PhD programs in the United States are highly sought after by international students looking to further their education and advance their careers. In recent years, many universities in the US have started offering PhD programs without requiring the GRE exam as a part of the application process. This change has made it easier for international students to pursue a PhD in the US, as they no longer have to worry about taking and scoring well on the GRE.
For international students looking to pursue a PhD in the US without the GRE requirement, a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 is typically required. This GPA requirement ensures that students have a strong academic background and are capable of handling the rigorous demands of a PhD program. Additionally, students may also need to submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and transcripts from previous academic institutions as part of their application.
One example of a university in the US that offers a PhD program without the GRE requirement is the University of Washington. For admission to their PhD programs, international students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and transcripts. The university reviews all applications holistically, taking into account the student’s academic background, research experience, and potential for success in their chosen field of study. By removing the GRE requirement, the University of Washington aims to attract a diverse and talented pool of international students to their PhD programs.
PhD in USA without GRE
PhD in USA is now available without a GRE score as a 3-6 years full time program. International students require a GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0.
Quality of Education
The universities listed above are well-known for their high-quality education and research opportunities. They offer a wide range of programs and resources for students pursuing a PhD in various fields.
| University | Location | GPA Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| California State University | California | 3.0 |
| University of Washington | Washington | 3.0 |
| George Mason University | Virginia | 3.0 |
| Purdue University | Indiana | 3.0 |
| Rice University | Texas | 3.0 |
| University of Wisconsin | Wisconsin | 3.0 |
| Boston University | Massachusetts | 3.0 |
| Columbia University | New York | 3.0 |
| Florida International University | Florida | 3.0 |
What is GRE?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), is an essential step in the graduate school or business school application process. It is refined and administered by test maker ETS to provide graduate and business schools with standard models for weighing applicants’ qualifications for graduate-level academic work.
In other words, GRE is a multiple-choice, computer-based, graded exam that is often required for admission to graduate programs and graduate business programs (MBA) globally.
After the exam, graduate school, and business school admissions board look at your GRE score, your academic record, and supporting materials, to evaluate your level of preparedness for graduate study.
PhD In USA Without GRE
To some people, the thought of a Graduate Record Exam alone is a huge turn-off. However, the good news is that GRE exams can actually be waived. What this means is that you can actually enroll in a PhD with no GRE test required. In other words, there are graduate programs that don’t require a GRE score.
Nevertheless, asides from the programs that ideally don’t ask for the GRE score, there are a few other common policies you may find that allow you to waive the GRE at a variety of programs. They are…
Undergraduate GPA Cutoff: Schools frequently extends waivers to applicants who meet specific undergraduate GPA requirements.
Columbia University
Columbia University is a proud member of the Ivy League of universities. The university offers quite a few programs that don’t evaluate students solely on the basis of GRE scores. Applicants for some specific programs such as MS or MA in Journalism, MS in Neuroscience and Education, MA in Early Childhood Education, several programs in the Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation, etc. don’t need to send in their GRE score with their university applications.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Tests are not the only factor, or even the most important factor considered during MIT admission
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is widely regarded as one of the world’s top universities for computer science and engineering fields. MIT is one of the most prominent schools that don’t require GRE, and it believes in testing the students’ caliber using unconventional factors. Specifically, students applying for Ph.D. programs like Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Linguistics, Media Arts and Science, etc. are exempted from giving the GRE exam.
Northeastern University
Regarded as one of the most prominent universities in Boston, Northeastern University is famous for its graduate programs and offers several programs without asking for GRE scores. In exchange for no GRE scores, this university demands that the students preferably submit Letters of Recommendation that will help compound their overall university application. Programs such as Masters in Bioinformatics, Nanomedicine, specific Chemistry programs, etc. do not need students to submit their GRE scores.
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Berkeley has 184 Academic Departments and Programs
The University of California in Berkeley offers admission in Ph.D. without making GRE compulsory. Applicants can take admission without GRE in some programs while in others they have the option but are not obliged. Some of these programs are:
- Ph.D. in Architecture and Environmental Design (Optional)
- Master of Science in Architecture (Optional)
San José State University(SJSU)
San José State University is another great addition to the list of schools that don’t require GRE. Located about an hour away from San Francisco, California, SJSU is widely known for its research and technology-based programs. While SJSU has a specific set of programs that need no GRE scores, they definitely need students to submit their IELTS or TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency.
Some of these programs at SJSU include:
- MS in Data Analytics
- MS in Civil Engineering
- Masters in Mathematics
- Masters in Public Administration, etc.
Alabama A&M University
This university has a Testing Services Center that coordinates all university testing activities
Alabama A&M University focuses on student learning and prepares them for a myriad of challenges and opportunities. It offers several programs and is one of the best universities without GRE requirements. Students who are interested in the following programs don’t have to worry about giving the GRE exam.
- Food Science
- Physics
- Education Specialist
- Psychology
- Family & Consumer Sciences
- Biology
- Elementary Education
- Social Work
Central Michigan University
The CMU offers over 70 graduate degree programs at the master’s, specialist and doctoral levels
Central Michigan University believes in fostering a culture of integrity, respect, and leadership. If you were looking for a Master’s degree without GRE requirements, you don’t have to look elsewhere. The university offers Master’s of Science in Administration without GRE or GMAT exams.
Rochester Institute of Technology
Along with it’s stunning campus in Rochester, RIT has 4 other campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai, and Kosovo
Rochester Institute of Technology focuses on working at the intersection of technology, the arts, and design. It offers various programs in different fields such as engineering, science, fine arts, computing and the like. The university is one of the best ones offering master’s in USA without GRE. In this university, you don’t need to worry about giving GRE for the following programs:
- Master’s in Product Development
- Master’s in Communication and Media Technologies
- Master’s in Manufacturing Leadership
- Master’s in Applied Statistics
University of Iowa
Founded in 1847, this institute is the oldest university in Iowa, USA.
Applicants that desire Master’s without GRE in the Midwest can opt for the University of Iowa. The university specializes in enhancing the knowledge of its students in computer science. Students can choose the Master’s of Computer Science (MCS) program without worrying about their GRE scores. However, this exemption is only for the non-research version of the degree.
phd in usa requirements
PhD admission requirements in US vary based on the university and the field of study. But in general, most universities in the US require the below from international students applying for PhD degree there:
- Completed application form
- Resume
- Transcripts for your university degree or courses
- Statement of Purpose
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Recommendation letters
- English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL
- Application fee
fully funded phd no gre
The graduate schools of most universities in the USA require the GRE test from the applicants who wish to enroll in their Ph.D. programs. Fortunately, there are universities in the USA that do not require the GRE for admission to their PhD programs. In the sections below we are going to have a look at ten of these graduate schools.
1. Walden University
Walden University is where your Ph.D. becomes a feasible goal! It offers a wide variety of 25 different doctoral programs and over 150 different specializations to suit every applicant’s specific career goals. Best of all, many of these programs are also available online.
Some of the areas where the university offers its most popular doctoral programs are Business & Management, Criminal Justice and Information Technology. Although Walden University does not require the GRE score for its PhD programs, all candidates are required to present a detailed academic resume.
2. A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
This is one of the best universities in the USA to earn a doctoral degree in Human Medicine or Health Science. Two of the university’s most popular doctoral programs are Doctor of Health Sciences and Doctor of Education in Health Professions.
The former is an online program that prepares students for administrative jobs in the healthcare sector. The latter program trains doctoral students to become health educators. These services are especially sought in Africa, where there is an acute need for health education and disease prevention training.
3. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global is the first fully-accredited online university in the USA. Here, each program is tailored according to the applicant’s specific needs and has its own schedule. Therefore, the pace of academic progress is different for each candidate.
This university is most famous for its Juris Doctor Program, offered by Concord Law School. Although taking the GRE exam is not mandatory for enrollment in these PhD and Juris Doctor Programs, there is a series of several interviews, aimed at assessing the applicant’s readiness for the challenges of the program.
4. Sacred Heart University
Founded back in 1963, Sacred Heart University is one of the most popular higher schools in the state of Connecticut. Nowadays, it has just over 3,000 graduate students. The most popular doctoral programs that the university offers are Doctor of Education Leadership, Doctor of Business Administration, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. Neither of these requires the candidate to have successfully passed the GRE exam.
5. St. John’s University
Next on our list of universities that do not require GRE for its PhD Programs is St. John’s University. This university is a private higher education provider in New York City, strongly affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The beginnings of this institution can be traced back to 1870. Now, the university has over 4,500 postgraduate students from all over the world.
The most popular doctoral programs that St. John’s University offers are Doctor of Audiology, Doctor of Psychology, and Doctor of Professional studies.
6. Colorado Technical University
This is one of the best higher schools in the USA to pursue a doctoral degree in the technical field. Established in 1965, Colorado Technical University now has 2,700 postgraduate students.
One of the university’s biggest advantages is that it offers full-time, as well as online doctoral programs, which do not require the comprehensive GRE test.
Some of the most popular online doctoral programs are Computer Science – Big Data Analytics, Criminal Justice, and Environmental Resources Management. This university offers applied doctorates, as well as research-based ones.
7. Duquesne University
Duquesne University was established in 1878 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Now, this is a private higher education provider with a strong affiliation to the Roman Catholic Church. This university with no GRE requirements for its PhD programs has 4,500 postgraduate students.
The main postgraduate school is Duquesne University’s School of Education. Some of the most interesting programs that it offers include Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision, the Ph.D. in School Psychology program, and the Educational Technology Professional Doctorate in Education. Even without the GRE exam, the admission process to these programs is quite strict and the applicants go through several rounds of selection.
8. California Southern University
This university is 100% online-based and offers doctoral degrees in Business Administration, Law, and Psychology. Ever since its inception in 1978, California Southern University’s popularity among the young working people in the state has been growing steadily.
Earning your doctoral degree online makes a lot of sense in today’s fast-paced world, where time is one’s most precious commodity. The flexible doctoral programs offered by CalSouthern, as this school is known for short, combine excellent academic training with the challenges of thorough research into the chosen field under the careful guidance of an experienced advisor. The holders of Juris Doctor Degree are eligible to sit the California Bar Exam for attorneys.
9. Lynn University
Since its establishment in 1962, Lynn University has established itself as one of the leading higher education providers in the region of Boca Raton, Florida. Its most popular doctoral program is the one in Educational Leadership, available on-campus only.
The applicants are first required to complete a standard form and then they are asked to write their professional practice statement. In it, they should clearly highlight their academic goals and explain how the doctoral program will help them achieve these goals. Last but not least, they should provide at least two references from previous employers or tutors. The application fee of $45 is non-refundable.
10. Northcentral University
We end our list of universities with no GRE requirements for its PhD Programs is Northcentral University. It is an online university headquartered in San Diego, California. The academic work of this institution is organized in five different schools, the most popular of them being the School of Business, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
The most popular doctoral programs that the online university offers are Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership, Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Health Administration.
To enter either of the numerous doctoral programs offered by Northcentral University, the applicant should have a Master’s Degree in the selected field of study. No GRE score is required for admission.
phD in psychology in uSA without gRE
These nine sponsored graduate schools below offer master’s and/or doctorate programs in psychology, with no GRE required.
Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University is a private, Catholic university founded in 1963. They serve over 8,500 students across over 80 academic programs. Sacred Heart offers both traditional programs on campus in Fairfield, Connecticut, and online programs that on the whole may be ideal for working adults.
SHU is home to an online Master of Science in Applied Psychology program that does not require the GRE. However, students who wish to strengthen their application are encouraged to submit GRE scores. In addition, students also don’t need to have earned their bachelor’s degree in psychology. However, they must complete prerequisites in order to embark on their graduate studies.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology – Industrial-Organizational Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology – Community Psychology
About the GRE:
- Optional
Northcentral University
Northcentral University is a completely online, regionally accredited university that offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in areas like Psychology, Health Sciences, Business, and more. They serve students from around the world.
NCU is home to several master’s and doctorate programs designed to help students pursue new goals in psychology. For instance, the 60-credit PhD in Psychology features eight specializations, including gender diversity, gerontology, addictions, and health psychology. None of the psychology graduate programs at NCU require the GRE.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
- Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology – Gender Diversity Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology – General Psychology
- Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
- Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
About the GRE:
- Not required
Vanguard University
Vanguard University is a private, Christian university dedicated to liberal arts and professional studies. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). They are based in Costa Mesa, California.
Vanguard offers Master of Science degrees in Clinical Psychology and Organizational Psychology. Each differs slightly when it comes to goals and application requirements. However, neither program accepts GRE scores for consideration in the admissions process.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
About the GRE:
- Not required or considered
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is a private, Christian university with over 65 years of serving students. GCU is based in Phoenix and has locations in Arizona and New Mexico, in addition to online learning. They offer career-focused learning in areas like STEM, business, healthcare, and more.
GCU is home to several graduate programs in psychology and counseling. These include a Ph.D. in General Psychology program with your choice of emphasis, and a Master of Science (M.S.) in General Psychology program designed to help students explore contemporary and ethical issues in psychology, human development, research methods, and more. The GRE is not required.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
- Ph.D. in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Performance Psychology
- M.S. in Professional Counseling with an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders
- M.S. in Psychology: General Psychology
About the GRE:
- Not required
California Southern University
California Southern University is a private, online university offering undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degree programs. Their mission is to help make higher education more accessible for busy, working adults. CalSouthern is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
CalSouthern is home to several graduate psychology programs, including a 66-credit PsyD program designed to help students pursue licensure in the state of California. Each program requires an enrollment application, official transcripts, a personal statement, and an application fee. Submitting GRE scores is not necessary.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
About the GRE:
- Not required
Walden University
Walden University has been specifically designed to serve the unique needs of adult learners, and has been doing so for the past 45 years. Walden serves students from all 50 states and more than 150 countries. This diverse student population pursues degrees that reflect current market trends and promote positive social change.
When it comes to psychology offerings Walden has you covered. The school offers four master’s programs and five doctoral options, and some have concentrations available. Currently, none of these programs require the GRE.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science (MS) in Psychology: Social Psychology
- (MS) Master of Science in Psychology: Organizational Development
- Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Psychology: Family Violence
- PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology: Leadership Development and Coaching
- PhD in Development Psychology: Health and Human Development
About the GRE:
- Not required
Saybrook University
Saybrook University is an institution of higher education that takes a humanistic approach to education. They focus on psychology and other social sciences, as well as integrative medicine and health sciences. Saybrook is based in Oakland, California.
Saybrook is home to Humanistic and Clinical Psychology programs that focus on the whole person. Choose from integrative concentrations such as Creativity Studies and Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology. No GRE scores are needed.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
About the GRE:
- Not required
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has been educating students in psychology and related behavioral science programs since 1979. They have campuses around the country, including Chicago, New Orleans, Dallas, Southern California, and Washington, D.C., plus online learning.
While some of the programs at The Chicago School do require GRE scores (see above), others make test scores optional. Check out the 60-credit M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, which features courses in Couples & Family Counseling, Diversity & Multiculturalism, Addictions, and more.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
- Ph.D. Applied Behavior Analysis
- M.A. International Psychology
- M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
About the GRE:
- The GRE is only required for the following programs: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, Psy.D. in Clinical Forensic Psychology, Psy.D. in Business Psychology
Lynn University
Lynn University is a private university founded in 1962. They serve over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six schools and 37 majors. The university is based in Boca Raton, Florida, convenient to Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties. They also offer online programs.
Lynn offers an MS in Psychology program that may be earned entirely online. The curriculum focuses on psychological research and human behavior, with an emphasis on scientific writing and information literacy. Choose from two tracks: general or industrial/organizational psychology.
Psychology Graduate Programs:
About the GRE:
- Not Required
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