Is GRE Required for MS in Canada? A Complete Guide for Indian Students

Over 40% of Indian students ask the same question every year: Is GRE required for MS in Canada? The truth is, many universities in Canada don’t mandatorily ask for a GRE score, yet several top Canadian universities still accept or even prefer it.

If you’re unsure whether to take the GRE exam or skip it, this guide will help you understand which MS programs in Canada require GRE scores, the minimum GRE score for admission, and whether a high GRE score really matters.

Why Indian Students Are Choosing Canada for MS?

Canada has become one of the top destinations for Indian students pursuing an MS. With flexible admission requirements, world-ranked institutions, and a growing list of universities in Canada for MS that accept or waive GRE scores, Canada offers both prestige and practicality.

But is GRE required for MS in Canada? That’s exactly what most Indian students are figuring out right now. Here are 5 reasons why Indian students prefer to study MS in Canada:

1. Flexible GRE Requirements:
   Many top Canadian universities accept GRE scores but don’t mandatorily require them. Several universities in Canada that accept GRE applications offer an MS in Canada without GRE, especially for course-based programs.
2. High-Quality Education with Global Recognition:
   Top universities in Canada offer specialized MS programs and MBA in Canada, with GRE and IELTS scores as optional or secondary requirements, depending on the institution.
3. Wide Range of Programs and Institutions:
   From GRE accepting universities in Canada to those that focus on holistic profiles, Indian students can choose from a vast list of universities offering competitive MS courses across fields.
4. Realistic GRE Expectations:
   A good GRE score can enhance your profile, but many universities accept GRE with minimum score flexibility. Some even admit with a score of 150 in quantitative if the rest of the profile is strong.
5. Post-Study Work Opportunities and PR Pathways:
   Canada not only offers a degree in Canada but also long-term benefits like open work permits and PR eligibility, making it smarter to study masters in Canada than chase uncertain outcomes elsewhere.

Is GRE Required for MS in Canada?

Wondering is GRE required for MS in Canada? The short answer: not always. While some top GRE accepting universities like UofT and McGill may require the GRE test, many universities for masters in Canada don’t. You can still get admission to MS programs even without a GRE score, especially for course-based programs.

That said, a good GRE score for MS (around 310+) can strengthen your profile at universities that require GRE scores. Always check the score requirement for your program, and prepare only if it’s advisable to take the GRE for your career goals.

Top Canadian Universities Accepting MS Applications Without GRE

Many Indian students ask: Is GRE required for MS in Canada? While the GRE general test is a global standard, Canada is one of the few countries where several top Canadian universities accept MS applications even without GRE.

So, if you’re looking to study in Canada but want to skip the test prep stress, you’re in luck. Below is a list of universities offering good MS courses without asking for a GRE score, making it easier to gain admission to a good MS program:

Note: While these colleges in Canada don’t ask for GRE scores, top-tier universities like UofT or McGill may still expect a high GRE score for MS in some fields. Always check the program-specific page before you prepare for the GRE exam.

When Is GRE Recommended for Indian Students Applying to Canada?

While the answer to “is GRE required for MS in Canada” is often no, there are certain cases where taking the GRE general test is highly recommended for Indian students.

If you’re targeting admission to top universities, especially those with competitive MS or MBA programs, the GRE is a standard benchmark to showcase academic readiness. Here’s when taking the GRE makes sense:

1. Applying to Highly Competitive Programs
   For top universities accepting GRE scores like UofT or McGill, the GRE is a compulsory or strongly recommended requirement. A strong score for MS in Canada, especially a minimum GRE score of 310–320, can increase your chances.
2. Low Academic Scores or Less Experience
   If you have a lower GPA or fewer research/internship experiences, a high GRE score can balance your profile. This is one of the most common scenarios in the frequently asked questions about GRE for Canada.
3. Applying for Scholarships or Assistantships
   Many Canadian universities, even universities without GRE, give preference to students who show academic excellence. Scoring high in the GRE general or GRE subject test helps enter the best universities or qualify for GRE Scholarships.
4. Business or Research-Oriented Courses
   For MBA in Canada or research-heavy STEM programs, the importance of the GRE increases. In some cases, it’s gre score mandatorily required. Always check the minimum GRE score for MS or MBA on the official program page.
5. To Strengthen Your Application in Borderline Cases
   Even if not required for Canada, a GRE score solely depends on how much value you want to add to your application. It shows your seriousness and effort, especially useful if your profile is on the edge.

Tip: Use a reliable GRE prep platform and aim for the highest score possible, ideally a score in the band of 160+ in Quant. While some universities in Canada that require GRE may ask for a minimum GRE score required (like 300+), others evaluate it as part of your overall profile.

Key Application Tips for Indian Students Applying Without GRE Scores

Applying to Canadian universities without GRE? You’re not alone. While GRE is an important metric for some programs, admission solely depends on the GRE only in a few select cases.

For most Indian students, success comes down to strategy, not just scores. Here are key tips to apply without GRE:

1. Shortlist the Right Universities
   Focus on the list of universities accepting GRE as optional or not at all. Many universities in Canada require strong academic records instead of test scores.
2. Build a Strong Profile Beyond Scores
   If you’re skipping the GRE, highlight academic performance, relevant work experience, research papers, or internships. Scores in Canada are only one part of the decision-making process.
3. Craft an Impactful SOP and LORs
   Since you’re not submitting the highest score in the band, your Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation should clearly show your fit and potential.
4. Be Cautious with MBA Applications
   The GRE might be required for MBA in Canada at some schools. Always check if the program depends on the GRE accepting or not before applying.
5. Confirm Requirements from Official Sources
   Don’t assume, verify whether your target school in Canada that accept GRE scores has waived it for your course. Policies vary widely and change often.

Conclusion 

To sum up, is GRE required for MS in Canada? Not always. While some universities still ask for it, many offer top-tier MS programs without needing a score in the band rather than evaluating your full profile. Your academic background, SOP, LORs, and experience matter just as much, if not more.

Ready to skip the GRE stress and still get into your dream university?
Join Ambitio GRE Bootcamp. We specialize in profile building that gets you shortlisted, even at top schools.

Let’s craft a winning application together. Your dream MS in Canada starts here. 

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