10 October 2024

5 minutes read

What Are The GRE Waiver Universities In USA: List Of Universities Waiving Off GRE in 2025

Dirghayu Kaushik

Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik

Founder & CEO

10 October 2024

5 minutes read

GRE

Key Takeaways

GRE waivers in 2025 offer a simplified application process for many graduate programs, especially for international students.
Top universities like Stanford and MIT are waiving GRE scores, focusing more on academic achievements and professional experience.
Research which programs have made the GRE optional to apply without the added stress of standardized testing.

Did you know that over 100 universities in the USA have started waiving the GRE for certain programs in 2025? This shift comes as institutions recognize that standardized test scores may not be the only or best measure of a candidate’s potential. For many students, particularly international ones, the GRE has been a significant hurdle—adding financial strain, time pressure, and anxiety to an already challenging application process.

However, navigating the growing list of universities that offer GRE waivers can be tricky. With varying eligibility criteria and program-specific policies, students often struggle to find reliable information. Thankfully, understanding which universities are making this shift and how you can qualify for a waiver can simplify your path to a dream graduate program.

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What Is A GRE Waiver?

A GRE waiver allows students to bypass the requirement to submit GRE scores as part of their graduate program application. Many universities, especially top institutions like Stanford University and Columbia University, are now offering this option, particularly for the MS in Computer Science programs. This has become a game-changer for both domestic and international students, as it eliminates the need to take the GRE and reduces the stress of standardized testing during the application process.

For those applying to a graduate program in 2025, there are now many universities that have waived the GRE requirement. This means students can apply to their desired program without worrying about having to submit GRE scores. As the landscape evolves, it’s crucial to stay updated on which universities have implemented this policy, ensuring you don’t miss out on a potential opportunity to apply without the GRE.

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How Can You Get A GRE Waiver?

In 2025, many universities in the USA are offering students the chance to apply to graduate programs without the need to submit GRE test scores. This shift, often referred to as a GRE waiver, allows applicants to bypass the traditionally required GRE or GMAT exams.

Numerous universities in the US have waived off GRE requirements, making the GRE optional for many programs, especially for spring 2024 and fall 2024 admissions. Institutions like private research universities and public universities alike have joined the trend, allowing students to apply without GRE scores.

To obtain a GRE waiver, candidates must check whether the university offers such an option. Some universities might have made the GRE optional only for specific programs, such as MS in Computer Science, while others may still require GRE scores.

It’s important to confirm whether your graduate program has waived the GRE or if you still need to take the GRE or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). By researching 2024 admissions criteria, you can identify universities waiving GRE and GMAT requirements, making the application process smoother.

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List Of Universitis Waiving Off GRE Score For International Students In 2025

As of 2025, many top universities in the United States are offering international students the option to apply without submitting GRE scores. This change has been a major relief for students who face challenges in meeting standardized testing requirements due to time constraints, testing availability, or financial reasons.

Numerous universities in the USA have recognized that academic potential can be demonstrated through alternative means, such as work experience or academic records, and have thus waived the GRE for various graduate programs. For international students, this means you may no longer need to take the GRE to be considered for programs, including those in competitive fields like MS in Computer Science.

Several prestigious institutions, both private and public universities, have waived off GRE requirements for the 2025 admissions cycle, with some even extending this policy to programs in spring 2024 and fall 2024.

For students looking to study in the USA without the pressure of submitting GRE test scores, it’s important to identify the specific universities and programs that have waived the GRE or made GRE scores optional. This evolving trend, which also affects GMAT requirements, allows more flexibility for applicants and gives them the chance to showcase their qualifications without standardized testing.

This table provides an overview of the universities and the specific conditions for receiving a GRE waiver.

University	Program Offering GRE Waiver	GRE Waiver Criteria
Stanford University	MS in Computer Science	High GPA and relevant work experience
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	MS in Engineering	Exceptional academic background
Harvard University	PhD in Sciences	Research experience
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	MS in Physics	Strong academic record
Columbia University	MS in Data Science	Professional experience and relevant coursework
University of California, Berkeley	MS in Electrical Engineering	Relevant work experience
University of Chicago	MBA Program	Leadership experience and high academic standing
Princeton University	MS in Mathematics	Previous academic achievements
Yale University	MS in Public Health	Relevant professional background
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	MS in Mechanical Engineering	High GPA and research experience
University of Pennsylvania	MS in Finance	Relevant industry experience
Duke University	MS in Economics	Academic excellence and research work
University of Southern California	MS in Artificial Intelligence	Exceptional academic record
New York University (NYU)	MS in Marketing	Industry experience
Cornell University	MS in Biomedical Engineering	High academic standing

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Conclusion

The growing trend of universities offering GRE waivers in the USA for the 2025 admissions cycle provides a significant advantage for both domestic and international students. By recognizing alternative qualifications such as work experience, academic achievements, and leadership roles, these institutions are making the application process more accessible. Whether you’re applying for an MS in Computer Science or another graduate program, identifying universities that have waived the GRE can open new doors and streamline your journey toward higher education. Stay informed and leverage this opportunity to boost your chances of securing admission without the pressure of standardized testing.

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FAQs

What is the difference between a GRE waiver and GRE optional policy?

A GRE waiver means you are exempt from submitting GRE scores entirely, while GRE optional means you can choose to submit them, but it’s not mandatory for admission.

How can work experience help me get a GRE waiver?

Many universities consider strong professional experience in the relevant field as an indicator of your capability, allowing you to qualify for a GRE waiver, especially for programs like MS in Computer Science.

Do all programs at a university offer GRE waivers?

No, not all programs offer GRE waivers. It’s often program-specific, so you need to check if your desired course offers this option.

Can I still submit GRE scores if I qualify for a waiver?

Yes, even if you qualify for a GRE waiver, some applicants choose to submit their GRE scores if they believe it strengthens their application.

Are GRE waivers more common for domestic students than international students?

GRE waivers are often available to both domestic and international students, but the eligibility criteria might vary based on the applicant’s background and program.

Do GRE waivers affect my chances of receiving scholarships?

In most cases, GRE waivers do not impact scholarship eligibility, but some merit-based scholarships may still require GRE scores, so it’s important to check each university’s specific requirements.

Can I request a GRE waiver after I’ve submitted my application?

No, you must request a GRE waiver before submitting your application, as part of the admissions process, and provide any required documentation that supports your request.