The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test required primarily for admission to graduate-level programs (master’s and doctoral degrees) at universities worldwide, especially in the United States, Canada, and increasingly in Europe and Asia. It is not required for undergraduate admissions or most professional degrees like medicine (MCAT), law (LSAT), or business (GMAT – though some MBA programs now accept GRE scores).
Who Typically Takes the GRE?
- Prospective Graduate Students
- Applicants to master’s programs in arts, sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and education.
- PhD candidates in non-professional fields.
- Example: A student applying to an M.S. in Computer Science or a Ph.D. in Psychology usually needs GRE scores.
- MBA Applicants (Selectively)
- Many top business schools (e.g., Harvard, Stanford, Wharton) now accept GRE scores in place of the GMAT. Over 1,300 MBA programs worldwide accept the GRE.
- International Students
- Non-native English speakers applying to English-taught graduate programs often take the GRE to demonstrate academic readiness, alongside TOEFL/IELTS.
- Fellowship & Scholarship Applicants
- Some funding bodies (e.g., Fulbright, NSF Graduate Research Fellowship) require or recommend GRE scores.
Who Does NOT Need the GRE?
- Undergraduate applicants (use SAT/ACT).
- Medical, law, or dental school applicants.
- Executive MBA or online/part-time programs (many waive standardized tests).
- Programs with GRE waivers increasingly common post-COVID, especially for applicants with strong GPAs or work experience.