US Universities Accepting IELTS For MS, No GRE Needed

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a major standardized test that is usually required if you wish to study abroad for graduate programs. Yet, the relatively limited scope of the examination has led to several graduate schools waiving off this requirement throughout the USA, which is a growing trend now. Hence, there are several only IELTS accepting universities in USA without GRE for MS programs. 

Several institutions are now taking students without GRE scores, including notable names like the Darden School of Business and Wisconsin School of Business, the University of Virginia, and Northeastern University. On that note, here is a closer look at some US universities accepting only IELTS score for MS courses. 

Benefits of Using IELTS for MS Admissions 

Here are some of the major benefits of using IELTS for admissions: 

• There are now several US universities accepting IELTS for MS without requiring GRE/GMAT scores. 
• Postsecondary institutions throughout the USA and other English-speaking nations will always require English language proficiency proof from those who are not native speakers of the language. Most of these courses will take IELTS scores as well. 
• IELTS scores will have to be submitted as a part of the application process and is mostly taken as a baseline university admission qualification. IELTS scores higher than the benchmarks at institutions may lead to higher chances of admissions. 
• The IELTS is recognized by more than 11,000 organizations worldwide and you can choose between the computer and paper-based versions. There are options to choose convenient testing dates and locations, with 1,400+ locations throughout 56 countries. 
• IELTS exam helps you to develop your basic English language abilities, since it evaluates the four core skills of Speaking, Listening, Writing, and Reading. 

Eligibility Requirements for MS Programs with No GRE

Most US universities accepting IELTS for MS programs without GRE requirements usually have these criteria for admissions (may vary from one institution to another). 

• Academic transcripts including the bachelor’s degree 
• IELTS scores 
• Letters of recommendation 
• Statement of purpose 
• Professional resume 
• There may be additional course-specific requirements as well. 

Important Resources to Read:

List of US Universities Accepting IELTS for MS (No GRE Needed)

Here are some of the top universities accepting only IELTS score for MS programs, without GRE requirements for most of them. 

• Purdue University
• Northeastern University
• University of Dayton
• California State University 
• Boston University
• University of Cincinnati 

These are some of the universities that typically do not require GRE scores, but need proof of English language proficiency via IELTS scores. Otherwise, almost all leading universities in the USA require IELTS scores for admissions. 

Popular MS Programs Offered

There are several program choices for those wishing to pursue an MS in USA, including the following (may vary across universities) 

• Accounting
• Analytics
• Applied Mathematics
• Applied Physics and Engineering
• Architecture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Applied Psychology
• Bioengineering
• Bioinformatics 
• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Chemistry
• Cybersecurity 
• Energy Systems
• Engineering Management 
• Finance
• Information Systems
• Journalism 
• Law
• Nanomedicine
• Public Health 

More Resources to Read About IELTS:

Application Process for MS Admissions 

Here is the usual application process (may vary) for IELTS accepted universities in USA. 

• Apply online at the university website 
• Fill up the application form with all your details 
• Upload supporting documents like your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, IELTS scores, and other documents as needed
• Pay the application fees and wait for the admission decision of the university
• Some universities may insist on an interview or entrance examination 

Costs and Financial Aid 

The average cost of pursuing an MS in USA is approximately $30,000-100,000 or more, depending on the program. There are several options in terms of institutional scholarships that are offered by universities based on financial need or merit of the applicants. At the same time, there are also other scholarship options like the Financial Aid for Graduate or Professional Students and its various categories for financial assistance. 

Part-Time Work Opportunities for MS Students 

You can work while studying in the USA for up to 20 hours on campus each week. When there are breaks or holidays, you can work for up to 40 hours each week. On-campus employment means working at any location affiliated with the institution in question, i.e. cafeterias, university bookstores, libraries, laboratories, and other such facilities.

 You will require a social security number (SSN) in order to start working and this will require a letter of approval from the DSO. You will have to speak to the DSO beforehand and apply for the on-campus job at least 30 days prior to the beginning of your classes. 

Off-campus employment is outside the university campus although it can only be taken up by F-1 students who have finished a minimum of one whole academic year and who have demonstrated financial need (eligible as per the Department of Homeland Security’s guidelines). OPT and CPT are two programs for those who want to gain more experience in their study fields. These can be discussed with the DSO for more clarity. Some jobs include teaching assistants ($27,896 per year), dining room server ($30,593 per year), student ambassador ($42,457 per year), and library assistant ($36,614 per year). 

Conclusion 

To sign off, you should focus on giving the IELTS and getting as high a score as possible in order to boost your chances of admissions into leading universities that emphasize the same for this purpose. You need not sit for the GRE to enter many institutions, although make sure that you carefully peruse their requirements beforehand.