GRE Accepting Universities in USA for MS in 2025

Last year, India overtook the United States in the number of GRE test-takers as around 1,13,300 candidates from India took the GRE whereas around 97,670 candidates took GRE in the USA. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the most recognized tests for getting into graduate programs. Many universities see GRE scores as an essential part of their application process. GRE scores help them to evaluate a candidate’s analytical, verbal, and quantitative abilities. If you're thinking about pursuing an MS in the USA, it is important to know which are the GRE accepting universities in USA for MS 2025 and what score range you should aim for. The GRE has become an important step in the application process for students looking to study in USA.

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This Story also Contains

1. Top GRE Accepting Universities in USA for MS 2025
2. Requirements for MS in USA Beyond GRE Scores
3. Conclusion

Top GRE Accepting Universities in USA for MS 2025

The USA has some of the top-ranked universities globally, with 196 of them featured in the QS World University Rankings 2025. This makes it a dream destination for international students seeking higher education. Below, you will find a list of some of the best GRE accepting universities in USA for MS programs.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Established in 1861, MIT has a community of over 11,000 students and 1,000 faculty members. The institute has excellent work history in fields like AI, climate change, and cancer research. The diverse community also includes over 3,800 international students and a faculty that includes 55% international members.

2. Harvard University

Harvard University ,founded in 1636, is one of the oldest higher education institutions in USA. With a community of over 31,000 students and more than 2,400 faculty members, it’s an exceptional place to learn.

3. Stanford University

Stanford University, founded in 1885, is famous for its vibrant entrepreneurial culture and academics. With a student body of over 16,000 and around 2,200 faculty members, it promotes innovation and leadership across various fields. It is situated in Silicon Valley, which plays a crucial role in transforming global industries such as technology and healthcare. Its diverse international community includes around 4,280 students from all over the globe.

4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Caltech was founded in 1891 and is a prestigious science and engineering institute in Pasadena, California. With a community of about 2,400 students and a low student-to-faculty ratio, Caltech fosters an environment where collaboration and research are their highlights. Renowned for its significant contributions to areas such as astrophysics, quantum science, and energy innovation, Caltech has advanced laboratories. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is one of the labs at Caltech. In addition, there are 7 Nobel laureates among its faculty.

5. University of Pennsylvania

Founded back in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) stands among the top Ivy League schools. UPenn is especially famous for its Wharton School, along with its programs in fields like data science, bioengineering, and business analytics. With a student community of over 26,000, which includes around 5,000 international students, UPenn offers a lively and welcoming campus atmosphere.

6. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

The University of California, Berkeley (UCB), founded in 1868, is famous for its outstanding academics and research. What sets Berkeley apart is its significant impact in fields like computer science, environmental science, and business. With a diverse student body of over 42,000, it also welcomes international students and faculty.

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7. Cornell University

Cornell University is a privately owned Ivy League research institution in Ithaca, New York. Established in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White, it has earned accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Cornell has a community of over 26,000 students, with over 7,500 graduates and around 2,800 professional students. International students make up 26% of the student body.

8. The University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is a private research university that opened in 1890. It has 7 international campuses across the globe. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the University of Chicago is home to over 7,000 undergraduates and more than 10,000 graduate students from around the world. Notable alumni include figures like Barack Obama, Bernie Sanders, and David Rockefeller. GRE scores are optional for several MS programs at the University of Chicago.

9. Yale University

Yale University was founded back in 1701 and is a private research institution located in New Haven, Connecticut. It's part of the esteemed Ivy League and stands as one of the oldest universities in the United States. With over 6,700 undergraduate students and more than 8,200 graduate students, around 30% of the student body comes from abroad, representing 124 different countries.

10. John Hopkins University

Established back in 1876, Johns Hopkins University is a private research institution located in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The university has a community of over 21,000 students with 29% of the student body of international students. To be considered, applicants typically need to have an impressive average weighted GPA of 3.9. GRE scores are required for economics and political science courses only. However, it is optional for several MS programs like biology, chemistry, sociology, etc.

It is important to note that out of the several GRE accepting universities in USA for MS 2025, some have decided to keep the GRE as an optional requirement and some universities that don't require GRE for masters. However, not all MS courses have been exempted from the GRE. It is highly advised to check the requirements thoroughly before applying to the university. There are some other GRE accepting universities in the USA for MS as well. List of universities accepting GRE scores for MS are:

• Columbia University

• Northeastern University

• University of Texas at Austin

• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Georgia Institute of Technology

• Purdue University

• University of Florida

• Arizona State University

• Texas A&M University

• California State University

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Northwestern University

• University of Michigan

• Ohio State University

• Michigan State University

• Florida International University

• Loyola University Chicago

• University of Washington

• University of Colorado Boulder

• University of Minnesota

• Carnegie Mellon University

Requirements for MS in USA Beyond GRE Scores

While the GRE is an important aspect of your application, universities also consider other factors such as:

• Academic Performance (GPA)

• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Work Experience & Research

Conclusion

The GRE is still an important requirement for many MS programs at universities across the US. However, some schools are starting to waive off GRE for certain programs. This means that there are some universities that don't require GRE for masters. It is really important to look into the admission criteria for the universities you're interested in and get ready accordingly to boost your chances of getting in. If you are preparing for the GRE, make sure to have a solid study plan to aim for a competitive score and strengthen your overall application.

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