You worked hard during college to build a solid profile with substantial work experience. You wanted to study abroad and took a shot at the US Universities Without GRE and IELTS. But the results are not as you thought they would be. What happens then? You lose your chance of studying in the USA? No, you don’t, and we’ll tell you why.
GRE is an excellent way to prove your value as a candidate, as it tests your analytical and problem-solving skills. But it comes at a steep cost. The application fee for the GRE is INR 22,550, which often poses an inconvenient obstacle for many brilliant applicants. Fortunately, numerous universities offer GRE waivers to international students. This waiver can alleviate the financial burden and allow you to concentrate on enhancing your application profile.
Yocket has compiled a comprehensive blog on MS programs in the USA, which allow admissions without GRE scores. Now, you can focus on other crucial aspects such as selecting the right university, choosing the appropriate program, managing tuition expenses, and more.
If you need more information, make sure to connect with Yocket experts over a FREE-of-cost counseling call, and we’ll tell you exactly what you need to do to apply for an MS in the USA without GRE scores!
Read More: List of Universities in USA Without Application Fees
Is GRE Mandatory for MS in the USA?
No, the GRE Exam is not mandatory for MS in the USA, but it is required by most top universities. It is usually preferred as an addition to make your profile stand out.
MS in the USA without a GRE is possible as many universities provide a conditional USA GRE waiver, i.e., the GRE requirement of the student is waived under certain circumstances.
These may include:
- High GPA, i.e., GPA of 3.0 or above.
- Additional Graduate degree.
- Professional Work Experience, especially relevant to the field.
One prominent example of a GRE waiver is the Illinois Institute of Technology, which allows students with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 to apply for the professional master’s program without needing to send in their GRE scores.
Apart from universities in the US, leading universities of the world like Nanyang Technological University and the National University of Singapore do not need GRE for admissions.
List of GRE Waived Universities in USA for 2025
Usually, aspirants think that the GRE is mandatory for MS in the USA. Little do they know that multiple universities offer an MS in the USA without GRE scores as part of the graduate studies application. In the case of optional GRE scores, not submitting the scores is unlikely to have a lessening effect on the USA application, but a good score can contribute, though not to a great extent.
Here is the list of universities in the USA without GRE for 2025:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Purdue University
- Stevens Institute of Technology
- The University of Dayton
- California State University
- Wichita State University
- University of Bridgeport
- Boston University
- University of Cincinnati
- University of North Texas
- Northeastern University
- San José State University (SJSU)
- Oklahoma City University
- George Mason University
- New Mexico State University
- California Baptist USA University
- State University of New York at New Paltz
- Saint Peter’s University
- Virginia State University
- St. John’s University
- University of Pittsburgh
- Long Island University
- Jacksonville State University
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Concordia University Chicago
- Washington State University
- Florida International University
- Rivier University
- Villanova University
- University of Central Missouri
Let’s explore some of the top USA universities in detail.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
One of the world’s top universities for computer science and engineering fields, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology does not require candidates to submit a USA GRE score to complete their application for certain programs. This fact that a prestigious university like MIT does not request GRE scores highlights that they are not as central to graduate admissions as one would expect given the fuss surrounding it.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Approximate Fees: USD 79,840 (INR 66,75,790)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MS Aeronautics and Astronautics, MS Computational Science and Engineering
2. Purdue University
Purdue University is a public research university in West Lafayette, Indiana, which has consistently ranked among the top 20 graduate schools in the USA. This is one of the best universities that offers MS in the USA without the GRE.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 89
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
Approximate Fees: USD 31,676 (INR 26,48,570)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Computer Science, MS Electrical and Computer Engineering, MS Environmental and Ecological Engineering, MS Ecological Sciences and Engineering
3. Boston University
Boston University is a private university and research institution. The university offers graduate and undergraduate programs across several fields including sciences, arts, medicine, business, humanities, education, and social studies. For students wanting to study master’s in the US without the GRE, you can look up the courses in this university.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 108
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Approximate Fees: USD 68,102 (INR 56,94,320)
Courses Offered Without USA GRE: MS Artificial Intelligence, MS Computer Information Systems, MS Applied Data Analytics, MS Bioinformatics, MS Robotics, and Autonomous Systems
4. Northeastern USA University
Northeastern University is a prominent private university in Boston that offers admission in the US without a GRE. Of the many courses offered by the University, courses in Business, Computer and Information Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Econometrics, and Quantitative Economics are the most recognized.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 396
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Approximate Fees: USD 63,141 (INR 52,79,510)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Computer Science, MS Computer Systems Engineering, MS Industrial Engineering, MS Data Analytics Engineering, MS Civil Engineering, MS Environmental Engineering, MS Chemical Engineering
5. Stevens Institute of Technology
It is a private research university in New Jersey that admits graduate students to all its programs without a mandatory GRE score. The Stevens Institute of Technology has kept the USA exam optional for its admission process. Students can consider an MS in the USA without a GRE at this university.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 701-710
Location: Hoboken, New Jersey
Approximate Fees: USD 60,952 (INR 50,96,480)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS in Computer USA Science, MS in Information Systems
6. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati is a public research university, and it’s considered one of the best public universities in the US. The university has a diverse and beautiful campus. While some programs require students to provide GRE scores, some departments admit international students without GRE scores given a GPA of 3.0 and above.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 761-770
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Approximate Fees: USD 52,689 (INR 44,05,570)
Courses Offered Without USA GRE: MS in Computer Science
7. California State University
Located in the same state as Silicon Valley, California State University not only provides great opportunities but also does not need the GRE scores from the applicants. It comprises seven academic colleges that offer around 58 graduation disciplines. Considering this, it is a very good option for MS in the US without a GRE.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1401+
Location: Sacramento, California
Approximate Fees: USD 39,881 (INR 33,28,780)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Civil Engineering, MS Mechanical Engineering, MS Chemistry
8. The University of Dayton
If you wish to study a master’s in the USA without a GRE, you may want to consider the University of Dayton. This national research university in Ohio has made the GRE scores optional for all applicants. Ranked among the Top 100, this is one of the most prominent GRE universities in the United States.
Location: Dayton, Ohio
Approximate Fees: USD 47,600 (INR 39,80,050)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Civil Engineering, MS Mechanical Engineering, MS Computer Engineering, MS Electrical Engineering, MS Renewable and Clean Energy, MS Aerospace Engineering, USA MS Chemical Engineering
9. Wichita State University
If you are seeking admission to the US without a GRE score, Wichita State University can also be considered a great option. It is highly ranked amongst US Universities for its Engineering programs. The University also boasts of a diverse student body with students coming from over 100 countries.
Location: Wichita, Kansas
Approximate Fees: USD 26,126 (INR 21,84,510)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Aerospace Engineering, MS Computer Networking, MS Computer Science, MS Biological Sciences
10. University of Bridgeport
Another non-GRE university in the US is the University of Bridgeport. It is a private university that offers programs at all levels – certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees. USA It has 3 colleges and 16 schools offering courses across all major streams.
Location: Bridgeport, Connecticut
Approximate Fees: USD 35,760 (INR 29,90,060)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Computer Science, MS Biomedical Engineering, MS Computer Engineering, MS Electrical Engineering, MS Mechanical Engineering
Are you struggling to discover colleges that align with your preferences and passions? It’s understandable given the overwhelming number of options available. That’s where Yocket College Finder steps in to lend a hand. Our tool is designed to assist you in pinpointing the ideal university that matches your interests.
Give Yocket College Finder a try today and simplify your search process!
11. University of North Texas
Also known as North Texas State University, UNT is a public research university. It offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, and Certificate programs. Some of its well-known schools are Business, Management, Marketing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Visual and Performing Arts.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1001-1200
Location: Denton, Texas
Approximate Fees: USD 39,392 (INR 32,93,750)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS in Data Science
12. San Jose State University (SJSU)
SJSU is well-recognized for its research and technology-based programs. If you are looking for only IELTS-accepting universities in the US without the GRE for MS, this is definitely a good choice. While some programs like Master in Computer Engineering, and Master in Biotechnology require students to take the GRE programs, a few of them accept students based on other factors along with IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Location: San Jose, California
Approximate Fees: USD 39,512 (INR 33,03,780)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS in Data Analytics, MS in Civil Engineering, MS in Aerospace Engineering
13. Oklahoma City USA University
Oklahoma City University or OCU is a private university that offers undergraduate bachelor’s, graduate master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Some of the master’s level programs at the university don’t require international students to provide a GRE score.
Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Approximate Fees: USD 33,586 (INR 28,08,280)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Computer Science
14. George Mason University
This public research university is well known for its research programs, especially in the fields of economics and law. Apart from these, the most popular majors at George Mason University include Psychology, Information Technology, Biological Sciences, Management, and Quantitative Methods. The university has a diverse student body representing over 130 nationalities.
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1001-1200
Location: Fairfax, Virginia
Approximate Fees: USD 38,688 (INR 32,34,880)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Civil & Infrastructure Engineering, MS Health Informatics, MS Data Analytics Engineering, MS Applied and Engineering Physics
15. New Mexico State University
The NMSU is a notable public research university in the United States. It also happens to be amongst the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. The university offers masters in science, engineering, business, health, education, etc.
Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico
Approximate Fees: USD 43,507 (INR 36,37,820)
Courses Offered Without GRE: MS Computer Science, MS Industrial Engineering
US Universities Without GRE and IELTS Requirements for Masters
Apart from the above list of universities in the USA without GRE, there are many other US universities without GRE requirements. Some of them are listed below:
Alternatives to GRE to Get Admitted at US Universities
GRE is considered a standardized test for graduate schools, regardless of the studies one is expected to undertake. However, in many universities, the GRE score is substituted by a more relevant examination such as:
- LSAT in the case of Law School programs
- GMAT for admission to Management Programs
- MCAT for prospective medical students
Before choosing the exam, make sure you check the requirements of your university and school and see which exams are needed for admission.
How to Apply to US Universities without GRE?
There is a common perception that only IELTS-accepting universities in the USA without GRE for MS tend not to be as good as their counterparts – this is true in many cases where it serves as a gimmick to attract students to their graduate students. However, as highlighted above, top universities in the US without GRE requirements are not a myth.
Many well-reputed MS universities in the US are beginning to rely less on the GRE as a predictive indicator of a candidate’s ability to take on and complete graduate studies. More Universities have therefore started to give more emphasis on SOPs, LORs, co-curriculars, etc.
From the Desk of Yocket
The GRE is a standardized test usually taken by international students who aspire to pursue graduate studies, and beyond in the United States. However, several prestigious universities offer GRE waivers, providing a cost-effective opportunity for international applicants to enhance their chances of acceptance to premium universities.
However, the GRE is only one of the challenges international students face. Crafting compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs), building impressive CVs to stand out among hundreds of applicants, selecting the right program, managing financial constraints, and more can be exhausting. But Yocket is here to support you every step of the way.
With Yocket Premium, you gain access to comprehensive assistance for securing admission to your preferred university. Yocket’s expert counselors will guide you from program selection to visa application approval, offering unwavering support to help you achieve your dream.
Also Read
- Jobs After MS in US
- Cost of Studying MS in US
- How to Shortlist Universities for MS in US
- Study 1 Year MS in US
Is GRE Compulsory for MS in USA
Are you planning to get into a top university in the US? If yes, then you might be seeking to get a good GRE score for your application process. The GRE exam is considered an important admission criterion for students who are aspiring to pursue their MS in an international university. As a standardized test, the GRE will measure your aptitude to pursue a postgraduate program.
But are you aware that a few universities in the US don’t necessarily ask for a GRE score in their admission process? Many universities are beginning to waive off the GRE as a predictor of the ability of the candidate to pursue and complete their master’s program. As a result, you can readily apply to your desired universities with SOPs, LORs, curricular activities, and other factors.
Top Universities in USA Without GRE for MS
Here, I have compiled the list of top universities in the USA that offer GRE waivers for masters in 2024. Let’s get started.
| Name of the University | Location | Approximate Fee* | Courses offered without GRE |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Boston | $82,730 | MS Electrical Engineering and Computer Science MS Aeronautics and Astronautics |
| University of North | Texas | $27,937 | MS in Data Science |
| Purdue University | Indiana | $9,992.00 | MS Computer ScienceMS Electrical and Computer EngineeringMS Environmental and Ecological Engineering |
| University of Southern California | California | $88,941 | MS Computer ScienceMS Electrical Engineering |
| Concordia University Chicago | Illinois | $48,326 | MS Information Technology (Not a mandatory requirement)MS Computer Science (Not a mandatory requirement) |
| University of Dayton | Ohio | $47,600 | MS Civil EngineeringMS Mechanical EngineeringMS Renewable and clean energy |
| University of Bridgeport | Connecticut | $35,760 | MS Biomedical EngineeringMS Mechanical EngineeringMS Electrical engineering |
| Northern Arizona University | San Fransisco | $27,600 | MS in Climatic Science and SolutionsMS in Mechanical Engineering |
Conclusion:
Studying abroad, particularly in the USA, is a dream for many students. However, the requirement for standardized tests like the GRE and IELTS can often pose significant barriers due to their cost and the pressure to perform well. Fortunately, numerous US universities recognize the challenges faced by international students and offer admissions without these test scores, providing a more accessible pathway to higher education.
These universities, ranging from prestigious institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to highly ranked public universities like Purdue University and Boston University, offer a variety of MS programs without the need for GRE scores. This not only alleviates the financial burden but also allows students to focus on other crucial aspects of their application, such as crafting compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs), building impressive CVs, and selecting the right program.
Moreover, many universities are beginning to rely less on standardized tests and more on holistic evaluations of candidates, considering factors like academic performance, work experience, and extracurricular activities. This shift reflects a growing understanding that a student’s potential cannot be fully measured by a single test score.
For students who are still required to take the IELTS, there are universities that accept this test alone for admission, providing another avenue for international students to pursue their academic dreams. Additionally, some universities offer conditional GRE waivers based on high GPAs, additional graduate degrees, or relevant work experience, further expanding the opportunities for qualified candidates.
In conclusion, the availability of US universities without GRE and IELTS requirements opens up new possibilities for international students. By exploring these options and leveraging resources like Yocket, which offers comprehensive guidance and support, students can navigate the complex admissions process more effectively and achieve their educational goals. The journey to studying in the USA is challenging, but with the right information and support, it is within reach for many aspiring students.
Read More: US Universities Without GRE and IELTS
FAQs:
Q: Are there US universities that do not require GRE and IELTS for admission?
A: Yes, there are several US universities that offer admissions without requiring GRE and IELTS scores. These universities recognize the challenges faced by international students and provide alternative pathways for admission.
Q: Why do some universities waive GRE and IELTS requirements?
A: Universities waive GRE and IELTS requirements to make the admissions process more accessible and inclusive. This allows them to attract a diverse pool of talented students who may not have the financial means or the opportunity to take these tests.
Q: Are these universities reputable?
A: Yes, many of the universities that waive GRE and IELTS requirements are highly reputable and offer top-quality education. They include prestigious institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Purdue University.
Q: How do I find universities that do not require GRE and IELTS?
A: You can find universities that do not require GRE and IELTS by researching online, checking university websites, or using resources like Yocket, which provides comprehensive lists and guidance on such institutions.
Q: What are the benefits of applying to universities without GRE and IELTS requirements?
A: The benefits include saving money on test fees, reducing the stress associated with test preparation, and allowing you to focus on other crucial aspects of your application, such as your Statement of Purpose (SOP) and CV.
Q: Are there any specific criteria for GRE and IELTS waivers?
A: Yes, criteria for GRE and IELTS waivers can vary by university. Common criteria include a high GPA, additional graduate degrees, relevant work experience, or strong academic and extracurricular achievements.
Q: Can I still apply to top universities without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, many top universities offer conditional waivers or alternative admission pathways that do not require GRE and IELTS scores. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of each university.
Q: How do universities evaluate applications without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Universities evaluate applications without GRE and IELTS scores by considering other factors such as academic performance, work experience, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and the Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Q: Are there any universities that accept only IELTS without GRE?
A: Yes, some universities accept only IELTS scores without requiring GRE scores. Examples include San Jose State University (SJSU) and the University of North Texas.
Q: Can I apply for a scholarship without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria, regardless of GRE and IELTS scores. It’s important to check the specific scholarship requirements of each university.
Q: How can I strengthen my application without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: You can strengthen your application by focusing on your academic achievements, crafting a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP), securing strong letters of recommendation, highlighting relevant work experience, and showcasing your extracurricular activities.
Q: Are there any downsides to applying without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: While applying without GRE and IELTS scores can save time and money, it may also mean that your application will be evaluated more heavily on other factors. Ensuring that your application is strong in all other areas is crucial.
Q: Can I apply for a visa without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, you can apply for a visa without GRE and IELTS scores. The visa application process is separate from the university admissions process and does not require these test scores.
Q: How do I prove my English proficiency without IELTS?
A: You can prove your English proficiency without IELTS by providing alternative evidence such as TOEFL scores, completion of an English-medium education program, or work experience in an English-speaking environment.
Q: Are there any universities that do not require any standardized tests?
A: Yes, some universities do not require any standardized tests for admission. These universities evaluate applications based on academic performance, work experience, letters of recommendation, and other factors.
Q: Can I apply for a master’s program without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, many universities offer master’s programs without requiring GRE and IELTS scores. It’s important to research the specific requirements of each program and university.
Q: How do I know if a university offers GRE and IELTS waivers?
A: You can find out if a university offers GRE and IELTS waivers by checking the university’s admissions website, contacting the admissions office, or using resources like Yocket, which provides comprehensive information on such opportunities.
Q: Are there any specific programs that do not require GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, many universities offer specific programs that do not require GRE and IELTS scores. Examples include MS programs in computer science, engineering, and business at various institutions.
Q: Can I apply for multiple universities without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Yes, you can apply to multiple universities without GRE and IELTS scores. This allows you to increase your chances of admission and find the best fit for your academic and career goals.
Q: How do I prepare for the admissions process without GRE and IELTS scores?
A: Prepare for the admissions process by focusing on your academic achievements, crafting a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP), securing letters of recommendation, highlighting relevant work experience, and showcasing your extracurricular activities.
Q: Are there any resources to help me find universities without GRE and IELTS requirements?
A: Yes, resources like Yocket provide comprehensive lists and guidance on universities without GRE and IELTS requirements. Additionally, university websites and admissions counselors can offer valuable information.