Looking to study in the USA? Many top universities, including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley, accept GRE scores for graduate admissions. While some schools require GRE for most programs, others offer waivers or are test-optional for certain courses. This guide covers GRE-accepting universities in the USA, score requirements, waivers, and expert tips to help you prepare effectively.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is widely accepted by graduate schools in the USA. It is required for many graduate programs, including engineering, business, humanities, and sciences. Each university has its own GRE requirements. Some universities may also waive the GRE based on specific conditions.
Top GRE Accepting Universities in USA
Harvard University
- Programs: Engineering, Business, Science, Humanities.
- GRE Requirement: Required for most graduate programs. Some programs may waive it.
- Why Choose Harvard: Harvard is a prestigious university with cutting-edge research opportunities.
Stanford University
- Programs: Computer Science, Business, Engineering.
- GRE Requirement: Required for many programs. Some departments may waive it.
- Why Choose Stanford: Stanford is known for innovation, especially in Silicon Valley.
- Official Info: Stanford Graduate Admissions
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Programs: Engineering, Business, Economics, Computer Science.
- GRE Requirement: GRE required for most programs.
- Why Choose MIT: MIT is world-renowned for its focus on science and technology.
- Official Info: MIT Graduate Admissions
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
- Programs: Engineering, Social Sciences, Public Policy.
- GRE Requirement: Required for most programs. Some programs in humanities and social sciences may not require it.
- Why Choose UC Berkeley: Berkeley is known for its innovative research and academic excellence.
- Official Info: UC Berkeley Graduate Admissions
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Programs: Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry.
- GRE Requirement: Required for most STEM programs.
- Why Choose Caltech: Caltech is famous for its research and academic rigor in science and engineering.
- Official Info: Caltech Graduate Admissions
University of Chicago
- Programs: Humanities, Business, Public Policy, Science.
- GRE Requirement: Many programs don’t require the GRE, especially in humanities and social sciences.
- Why Choose UChicago: UChicago is known for critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies.
- Official Info: University of Chicago Graduate Admissions
Princeton University
- Programs: Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science.
- GRE Requirement: Generally required for most programs.
- Why Choose Princeton: Princeton offers a rigorous academic environment and world-class faculty.
- Official Info: Princeton Graduate Admissions
Columbia University
- Programs: Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, Arts.
- GRE Requirement: Required for many programs. Some departments may waive it.
- Why Choose Columbia: Columbia has strong global connections and a wide range of academic programs.
- Official Info: Columbia Graduate Admissions
Check: GRE vs IELTS: Which Exam is Right for You?
GRE Accepting Universities in USA
| University | Programs | GRE Requirement | Why Choose |
| Harvard University | Engineering, Business, Science, Humanities | Required for most; waivers possible | Prestigious, cutting-edge research |
| Stanford University | Computer Science, Business, Engineering | Required for many; waivers in some | Innovation hub, Silicon Valley exposure |
| MIT | Engineering, Business, Economics, Computer Science | Required for most programs | World leader in STEM & research |
| UC Berkeley | Engineering, Social Sciences, Public Policy | Required for most; some exceptions | Known for innovation & academic excellence |
| Caltech | Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry | Required for most STEM programs | Famous for scientific rigor & research |
| University of Chicago | Humanities, Business, Public Policy | Many programs don’t require GRE | Strong in critical thinking & research |
| Princeton University | Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science | Required for most programs | Rigorous academics & world-class faculty |
| Columbia University | Business, Engineering, Arts, Social Sciences | Required for many; waivers possible | Global connections & diverse programs |
GRE Waivers: Some Programs Do Not Require the GRE
While the GRE is required for many programs, some universities have moved to test-optional or test-blind policies. For example:
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): Some programs in humanities and social sciences no longer require the GRE.
- New York University (NYU): Some programs in the arts and social sciences do not require the GRE.
Expert Tip: How to Choose the Right GRE-accepting University
When choosing a university, consider more than just the GRE requirement. Think about:
- Program Reputation: Look for universities with strong faculty and research.
- Location: Choose a university that offers opportunities for internships and research collaborations.
- Scholarships and Funding: Many universities offer scholarships and assistantships to help with costs.
By applying to these GRE-accepting universities, you can find a program that fits your goals. Make sure to check each university’s website for specific GRE score requirements and deadlines.
Check: GRE vs GMAT: Which Exam Should You Take for Graduate School?
Top 10 GRE Preparation Tips
A lot of students ask, How do I study for the GRE. You’re not alone. Following the right preparation method for the GRE can be massive, but with the right approach, you can pass it with confidence. Study abroad expert, Rachael Brandt, shares her top 10 GRE preparation tips to help you succeed:
Plan Ahead
Start your preparation early. Create a study schedule that gives you enough time to cover all topics without last-minute stress. Aim for consistency, not cramming.
Know What You’re Getting Into
Familiarize yourself with the GRE format. Understand the sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing, and their requirements.
Take Lots of Practice Tests
Practice tests help you gauge your progress. They also familiarize you with the test’s timing, structure, and question patterns, helping reduce exam-day anxiety.
Start Studying Vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is key to doing well in the Verbal Reasoning section. Start early, and regularly practice new words. Use flashcards, apps, or vocabulary books.
Focus on Your Strengths
Concentrate more on the sections where you need improvement. If you’re strong in math but weak in verbal, allocate more time to verbal prep.
Don’t Ignore Other Subjects
While focusing on weak areas, don’t neglect subjects where you feel confident. Maintain a balanced approach, as all sections are equally important.
Use Good Study Materials
Choose reliable, well-reviewed materials. Study guides, online courses, and GRE prep books from reputable sources can make a huge difference.
Know the Question Types
Understand the different question types you will face in the exam. Familiarizing yourself with each type will help you recognize patterns and improve your response time.
Keep an Error Log
Track your mistakes. Review errors regularly, understand why you got them wrong, and focus on those areas to avoid repeating them.
Plan on Taking the Exam Twice
Taking the GRE more than once can be beneficial. The first attempt will give you an idea of where you stand, and the second attempt will allow you to improve in weaker areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is GRE mandatory for all universities in the USA?
No, not all universities require GRE. While top schools like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard often require it, many universities are moving toward GRE waivers or test-optional policies.
Q2. Which universities in the USA waived GRE for 2025?
Universities like NYU (arts & social sciences) and UCLA (some humanities programs) have waived GRE requirements for certain programs in 2025.
Q3. What is the minimum GRE score for Harvard University?
Harvard does not specify a strict cutoff, but competitive applicants typically score above 320 in the GRE.
Q4. Does MIT accept applications without GRE?
For 2025, MIT requires GRE scores for most programs, especially STEM fields. Some departments may consider waivers.
Q5. Which universities in California accept GRE?
UC Berkeley, Caltech, Stanford, and UCLA all accept GRE scores. However, UCLA may waive GRE for certain humanities and social science courses.
Q6. What GRE score is needed for Stanford University?
Stanford doesn’t publish official cutoffs, but admitted students often score 165+ in Quant and 160+ in Verbal.
Q7. Is GRE required for business schools in the USA?
Yes, many MBA programs accept GRE, including Harvard Business School and Stanford GSB. Some schools may also accept GMAT as an alternative.
Q8. Do Ivy League universities require GRE?
Most Ivy League schools like Princeton, Columbia, and Harvard require GRE for graduate programs, but some departments offer waivers.
Q9. Which universities in the USA accept GRE for MS programs?
Popular universities for MS with GRE requirements include MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Carnegie Mellon University.
Q10. Can I apply to US universities without GRE in 2025?
Yes, several universities have adopted test-optional policies. You can apply without GRE if the program does not list it as mandatory.
Q11. What is the GRE fee for international students?
The GRE costs around $220 (varies by country). Additional fees apply for late registration or sending scores to multiple universities.
Q12. What’s better: GRE or GMAT for US universities?
GRE is accepted across a wider range of graduate programs (STEM, business, humanities), while GMAT is specific to business schools.