Applying to an online master’s program can be an intensive process that includes completing prerequisite courses, writing essays, requesting recommendations, and participating in interviews. One way to make the process more streamlined is by considering online master’s programs that don’t require the GRE or Graduate Record Examination.
While many graduate programs require this standardized test, which evaluates students’ abilities in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, there are also plenty of high-quality online master’s programs that have eliminated GRE requirements or made submitting scores optional. This list compiles the best online master’s programs with no GRE requirements and explores the pros and cons of applying to these types of online master’s programs. It also includes guidance from Blanca Villagomez, a program counselor and coordinator at the University of California-Irvine, on when to submit GRE scores to test-optional master’s programs.
How to Get Into an Online Master’s Program Without Taking the GRE
Online master’s programs with no GRE requirements have developed other ways of determining whether applicants are a good fit for the program. Therefore, the first step to getting admitted to an online master’s program (no GRE) is to carefully review the program’s admissions and eligibility requirements to ensure you meet the program’s basic admissions standards.
Students should review academic requirements, including whether they must have a specific undergraduate degree, prerequisite coursework, or a minimum undergraduate GPA. If a student’s undergraduate academic record doesn’t meet minimum requirements or doesn’t reflect their current academic capabilities, completing additional undergraduate courses or a certificate program can demonstrate an ability for improvement.
Many online master’s programs that don’t require GRE scores also focus on applicants’ professional experiences to determine if they’re well-suited for the program. Applicants should submit a polished resume that reflects their professional skills and achievements and demonstrates that they’re ready to pursue advanced study in their career field. They can also use their personal statement to detail why they are pursuing an online master’s degree and what qualities make them a good fit for the program.
Letters of recommendation also carry more weight when applying to online master’s programs with no GRE requirements. Students should request recommendations from current or former employers, colleagues, and professors who can speak to their specific strengths and preparedness for graduate-level study.
Pros and cons of applying to an online master’s program with no GRE requirements
One of the benefits of applying to an online master’s program with no GRE requirements is that it eliminates a step in the grad school application process. Preparing for and taking the GRE requires time and money that students may not have. The GRE registration fee is $220, and there are additional fees if students need to reschedule their test dates. GRE prep programs can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Applying to non-GRE programs eliminates this barrier to entry to graduate education.
Additionally, online master’s programs that don’t require the GRE may take a more holistic approach to admissions, meaning students can demonstrate their abilities and preparedness for graduate study in a variety of ways. This can include having extensive work experience, a strong undergraduate academic record, positive recommendations, and a well-written essay.
The downside of applying to these types of programs is that applicants lose an opportunity to demonstrate their academic strengths. This may not be an issue for students who have a good undergraduate academic record. However, students who didn’t perform well in their bachelor’s may benefit from being able to submit a high GRE score. It also limits master’s program options for students, as there are still many programs that require GRE scores.
Best Online Master’s Programs That Don’t Require the GRE
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How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online master’s programs with no GRE requirements at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online master’s programs with no GRE requirements to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
Types of College Admissions Testing Policies
When researching online master’s programs, students will likely encounter different standardized testing policies. At the graduate level, such policies may vary by program even within the same institution. For the most accurate information about standardized testing policies for a particular school or program, speak to an admissions counselor at the institution.
The most common college admissions testing policies include:
- Required: All applicants to the school or program must submit GRE scores as part of their application. There may also be a minimum score requirement for admission or consideration for scholarships or course placement.
- Test-Optional: These schools will consider GRE scores if students submit them as part of their application, but they’re not required. While a lack of GRE scores won’t impact a student’s admission decision, some test-optional schools may consider test scores when it comes to awarding merit-based financial aid, like scholarships. Some schools use the term ‘test-flexible’ to describe similar policies.
- Test-Blind: Also known as ‘test-free’ schools or programs, these institutions don’t consider GRE test scores at all, even if students submit them. Instead, admissions committees evaluate applicants based on their undergraduate academic records, work experience, letters of recommendation, essays, and interviews
Should you submit GRE scores to test-optional schools?
Applying to an online master’s program that has a test-optional policy means the decision about whether to submit GRE scores is up to you. In this case, Villagomez says there are a few factors that can help students determine whether submitting GRE scores is beneficial or not.
For students who’ve taken the GRE, “If their scores complement and enhance the student’s overall application, I recommend that the student consider submitting them,” Villagomez says.
While a test-optional school or program likely won’t have a minimum threshold for GRE scores, students can use averages to determine if their scores are strong enough to enhance their application. The average score for the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning portions of the GRE is around 150 (on a scale of 130-170), and the average Analytical Writing score is 3.5 (on a 0-6 scale). Scores at or above those levels will help you demonstrate academic aptitudes to prospective schools, while lower scores may not have much of an impact.
If your undergraduate academic record isn’t particularly strong, submitting GRE scores can bolster your application by demonstrating that you do have the academic capabilities necessary for master’s-level study. Admissions committees seek to select candidates who will succeed in their programs, and a high GRE score can indicate strong potential. Students who choose to take the GRE should keep in mind that preparation is necessary to ensure they do as well as possible on the exam.
However, if students have a well-rounded application with an exceptional undergraduate academic record and good work experience, submitting GRE scores to a test-optional school is likely unnecessary.
“I understand some students who choose to withhold test scores can feel apprehensive about missing an opportunity to showcase their competitiveness,” Villagomez says. “If this is the case, I recommend students use their writing statements to leverage their other academic abilities.”
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