The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is accepted by thousands of graduate schools, but admissions policies vary by university and program. Some master’s programs require GRE scores, some make them optional, and others do not use them.
For many international students, identifying programs that do not require GRE scores can simplify the application process.
That’s why we have highlighted 10 institutions with at least one master’s-level option for which the GRE is not required, is optional, or is handled on a program-specific basis. Always review the official program page before applying.
Top Universities That Do Not Require GRE (Master’s Level)
1. George Mason University
At George Mason University, applicants should check the requirements for their intended graduate program.
One confirmed GRE-free option is the Biodefense, MS. The Schar School states that no GRE is required to apply. The program can be completed full time or part time; study options include on-campus courses, an asynchronous online part-time format, or a combination of on-campus and online classes.
2. Wichita State University
At Wichita State University, applicants should check the current requirements for their intended graduate program.
For example, the Master of Science in Management Science and Supply Chain Management does not require a GRE or GMAT score for entry. The program notes that scores may strengthen an application, and the graduate catalog states that applicants with lower GPAs may submit GRE or GMAT scores for consideration for probationary admission.
3. Western New England University
Western New England University applies different admissions requirements to different graduate programs.
For example, applicants to the Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics are not required to complete the GRE, although applicants may submit scores to support their applications. Applicants should review their intended program carefully because other programs, including the MBA, have different test requirements.
4. Murray State University
At Murray State University, applicants should check the admissions requirements for their intended graduate program.
The university’s graduate admissions FAQ states that most programs have a testing requirement. One confirmed exception is the Master of Public Administration, which states that the GRE is not required for admission.
5. California Baptist University
California Baptist University offers graduate programs with program-specific admissions requirements.
The currently published application requirements for the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and the online Master of Healthcare Administration do not list a GRE score. Applicants should read each program’s full requirements before applying because other prerequisites and screening steps may apply.
6. Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester Institute of Technology lists graduate admissions requirements on each program page.
For example, the official pages for the Game Design and Development, MS, Film and Animation, MFA, and Photography and Related Media, MFA programs list the entrance exam requirement as “None.” Applicants should check the requirements for their intended program.
7. City University of Seattle
City University of Seattle publishes program-specific requirements for its graduate degrees.
For example, the current pages for the Master of Education in Leadership and the Master of Education in Special Education do not list a GRE requirement. The Leadership program page states that a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university qualifies applicants, while the Special Education program page states that applicants need a current teaching certificate and an accredited bachelor’s degree.
8. Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fairleigh Dickinson University advises graduate applicants to review the requirements for their intended major.
The university’s international graduate admissions page states that neither the GRE nor the GMAT is required for most graduate majors, but it also instructs applicants to check program pages for the most current requirements.
9. Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City University offers a confirmed GRE-free graduate business option.
The OCU Accelerated MBA is a fully online, 30-credit-hour program consisting of 10 courses. The university states that no GMAT or GRE is required. Available concentrations include Corporate Accounting and Data Analytics.
10. St. John’s University
St. John’s University uses program-specific graduate admissions requirements.
For example, the official page for the Master of Arts in English states that GRE scores are optional. Applicants should review the requirements for their intended program before applying.
GRE policies can vary by institution and by program. Before applying, confirm the current admissions requirements on the official program page. If you’re looking for master’s programs, you can check the Available Master’s Programs!
We hope that this article on U.S. universities with master’s-level programs that do not require the GRE, make it optional, or use program-specific test policies was helpful. For more information about studying in the United States, make sure to visit the Study in the USA Page and Available Courses for International Students!
