Can You Study in the USA Without GRE?
The GRE General Test, administered by ETS, has traditionally been a major requirement for admission to technical master’s programs in the USA. However, many international students—especially those from non-technical backgrounds—find the GRE challenging or unnecessary for their academic goals.
In recent years, 70–80% of US universities have made GRE optional or removed it entirely for several programs. This shift allows students with strong academic records, work experience, and skills to gain admission without relying on standardized test scores.
Q: Is GRE mandatory for studying MS in the USA?
A: No. Many US universities now offer GRE-optional or GRE-waived MS programs.
Why Are US Universities Dropping the GRE?
Universities are rethinking standardized testing due to:
- Emphasis on holistic evaluation
- Overreliance on memorization rather than skills
- Accessibility issues for international students
- COVID-19 test center limitations
- Data showing GRE does not accurately predict graduate success
Schools now prioritize:
- Academic performance
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose
- Research experience
- Work experience
- Interviews & portfolios
Top 9 Universities in the USA That Don’t Require GRE (2025 Admissions)
Below are the leading US universities offering MS programs without GRE—while maintaining world-class academic excellence.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Ranked #1 globally, MIT does not require GRE scores for several engineering and science programs.
- Acceptance Rate: ~7%
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics
- MS in Computational Science and Engineering
- MS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
2. Purdue University
A prestigious public research institution consistently ranking among the top 20 US graduate schools.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Ecological Sciences & Engineering
- MS in Electrical & Computer Engineering
3. University of Dayton
A national research university in Ohio offering GRE-optional admissions.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Aerospace Engineering
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Renewable & Clean Energy
4. California State University (CSU)
One of the largest public university systems in the US offering UG, PG, and doctoral programs with no GRE requirement.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Chemistry
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Mechanical Engineering
5. Wichita State University
Highly ranked for engineering, offering 100+ programs to international students.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Biomedical Engineering
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Mechanical Engineering
6. Boston University (BU)
A major private research university offering 300+ programs without mandatory GRE scores.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Robotics & Autonomous Systems
- MS in AI
- MS in Applied Data Analytics
- MS in Bioinformatics
7. San Jose State University (SJSU)
A top choice for tech students in Silicon Valley, accepting IELTS and waiving GRE for several programs.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Aerospace Engineering
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Data Analytics
8. Northeastern University
A renowned private university in Boston offering GRE-optional admissions.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Industrial Engineering
- MS in Environmental Engineering
- MS in Computer Systems Engineering
9. George Mason University
A public research university known for strong programs in law, economics, and STEM fields.
Top Non-GRE Programs:
- MS in Civil & Infrastructure Engineering
- MS in Health Informatics
- MS in Applied & Engineering Physics
Comparison Table: Top US Universities Without GRE
| University | Location | Top Non-GRE Programs | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIT | Massachusetts | Aero, CS, EECS | Private |
| Purdue | Indiana | CS, ECE, Ecology | Public |
| University of Dayton | Ohio | Civil, Aerospace, Clean Energy | Private |
| CSU | California | Chemistry, Civil, Mechanical | Public |
| Wichita State | Kansas | BIOM, CS, Mechanical | Public |
| Boston University | Massachusetts | AI, Robotics, Bioinformatics | Private |
| SJSU | Silicon Valley | Aerospace, Data Analytics | Public |
| Northeastern | Boston | Systems Engineering, IE | Private |
| George Mason | Virginia | Health Informatics, Civil | Public |
FAQs
Is GRE required for MS in the USA?
Not for all programs. Many US universities now offer GRE-optional or GRE-waived admissions depending on the department.
Can I study in the USA without GRE and IELTS?
Yes. Some universities accept:
- TOEFL instead of IELTS
- Medium of Instruction (MOI)
- Waivers based on academics or work experience
What is a good GRE score for MS in the USA?
A score of 310+ is generally considered competitive for engineering and CS programs—but is not needed for GRE-waived universities.
Is the GRE waived for 2026 admissions?
Most universities that waived GRE during COVID have continued the waiver for 2024, 2025 and 2026 cycles, but requirements vary by program.
What are the best universities in the USA for MS without GRE?
- MIT
- Purdue
- Boston University
- Northeastern University
- George Mason University
Which top CS universities do not require GRE?
- MIT
- Stanford University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- UC Berkeley
- Georgia Tech
- UT Austin
How do universities evaluate applicants without GRE?
Universities follow holistic review, considering:
- Academic performance
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of Purpose
- Work experience
- Research or projects
- Interviews
Which programs usually waive the GRE?
Common GRE-waived programs include:
- MPA / MPP
- MSW
- M.Ed
- MFA
- MPH
- MIS / MLIS
- Media & Communication Studies
Are there alternative exams to the GRE?
Yes, depending on the program:
What financial aid options exist for MS programs without GRE?
- Merit scholarships
- Need-based aid
- Teaching/Research assistantships
- Fellowships
- Grants
- Employer sponsorship
Checklist: Are You Eligible for MS in the USA Without GRE?
✔ Strong academic record
✔ Good SOP & LORs
✔ Relevant work experience (optional but helpful)
✔ English proficiency test
✔ Portfolio or research papers (if required)
For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in UK, Study in USA, Study in Canada, Study in Australia, Study in New-Zealand, Study in Singapore, Study in Ireland, Study in Germany, Study in France and many other countries.
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