Emphasis on GPA, Experience, Recommendation Letters, and SoPs: The majority of the universities that have waived off the GRE demand letters of recommendation, GPA records, statement of purpose, and previous experience from applicants. These documents are largely used in many institutions to test academic consistency, real-world work knowledge, their goals, motivation, and suitability for the program.
Program-Specific Decisions: Many specific programs do not specifically require the GRE. Instead, they value relevant research works, projects, and practical work experience of students. Programs like the humanities, social sciences, and certain STEM fields do not mandatorily require the GRE to enroll international students.
Types of GRE Waivers
Three types of universities waive GRE scores for international students. These are: Complete GRE Waiver, Optional GRE, and Conditional Waiver. Details of each type are detailed below:
Complete GRE Waiver
Many universities do not require a GRE score at all for admission. These universities have permanently opted for alternative tests and pathways to assess overseas candidates. A few names include:
Some universities waive the GRE under some special conditions. If you have a strong academic GPA in undergraduate studies, relevant work experience, or have completed an advanced degree can apply for a GRE waiver.
List of Top Universities That Have Waived the GRE 2025
Many foreign universities waive GRE results to admit international students. Many of these universities are ranked among the top 5 universities in the world. Here’s a list of top universities abroad that waive GRE for international students.
Many universities follow a conditional GRE waiver for international students. The universities have their own GRE waiver policy designed for overseas learners as per the requirements of specific programs and departments. These department-specific GRE waivers are common in large research universities.
List of Universities with Department-Specific GRE Waivers
Most of the GRE waiver universities offer admission to both domestic and international students. As a result, Indian students aiming to study abroad can submit their applications without a GRE scorecard. However, candidates need to demonstrate their suitability through other alternatives, such as the GMAT exam, strong GPA records, academic excellence, prior work experience, and other credentials.
Meanwhile, Indian students who have relevant work experience can apply to STEM fields, Business Analytics, or Engineering Management programs abroad. Always check individual program and department guidelines in advance to verify GRE requirements. Many universities also offer a GRE Waiver Request Form for international students during or before the admission process.
Common Alternatives to GRE for International Applicants
Some common alternatives for international students who have not appeared for the GRE are as follows:
Alternative to GRE
Details
Strong GPA
Some universities require a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent).
Work Experience
Relevant professional experience for programs like MBA, Public Health, or Engineering Management.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) & Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Required for specific programs
Portfolio or Research Work
For creative or research-heavy programs (e.g., architecture, design)
How to Confirm GRE Waiver Status?
Follow the steps below to check the GRE waiver status:
Visit the official university website.
Go to the graduate admissions or specific program page.
Check the “Admission Requirements”, “Application Checklist”, or “FAQs” sections to get the details of GRE waiver requirements for international students.
Visit the individual department's or program’s webpage to check the conditional GRE waiver.
Requirements for admission can change yearly. So, look for the GRE waiver policy for the current intake.
For further information, students can connect with the admission committee directly via email or registered contact information. Check the alternative requirements of GRE waiver for international students. Once you meet all the essential requirements, formally request a waiver or submit documentation.
Should I Take the GRE?
Recently, most foreign universities accept students without GRE. However, whether you still take the GRE or not depends on multiple factors, such as academic records, specific program requirements, and other variables. While many universities do not ask for GRE, submitting it can enhance your admission application. Here are some situations where taking the GRE may be beneficial for you:
GRE can be beneficial if you are applying to a university with an optional requirement of the GRE.
Take the GRE test if you have a non-traditional academic background or completed prior education from a low-ranked university.
If your GPA is low, taking the GRE can improve your candidature.
There are several universities that are waiving the GRE requirement for Fall and Spring 2025. Instead of that, they are focusing on other aspects of their application, such as academic records, statement of purpose, and relevant experience.
As you craft a better LOR, SOP, you can consult upGrad experts, who can provide better advice and support throughout your application process.
Important Resources For PTE/SAT/ACT Exam
PTE Examination Eligibility Criteria
There are no specific PTE exam eligibility criteria set by Pearson VUE – the organizers of the test./
The PTE exam pattern is designed to test whether candidates can study at international institutions that have English as the main language for instructions./
Canada is a country that is renowned for the quality of its educational infrastructure. As a result, it is no surprise that a list of PTE accepted universities in Canada is sought-after./
The SAT exam dates fall on Saturdays and the test is generally conducted on 7 Saturdays every year; the deadline for registration is four weeks prior to the date of the test./
According to the latest update on SAT syllabus 2022, SAT Subject Tests and the SAT optional essays have been discontinued which has now reduced the duration of the exam by 50 minutes./
Understanding the SAT exam pattern is of paramount importance for all those who want to study undergraduate courses from universities or colleges abroad./
The College Board India Scholars Program offers the SAT scholarship for Indian students. This scholarship helps students receive education from renowned institutes worldwide./
How to register for the SAT examination? Stay assured that the procedure is not at all complex. Students desirous of obtaining admission into bachelor’s or undergraduate courses in the US or Canada will find this to be an important examination./
It is very important for ACT aspirants to be aware of the complete ACT exam syllabus, as it will help them to avoid any surprises on the day of the examination./
The ACT is a widely accepted and standardized examination in the U.S. and several other countries. It is used majorly for undergraduate admissions into several colleges and universities./
Registration of the ACT examination is done through the official website online. Applicants need to register for the test at least two months before the test date. /
The American College Testing– ACT score is a part of the college applications in the United States of America (USA), depending on the institution students apply to. There are no fixed passing marks for this examination./
Carefully curated list of the top SAT prep material can prove invaluable to reducing aspirants' efforts. So, to simplify your research, here are 10 SAT exam books to consider for thorough preparation./
How can I confirm if a university has waived the GRE for my program?
To confirm if a university has waived the GRE for your program, visit the official website of the university and look under "Application Requirements" or "FAQs." You can also contact the university directly to confirm our GRE waiver status.
What other factors are considered important if GRE is waived?
Other factors that are considered important if GRE is waived are undergraduate GPA, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation, work experience or internships, and research publications or projects.
Are universities waiving off GRE?
Yes, many universities are waiving off GRE for international students. A holistic shift towards the assessment and emphasis on the work experience and GPA are the main reasons, most universities are waiving off GRE.
Is GRE waived off for 2025?
Yes, GRE is waived off for 2025 in many universities abroad. However, the waiver-off policy of the GRE is not similar for every university and course.
Can I go to the USA without GRE?
Yes, you can go to the USA without GRE. Look for universities in USA that offer admission to international students without GRE. However, you must fulfill the other essential requirements to consider admission for different programs.
Is GRE required for MS in USA for fall 2025?
NO! GRE is not a mandatory requirement for MS in USA for fall 2025. Programs like computer science, data science, and business analytics offer admission without GRE for fall 2025.
How to get a GRE fee waiver?
Students can get a GRE fee waiver voucher through ETS. Most of the international universities do not offer GRE fee waiver option for international students. You can check the GRE fee waiver options on the official website of the university you are applying for.
Is it okay to not take the GRE?
Yes, it is completely okay not to take the GRE. You can still apply to different international universities without qualifying for the GRE. However, taking the GRE can improve your candidature and increase the chances of selection in many universities.
Is the GRE exam tough?
No, GRE exam is not very tough. It can be moderately challenging for students from a non-native English background. You can score well on the GRE with proper dedication and preparation.
Can you get a zero on the GRE?
Technically, it is not possible to score a zero on the GRE. However, you can get a zero only on the Analytical Writing section of the GRE.
Should I still take the GRE if some universities on my list require it?
Yes, you should take the GRE if some universities on your list require it. Taking the GRE can improve your chances of selection in your desired department or program.
