The United States continues to be the top study-abroad destination for international students. With world-class universities, advanced research opportunities, and strong career prospects, the USA attracts thousands of applicants every year. Among the key requirements for admission, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) plays a crucial role in securing a spot at leading institutions. In this guide, we’ll cover everything about GRE-accepted universities in the USA, including top schools, GRE score requirements, fees, scholarships, and career pathways.
Why GRE Matters for Studying in the USA?
The GRE is a globally recognised standardised test that measures analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. While some US universities have adopted test-optional policies, the GRE remains highly valuable for graduate admissions.
- For MS programs: A strong GRE score highlights your analytical and quantitative skills.
- For MBA programs: Many business schools accept the GRE as an alternative to the GMAT.
- For PhD programs: GRE demonstrates academic preparedness and research potential.
Benefits of Taking the GRE for US Admissions
- Wider Acceptance – Over 1,200 US universities accept GRE scores for graduate programs.
- Strengthens Application – A strong GRE score enhances your overall profile along with GPA and SOP.
- Scholarship Opportunities – Higher scores may improve your eligibility for merit-based scholarships.
- Flexibility – GRE is accepted across multiple disciplines; engineering, management, humanities, and sciences.
Types of Universities in the USA Accepting GRE
|
Category |
Examples |
|
Ivy League Universities |
Harvard, Columbia, Yale |
|
Top Public Universities |
UC Berkeley, University of Michigan |
|
Private Universities |
Stanford, MIT, NYU |
|
STEM-Focused Institutions |
Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech |
|
Business Schools |
NYU Stern, MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School |
Tier 1 Universities (Top-Ranked)
Harvard University
One of the world’s most prestigious universities, Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is known for its excellence in research, business, and the sciences.
- GRE Requirement: 320–330+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering Sciences, Public Health
- MBA: Harvard Business School (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Education, Economics, Biological Sciences, Political Science
- Fees: MS/PhD $45,000–$55,000/year; MBA ~$75,000/year
Stanford University
Located in California’s Silicon Valley, Stanford is a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology.
- GRE Requirement: 320–330+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Science
- MBA: Stanford Graduate School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Artificial Intelligence, Economics, Biosciences, Psychology
- Fees: Graduate $55,000/year; MBA ~$77,000/year
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT is globally recognised for its engineering, computer science, and innovation-driven programs.
- GRE Requirement: 325–330+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Computer Science, Mechanical & Chemical Engineering, AI
- MBA: MIT Sloan School of Management (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Robotics, Physics, Economics, Neuroscience
- Fees: Graduate $54,000–$60,000/year
University of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley is a top public university known for strong research, engineering, and law programs.
- GRE Requirement: 315–325+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Data Science
- MBA: Haas School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Chemistry, Sociology, Public Health, Computer Science
- Fees: In-state $28,000/year; International ~$47,000/year
Columbia University
An Ivy League university in NYC, Columbia, combines academic excellence with strong industry ties.
- GRE Requirement: 320–330+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Applied Physics, Journalism
- MBA: Columbia Business School (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Political Science, Chemistry, Education, Data Science
- Fees: Graduate $55,000–$65,000/year
Tier 2 Universities (Mid-Ranked)
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
CMU in Pittsburgh is famous for computer science, robotics, and AI, with strong industry connections.
- GRE Requirement: 320–330+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Computer Science, Data Analytics, Mechanical Engineering
- MBA: Tepper School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Robotics, Machine Learning, Statistics, Economics
- Fees: Graduate $47,000–$55,000/year
University of Michigan, Ann Arbour
Michigan is a leading public research university, well-known for engineering, healthcare, and management.
- GRE Requirement: 310–320+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Public Policy
- MBA: Ross School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Law, Social Sciences, Energy Systems, Medicine
- Fees: Graduate $50,000/year (international)
University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)
A highly ranked public university offering strong STEM and business programs at affordable costs.
- GRE Requirement: 305–315+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Electrical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Data Science
- MBA: McCombs School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Geosciences, Linguistics, Computer Engineering, Physics
- Fees: In-state $25,000/year; International ~$47,000/year
New York University (NYU)
NYU in New York City offers strong programs in business, law, and technology with unmatched internship opportunities.
- GRE Requirement: 310–320+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Data Science, Cybersecurity, Applied Statistics
- MBA: Stern School of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Law, Economics, Psychology, Computer Science
- Fees: Graduate $55,000–$70,000/year
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Georgia Tech in Atlanta is a top choice for STEM students with cutting-edge engineering programs.
- GRE Requirement: 315–325+
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Analytics
- MBA: Scheller College of Business (GRE accepted)
- PhD Programs: Nanotechnology, Mathematics, Computer Science
- Fees: Graduate $30,000–$50,000/year
Tier 3 Universities (Affordable Options)
San Jose State University
Located in California’s Silicon Valley, San Jose State is a popular choice for affordable MS programs with tech industry exposure.
- GRE Requirement: 295–305
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Analytics
- PhD Programs: Limited, mostly research collaborations
- Fees: Graduate $20,000–$25,000/year
Wichita State University
Known for its affordability, Wichita State provides practical-focused programs for international students. It is one of the known GRE-accepted universities in the USA.
- GRE Requirement: 295–305
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Industrial Engineering, Computer Networking, Mechanical Engineering
- PhD Programs: Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Economics
- Fees: Graduate $18,000–$22,000/year
University of North Texas (UNT)
UNT offers quality education at reasonable costs and has a strong focus on research and business programs.
- GRE Requirement: 290–305
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Information Science, Data Science, Business Analytics
- PhD Programs: Education, Environmental Science, Materials Science
- Fees: Graduate $20,000–$25,000/year
Cleveland State University
An affordable option for students seeking accessible education with practical exposure in Ohio.
- GRE Requirement: 290–300
- Courses:
- MS Programs: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science
- PhD Programs: Urban Studies, Engineering, Health Sciences
- Fees: Graduate $18,000–$22,000/year
GRE Score Requirements in US Universities
The GRE score requirement varies widely depending on the tier of the university, the program, and the level of competition. While there is no universal cut-off, the following ranges give a realistic idea of where you stand:
Top Universities (Ivy League + Top Public & Private Schools)
- GRE Range: 320–330+
- These include MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Columbia, and UC Berkeley.
- Programs like Computer Science, Data Science, MBA, and Engineering often expect scores in the top percentile, especially in Quantitative Reasoning.
- Verbal and Analytical Writing scores also carry weight for MBA, Law, and Humanities programs.
Mid-Tier Universities
- GRE Range: 300–320
- Universities such as the University of Michigan, NYU, Georgia Tech, and UT Austin fall here.
- These schools offer a good balance between affordability and global recognition.
- Many MS programs in engineering and applied sciences will accept students in this range, provided they also have a solid GPA, SOP, and relevant projects.
Entry-Level Universities (Affordable Options)
- GRE Range: 290–300
- Includes schools like San Jose State, Wichita State, Cleveland State, and the University of North Texas.
- These institutions are popular among international students for their lower tuition fees and flexible entry requirements.
- A GRE in this range, combined with good academic performance, can still secure you admission into MS and PhD programs.
GRE Waiver or Test-Optional Policies
Over the past few years, many US universities have adopted flexible policies around GRE requirements. This shift began during the pandemic but continues due to universities wanting to make applications more accessible. Here’s how it works:
MS in Computer Science and STEM Programs
- Many universities have waived the GRE entirely or made it optional for MS admissions.
- Examples: University of Southern California (USC) and Northeastern University (for some programs).
- Still, a GRE score above 310 can strengthen your profile in competitive courses like CS and Data Science.
MBA Programs
- Top B-schools such as Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan, and Stanford GSB accept both GRE and GMAT.
- Some schools even waive the GRE/GMAT for applicants with significant work experience or prior academic excellence.
- However, submitting the GRE is recommended if you have fewer years of experience.
PhD Programs
- Several research-oriented departments no longer require the GRE.
- Universities like the University of Chicago and some departments at UC Berkeley have dropped the GRE for PhDs.
- The focus is instead on research background, publications, SOP, and academic references.
Admission Requirements Along with GRE
While the GRE is important, it is not the only admission criterion. Universities evaluate applicants holistically. The typical requirements include:
Bachelor’s Degree (3–4 years)
- A minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0 (60–65% for Indian students).
- Top universities may require higher GPAs (3.5+).
English Proficiency Test
- Non-native speakers must prove English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo.
- TOEFL iBT scores of 90–100+ or IELTS 6.5–7.0 are standard.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- A personal essay describing your academic background, career goals, and why you’re choosing the program.
- One of the most critical documents, especially for PhD programs.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- 2–3 recommendation letters from professors or employers.
- Strong LORs can significantly boost your chances, especially if your GRE score is on the lower side.
Work Experience
- Mandatory for MBA and Executive programs.
- For MS/PhD, relevant internships, research projects, or assistantships strengthen the application.
Cost of Studying in GRE-accepted Universities in the USA
Studying in the USA is a significant financial investment. Costs depend on the university type, location, and course. Below is a breakdown:
Tuition Fees
- Top Universities (Ivy & Private Schools): $50,000 – $70,000 per year.
- Public Universities (Out-of-State/International Fees): $30,000 – $50,000 per year.
- Affordable/Public Universities (In-State Options): $20,000 – $30,000 per year.
Living Expenses
- Range: $10,000 – $20,000 per year, depending on the city.
- Big cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco are more expensive, while smaller cities like Austin or Ann Arbour are comparatively affordable.
Other Costs
- GRE Exam Fee: $220
- Application Fees: $75–$150 per university
- Visa Fee (F1 Student Visa): ~$185
- Health Insurance: $1,000–$2,500 per year
Scholarships & Financial Aid for GRE Applicants
Studying in the USA can be expensive, but international students have multiple funding opportunities to make it affordable. GRE scores often play a direct or indirect role in securing these benefits. GRE-accepted universities in the USA allow you to avail yourself of some good scholarship opportunities.
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Awarded to students with strong academic records and high GRE scores (usually 320+).
- Universities may automatically consider applicants for merit scholarships if their GRE scores are well above the average.
- Example: Students applying to top STEM programs at Carnegie Mellon or Georgia Tech with a GRE score above 325 may qualify for tuition fee waivers or partial scholarships.
- University Fellowships
- Many universities in the US provide graduate fellowships to outstanding students.
- These can include full or partial tuition coverage, living stipends, or research funding.
- GRE performance is often one of the key metrics in selection, alongside GPA and research potential.
- Example: MIT Presidential Fellowships and Stanford Graduate Fellowships are highly competitive awards.
- Teaching & Research Assistantships (TA/RA)
- Available to graduate and PhD students, especially in STEM and business schools.
- Students work as teaching assistants (helping professors with classes) or research assistants (supporting ongoing projects).
- These positions not only provide tuition waivers but also offer a monthly stipend ($1,000–$2,500 depending on university and role).
- Strong GRE quantitative and analytical skills improve your eligibility for RA positions in engineering and computer science departments.
- External Scholarships
- Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships (India → USA) – covers tuition, living, and travel expenses.
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships – for graduate studies at top US universities.
- AAUW International Fellowships – supports women pursuing graduate studies in the US.
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarships – for students from developing countries pursuing development-related fields.
Career Opportunities After Studying in GRE-accepted Universities in the USA
Graduating from a GRE-accepting US university opens doors to some of the best career opportunities worldwide. Employers value US degrees, particularly from top-ranked institutions.
- STEM Jobs
- Popular roles include: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI/ML Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Research Scientist.
- Average starting salaries range from $80,000 to $120,000/year.
- Top recruiters include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Tesla, IBM, and Meta.
- Students from schools like MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon often get direct placement opportunities with leading tech firms.
- Business & Management Roles
- MBA and management graduates secure roles in consulting, investment banking, and corporate leadership.
- Top recruiters: McKinsey, BCG, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Deloitte.
- Average salaries range from $90,000 to $150,000/year for MBA graduates.
- Programs like Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan, and NYU Stern have strong career placement rates.
- Research & Academia
- Many PhD graduates choose academic careers, becoming professors or researchers.
- Research positions in healthcare, energy, and environmental sciences are highly in demand.
- Average salaries for postdoctoral researchers range from $50,000–$70,000/year, with growth potential in specialised fields.
- Visa Pathways & Work Options
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows international students to work in the US for 1 year after completing their degree.
- STEM OPT Extension: STEM graduates can extend OPT by 24 months, giving them 3 years total.
- H1-B Visa Sponsorship: Many graduates are hired by US companies that sponsor H1-B work visas. This is a common pathway to long-term employment.
- Green Card Pathways: With experience and employer sponsorship, many international graduates eventually qualify for permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
The GRE continues to play an important role in US university admissions, especially for MS, MBA, and PhD programs. While some schools have adopted test-optional policies, a competitive GRE score still adds significant value to your profile, strengthens your application, and often opens doors to scholarships and assistantships. For international students, GRE-accepted universities in the USA are gateways to quality education, scholarships, and global career opportunities.
