What Is the GRE Score for Masters? The GRE score required for Master's programs varies widely by field, university rank, and country, but a competitive total of 300–320 (150+ Verbal, 150+ Quantitative) opens doors to most reputable programs. Elite institutions like Stanford or MIT often seek 310–330+, while mid-tier or less selective schools accept 290–305. There’s no universal minimum—many programs are test-optional or holistic—but understanding target ranges and percentiles helps align preparation with admission goals.
What Is the GRE Score for Masters: Average Scores Needed by Field
GRE expectations differ by discipline:
- Engineering & Computer Science: Quantitative-heavy; aim for 160–165Q, 145–155V (total 305–320). Top programs (e.g., Carnegie Mellon) average 165Q.
- Business (MBA/MS): Balanced; 155–160V, 158–163Q (total 313–323). GMAT alternatives exist, but GRE is widely accepted.
- Humanities & Social Sciences: Verbal-focused; 155–162V, 145–155Q (total 300–317). Programs like NYU Psychology value strong AWA (4.5+).
- Education & Public Policy: Flexible; 150V, 145Q, 4.0 AWA (total ~295) suffices for many state universities.
ETS data shows global test-takers average 150.3V, 153.1Q, 3.5 AWA—below most Master’s cutoffs—highlighting the need for above-average performance.
Top Universities and Their GRE Score Expectations
Prestigious schools publish admitted student profiles:
- Harvard (MS Engineering): ~318 (162Q, 156V)
- Stanford (MS CS): ~328 (167Q, 161V)
- Oxford (MSc): Accepts GRE but rarely requires; ~320+ strengthens applications
- Regional U.S. Masters: Often 295–310, with emphasis on GPA and experience
Check program websites—some list 25th–75th percentiles (e.g., 310–325)—to gauge fit. International students from non-English regions may need 155V+ to prove language readiness.
How Percentiles Impact Master’s Admissions
A 310 total is ~60th percentile, but section balance matters. A 165Q ranks 89th percentile (crucial for STEM), while 155V is 67th (solid for humanities). Admissions weigh program-specific percentiles over raw scores. Use ETS’s concordance tools to compare with GMAT if applying to business schools.
Tips to Achieve a Competitive GRE Score for Master’s
Secure your target score with:
- Diagnose early: Take a full-length ETS PowerPrep test
- Section strategy: Drill Quant formulas; build Verbal vocab (1,000+ words)
- AWA focus: Practice two essays weekly—aim for 4.5+
- Retake policy: ETS allows 5 attempts/year; scores valid 5 years
With 100–150 study hours, most improve 5–15 points per section. Free resources (Khan Academy, Magoosh) support budget-friendly prep.
In short, a 300–320 GRE unlocks most Master’s paths, with 310+ ideal for competitive programs. Tailor goals to your field and dream schools—then study smart.