Yes, you can do masters in the USA without GRE, as a growing number of universities have adopted GRE-optional or GRE-waived policies. This shift is especially common in professional master’s degrees such as MS in Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Public Health, and Engineering Management.
Top institutions—including New York University, University of Southern California, Northeastern University, and Arizona State University—no longer require the GRE for admission to select programs. Instead, they evaluate applicants based on undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, work experience, and relevant projects or certifications.
However, policies vary significantly by program, not just by university. For example, a university might waive the GRE for its Master of Engineering but still require it for a research-focused MS in Mechanical Engineering. Always consult the specific department’s admissions page, not the general graduate school website.
When Is the GRE Still Recommended?
Even in GRE-optional programs, submitting a strong score can strengthen your application. Particularly if your GPA is below 3.0, your degree is from a less-known institution, or you lack technical experience. Some programs offer automatic waivers for applicants with:
- A prior master’s degree
- Two or more years of relevant professional experience
- A high undergraduate GPA (e.g., 3.5+)
International students should note that waiving the GRE does not eliminate English proficiency requirements. You will likely still need IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo unless exempt.
To determine if you can do masters in the USA without GRE create a list of target programs and review their current admission criteria. If the policy is unclear, contact the admissions coordinator directly.
Many students are now successfully admitted without the GRE—especially to career-oriented programs that prioritize real-world readiness over standardized testing.
Your academic goals, not the exam, should drive your application strategy.