MS in USA without GRE: Top Universities,Eligibility Requirements and Tips

The USA is one of the countries that accept students in their Master’s program with the help of Graduate Record Examinations, or GRE. Different countries have different prerequisites for getting admission to their respective universities. While a lot of USA graduate schools widely accept GRE scores, many students wonder if it’s also possible to get admission to any U.S. university without taking this test. Without further ado, let’s get onto this topic. To start with, let’s take a look at what GRE exactly means.

About GRE Exam

A standardized test, GRE is based on critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, quantitative analysis, and verbal analysis. A qualifiable GRE score helps a graduate student get admitted to the MS program in the USA – which largely includes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Management) courses. As it acts as an influence on the admissions process, many universities keep it in high regard, making students nervous about their scores and their hesitancy to prepare for the same. 

Why Are Universities Waiving the GRE?

Several factors have contributed to the increasing trend of universities waiving the GRE requirement:

• Holistic Admissions: Many institutions are shifting towards a more holistic approach to admissions, considering a variety of factors beyond standardized test scores. This includes undergraduate GPA, strong letters of recommendation, research experience, and statement of purpose.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Waiving the GRE can help to increase diversity in graduate programs by removing a potential barrier for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic disrupted traditional testing schedules and access to test centers, prompting many universities to temporarily or permanently waive the GRE requirement.

Top USA Universities for MS without GRE

Currently, many universities in the USA have waived the need for GRE scores, so if you do not want to take the exam or are not qualifying with enough scores, need not worry. You can refer to the path of doing MS in the USA without the GRE. 

Below you will find the universities in the USA that provide MS without GRE: 

Universities	QS World University Rankings 2024
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	#1
University of Pittsburg	#163
George Mason University	#1001-1200
University of North Texas	#1001-1200
Purdue Universtiy	#129

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology has earned a top spot for the 11th straight year according to QS World University Rankings 2023. When it comes to computer science and technology, MIT, USA, is considered one of the best. This prominent university doesn’t completely rely on GRE and is up to even waiving it. A graduate student will find a number of courses that don’t require the GRE in this institute. 

University of Pittsburgh

The GRE requirement has been eliminated from more than 90 MS programs in this university, such as MS in Information Technology. MS in the USA without GRE has been getting more prominent with time. 

George Mason University

As a result of the covid-19 pandemic, many universities had waived the requirement of the GRE. George Mason University is one of them. MS without GRE is provided along with several majors in this university, such as in subjects like Psychology, Information Technology, etc. 

University of North Texas

One of the top universities in the USA, the MS programs can also be waived at this university. Some of the popular programs in this university are MS in Electrical Engineering and MS in Computer Science and Engineering.

Purdue University

A highly regarded university, Purdue University is ranked #129 in QS World University Rankings 2023.  The Department of Computer Science at this University mentions that they do not even consider GRE scores, in the application and evaluation process, even if they are submitted.

Other USA Universities for MS without GRE

That’s not all, more universities provide MS in the USA without GRE. Check out the list of additional universities that provide MS in the USA without the GRE:

• Oklahoma City University
• New Mexico State University
• James Madison University
• Concordia University
• Washington University
• University of Florida 
• Kansas State University
• University of New Haven
• Johnson & Wales University
• Idaho University
• New Mexico State University
• California State University
• Washington State University

Eligibility Criteria

When GRE scores are waived off, it means the student’s profile should otherwise stand out. These are some of the general requirements, in that case:

1. Well-written Statement of Purpose
2. 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (Academic and Professional)
3. Work Experience or Internships
4. A considerable GPA, of 3.0 or higher
5. Well-presented updated Resume 

Keeping the aforementioned in mind, students should make sure to pay close attention to their remaining factors of preparing for MS in the USA without GRE. Since a majority of universities that offer MS in USA without GRE put this option in action due to the Cover-19 pandemic, it’s important to showcase abilities and a portfolio that otherwise highlights other significant skills of the student. 

Documents Required 

Here is the list of documents required to get into USA universities for MS without taking the GRE exam:

• Graduation transcripts 
• Post-graduation transcript 
• Evidence of citizenship (Passport)
• Name and contact details of two professional references.
• CV/ Resume (updated)
• Letter of Recommendation
• English Language Proficiency Test Score
• Statement of Purpose

Application Process

The application process takes place over a period of time. It begins months before the commencement of classes. The universities have two main intakes, generally, the fall intake and spring intake, for international students to kick start their journey. You can call our Leverage Edu experts on 1800 572 000 to find out how the application process can be fast-tracked and streamlined! Here’s an easy 5-step process to complete your application:

1. Call our experts on 1800 572 000 to shortlist your favourite universities and courses. Start your application to multiple universities through our one dashboard platform.
2. Compile all your documents like SOPs, essays, certificates, LORs and exam scores like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, etc.
3. Meet all the application deadlines and start the application process for accommodation, students visa, and scholarships/student loans.
4. Accept the offer letter and meet your teachers, college mates, and roommates virtually
5. Get your visa approved and fly to your dream university

Alternatives to MS in USA without GRE

Now, in case you decide to opt for another examination than GRE, what are your options? Below are some of the options available in universities that provide MS without the GRE or make it optional:

• MCAT: Medical College Admission Test: For graduate medical program 

• GMAT: Graduate Management Admission Test: For graduate management program

• LSAT: Law School Admission Test: For graduate law programs

Tips for Applying to GRE Waived Programs

While the GRE can be a valuable tool for assessing a student’s aptitude, it’s not the sole determinant of success in graduate school. By focusing on your academic record, extracurricular activities, and strong applications, you can increase your chances of gaining admission to top-tier MS programs in the US, even without a GRE score.Here are some tips to help you get into your dream university without GRE:

• Strong Academic Record: Maintain a high GPA throughout your undergraduate studies.
• Compelling Statement of Purpose: Clearly articulate your academic and career goals, and explain why you’re a good fit for the program.
• Powerful Letters of Recommendation: Seek strong letters from professors who can vouch for your abilities and potential.
• Research Experience: Highlight any research projects, internships, or publications you’ve been involved in.
• Standardized English Tests: Ensure you have strong scores on the TOEFL or IELTS.
• Financial Preparedness: Demonstrate your ability to fund your education.

FAQs 

Well, that was all about MS in the USA without GRE! Suppose you want to get into a well-sought university for MS in the USA without GRE. In that case, you may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists to assist you with the application process. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.