The requirement of the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for master’s programs is not uniform across all universities or fields of study. Some programs, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and competitive fields, often require GRE scores to assess applicants’ quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing skills.

For example, MIT’s engineering programs and Stanford’s computer science programs typically require the GRE.

In contrast, many professional programs in education, public health, and social work, such as those at the University of Southern California and the University of Michigan, do not require the GRE.

Additionally, numerous online and executive programs, including those at Northeastern University and Northwestern University, have eliminated this requirement, focusing instead on GPA, work experience, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The requirement for GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores is not uniform across all universities or programs. Various factors, such as the field of study, the specific program, and even recent trends in higher education, can influence whether or not the GRE is required. Here is an in-depth look at the nuances of GRE requirements:

GRE Requirement by Program

STEM Programs:

Commonly Required:

Many science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs require GRE scores to assess quantitative and analytical skills. Stanford University requires GRE scores for its MS in Electrical Engineering, and the University of California, Berkeley, requires GRE scores for its Computer Science MS program.

Business and Management:

Varies Widely:

MBA programs might prefer both GMAT and GRE scores. For example, Harvard Business School accepts GRE scores for its MBA program, whereas some executive MBA programs or Masters in Business Analytics might waive the GRE. Also, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania offers a GMAT/GRE waiver for its Executive MBA.

Social Sciences and Humanities:

Often Required:

GRE scores are often required for competitive social sciences and humanities programs. Yale University requires GRE scores for its Psychology PhD program, and Princeton University requires GRE scores for its Sociology PhD program. However, some programs are moving towards holistic admissions and may not require the GRE. For example, the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy does not require the GRE for its MPP program.

Professional Programs:

Less Commonly Required:

The GRE is not required for some specific programs, such as social work, at particular universities, but that is not common in other universities. For example, the GRE is not required for the University of Southern California’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program, and the University of Michigan’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program does not require the GRE.

Online and Executive Programs:

Typically Not Required:

Many online and executive programs do not require the GRE, emphasizing professional experience and other criteria instead. Northeastern University’s online MS in Project Management and Northwestern University’s Executive MBA program do not require the GRE.

GRE Requirements at Various Universities

MIT:

• Required: MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science requires GRE scores for its master’s programs.
• Not Required: MIT Sloan School of Management does not require the GRE for its Executive MBA program.

University of California, Berkeley:

• Required: The GRE is required for the Master’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
• Not Required: The Goldman School of Public Policy does not require the GRE for its MPP program.

Harvard University:

• Required: GRE scores are required for many programs in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
• Not Required: The T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not require the GRE for its MPH program.

New York University (NYU):

• Required: GRE scores are required for many graduate programs in science and engineering.
• Not Required: The Silver School of Social Work does not require the GRE for its MSW program.

Conclusion

The GRE requirement is not uniformly applied across all universities and programs. Many competitive programs in STEM and social sciences still require it, while numerous professional, online, and executive programs do not. The trend towards holistic admissions means that even within institutions, requirements can vary significantly based on the specific program and its goals.