Universities Without GRE Requirements

There are several top accredited universities around the world that do not require GRE scores for admission to their graduate programs. These universities adopt an inclusive approach to admissions, often focusing on other criteria such as academic performance, professional experience, and personal statements to evaluate applicants. Below is a list of notable universities that follow this practice:

Capella University is a well-established institution that does not require GRE scores as part of its graduate admissions process. Capella University offers a wide range of graduate-level degree programs, including specializations in higher education such as Curriculum and Instruction, Leadership for Higher Education, Enrollment Management, Postsecondary and Adult Education, and Professional Studies in Education. The university's graduate offerings include an MBA, MS in Human Resource Management, MS in Information Technology, and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a general public administration focus, among others. Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). The simplicity of its application process, free from GRE requirements, makes it an attractive option for prospective students looking for a straightforward path to higher education.

Walden University is another notable institution that does not require standardized test scores such as the GRE or GMAT for admission into its graduate programs. Instead, Walden focuses on minimum grade point averages (GPAs) and professional references as part of its admissions process. For applicants to its Master’s programs, a bachelor's degree or equivalent and two professional references are required. Walden offers a diverse range of graduate programs, including an MBA, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Science in Nursing, and M.S. in Forensic Psychology, among others. Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the NCA. By eliminating GRE requirements, Walden provides more accessible pathways for students to further their education without the additional burden of standardized testing.

South University is another institution where GRE scores are optional for graduate program admission, though submitting scores may strengthen an application for certain programs. In particular, the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program may benefit from GRE scores, as submitting a strong GRE result could improve the applicant’s chances. South University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), and offers a wide range of graduate programs. South University operates several campus locations across the United States, including in Columbia, South Carolina; Montgomery, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; and Tampa and West Palm Beach, Florida. The flexibility around GRE submission and the variety of campus options make South University an appealing choice for prospective graduate students.

Penn State University - Harrisburg is a part of the prestigious Pennsylvania State University system and offers graduate programs without requiring the GRE for admission. While the department reserves the right to request GRE scores from applicants, this is not a typical requirement for most students. However, students applying for assistantships may be asked to take the GRE as part of their application. Penn State offers a broad range of graduate programs for students who have completed their undergraduate studies. These programs are designed to accommodate part-time students, with many of the courses held in the evening to fit with working professionals’ schedules. The absence of a mandatory GRE requirement makes Penn State a favorable option for applicants with strong academic records and work experience who may not want to go through the additional step of taking a standardized test.

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), a well-regarded institution based in the U.S., does not require GRE scores for certain graduate programs, such as the MS program in environmental, health, and safety management. RIT is featured in the Princeton Review's "Best Colleges" guide and is recognized for having "Most Connected Campuses." The university is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. RIT’s decision to waive GRE requirements for specific programs reflects its commitment to focusing on relevant academic qualifications and professional experience, making it easier for applicants to apply without the burden of standardized testing.

South Dakota State University is another institution that does not require the GRE for admission into certain graduate programs, including the M.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a Merchandising Specialization. South Dakota State is the largest university in the U.S. state of South Dakota, and it offers a broad range of programs for students across various disciplines. By not requiring GRE scores for certain programs, South Dakota State University provides a less stressful admissions process for students, particularly those interested in specialized fields of study such as family and consumer sciences.

The University of St. Thomas, located in the U.S., does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission to its master’s or certificate programs. This policy applies to various graduate programs offered by the university, allowing applicants to focus on other aspects of their qualifications. The University of St. Thomas is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The lack of GRE or GMAT requirements makes it a more accessible choice for applicants who may not have strong standardized test scores but excel in other areas such as work experience or academic performance.

Finally, the University of New Brunswick in Canada also does not require GRE scores for its graduate programs in Computer Science. While GRE scores are not necessary, the university may ask for them if the applicant’s academic background is from a non-Canadian university and cannot be adequately assessed otherwise. This ensures that students with international academic backgrounds are still given a fair opportunity to apply, while also allowing the university to make more accurate assessments of their qualifications.

In conclusion, these universities provide valuable options for students seeking to pursue graduate education without the pressure of taking the GRE. By offering flexible admissions requirements, these institutions recognize that standardized tests are not the only measure of an applicant's potential for success in graduate studies. For many students, the absence of GRE requirements reduces barriers to higher education, making it more accessible and allowing them to focus on showcasing their strengths in other ways, such as academic achievements, work experience, and personal statements. These policies also highlight the growing recognition of diverse educational backgrounds and the belief that students can succeed in graduate programs based on a broader range of qualifications.