The GRE General Test, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), has traditionally been a required component for admissions into various technical master’s programs in the USA.
However, many universities have started removing the GRE requirement from their admissions process, recognizing that GRE scores may not always reflect a student’s true potential.
In fact, 70-80% of universities in the USA now offer programs without GRE requirements. Here is a list of the top 9 US universities and colleges that don’t require the GRE for MS programs.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT is one of the top-ranked universities globally, especially for computer science and engineering. As of 2022, MIT ranks #1 in the QS Global University Rankings and does not require GRE scores for certain MS programs.
Top courses at MIT that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics
- MS in Computational Science and Engineering
- MS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
2. Purdue University
Purdue University is a public research institution in Indiana that consistently ranks among the top 20 graduate schools in the USA. It offers multiple MS programs without the GRE requirement.
Top courses at Purdue that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Ecological Sciences and Engineering
- MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
3. University of Dayton
The University of Dayton, located in Ohio, offers a variety of graduate programs with optional GRE scores, making it a great option for students looking to study without taking the GRE.
Top courses at the University of Dayton that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Aerospace Engineering
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Renewable and Clean Energy
4. California State University
California State University offers a wide range of disciplines for graduate students and does not require GRE scores for many of its MS programs.
Top courses at California State University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Chemistry
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Mechanical Engineering
5. Wichita State University
Wichita State University, known for its strong engineering programs, offers more than 100 undergraduate courses and several graduate programs that do not require the GRE.
Top courses at Wichita State University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Biomedical Engineering
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in Mechanical Engineering
6. Boston University
Boston University is a renowned private university offering a wide array of graduate programs. Many of these programs do not require GRE scores for admission.
Top courses at Boston University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- MS in Artificial Intelligence
- MS in Applied Data Analytics
- MS in Bioinformatics
7. San Jose State University
San Jose State University is well-known for its focus on research and technology. It provides several MS programs without the GRE requirement.
Top courses at San Jose State University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Aerospace Engineering
- MS in Civil Engineering
- MS in Data Analytics
8. Northeastern University
Located in Boston, Northeastern University is a private institution that offers many graduate programs without requiring GRE scores. This includes several engineering and computer science programs.
Top courses at Northeastern University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Industrial Engineering
- MS in Environmental Engineering
- MS in Computer Systems Engineering
9. George Mason University
George Mason University, located in Virginia, is known for its strong research programs, especially in law and economics. It also offers several MS programs without GRE scores.
Top courses at George Mason University that do not require GRE scores:
- MS in Civil & Infrastructure Engineering
- MS in Health Informatics
- MS in Applied and Engineering Physics
FAQs
What are the top universities in the USA that don’t require GRE for MS programs?
Some of the top universities in the USA that do not require GRE for MS programs include Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Purdue University, Boston University, Northeastern University, and George Mason University.
Can I pursue MS in the USA without GRE and IELTS?
Yes, it is possible to pursue an MS in the USA without GRE and IELTS. Some universities waive these requirements based on your academic history or work experience. Always check with the specific university for its requirements.
What is the minimal GRE score needed for MS in the United States?
A GRE score of around 310 is considered acceptable for MS programs in the USA, although top-tier universities may prefer scores between 315-320 or higher for competitive programs.
Which universities in the USA offer MS programs without GRE?
Several universities in the USA offer MS programs without GRE, including MIT, Purdue University, Boston University, Northeastern University, and Wichita State University.
Are there any financial aid options available for MS programs in the USA without GRE?
Yes, universities that don’t require GRE scores still offer financial aid options such as merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, assistantships, and fellowships.
