in public health, including programs not requiring the GRE for admission.

9 No GRE Online MPH Programs

• New Mexico State University
• American Public University
• University of Colorado
• Southern Connecticut University
• The University of Alabama
• Jackson State University
• West Chester University
• CUNY School of Public Health and Health Policy University of Alaska Anchorage

Speech Pathology

Speech pathology is the specialization of speech and communication abnormalities. A Speech Language pathologist is a professional who does research, evaluates, counsels, and treats people with speech and communication disorders. SLPs work with patients of all ages, from newborns with eating difficulties to senior citizens facing hearing loss. Speech-Language Pathologists are in high demand, so the number of both online and on-campus degree programs is growing. Pursuing your degree online with a program that does not require a GRE score allows you to study accredited coursework at your own pace, though most programs do require students’ physical presence when it comes time for clinical and practicum.

• Monmouth University
• West Texas A&M University
• St. Ambrose University
• San Francisco State University
• Governors State University
• Loma Linda University
• New York University

Master of Social Work

Earning your Master of Social Work online is possible, whether or not you have earned your Bachelor of Social Work. Most online Master of Social Work, or MSW, programs offer both the traditional and advanced-standing track, the former geared toward those with undergraduate degrees outside of social work and the latter toward those with a BSW who are presently active in the field.  The Council on Social Work Education  accredits several online MSW programs. Though both tracks may be pursued online through programs that do not require the GRE for admission, those with a BSW who currently work in the field may benefit the most through flexible coursework relevant to the people, policies, and practices encountered every day on the job.

10 Online MSW Programs No GRE Required

• Northcentral University  – Online MSW- No GRE
• Edinboro University of Philadelphia  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Widener University  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Aurora University  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Walden University  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Winthrop University  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Regis College  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Seton Hall University  – Online MSW – No GRE
• Quinnipiac University – Online MSW – No GRE
• Stockton University – Online MSW – No GRE

Family Nurse Practitioner

Those interested in pursuing nursing at an advanced degree may choose to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Master’s level registered nurse, or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Family Nurse Practitioners or FNPs perform many of the same tasks as registered nurses or RNs, but with more responsibility and independence. FNPs are qualified to perform physical exams and to diagnose and treat patients under the supervision of a medical doctor. The paths toward becoming an FNP are quite varied, from RN to MSN-FNP to BSN to MSN-FNP to BS/BA to MSN-FNP. Most of these pathways are offered online through programs not requiring the GRE and qualify students to obtain their nursing license at the end of the course of study. Though mostly entirely online, such programs do, however, require in-person clinical and practicum.

Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs No GRE Required

•   Duke University  - Durham, NC
• Duquesne University  - Pittsburgh, PA
• University of South Alabama  - Mobile, AL
• Baylor University  - Waco, TX
• University of Iowa  - Iowa City, IA
• Maryville University-Saint Louis  - St. Louis, MO
• Simmons University  - Boston, MA
• Sacred Heart University  - Fairfield, CT
• Regis University  - Denver, CO
• Rider University  - Lawrenceville, NJ

Further Reading:  12-Month FNP Programs Online

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners or PNPs are master’s level registered nurses, or advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in the treatment of individuals with psychiatric disorders or mental illness. PNPs are licensed to evaluate, treat, and prescribe medication to patients experiencing psychological distress typically in unison with mental health counseling. Most online programs in the field require applicants to have earned their Bachelor of Science in Nursing and to be currently licensed registered nurses, or RNs. The flexibility of the online program allows you to earn your advanced degree while continuing to practice in the field.

Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs with No GRE

1. university of arizona - tucson, az, types of programs:.

  DNP (BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP)

2. Georgia College & State University - Milledgeville, GA

3. maryville the university of saint louis - saint louis, mo.

  MSN ,  BSN to DNP , and  MSN to DNP

4. University of North Dakota - Grand Forks, ND

5. northern kentucky university - highland heights, ky, 6. medical university of south carolina - charleston, sc.

  BSN to DNP

7. Briar Cliff University - Sioux City, IA

8. indiana wesleyan university-marion - marion, in, 9. university of south carolina-columbia - columbia, sc.

  MSN  and  BSN to DNP

10. Regis College - Weston, MA

Phd programs that don’t require the gre.

It’s rare to find a PhD program that does not require the GRE of its applicants, but such programs do exist. You will find most of these programs offered through online universities. Most brick-and-mortar universities will consider applicants in the absence of GRE scores only if the applicant has earned a previous graduate degree, or has met some standard set by the university. Whether or not an  online PhD program  requires a GRE score from all its applicants depends on the individual institution, and the degree you intend to pursue. A PhD-level degree program intended for applicants coming directly from the undergraduate study will be more likely to require a GRE score as an admission requirement than a program dedicated to working professionals who have spent time in the industry.

• Nursing Practice (DNP) – Simmons University
• Information Technology (DIT) – Capella University
• Business Administration (DBA) – Walden University
• PhD in Developmental Psychology – Capella University
• PsyD Clinical Psychology – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• PhD in Information Systems– Nova Southeastern University
• PhD in Organizational Leadership– Northcentral University
• Health Admin (DHA) – Capella University

Online EdD Programs with no GRE requirements

If your licensed and working in the profession of education submitting an application to pursue a doctorate in education is required. If you hold a bachelors degree in education and are presently working as a teacher an online EdD program may be an ideal option for you. Choosing an online school that does not require the GRE gives you the flexibility to complete your degree while maintaining your employment. Another benefit is getting to advance your knowledge and skills in education while you work in the field.

• New York University. Online Ed.D. ...
• University of Southern California. Online Ed.D. ...
• University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign. Online Ed.D. ...
• Johns Hopkins University. Online Ed.D. ...
• Arizona State University. ...
• Boston College. ...
• Boise State University. ...
• Columbia University.
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• Graduate School

Graduate Programs That Don't Require GRE

Featured Expert: Dr. Charlene Hoi, PhD

Graduate programs that don’t require GRE are an option if you’re thinking about grad school but don’t have the time and preparation to take the GRE. Should you take the GRE before applying, you can still submit your scores along with the other parts of your application, such as your graduate school cover letter, grad school letter of recommendation, or research resume. If your scores are good, they can definitely help your application. However, some programs will not consider your GRE scores at all and if that is the case, you should not submit them. But if you haven’t taken the GRE yet, you can apply to several master’s and PhD programs in both the US and Canada without it, as long as you meet other important requirements. This article will give you a list of schools and graduate programs that don’t require GRE, whether they’re worth it, and what else you need to get into grad school.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

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Article Contents 12 min read

List of graduate programs that don’t require gre (us).

• American University Washington DC (not required for graduate certificates and some Master’s programs)
• Ohio University (university-wide; GRE-optional)
• Stanford University (university-wide; GRE-optional)
• Harvard University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• Columbia University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• West Texas A&M University (university-wide)
• Cornell University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• Duke University (program-dependent; GRE is optional for some programs and required for others)

Wondering if you should go to grad school? Watch this video:

List of Graduate Programs that Don’t Require GRE (Canada)

• University of Waterloo
• Carleton University
• University of Alberta
• Memorial University
• Royal Roads University  

Yes, graduate programs that don’t require the GRE are excellent programs, and some are offered by some of the best universities in the US and Canada. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) was used for a long time (almost 80 years) to assess your skills in three main areas, namely, math, reading, writing and comprehension, which are tested by the three different sections of the test:

• Analytical Writing
• Verbal Reasoning
• Quantitative Reasoning

But the GRE has fallen out of favor recently, for reasons we’ll talk about later. However, that doesn’t reflect on the programs that do or do not require it; it has more to do with the test itself rather than the programs. Despite the fact that the use of the GRE in graduate school admissions is becoming more sporadic, there are still programs at universities in Canada and colleges in the US that require it, so you have to decide whether you are willing to take the test to get into a dream program or choose a program that does not require the GRE at all.

The GRE requirement falls into three categories:

• Not Accepted or considered
• Considered (optional)

You have to pay attention to these particular requirements. Submitting your scores to a program that does not accept them will not necessarily hurt your application, but they won’t be considered, you’ll end up wasting time and it does look bad, especially if the requirement is clear and made explicit.

The Considered requirement means you can send your GRE scores if you have them and they are not older than the five years, which is how long your GRE scores are valid. Depending on the program or school, you may also be able to submit your old scores, but you have to ask the particular program whether they have this option. The Required option is self-explanatory.

There is no correlation, mostly, between the GRE being required and a particular discipline or field. For example, you would imagine that many graduate-level programs at the best universities in Canada for computer science , or the best universities in Canada for engineering , require a standardized test such as the GRE, but they do not. Who still asks for the GRE is not based on the subject matter, but that program’s individual criteria and administrators.

There are even more variations. For example, the Economics Department at Carleton University does not require GRE scores for the master’s program, but it does for the PhD programs, and this is a division you might see repeated across various schools and programs.

You should also not assume that arts, humanities, and social sciences programs don’t require the GRE, as the Political Science and Psychology departments at the University of British Columbia both require it. So, you really have to do your research first into which graduate programs require or don’t require the GRE, especially if you want to apply there.

Is the GRE Worth It?

Whether the GRE is “worth it” or not depends on many factors. As with other contentious issues surrounding higher education admissions, there is no right side to this argument, and those who oppose the GRE have as many good arguments as those who support it. But if you are thinking about how to get into grad school , you should ask yourself the following questions about whether you need to take the GRE or not:

• Does your program require it, is it optional or not accepted?
• Is the program you are applying to very competitive? (meaning GRE good scores can give you an upper hand)
• Do you have the time and resources to prepare for the test?
• Are you an international, mature or non-traditional student who may not be able to submit other important application materials, such as recommendation letters?
• Do you have a low GPA and are wondering how to get into grad school with a low GPA ?

A minimum GPA is often a more prevalent requirement that the GRE, especially for PhD programs, but many programs, usually master’s, will accept a low GPA if your GRE scores are higher than average. However, this policy is also program-dependent and you have to inquire what concessions or accommodations your program offers to various types of students.

All these questions and more are important to consider before you decide to take the GRE, or not. Another complication is that many graduate-level, professional programs such as law schools and MBA programs have started to accept the GRE as an alternative to the tests associated with those programs, namely, the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and the General Management Admissions Test (GMAT).

The law schools that don’t require the LSAT still require either the GRE or GMAT, so if you plan to go into a professional program or even an MBA, you need to consider whether you should take the LSAT, GMAT or GRE, depending on where you are applying, and which test is easier for you to take. But as with law schools, medical schools and graduate programs, there are many MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT or GRE, so you can go that route as well.

Why Have Graduate Programs Stopped Accepting the GRE?

Believe it or not, once upon a time, the GRE was used to increase access to grad school, not decrease it, as many of its critics now accuse. The GRE was used as a way to increase enrollment amongst veterans returning from WWII, who did not graduate from Ivy Leage colleges in the US and needed a common denominator that assessed their skills and fitness for grad school. However, new studies have questioned whether the GRE is an accurate predictor of your abilities and whether it accurately determines how well you’ll do in grad school.

Other studies have gone further to discredit the GRE. The company that administers the GRE, Educational Testing Services (ETS), has commissioned studies on how various minority groups (women and racial minorities) perform on the test, and they found that both women, and racialized students score much lower than white test-takers. Compounding this problem is the fact that grad schools usually had minimum GRE score requirements, so anyone (mostly women and racialized students) who fell below that minimum were automatically disqualified.

ETS argued that these studies point out systemic inequality within the education system, and not the test’s inherent bias or prejudice. But what’s most striking about the GRE’s downfall is how quickly it has fallen out of favor and how so many graduate programs that don’t require GRE have sprung up as a result.

The same study commissioned by ETS that found discrimination against women and minorities also found that within a four-year period, the number of test-takes nosedived by half (50%), which is a monumental change over a short period of time, especially for higher education institutions and professional associations who are notoriously resistant to change.

Even more startling is the fact that now only 3% of major STEM programs within top-ranked US schools require the GRE, when, only four years ago, 84% of these same programs required the GRE. But even with all these studies and statistics, some of the top-ranked schools in the US have kept the GRE requirements. They have their arguments, which we’ll explore more in the following sections.

Graduate Programs that Don’t Require the GRE: Pros and Cons of Taking the GRE

Pros of taking the gre.

High Scores are an Admissions Edge

There is little about the admissions process that is objective. Aside from your GPA, which is a major factor, all the other ways that graduate school admissions committees evaluate your application are subjective, such as reviewing your grad school personal statement and grad school statement of intent , and observing you answer tough grad school interview questions . For a program that does not allow you to submit the GRE, this will be enough. But if a program makes submitting your GRE scores optional, if they’re good scores, they can boost your application. Standardized tests have some value, despite their flaws. An excellent MCAT score or an exceptional LSAT score at the highest end of the LSAT score range will fling the doors wide open to your preferred medical or law school, and even though many grad school programs have moved away from the GRE, they are still willing to consider it for your benefit and will be as impressed as those other schools and programs.

It’s a Good Way to Develop New Skills or Improve Them

Being a grad student often requires a lot of interdisciplinary work, and you’ll more often than not require skills in several areas, not just your specialization, which is why preparing for the GRE can help you develop or sharpen these skills. We’ll get more into the GRE sections and how long it is (usually, a little less than four hours) in other blogs, but it’s not easy, and you have to prepare well in advance to be able to get a worthwhile score. The preparation involves a lot of reading, developing comprehension skills, and solving math problems, so you’ll have to prepare as you did for the SAT and ACT . But the content of the GRE is much more difficult than either the SAT or ACT so you do need to study, especially if it’s been a while since you did any math.

Gives You More Options when Applying

The GRE is not an insignificant factor to consider when looking for your ideal grad school program. But if you’re passionate about a specific school, program and faculty member, you shouldn’t let the GRE stop you if the program requires it. Getting into grad school is hard, and choosing a non-GRE program is one way to make the process easier, but having GRE scores in the run-up to when you apply can give you more options. You might find a program that appeals to you more than others and has a GRE requirement, which won’t be an obstacle for you, since you already have scores or are willing to take the test to get into this particular program. This option may only apply to you if you are willing and able to study for the GRE . If you’re a mature student or you already took the GRE before and have valid scores, and you’re more anxious about starting grad school than preparing for the test, choosing a non-GRE program may be the right move.

It’s an Investment of Time and Money

How long and how much you put into preparing for the GRE depends on your grad school application timeline , like when you are thinking of applying and the individual deadlines for your preferred programs. The two types of GRE tests cover different things. The GRE subject tests are more based in your knowledge of a specific subject, such as Psychology, Physics or Chemistry, so you can approach studying for it in the same way that you would for an undergraduate exam: memorizing facts, words, and concepts; being able to figure out particular math problems in algebra and geometry.

But the GRE general covers your analytical, or logical reasoning, and your problem-solving abilities so you won’t need to learn a new set of skills exactly, but sharpen and adjust them to particular demands of the GRE. This requires a lot of time and if you invest in a GRE tutor or any GRE test prep materials it may cost a lot. Factor this, and the costs of taking the GRE, into your budget to take the exam and it might not seem a good investment, especially if your program does not require it.

It Takes Away from Other Application Materials

The time and money you put into preparing for the GRE can either be saved or put into something more important (and required) by your graduate school program, like a PhD motivation letter , personal statement or research proposal. Now that many schools have eschewed the GRE there is even more pressure on you to produce exceptional application materials. Freeing yourself from the added burden of preparing for and taking the GRE will give you more time to put all your efforts behind the other crucial aspects of your graduate school application.

It’s Not a Good Predictor of Your Success

If you have to take the GRE or decide to take it for whatever reason, getting a good score may lull you into the belief that you are completely prepared for the rigors of grad school, even though you may not be. Entering a PhD program is one thing, but completing your PhD is an entirely different beast. Unless you choose a PhD without dissertation or thesis program , you’ll have to write one, which is so difficult only half of PhD STEM students actually complete one. Completing a master’s has its own unique challenges, and the GRE does not, some argue, prepare you for any of these challenges at all. Preparing for the test does have its advantages, in terms of helping you get a good mark, but critics of the GRE have long argued that it does not predict whether you have the fortitude, resilience, and hard-working attitude to complete a master’s or PhD degree.

How to Increase your Chances to Get into Grad School without the GRE

Getting a Good GPA

A minimum GPA is a more widely-used admissions requirement than the GRE, and you should focus on excelling in high-level, senior courses so that you get your average to well-above the required minimum, which usually ranges from 70-75%. The actual range depends on your program, but it’s common for many programs, Masters or PhD to require a minimum GPA to apply, and maintain a minimum GPA when you’re in the program. If you want to go to grad school and are worried about your GPA, you should take steps as early as possible, because you’ll need time to increase it. You should try taking courses that are easier for you or take extracurricular courses during summer break to boost your GPA to more competitive levels.

Do Research in a Relevant Area 

Your reasons for going to grad school may vary, but many people go to grad school to pursue a specific research question or topic, which is why having the appropriate research experience is important for when you are applying. The research aspect is more important when you’re applying to a PhD, so during your Master’s you should explore what research areas by volunteering to work on other colleagues' research projects or even faculty projects. These experiences are great to put on a CV for grad school , but they will also teach you valuable skills such as how to publish as a graduate student or how to write a Master’s thesis proposal .

Get Good Letters of Recommendation

When doing your research in the lead-up to grad school or a doctorate, you should participate, but find ways to distinguish yourself as well, which is important for two reasons: it makes you stand out from others, but it also leaves a good impression on research supervisors and faculty members who you could ask for a recommendation in the future. Even though there are ways for how to get into grad school without recommendation letters, they are usually an indispensable part of getting into grad school at top-ranked schools and programs. Having letters written by those who have witnessed your intelligence, determination, creativity and resilience in action and are willing to put it in writing is maybe even more important than taking the GRE.

The list of graduate programs that don’t require GRE is growing every day and whether the test will be done away with for good remains to be seen. There are flaws to the test, but many schools are still hesitant to eliminate the requirement altogether, so you need to pick your program carefully if you want to avoid the test. But if the program is more important to you, and it requires or recommends the GRE, you should take the test.

Whether you take the GRE depends on a lot of different factors. If the program you are applying to requires it, then it’s not a question of “should” - you must take the test. But if you are either not interested in taking the GRE for whatever reason and the programs you are interested in do not require it, then you should focus on other parts of your grad school application, such as getting the right research experience, getting good letters of recommendation, and having a specific research topic that you want to pursue.

We talked about the reasons why the GRE is being gradually phased out, but the reasons stem from whether the test is an unfair gateway to people who do not have the time or resources to prepare for the test, and the supposition that it does not accurately predict whether you are ready for grad school.

How hard is the GRE ? The exact difficulty of the GRE is one of the things being called into question, with many accusing the GRE of preparing students to take the test, and not to be excellent grad students. While the test is challenging, it does not require you to become familiar with an unfamiliar set of questions, as with the LSAT, and you will be tested more on your knowledge than creativity. The problem-solving and analysis on the GRE is similar to the SAT and ACT, but with a higher level of difficulty. 

Preparing for the GRE depends on how much time you have before you application deadlines, and your skill level in the areas the GRE tests. If you are way behind on your math, reading and comprehension skill, then you should take up to three months. But many students prepare in only a few weeks, as the GRE is a more familiar exam in both the content and format than other tests such as the LSAT, and does not take as long to complete as the MCAT.

The GRE is offered throughout the year, and there are many versions you can take, including shortened ones that do not have all the sections. What you should focus on more when choosing a GRE test date is the application deadline for your preferred program, if you haven’t already taken the GRE. If you have taken it within the last five years, this doesn’t apply to you, but if the deadline is fast approaching you should take it as soon as possible. If you still have time, you can choose when you want to take it based on your preferences. 

No, not really. There are differences between graduate programs, in general, but many programs have simply removed the test from their admission requirements without having any significant impact on their curricula or teaching methods. 

Some argue yes, others say no. Many students who have not taken the GRE have both successfully completed their degree and been able to transition from academia to industry.

But they may have not been able to do this if their program required the GRE, and they were not admitted because of their low scores, even though they proved they were able to complete grad school. Now many programs are turning to more conventional admissions metrics such as your GPA, research experience and how well you do during the interview. 

The GRE test has different prices, as the company has released different versions of the test. But the usual fee for the normal test is around $200 but with fees and other costs it can get up to $220. 

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13 Best Grad Schools that Don’t Require GRE in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

January 26, 2024 | Admin

The validity of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) has been a source of debate and contention over its supposed ability to predict the success of graduate school applicants. Issues that possibly affect GRE test scores are one reason that students potentially seek out grad schools that don’t require GRE testing as part of the application process. We have found some of the best grad schools that don’t require GRE exam.

Several sources, including the authors of an article published in PLOS , question the usefulness of the GRE. The authors discussed the fact that data from Vanderbilt University Medical School found the GRE to be a weak to moderate predictor of graduate school GPA. The resulting suggestion was that graduate schools should rely less on standardized GRE as an indicator of potential student progress and productivity.

Top 5 Grad Schools that Don’t Require the GRE

Reasons to consider grad schools that don’t require gre scores.

A contributor to The American Spectator revealed that schools are increasingly making standardized testing such as the GRE optional or are dropping the requirement altogether . The author explains that some schools with MBA programs will accept evidence that demonstrates ‘strong academic merit’ rather than a requirement that students take the GRE as part of the admissions process.

Many colleges and universities that offer graduate degrees are starting to focus more on academic achievement and other potential indicators when making admissions decisions. There are reasons for concern other than the alleged weakness of using the test as a predictor of academic success. There are technicalities to taking the test recently pointed out, possibly leading to even greater numbers of prospective students to consider grad schools that don’t require GRE scores for admission.

A report in Science , a publication of The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), indicates that when GRE testing went primarily online after the spread of COVID-19, that ‘scores of academics’ raised questions and concerns about the validity and equity of the online test. One concern is that taking the GRE online potentially places some students at a disadvantage. Prospective students taking the online test have often voiced complaints, with one student referring to it as ‘a nightmare.’

Avoid the issues with taking the GRE when you choose to attend one of these grad schools that don’t require a GRE.

Tuition rates listed for each school cover the cost of each credit hour, and does not include the cost of any required fees or supplies. Some tuition rates are estimated where a school charges different tuition rates for different programs. It is ultimately the responsibility of the student to know the cost of tuition and all related fees to pursue a graduate degree or to complete a particular graduate program.

The Best 13 Grad Schools that Don’t Require GRE

Western governors university.

• Salt Lake City, Utah

Earn a graduate degree at  Western Governors University , which is one of the grad schools that don’t require GRE score submission. There are four online colleges that are part of the school. Consider the seven master’s level programs in business, 16 graduate degree options for teachers, four graduate programs in information technology, and eight graduate degree options in nursing and health.

The university offers students the benefit of starting classes on the first of the month, any month, throughout the year , after the student is accepted and enrolled at the school.

School Overview

West texas a&m university.

• Canyon, Texas
• Graduation Rate: 43%

West Texas A&M University  offers  24 graduate degree programs that do not require the student to take the GRE . If a student chooses a program with a GRE requirement, there is a possibility that the student could obtain conditional admission. The school instructs students to consult with the appropriate program advisor regarding the conditional admission.

Graduate students that want to pursue an online degree can submit a waiver if their particular program requires submission of GRE scores. Choose from degrees with no GRE requirement in agriculture, communications, studio art, engineering, music, nursing, social work, and other programs. There is one instance in which GRE scores are required: for students with a GPA less than 3.0. Otherwise, it is waived.

Some students are potentially eligible for a waiver that significantly reduces the cost of tuition. 

Ohio University

• Athens, Ohio
• Graduation Rate: 62%

There are many graduate programs offered at  Ohio University  that do not require the GRE. This is true of both traditional students attending classes at one of the campus locations, or students pursuing an online graduate degree. If you discover that your desired program is one of the few that does require the GRE, do not get discouraged. Look for a statement on the specific program’s page that is identical or similar to the statement on the Master of Science in Food and Nutrition Sciences page. The statement indicates that the GRE is required, but, ‘There are no minimum scores for the GRE. It is only one of several criteria used for admission.’ The fact that there is no minimum score required likely encourages students with lower scores to still confidently apply to the school.

There are more than two-dozen master’s and doctoral degrees offered at the school. Consider a new career or expand your expertise in your current career field by choosing a degree in medicine, engineering, arts, education, social work, or other options.  The affordable tuition is likely a benefit to prospective graduate students. 

University of Massachusetts Lowell

• Lowell, Massachusetts
• Graduation Rate: 55%

The  University of Massachusetts Lowell , more commonly simply called UMASS Lowell does not require GRE for its M.Ed. and Education Specialists programs. Students that wish to apply for a master’s degree in another area can submit a GRE waiver. The specific colleges that allow students to apply for the GRE waiver include the College of Engineering, College of Fine Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, Manning School of Business, and the Kennedy College of Sciences.

Doctoral students still have a GRE requirement, unless stated otherwise for a specific program.

Northcentral University

• San Diego, California
• Graduation Rate: 30%

Northcentral University  boasts a class size of one, which is each individual student. The completely online graduate programs at the university focus on guiding students to develop skills and knowledge that is necessary to succeed and make a positive difference in their chosen career field. Another incentive to submit an application to pursue your graduate degree is the fact that Northcentral University does not require submission of GRE scores for admission consideration.

Students submit transcripts and other documents included in the enrollment packet.  Select your graduate program from 25 master’s degree options , including graduate degrees in education, business, nursing, legal studies, information technology and other options. Some students continue their education after receiving their master’s degree and enroll in a doctoral degree program.

*Schools may have different course and credit requirements to complete the degree, and in most cases, it is up to you to do the math and calculate how much your program will really cost. Find out your costs here: https://www.ncu.edu/tuition-admissions/tuition

Carlow University

• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Graduation Rate: 53%

Students that apply to earn a graduate degree at  Carlow University  do not have to worry about submitting the GRE when completing the application process. The admissions process requires that students submit a personal essay, two recommendations, their resume or curriculum vitae, and official transcripts. There are other possible requirements for admission to a particular program.

Enjoy attending classes at Carlow University locations in the Pittsburgh area, or complete your graduate degree in the online classroom.  Most graduate programs charge the same tuition , with exception of the MEd in Secondary Education, MEd Art Education, MEd Educational Leadership/Principal Certification courses programs which only charge $600 per credit hour. The Executive MBA tuition is $1,051 per credit, and the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program which charges $891 per credit hour.

University of Dayton

• Dayton, Ohio
• Graduation Rate: 75%

The  University of Dayton  has been educating students from Dayton Ohio and countries around the world for more than 150 years. Many students that earn their bachelor’s degree at the school continue on to earn a graduate degree. The majority of graduate programs at the university do not require a GRE, but offer students the opportunity to submit a GRE score if they want it considered during their admissions process.

The university encourages students to engage the world, and believes that knowledge and action are powerful.  The University of Dayton offers more than 50 master’s degree programs, 12 doctoral programs , and a number of post-graduate certificates. Consider pursuing a graduate degree in education, criminal justice, business, engineering, management, law, or counseling.

Saint Joseph’s University

• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Graduation Rate: 80%

Although the admissions requirements at  Saint Joseph’s University  indicate that a GRE is required for the Graduate Business program, for the biology and psychology graduate programs, students have the option of applying for a waiver. The university takes  prior academic excellence, professional work experience, or professional licensure in lieu of the submission of GRE scores . Students should consult with an advisor to obtain information about waivers and other accepted admissions documents.

The following is the criteria for obtaining a GMAT/GRE waiver based on GPA, work experience or a master’s degree if you plan to be part of their business programs:

• Earned a cumulative, undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4 point scale with a minimum of 60 credit hours in one of the following: as a business major from an AASCB accredited institution; or has an Arts & Sciences major from a similarly ranked or accredited institution.
• Earned a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or higher in one of our Graduate Certificate Programs
• A minimum of 5 years of full-time progressive professional experience that entails a significant scope of responsibility (managing people and/or projects) and employs in-depth quantitative and analytical skills.
• Earned a terminal degree (Ph.D., M.D., D.O., J.D., DBA, etc.) or a Master’s degree (M.S., M.A., etc.) from an accredited, not-for-profit institution.
• Licensed in the United States as a CPA, CFP, CFA, PMP or have earned Yellow Belt or higher Six Sigma certification.

Consider programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Health Studies and Education, or the Haub School of Business. It is interesting to note that  99 percent of the school’s 2018 graduate class either obtained employment or were continuing their education beyond the master’s degree within six months  of receiving their degree.

University of New England

• Biddeford, Maine
• Graduation Rate: 59%

Graduate students do not have to submit the GRE when they apply to most programs at the  University of New England . The majority of graduate programs instead look to undergraduate cumulative GPA and work experience, rather than focusing acceptance on a GRE score.

Students have the opportunity to pursue a graduate degree either on-campus or online. Do you have an interest in marine science, or ocean food systems? These are just two of the  unique graduate programs  at the school that does not have a GRE requirement.

The school, like most graduate schools, has different tuition rates for individual graduate programs.

Simmons University

• Boston, Massachusetts
• Graduation Rate: 76%

Start your graduate degree at  Simmons University  straight from earning your undergraduate degree, or after starting your career. The school  does not require GRE submission for most programs , and it is optional for a couple of the graduate degree programs.

Simmons University says that it links passion with purpose, and pledges to give students a meaningful return on their educational investment. Select your preferred graduate degree from options in behavioral analysis, teaching, education, health professions, nursing, library science, social work and other options.

University of San Francisco

• San Francisco, California
• Graduation Rate: 71%

The  University of San Franciso  offers several graduate programs that do not require students to submit GRE scores for admission. The College of Arts and Sciences only suggests that students consider the usefulness of the GRE ‘for additional evidence of quantitative ability.’ Students in the MSN program do not have a GRE requirement. The MBA likely requires submission of the GRE, but the School of Management does not require it for admission for most programs. Prospective  students are potentially eligible for a waiver  if their program has a GRE requirement and they are able to demonstrate exceptional work or academic experience.

Johns Hopkins University

• Baltimore, Maryland
• Graduation Rate: 92%

The debate on the value of the GRE is somewhat evident at  Johns Hopkins University . Although the Bloomburg School of Public Health still requires the GRE for admission, most other programs do not have the requirement. In fact, the Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences voted against a GRE requirement. Department Chair Anand Gnanadesikan wrote that the GRE scores failed to find the ‘diamonds in the rough’ among talented students. He further suggested that the GRE could serve as a barrier to identifying strong applicants.

One benefit to prospective graduate students applying to one of the many programs is the fact that the school indicates that, ‘Of the programs that require the GRE, there is no minimum score requirements.’

Princeton University

• Princeton, New Jersey
• Graduation Rate: 98%

Princeton University  announced in 2019 that the school was making a submission of the GRE optional for students in 14 graduate programs. Sarah-Jane Leslie, Dean of the Graduate School, noted that the excellence of graduate school education at Princeton depends upon the ability of the school to attract students that are talented ‘from all backgrounds and identities.’

Another benefit of considering Princeton University Graduate School is the fact that the university charges the same tuition for all master’s degree-seeking students, and for all doctoral degree students. Tuition costs also include the Student Health Plan (SHP) fee.

Methodology

Searching for a graduate school that does not require the GRE as part of the admissions process is a tedious task. We did the work for you in selecting these schools as the best potential options.

We ranked each school by assigning a unique score for tuition and ranked each school using the tuition cost and fact that a GRE is either not required, or the school allows a waiver.

We do our very best to be honest, accurate, and fair in all of our rankings. We do not permit any school to pay us for higher placement in our rankings. If a specific school wishes to be sponsored, we list that school separately from our ranked schools, and clearly label that school as SPONSORED.

Please contact us to include your school in our rankings, or if you would like to update the information for your school.

Guide to Schools that Don’t Require GRE

Getting into grad school can be overwhelming. Not only is the application process itself intense, but everything you need to accomplish to be eligible to apply takes years of time and effort. First, you need to work hard at high school to get into university. Then, you need to work hard at university to get into grad school, and, once you’re in grad school, you need to work hard to graduate and find employment. 

One of the most stressful parts of the grad school process is the GRE. The GRE is a big test that requires months of study and preparation. Often, the material covered seems irrelevant to the topic at hand, and the test adds more stress to an already grueling process. By the time you’re ready to apply to grad school, you’re either wrapping up the final semesters of a bachelor’s program or are working full time while trying to choose a graduate program that fits your busy schedule. Who wants to add the stress of a standardized test on top of all that?

The good news is that many schools are moving away from placing such a heavy emphasis on the GRE model. Many grad schools no longer require students to take the GRE at all while others are putting greater emphasis on other factors for admission. Since grad school is hard enough, you should grab hold of anything that makes it easier. Cutting out things like the GRE can lighten the burden.

Here, we’ve put together a useful guide to graduate schools that do not require students to take the GRE. Our first section provides a guide to some of the best grad schools that do not require this test. It also provides a brief introduction to the GRE itself. This guide is to help students and prospective students come to a better understanding of graduate school and the process involved in applying.

Next, we provide some insight into the various ways in which a student can get into grad school without taking the GRE. We also take a look at some paths forward if you have already taken the test but are unhappy with your results. This information is meant to help students figure out their options regarding further study after completing an undergraduate degree.

After that, we will explore some questions regarding online grad school. Online school is now more popular than ever. As the GRE is not typically required outside of the United States, many online programs have opted to waive it as a requirement. 

Finally, we look at some of the reasons that the GRE has been waived more frequently in recent years to help you to better understand the reasons that the GRE was once valued and why it seems to be valued less now. 

Overall, we hope to help students and prospective students as they attempt to navigate the tricky and sometimes overwhelming process of graduate study. The GREs are one small part of the process and understanding what they entail and their importance can help you when choosing a program to apply to.

What is the GRE?

GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination. In essence, the GRE is a standardized test that exists as part of the admissions process for graduate school in the United States. To a lesser extent, it has a presence in Canadian entrance requirements. 

The GRE is administered by a private non-profit organization called the Educational Testing Service, or ETS. The ETS states that the GRE exists to serve as a methodology to assess long term learning results. This test allows for the standardized assessment of the cumulative results of years of education.

The GRE is intended to measure critical thinking, verbal and written analysis and comprehension, and reasoning. It involves a range of testing materials, including algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and vocabulary. The test is scored on a point basis between 130 and 170. Though the ETS is a non-profit, there is a financial cost associated with taking the GRE.

In recent years, the GRE has been the focus of a significant amount of criticism as many people do not believe that it is an adequate or reliable measure of actual success in graduate school. Instead, these critics claim that it is a barrier to many applicants who would otherwise excel in their program of choice. 

Why would you want to apply to a grad school that does not require the GRE?

Many people do not find that the GRE is an adequate assessment of their success, value as a student, or potential. By applying to a university that does not require the GRE, students allow the cumulative experience of their other awards, grades, and performances to speak for them instead. 

Grad schools without GRE exam requirements may have more flexible MBA admissions or admissions processes to their other programs. Flexible admission requirements can mean that students have a better shot at success, winning scholarships, or finding a program with a learning style suited to their own.

If you take issue with the GRE exam, a school with a similar attitude or outlook might be a better fit for you in terms of education, curriculum, and pedagogical structure. Also, focusing your attention on preparing for the program is a far better use of your time and resources than focusing on taking a standardized test. 

How To Get Into Graduate School Without The GRE

Many students do not want to take the GRE. It is time consuming, stressful, expensive, and can take a huge amount of energy to complete. Also, it is incredibly difficult to study for the GRE at the same time that you are completing the final years of your undergraduate degree. 

Fortunately, it is not always necessary to take the GRE. Many schools do not require the GRE for admission. As indicated, some of the best schools in the country do not require the GRE for admission. Others have it as an official requirement but do not stress high scores too heavily. Instead, they are concerned more with the other metrics associated with rating student success. 

How can you get into graduate school without taking the GRE?

The easiest way to get into grad school without taking the GRE is simply to apply to schools that do not require it. Many grad schools offer entrance to a master’s degree program and Ph.D. programs without requiring students to complete the GRE. Most MFA programs do not require the GRE as an admission requirement.  

While other schools still require the GRE, they have removed much of the emphasis they once placed on it. Instead, they focus on the applicant’s other accomplishments. These can include their official transcript, scholarships, and awards, SAT scores , and extracurricular activities. Some schools with programs in high-demand fields have removed a lot of emphasis from their candidate’s GRE scores to try to enable more students to study in their departments. 

It is also possible to have the GRE requirement at some schools waived under certain circumstances. These circumstances include high achievement in certain areas, possession of another graduate degree, professional experience, and extenuating circumstances. If you believe that you should qualify for a GRE waiver, look into the requirements of the school you want to attend.

What should you do if you have a low GRE score but still want to apply to graduate school?

Many universities and colleges offering graduate programs do not require the GRE. Others do not place a huge amount of emphasis on GRE results and instead prefer to judge their applicants according to other metrics. 

If you have taken the GRE and received low scores, the easiest thing to do is apply to graduate schools that either do not require the GRE or require the GRE but do not require particularly high scores. 

It is important to know that simply because a school does not require the GRE does not mean that the school in question is not a reputable institution. Some of the best schools in the country waive GRE scores. They do not believe that the test is a reliable assessment of value and potential.

It is also possible to retake the GRE. If you have low test scores and have your hopes set on a school that requires the GRE and considers it to be a serious part of their application process, it may be worth retaking the test. If you have already taken the GRE, you know what to expect which makes practice easier, preparation more effective, and the test less stressful.   

How often do graduate school programs waive the GRE requirement?

Graduate programs regularly waive GRE requirements. For the most part, this has been due to high achievement or overqualification on the part of the applicant. More recently, schools have been waiving requirements due to a perception that the GRE is not an accurate judge of caliber. This process is outlined more extensively below. 

Online Graduate Programs with No GRE Requirements

Online colleges and universities frequently offer admission to applicants without asking them to complete the GRE. If you are looking for a school that offers an MA, an MBA, or another master’s degree without this requirement, it might be a good idea to look into online schools.

Online programs are flexible, cost-effective, and convenient. Often, online programs allow students to take courses on their schedule at their own pace, from the comfort of their home. Also, online programs come without many of the costs traditionally associated with education, such as facility fees. 

As long as the university offering the online program is accredited, the degree awarded at the end of your study is the same degree awarded to somebody who completed the equivalent course in person. This equivalency means that you do not have to worry about receiving a less valuable degree simply because you did not physically attend a campus.

Why are online graduate programs more likely to not require the GRE?

There are many reasons that online programs are less likely to require a GRE than a traditional in-person program. For one thing, online master’s programs tend to direct their attention to adult learners who are already working. As these professionals are returning to school part-time to advance their careers, the GRE seems like an unnecessary burden.

Also, the professional work experience of people who are already in the middle of their careers is far more relevant to a practical, work-focused master’s degree than academic scores are. This idea is especially true when you consider the content of the GRE. Of course, these concerns also translate to students entering online MAs directly after school. 

Online programs are also able to accept more students than a traditional in-person program. These larger class sizes are possible because the size of the classroom is not an obstacle when accommodating students online. As a result, it is not always as necessary to weed out applicants who seem well suited to the degree but simply did not perform well on a standardized test.

How will attending a graduate program with no GRE requirement affect your career?

Simply put, attending a graduate program without a GRE requirement is unlikely to affect your career in the slightest. If you have attended a graduate program and have obtained a graduate degree, it is highly unlikely that an employer will be concerned with whether or not the school that awarded it to you checked your GRE scores before admission. 

For example, if you went to graduate school and got a master’s in Business Administration, future employers are concerned with your organizational leadership , business acumen, and managerial skills. They are unlikely to worry about whether or not you had to take the GRE as part of your admission requirements. 

Why Some Grad Schools Have Waived The GRE Requirement

The GRE used to be a standard requirement for all grad schools across the country. Now, it seems like this is changing dramatically. Education professionals have recognized some of the drawbacks, inequities, and failures of the GRE system. As a result, many departments or schools have decided to waive the GRE requirement entirely. Others are moving steadily in this direction. 

Many people still believe in the value and necessity of a program such as the GRE. The GRE is intended to provide a universalized method of analyzing and measuring a student’s basic knowledge and understanding of an array of important skills. At many schools, this assessment is one of the most essential parts of their application process. 

How can you request a graduate program to waive your GRE requirement?

If you believe that you have a good case for the school to waive your GRE requirement, do not hesitate to reach out to the school personally. If you are lucky, the school may already be reconsidering its GRE requirements on a larger scale. Your request might play a part in the school’s decision-making process.

Many schools have already waived GRE requirements. Your school may have already waived the requirement on an individual or group basis in the past. If this is the case, there may already be a process outlined for you to follow. 

The basic steps to request a waiver are:

• Determine your eligibility.
• Establish a case.
• Determine which department or office you should reach out to. It could be your department head, the graduate coordinator, or the admissions office
• Draft a written request.
• Reach out to the head of your department for information or support.
• Finalize your request and submit it to the appropriate office. 

Common reasons that schools offer GRE waivers include graduate degrees, high achievement in specific areas of importance, or professional experience, which seems to make the GRE obsolete. Other schools offer waivers to level the playing field when reviewing applicants who did not have access to the same resources as other applicants.

Why are universities increasingly waiving GRE requirements?

In recent years, schools have begun to waive GRE requirements far more frequently than they did in the past. There are a few different reasons for this.

One of the reasons that some schools are waiving GRE testing is that in-person test tasking may be difficult. With the shift to remote learning, GRE testing concerns have spread fairly widely. Of course, these concerns have only led to a temporary lapse in GRE requirements and are unlikely to result in the widespread dismissal of the GRE overall.

These concerns relate to the fact that people taking the test do not have equal access to resources at home. As a result, those who live in rural areas or come from disenfranchised or lower-income backgrounds might have difficulty performing, and those who come from a privileged background or live in urban environments. 

In rural areas, internet access is not as prevalent or reliable as it is in urban environments. Therefore, students who must study and take the GRE test in rural areas found themselves at a fairly serious disadvantage. Other students who did not have access to a webcam, laptop, private room, and other necessities for the new standard of testing have also found themselves at a serious disadvantage.

Interruptions, unstable connections, or other issues have caused many students to have very negative experiences taking the test. It has also caused students to have reduced performance levels. As a result, many schools and universities are currently waiving this test. 

Also, many schools were already questioning the value of the GRE. This standardized test not only seems to have little to do with student success at the graduate level, but it also tends to favor students from privileged backgrounds. This bias leaves many people who are as intelligent, hardworking, and gifted to be unfairly removed from the competition. It is estimated that over 300 life science programs in the United States have already dropped the GRE requirement.

When did the GRE stop being a useful indicator of grad school readiness?

Though the GRE can be a useful and standard way to measure students across a huge range of fields, disciplines, and schools, it has been revealed that the test is largely unfair. As a result, it is not a matter of the GRE no longer being a useful indicator of grad school readiness. Instead, it is more a case of people increasingly recognizing the inequity and failures of the test.

Success in the GRE has a lot to do with socio-economic circumstances. People who are privileged socio-economically may not recognize the problems with the GRE. As these people have been in control of the systems by which requirements, testing, and guidelines are produced, the issues with the GRE went unaddressed for a long time. 

Now, things are changing. People are not only recognizing that the GRE is unfair, in certain ways, but are also recognizing that it does not seem to reflect success in graduate study. Therefore, it is a somewhat arbitrary method of testing. For schools based upon scientific methods and statistical analysis, this seems very counterintuitive. 

Even getting to the point where you can apply for grad school is a major accomplishment. As a result, it is important to recognize that you have already achieved great success if you are considering grad school. Unfortunately, there are many barriers to grad programs. These barriers can be anything from financial strain to personal obligations. Fortunately, there are different ways to circumvent these barriers. These methods might include attending online school or applying for scholarships or other forms of financial aid.

One of the best ways to make graduate school more attainable is to reduce the obstacles standing in the way. One of the biggest obstacles for many people is the GRE. The GRE is a standardized test that is intended to serve as a universal assessment of a candidate’s educational proficiency and skill. Many people spend months preparing for the test. Often, this is done at the same time as undergraduate school, work, or applications. 

A lot of people no longer believe that the GRE is a good assessment of these factors. As a result, many schools are waiving GRE requirements. A number of these schools are very well respected in their fields. Attending a school that does not require applicants to take the GRE is a great way to make graduate school a more attainable goal. It not only removes financial strain and stress but allows students to focus more entirely on preparing for the actual program in question, rather than preparing for a standardized assessment. 

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Top Online MBA Programs: No GMAT, GRE Required

Applicants don't need to submit test scores to these programs, regardless of grades or work experience.

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Look into standardized test requirements.

Applicants looking for admissions into top online MBA programs may not need to submit standardized test scores. Of the 341 ranked online MBA programs that submitted information about their testing policies to U.S. News in an annual survey, 125 reported that they require neither a GMAT nor a GRE test score from applicants, and another 98 said they don't consider test scores in admissions decisions. But 20 programs still require a GMAT score and another 98 require either a GMAT or GRE score. All but two schools that require test scores allow applicants to waive testing requirements if they meet certain criteria, such as possessing a particular amount of work experience or a high college GPA. Here are the top 10 online MBA programs that are test-optional or test-blind, all ranking in the top 20 nationally, according to U.S. News' 2024 rankings.

Matt Binter | Kansas State University

Kansas State University

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 18 (tie)

Test submission policy: Scores aren't used to make admissions decisions

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 98%

Learn more about Kansas State University's online MBA program .

Bryce Richter | UW-Madison

• University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 12 (tie)

Test submission policy: Not usually required but accepted

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 94%

Learn more about the University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium .

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

University of Maryland—College Park (Smith)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 11

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 86%

Learn more about University of Maryland—College Park's online MBA program .

Rochester Institute of Technology |

Rochester Institute of Technology (NY) (Saunders)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 9 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 50%

Learn more about Rochester Institute of Technology's online MBA program .

Arizona State University |

Arizona State University (Carey)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 7 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 80%

Learn more about Arizona State University's online MBA program .

The University of Arizona |

University of Arizona (Eller)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 74%

Learn more about the University of Arizona's online MBA program .

Florida State University |

University of Florida (Warrington)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 6

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 56%

Learn more about the University of Florida's online MBA program .

Ed Carreon |

University of Southern California (Marshall)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 3 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 46%

Learn more about the University of Southern California's online MBA program .

(Katherine B. Turner | University of Washington)

University of Washington (Foster)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 73%

Learn more about the University of Washington's online MBA program .

Indiana University |

Indiana University—Bloomington (Kelley)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 1

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 27%

Learn more about Indiana University's online MBA program .

(Getty Images) |

Learn more about online MBA programs.

Read the online MBA degree overview to learn about the job outlook for this field and explore the complete rankings of the 2024 Best Online MBA Programs . For additional advice on selecting the right online MBA, connect with U.S. News Education on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook .

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The top 10 online MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT or GRE.

• Indiana University Kelley School of Business
• University of Southern California Marshall School of Business
• University of Washington Michael G. Foster School of Business
• University of Florida Warrington College of Business
• Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business
• University of Arizona Eller College of Management
• Rochester Institute of Technology Saunders College of Business
• University of Maryland—College Park Robert H. Smith School of Business
• Kansas State University College of Business Administration

More From U.S. News

Explore the Top Online MBA Programs

10 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs

How to Find Money to Pay for an MBA

2024 Best Online Programs

Compare online degree programs using the new U.S. News rankings and data.

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40 Psychology Graduate Programs that Don’t Require the GRE

Check out the latest psychology graduate programs that don’t require the GRE for 2024. Explore in-demand graduate programs offered by schools with no GRE.

How people think directly influences how they act. If you’re fascinated by human thought and behavior, then it may be time to apply to a graduate program in psychology.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Jobs for psychologists are expected to increase 3 percent in the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics), and a grad degree can help prepare you for success in those positions.

Universities Offering Psychology Graduate Programs Without a GRE Requirement

The following universities are regionally accredited and offer psychology graduate programs online. In addition, the universities either offer a GRE waiver to qualified students or have no GRE requirement at all for admission.

1. Abilene Christian University

In an on-campus program at Abilene Christian University in Texas, you can earn your master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology or General Psychology. In addition to classroom work that covers topics like statistics, cognition, ethics, assessments, psychotherapy, and research, students in these programs participate in a practicum experience.

• On-campus Master’s in Clinical Psychology
• On-campus Master’s in Counseling Psychology
• On-campus Master’s in General Psychology

ACU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

2. Adler University

Founded in 1952, Adler strives to develop professionals and practitioners who will better their local communities and the world. Driven by the work of physician and psychotherapist Alfred Adler, the school values fairness, equality and civil rights and helps students learn to put these concepts into practice.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Industrial & Organizational Psychology

Adler University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Alliant International University

Recognized as a top school for minorities by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education Magazine and Best for Vets Colleges by Military Times EDGE magazine, Alliant values diversity in the classroom and the workforce. Students are encouraged to have a global perspective, a desire for community service and a commitment to equality. Believing that hands-on experiences are essential for a well-rounded education, the school connects students to the community throughout its degree programs.

• Online Doctor of Psychology

Alliant is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

4. American International College

On the Massachusetts campus of American International College, you can choose one of four different psychology master’s degree programs: Clinical, Counseling, Forensic or General Psychology. If you opt for Clinical Psychology, you can further refine your focus by choosing a Forensic Psychology or Mental Health concentration.

• On-campus Master’s in Forensic Psychology

AIC is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

5. Antioch University

Equal rights, equal pay and equal educational opportunities for minorities and women have long been important at Antioch. In the 1800s, Antioch was one of the first institutions of higher education that admitted both whites and African-Americans, and the school’s list of famous alumni includes Coretta Scott King.

• Online Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Antioch University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Ball State University

You can study online with Indiana’s Ball State University to earn a master’s degree in Educational Psychology. Another option is to get your degree in Quantitative Psychology through an online or hybrid course of study. Each program offers further concentrations, such as Neuropsychology, through which you can tailor your studies.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Quantitative Psychology

BSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. California Baptist University

Through online study, you can earn a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. During this program, you’ll be required to complete a practicum and write a case report. You can select to complete your coursework through a synchronous or asynchronous format, and you’ll be expected to engage with fellow students each week.

• Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities.

8. California Lutheran University

You can take classes on the campus of California Lutheran University to earn an MS in Counseling Psychology or Clinical Psychology. Counseling Psychology students must complete a practicum and are eligible to take a licensing exam after graduation. Clinical Psychology students write a research thesis.

In 2015, WSCUC reaffirmed Cal Lutheran ’s accreditation for another 10 years.

9. California Southern University

Through online coursework, you can earn an MA or an MS in Psychology from California Southern University. The MA program can help prepare you for becoming licensed as a marriage and family therapist. The MS program features specializations like Sports Psychology and Pastoral Counseling and is good preparation for doctoral studies.

• Online Master’s in Psychology

California Southern University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

10. Capella University

Online master’s degree options from Capella University in Minnesota include Psychology and Clinical Psychology programs. Psychology students can choose among specializations like Educational Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Child and Adolescent Development. Clinical Psychology students can study Applied Research, Clinical Counseling or Forensic Psychology.

• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Applied Research
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Clinical Counseling
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child & Adolescent Development
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Educational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – General Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Sport Psychology

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. Felician University

Since 1942, Felician University has been providing educational experiences based on the Catholic Franciscan values of service, compassion and respect. Over 2,000 students take classes from this school each year. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, and 73 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

• Online Doctor of Counseling Psychology

Felician University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. Florida International University

The MS in Professional Counseling Psychology from Florida International University is designed to prepare you to seek licensure. This is a hybrid psychology program, so you’ll do some coursework online and some on the university’s campus. For hands-on experience, you will also be required to complete a clinical practicum and a clinical internship.

• Hybrid Master’s in Professional Counseling Psychology

Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Fort Hays State University

To help prepare you to work in an educational setting, you can earn an online MS in School Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Kansas. Courses in this program include Appraisal of Children, Curriculum-based Measurement and Advanced Child Psychopathology. Before graduation, you’ll be required to compile a portfolio and take comprehensive examinations.

• Online Master’s in School Psychology

FHSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

14. George Mason University

Virginia’s George Mason University offers a fully online program for earning an MPS in Applied Industrial and Organizational Psychology. To earn your degree, you’ll be required to take core classes like Psychological Research Methods and Personnel Selection as well as a few electives of your choosing. You will also need to complete two practicums.

• Online Master’s in Applied Industrial and Organizational Psychology

George Mason is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

15. Grand Canyon University

From Arizona’s Grand Canyon University, you can earn an MS degree with a concentration like Forensic Psychology, Geropsychology or Health Psychology. A generalist degree is available as well. Classes may include Social and Cultural Psychology and Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology. You’ll be required to finish your studies with a capstone project.

• Online Doctor of Performance Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – GeroPsychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Human Factors Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Life Coaching

GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. LeTourneau University

Earning an MA in Psychology from Texas’ LeTourneau University can help prepare you to use psychology in ministry settings. Classes include Integrative Theology for Counselors and Lifespan Human Development. Students also participate in fieldwork. This is a non-licensure degree, but credits can be transferred to the university’s MA in Counseling program.

LeTourneau is regionally accredited by: the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. Liberty University

Studying online with Liberty University in Virginia allows you to earn an MA in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Developmental Psychology or Industrial/Organizational Psychology. These programs include core courses like Cognitive Psychology and Psychology and Christianity. The Developmental Psychology electives provide insight into various age groups.

• Online Master’s in Applied Psychology

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Lynn University

You can take online classes from Lynn University in Florida to earn a generalist MS in Psychology or one with a focus on Industrial/Organizational Psychology. All students receive an iPad that they can use for their coursework. During the program, you may get to help faculty members with research.

Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. Murray State University

Earning a psychology master’s degree from Murray State University requires studying on the school’s Kentucky campus, but you’ll have the options of earning an MA or an MS in General Experimental Psychology or Clinical Psychology. Your coursework will include classes like Biological Bases of Behavior, and you’ll be required to complete a thesis.

• On-campus Master’s in General Experimental Psychology

Murray State is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. National University

Headquartered in San Diego, California, National University offers a variety of master’s programs in psychology that can be completed online or on campus at several locations in CA. These programs are designed with busy adults in mind. Fields of study offered include mental health counseling, forensic psychology, marriage and family therapy, and human behavior.

• Online MA in Counseling Psychology (California)
• Online or On-Campus MA in Human Behavior Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Online or On-Campus MA in Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MA Sport and Performance Psychology
• Online or On-Campus Master’s in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• Online or On-Campus MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Online or On-Campus MS in Educational Counseling
• Online or On-Campus MS in Educational Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Forensic Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Health Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Sport Psychology

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

21. Northeastern University

If you’re located in Boston, consider attending classes at Northeastern University to earn an MS in Counseling Psychology. For those who can’t attend classes on this Massachusetts campus, an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis is an online option in a related field; this program includes an optional practicum.

Northeastern has maintained its status as a member in good standing of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) since it was awarded its initial accreditation in 1940.

• Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.

22. Northwest University

Affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination, Northwest University is a Christian school with a desire to engage students who are committed to both scholarship and service. Graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including ministry, business, medical and educational settings.

Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

23. Nova Southeastern University

Florida’s Nova Southeastern University has online master’s programs for Forensic Psychology and General Psychology. These non-licensure programs may be useful as a pathway to a doctoral program, or you may put your education into practice in the workforce. Your coursework may include Cognitive Psychology, Human Growth and Development, and Human Sexuality.

• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in General Psychology

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. Pacifica Graduate Institute

By taking a mix of on-campus and online classes, you can earn a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in California. You’ll be expected to take classes in the humanities, marriage and family therapy, and clinical counseling. In addition, you will be required to complete a practicum and may eligible for MFT or LPC licensure.

In June 2019, Pacifica’s accreditation was re-affirmed by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Pacifica Graduate Institute is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

25. Palo Alto University

California’s Palo Alto University offers an online master’s program in preparation for earning your doctorate. Although classes are online, you’ll need to make one trip to campus. After earning your degree, you may be able to transfer your MS in Psychology credits toward the school’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program.

PAU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

26. Pennsylvania State University

If you lead employees or other teams, consider pursuing an MPS in the Psychology of Leadership from Penn State World Campus. Your studies from this Pennsylvania school will include classes like Diversity Leadership, Dysfunctional Leadership and Leadership for Creativity and Innovation. You’ll also be required to engage in a culminating experience.

• Online MPS – Psychology of Leadership

Penn State World Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

27. Pepperdine University

With online classes from Pepperdine University in California, you can earn an MA in Psychology or an MS in Behavioral Psychology. MA students learn about psychotherapy, counseling and interventions. The MS program includes supervised clinical experience, and it can help you prepare for taking the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.

• Online Master’s in Behavioral Psychology
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Marriage and Family Therapy

Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission.

28. Purdue University Global

You can earn a generalist psychology master’s degree from Purdue University Global, or you can pursue a specialty, such as Addictions or Applied Behavior Analysis. Before graduation, you can choose whether to take a comprehensive exam or write a thesis paper. Your coursework may prepare you to take certification exams.

Purdue University Global is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

29. Sacred Heart University

While earning your master’s degree through Sacred Heart University ’s hybrid format, you’ll take classes like Foundations of Psychological Science and Individual Psychological Assessment and Appraisal. The Connecticut school offers three options for the MS in Applied Psychology: a generalist degree, an Industrial-Organizational Psychology concentration and a Community Psychology concentration.

• Hybrid Master’s in Applied Psychology – Community Psychology
• Hybrid Master’s in Applied Psychology – Industrial-Organizational Psychology

SHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

30. Southern New Hampshire University

The concentration options for SNHU’s online psychology master’s program are Child and Adolescent Development Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Industrial Organizational Psychology. This non-licensure program includes courses like Theories of Personality and Ethical Practice in Psychology. You’ll be required to complete your studies with a capstone class.

• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child & Developmental Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial & Organizational Psychology

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

31. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School, which has campuses around the country, offers a number of online master’s programs for psychology students, including concentrations in International Psychology, Public Health , Child and Adolescent Psychology and Organizational Leadership. Most tracks are non-licensure, but the MA in Forensic Psychology can lead to licensure.

• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology – Non-Licensure
• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology – Professional Counselor Licensure
• Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology – Applied Research Project
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Environmental Advocacy
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Management and Leadership
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Trauma and Group Conflict
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child and Adolescent
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Generalist
• Online Master’s in Psychology – International Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Organizational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Public Health
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Social and Community Psychology

The Chicago School is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

32. Touro University Worldwide

From Touro University Worldwide, you can earn an online MA in Psychology with a concentration in Educational Psychology, Media Psychology or Health Psychology. This New York-based school’s non-licensure programs can help equip you with skills for putting your classroom learning about cognition and personality into real-life practice.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Human & Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Media Psychology

TUW is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

33. University of Hartford

You can take online or on-campus classes to earn an MS in Organizational Psychology from the University of Hartford in Connecticut. In addition to core classes like Personnel Psychology, you can choose both general psychology and organizational psychology electives. You’ll also be required to complete a capstone project or an internship.

• Online Master’s in Organizational Psychology

UHart is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

34. University of North Dakota

The online no-GRE master’s program from UND includes classes like Behavior Pathology and Diversity Psychology. Earn an MA in Forensic Psychology will give you opportunities to study legal and criminal justice systems. The online class format involves watching recorded lectures, and you can access tutoring and library services.

UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since.

35. University of Northern Colorado

You can take online classes from UNC to earn an MA in Educational Psychology with a Teaching Emphasis. Classes include Life Span Developmental Psychology, Brain and Education, Cultural Issues in Education Psychology and Motivation in Education. You’ll be expected to join a cohort and complete a master’s project.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Teaching Applications

UNC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

36. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville’s Vols Online program offers an MS in Educational Psychology. You can choose a concentration in Adult Education or Applied Educational Psychology. This degree program often attracts professionals or those looking for a stepping stone toward a doctorate.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Adult Education
• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Applied Educational Psychology

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

37. University of the Cumberlands

The Baptist roots of the University of the Cumberlands date back to 1888. The university reaches over 10,000 learners each year and has a 17:1 ratio of students to faculty. Hands-on learning is highly valued at this school, and all students are expected to engage in service opportunities while attaining their degrees.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

38. Walden University

Over 57,000 students are studying with Walden University at any given time. The faculty members are leaders in their areas of expertise, and almost 90 percent of them hold doctoral degrees. The university’s status as a certified B Corporation shows its commitment to operating ethically and motivating students to be positive change-makers in their communities.

• Online Master’s in Developmental Psychology
• Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Social Psychology

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

39. Western Kentucky University

U.S. News has ranked Western Kentucky University No. 24 in Best Colleges for Veterans and No. 34 in Best Regional Universities South. Both Sierra Club and Princeton Review have applauded this university for its environmental efforts. The school has over 20,000 students, and the average class has around 24 students in it.

Western Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40. William James College

With William James College, you can choose to earn your degree fully online or to report to the school’s Massachusetts campus on select weekends. This program allows you to earn an MA in Organizational Psychology, and you can select an optional concentration in Talent Management.

William James College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

A graduate degree in psychology may help you take your career to the next level. Thanks to the many no-GRE programs that are available, you may be able to get started without delay. Whether you are interested in counseling psychology or another specialty, there may be a no-GRE program that meets your needs.

Psychology Master’s Programs

Click on the field that most interests you to see a list of programs:

• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology

Psychology Doctoral Programs

Possible specializations outside of a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) include:

• Cognition and Instruction
• Counselor Education
• Educational Psychology
• Marriage and Family Therapy

Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis

Focusing your studies on the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can help you obtain the skills to help people modify their choices and actions. ABA skills can be useful with many populations, including children, the elderly and people with mental illnesses.

This concentration may help to prepare you for the licensure examination that will allow you to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst; however, at some schools, you may need to take additional classes as well.

Master’s in Counseling

If you want to work one-on-one with people who could use direction and guidance, consider pursuing a career in counseling.

During your studies for a Counseling concentration, you may study individual and group therapies, addictions, tests and assessments, mental health disorders and life coaching. Your school’s program may prepare you for certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor in your state.

You may be able to select a concentration like Trauma Intervention or Health Psychology.

Master’s in Forensic Psychology

A master’s degree with an emphasis in Forensic Psychology can help students develop needed skills in various criminal justice and rehabilitation settings.

You might consider a career in prisons, juvenile homes, schools, rehab centers or courtrooms. The classes that you’ll take may cover mental illnesses, crisis negotiations, correctional systems and communications.

This degree program may prepare you for Licensed Professional Counselor status in your state.

Master’s in Psychology – General

A generalist master’s degree can give you the opportunity to explore many aspects of psychology.

Your studies may cover personality theories, group psychology, human development and mental health. A generalist concentration may allow you to enroll in several different electives so you can tailor your education to your various interests.

This online psychology degree can be useful in fields like human services, education, child development, business leadership, marketing and sales.

Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology

For a psychology degree that can help you become a better workplace leader, consider a concentration in Industrial Organizational Psychology.

Students in this concentration study the ways that people think and act in order to become more effective at motivating employees and encouraging exemplary performance. Your classes may cover topics like recruitment, productivity, conflict management and interpersonal relationships.

Many graduates apply their skills in management positions or as leaders in HR departments.

PhD in Psychology – Cognition and Instruction

When you pursue a concentration in Cognition and Instruction, you won’t just have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive education in cognitive psychology.

It can also help you learn how to teach others and effectively motivate learners. You might choose to teach college students or become a business trainer.

In preparation, your classes may cover topics like perception, attention, behavior theory, testing, mental health and social cognition.

PhD in Counseling

As a counseling psychologist, you can help people better their own lives and their interpersonal relationships.

Coursework for a Counseling concentration may encompass family dynamics, lifespan development, diversity and behavioral science. After completing this doctoral degree, you may be eligible to become licensed as a psychologist; your program may need to be licensed by the American Psychological Association.

Some schools require that you hold a master’s degree in this field before you can begin a PhD psychology program .

PhD in Counselor Education

Becoming experienced or licensed in counseling requires that students spend a good deal of time in supervised practice.

Earning a concentration in Counselor Education can help prepare you to be a professional who supervises others. This specialization may also help you earn a faculty position in a university’s psychology program.

In addition to increasing your knowledge about mental health, diagnostic criteria and various treatments, this concentration can also help you learn more about conducting research and teaching others.

PhD in Educational Psychology

If you want to use your psychology skills in academic setting, then a concentration in Educational Psychology may provide invaluable training.

Your doctoral classes will probably cover topics like memory, motivation, test scores, curriculum and organizational leadership. Educational Psychology programs may equip you to work with young students or adult learners.

You may be able to pursue licensure as a School Psychologist after completing this degree.

PhD in Psychology

To learn about many facets of psychology at the doctoral level, you may want to consider pursuing a generalist Ph.D. in this field.

Your studies can help you learn more about topics like psychology theories, client assessments, counseling ethics, behavior science, research and teaching. A general psychology program may offer you a chance to select multiple electives so you can pursue in-depth study in several areas.

A PhD in Psychology will typically also require a dissertation. However, a Doctor of Psychology may not require a dissertation since it’s a professional doctorate.

PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology

An Industrial Organizational Psychology concentration can help prepare you for leadership positions in nonprofit agencies, corporations and other organizations.

The coursework will likely focus heavily on team leadership, group dynamics and organizational improvement. You may serve an internship with a company’s human resources, training or workplace safety team.

In some schools, this concentration may be known as Business Psychology, or I/O Psychology may be a subset of the Business Psychology program.

PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy

If helping people improve their closest relationships is important to you, then you might be a successful in the field of family therapy.

Pursuing a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy can give you opportunities to study interpersonal relationships, refine your clinical skills, practice writing grants for family supports and conduct research in the field.

With a clinical internship experience, your degree program may prepare you to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Applying to Psychology Graduate Programs

Although the application process can differ from one university to the next, most schools have a have some common requirements.

You may be required to submit:

• An application — this is often done online
• A personal resume that outlines your professional and volunteer experience
• School transcripts for your undergraduate and graduate degrees
• A letter or essay that states your personal goals and reasons for applying
• Your GRE or other test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• An application fee

When you think of applying to grad school, submitting test scores may be one of the first things that come to mind. However, that’s a less standard requirement than you might think. Some schools do not require any applicants to send in GRE scores for admission to their psychology programs, or they offer waivers.

Prerequisites

To be admitted to a master’s-level program in psychology, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree, such as a psychology bachelors degree online . Some schools stipulate that your undergraduate studies must be in psychology or a related field . Others do not have such a requirement.

Previous educational requirements for a doctorate can vary greatly. Most schools expect you to first hold a master’s degree, but others provide fast psychology degree programs in which you can earn your master’s while on your way to completing your doctorate. Don’t let the length of a doctorate in psychology program deter you away as it is normally an extra year or two and can be very rewarding.

Professional Requirements

Some schools consider only applicants with work experience. The workforce equips students with skills and knowledge beyond what is learned in the classroom, so having held a psychology-related position can help to set grad students up for success.

The exact length of time required can vary greatly among schools, but it’s common for programs to require applicants to have at least a few years of professional experience in the field.

5 Common GRE Waivers

Many universities look at GRE scores during the application process, but they’re willing to make exceptions for students who meet various waiver requirements, such as those listed below. Keep in mind that waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis, so you’ll have to discuss your eligibility with your university’s admissions department.

A strong undergraduate GPA may be enough to exempt you from testing. At some schools, a standard GPA minimum, such as 3.0, applies to all programs. Others set a different standard for each of their grad programs.

2. Professional Experience

If you’ve been working in the field for a certain length of time, some universities believe that is enough to demonstrate your competence and knowledge. Professional certifications may increase the likelihood of an exemption. Military service may also help you earn a waiver.

3. Graduate Degree

The GRE is intended to demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level work. If you have already earned another graduate degree, then it’s clear that you can perform at the post-baccalaureate level. Therefore, the GRE may not be necessary when applying for your second or third graduate program.

4. GMAT or GRE

Some schools want to receive test scores from you, but they may be flexible about which ones. The GMAT is an exam that is typically used for admission to business school. If you’ve taken the GMAT but not the GRE, you may be able to send your GMAT results in place of GRE scores.

5. No GRE Required for Specific Graduate Programs

Often, a school’s admissions requirements are different for each department. Just because GRE scores are mandatory for some programs, that doesn’t mean that every department will insist on them. Before sending in your application for grad school, look into the psychology department’s specific requirements.

What is the GRE?

The GRE, officially titled the Graduate Record Examination, is a rigorous test that some schools rely on as a measure of your readiness for grad school. The test covers topics like vocabulary, mathematics, reasoning and critical thinking.

If you take the GRE, you’ll receive three different scores. These three scores reflect the results of your:

• Two Verbal Reasoning sections
• Two Quantitative Reasoning sections
• One Analytical Writing section

What is a GRE Waiver?

Even if a school lists GRE scores as one of its requirements for admission to grad school, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to send in your application without them. If you meet other criteria, the school may be willing to assess your suitability for their graduate programs without GRE requirements .

Waivers may be granted for:

• Work history
• High undergraduate GPA
• Prior graduate degrees

The requirements vary among schools, so yours might grant other exceptions as well.

Is the GRE Exam Required for Graduate School?

For years, the GRE was considered the gold standard for grad school admissions. These days, more and more universities are opting not to require GRE scores as part of the application package. The same is true with psychology master’s programs not requiring the GRE .

The trend away from GRE testing is based on a mix of factors:

• Testing requirements may reduce schools’ diversity
• Exams don’t always predict grad school success
• Other criteria can do a better job of showing whether students are a good fit for a program

What master’s programs don’t require the GRE?

Each university sets its own admissions requirements, so there isn’t a set list of masters programs that don’t require the GRE . Because there has been a growing movement away from mandatory GRE testing in recent years, there’s a good chance that you will be able to find at least a few no-GRE universities that offer your desired master’s program.

Whether you are interested in psychology or another field, getting into grad school without the GRE may be possible.

What PhD programs do not require GRE?

There are many fields in which you can earn a doctoral degree without ever sitting for the GRE. Each university or doctoral program makes its own decisions about whether GRE scores are an essential part of the application process. From theology to psychology to mathematics, you may be able to find no-GRE doctoral programs that appeal to your interests.

To learn more about whether your top programs require GRE scores, contact the schools’ admission departments.

Does every graduate school require GRE?

No, only some graduate schools ask applicants to submit GRE scores with their applications for master’s or doctoral programs. Business schools often rely on the GMAT, and there are many schools that require no test scores at all.

Instead, they evaluate applicants based on other criteria, such as school transcripts and personal essays.

Is the GRE required for a PhD?

No, many successful doctoral students have earned their degrees without ever taking the GRE. If you are interested in a doctorate but don’t want to spend time or money on test preparation, you may be able to find programs that don’t require GRE scores as part of the application process.

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Top 24 Non-GRE Universities in the USA in 2024

Updated On Jun 04, 2024

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Is GRE Required for Master’s in the USA?

Top 18 us universities without gre, top 6 universities for ms in the usa without gre, eligibility criteria for non-gre universities offering admission.

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of choosing the right entrance exam? Worried about the daunting GRE or GMAT requirements? What if we told you there's a way to pursue your dreams without the stress of these exams?

Welcome to our blog, where we unveil the top 24 non-GRE universities in the USA. Whether you're seeking an alternative to standardized testing or aiming to explore programs that prioritize other criteria, this guide is your key to discovering educational opportunities without the GRE. Let's dive in and explore your options!

While many top QS world-ranked universities, do require you to submit the GRE scores. However, most non-technical educational institutions do not need the GRE score submission. So, if you are still wondering is GRE mandatory for MS in the USA, then note that 70 - 80% of the universities in the USA do not need the GRE score results for admission.

On the other hand, numerous universities offer a conditional GRE waiver, exempting students from the GRE requirement under specific conditions. These conditions might comprise:

• A high GPA, typically 3.0 or higher
• Possession of an additional graduate degree
• Relevant professional work experience, particularly in the field of study

The United States boasts some of the globe's most esteemed universities. With its multicultural learning environment and pioneering teaching approaches, it stands out as an exceptional destination for graduate studies.

Here is a list of some of the highest-rated master's programs in the USA without GRE for admission.

Also Read: GMAT vs GRE: A Comprehensive Guide for Test Takers

Several renowned universities offering MS programs in the USA are prioritizing factors like your Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and extracurricular activities over GRE scores. Let us take a look at the table below for the top universities in the USA without a GRE

Reiterating the answer to the question is GRE compulsory for MS in the USA, although the answer is ‘No’, however, there are specific guidelines to fulfill eligibility for a GRE waiver. Below, we've compiled some common conditions for GRE waivers in the USA to help you understand your options better.

• Superior Academic Performance: Universities often grant GRE waivers to students with exceptional academic records, typically requiring a GPA above 3.0. An outstanding academic background in fields relevant to your desired graduate program enhances your eligibility.
• Strong Letter of Recommendation (LoR): A compelling LoR from previous professors or employers can reinforce your application for a GRE waiver, emphasizing your academic potential, research abilities, and work ethic.
• Portfolio and Writing Sample: Some universities accept alternative assessments such as writing samples or portfolios to evaluate academic skills in the absence of a GRE score.
• Work Experience: Extensive work experience, particularly for MBA or MCom programs, can serve as a valid reason for a GRE waiver. Submitting a work experience certificate can support your application.
• Subject-specific Tests: Completing subject-specific tests like LSAT, MCAT, or GRE Subjects can substitute for the general GRE, demonstrating proficiency in specific areas.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Certain programs have unique entry requirements, necessitating alternative qualifications such as professional experience or specific subject tests.

Unlock Your Path to Higher Education Without the GRE

In conclusion, the list of the top 24 non-GRE universities in the USA for 2024 opens up a world of opportunities for prospective graduate students. Whether you're seeking a master's program in business, engineering, or any other field, these universities offer a pathway to pursue your academic goals without the stress of standardized testing.

For guidance or assistance with your study abroad journey, consider GetGIS for comprehensive study abroad services tailored to your needs. With GetGIS, you can access expert advice, application support, and resources to help you navigate the admissions process smoothly.

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Below is a list of accredited DPT education programs granted full accreditation or candidacy status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Applicants are welcome to search the directory by name or through the additional search features listed below.

For questions regarding program specific requirements, please contact the programs directly using the contact information listed on their page.

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