List of Universities Waiving Off GRE, GMAT for Admission in Masters ProgramsWith the closure of test centres during the Covid-19 pandemic, universities got the opportunity to look into the factor that standardised test scores are not the ultimate factor for admission decisions. Several universities waived off the GRE/GMAT requirements and are continuing to do so in this year’s intake too.
It is an excellent opportunity for students to take admissions in no-GRE and no-GMAT club universities where admission officers are relying on other parts of the applications. The GMAT and GMAT scores are not mandatory in these universities for Spring 2023 and Fall 2023 intakes. Some have gone completely test-free or test optional while in others, students can apply for a waiver under certain conditions. This article lists the universities that have waived GMAT and GRE for 2023 intakes.
What are GRE and GMAT Waivers?
Applicants with employment and/or military experience are eligible for a GMAT/GRE waiver, which allows them to apply for master's programmesat institutions throughout the world without submitting their GMAT/GRE scores as admission criteria.
A candidate may opt not to submit their GRE/GMAT exam scores as proof of preparation for a master's degree such as MBA, MSc, MTech, and so on. Instead, their academic successes, completion of short courses, undergraduate GPA, job experience, or strong leadership experience might be used to determine their readiness for the intellectual rigour of an MS curriculum. It should be noted that the GRE/GMAT waiver option is only accessible to candidates who match specified conditions.
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Universities Waiving Off GRE and GMAT Requirement for Spring 2023 Intake
As discussed in this article, the GRE is waived off in fall 2023 and some universities have waived off GRE for spring 2023 as well. The Spring intake usually begins in the month of January and ends in the month of May. Although a limited number of courses might be available, a number of international students choose the Spring intake because of less competition. Here is the list of universities that waived off GRE for fall 2023 as well as their GMAT requirements for Spring 2023:
Name of University | Details |
|---|---|
University of Arizona | - |
Rice University | - |
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Conditional |
Florida State University | Conditional |
New York Institute of Technology | Conditional |
California State University Long Beach | Waiver varies from course to course |
Northeastern University | - |
The University of Texas at Austin | Optional |
Stony Brook University | - |
SUNY Buffalo | - |
University of South Mississippi | - |
New York University | - |
- | |
| University of Utah | Waivers on certain courses |
| University of California | GRE/GMAT waived on a few courses |
Universities Waiving Off GRE and GMAT Requirement for Fall 2023 Intake
The application deadline for a fall entry is usually anywhere between December and March and programs generally begin in the month of August or September. The table below is a list of universities that waived off GRE for fall 2023 and also GMAT for Fall 2023:
Name of University | Details |
|---|---|
University of Huddersfield | - |
University of Arizona | - |
University of Louisville | Conditional |
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Conditional |
Florida State University | Conditional |
California State University Long Beach | Waiver varies from course to course |
Penn State College of Engineering | Waiver varies from course to course |
Stony Brook University | - |
Factors Influencing Your Application to Universities Offering GMAT and GRE Waivers
If you have chosen to opt-out of attempting the GMAT or GRE, you can certainly focus on a number of other factors that may help you stand out:
Academic History: The first thing that a graduate admissions committee looks at is your GPA (Grade Point Average). Usually, most universities require applicants to have obtained at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in undergraduate studies.
Professional Experience or Internship: Although not applicable to all graduate programs, some programs like MBA or clinical psychology do value professional experience certificates. Whether it is just an internship or a 6-month experience, it may make a huge difference in your application.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Most graduate schools will ask you to submit 1-2 pages of personal statements for MBA admissions. This will let the school understand your academic potential and writing and grammar skills. In terms of content, the university will give instructions or specific questions that you will need to answer in your SOP. In addition, you will also be asked to give a background of your academic and professional goals that you would like to meet after joining the program.
Letters of Recommendation: Universities will require you to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation from faculty and/or previous employer(s). When asking someone to write you a letter of recommendation, make sure that they want to do so and have an idea of your achievements and academic record. Provide them with enough information about you, your career aspirations, information about the university and so on, before they start working on the letter.
Resume/CV: Usually, graduate schools that require prior experience will ask you for your updated resume. Along with your professional experience, add details such as awards, recognitions, community involvement, projects you've worked on and so on.
List of Universities Accepting International Students Without GRE/GMAT Scores
Aspirants sometimes wonder if they must take the GRE or GMAT to pursue a Master's degree in prominent study abroad locations such as the United States. Many colleges in the United States allow students to apply for graduate school without submitting GRE or GMAT results, or make them an optional component of the application.
Even though GRE or GMAT results are optional, failing to submit them will not have a substantial influence on the application; nonetheless, better scores can still be advantageous, albeit to a lesser extent. Here is a list of top universities abroad and colleges that do not accept GRE and GMAT scores as part of their admission process to admit international students.
List of Universities Accepting Students Without GRE/GMAT Scores | ||
|---|---|---|
Texas Tech University | Ohio University | University of Iowa |
Capella University | Arizona State University | Excelsior College |
Colorado Technical University | Johns Hopkins University | Florida Atlantic University |
Emory University | Rochester Institute of Technology | Frostburg State University |
Fitchburg State University | Minot State University | |
Fort Hays State University | Purdue University Global | Colorado State University |
American Public University | Boston University | The University of North Carolina – Wilmington |
Simmons University | California State University – Dominguez Hills | Arkansas State University |
Ball State University | Thomas Edison State University | Nova Southeastern University |
Southern New Hampshire University | Concordia University – Montreal | Brenau University |
Why Consider Taking the GMAT/GRE for 2023 Intake?
Now the question arises, should I still take these exams when GMAT/GRE is waived off in fall 2023? The answer lies here:
A lot of universities offer scholarships to students based on their GMAT or GRE scores. When applying to graduate schools with GMAT/GRE waivers, consider taking the tests and submitting their scores which will increase your chances of getting a scholarship.
In case you think that your GPA is not strong enough, you can showcase your quantitative skills through your standardised test scores and go beyond your transcript.
If you do not meet the minimum professional experience for the program, test scores will help the admissions committee understand your grasp of key concepts.
Also, if you are unsure that your essays are not strong and your GMAT/GRE scores may help elevate your application, testing is your opportunity to get through.
GRE vs GMAT - Which One Should You Take and Why?
Here is a quick rundown of the differences between the two exams that will help you decide better which exam among GRE vs GMAT you should take in the future to pursue your higher studies abroad.
Differentiating Factors | GRE | GMAT |
|---|---|---|
Acceptance | Accepted at 1200+ business schools worldwide | Accepted worldwide by all business schools |
Unique Quantitative Section | Quantitative Comparisons | Data Sufficiency |
Unique Verbal Section | Sentence Equivalence & Text Completion | Sentence Correction & Critical Reasoning |
Test Structure | Sections of Analytical Writing: two 30-minute essays; Two 30-minute portions for Verbal Reasoning; two 35-minute sections for Quantitative Reasoning (if taking the computer-based GRE); one 30- or 35-minute Experimental Section | Analytical Writing (30 minutes): Integrated Reasoning (30 minutes); Quantitative: 62 minutes; Verbal: 65 minutes |
Test Format | It is a computer-based Multi-Stage Test (MST) or can be taken on paper in some locations | Computer-adaptive test |
Duration | 1 hour58 minutes | 3 hours 30 minutes |
Scoring | For verbal and quantitative reasoning, scores range from 130 to 170 in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing part is graded independently. | The total score ranges from 200-800. Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning are graded independently. |
Cost | USD 228 | USD 275 |
Score Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
Which Exam Should Test-Takers Take? | Better suited to "number crunching" thinkers. Furthermore, the GRE places a strong emphasis on examining vocabulary in context. If that's your strong suit, consider taking the GRE to demonstrate your abilities. | Better for thinkers who are "creative/flexible." The GMAT Quantitative section is more difficult for many test-takers. |
How to Avail GMAT/GRE Waivers in 2023?
Students are often confused about whether they should submit or not submit their GMAT/ GRE scores while applying for postgraduate courses. If the university provides the option to do without the exam, then one can take advantage if they are not much inclined towards taking the tests. The given steps will help you understand how to apply for GMAT/GRE waiver in 2023:
Universities have alternate requirements for GMAT/GRE waiver. Ensure that you have read all the criteria in your university application such as academic scores, LOR, SOP, resume, etc. Besides, an interview can also be conducted to assess your suitability for the course.
The GRE/GMAT waiver request can be initiated by writing a letter to the university. While applying for it ensure that you adhere to other requirements set for the course.
You must show your extracurriculars and leadership capabilities while highlighting incidents that testifies your suitability for the course.
In other words, many universities abroad, especially in the USA, are waiving GRE and GMAT for admission to master's programs in 2023. However, it is important to note that these exemptions may be subject to several conditions. While some colleges completely disregard GRE or GMAT test scores, others will provide conditional waivers based on remarkable previous academic records, past accomplishments, job experience, SOP, LOR, and so on. The criteria may vary based on the degree of study and the university.
Furthermore, if your GPA is below average, you graduated from an unrecognised college, or you are convinced that you can achieve the average GRE/GMAT cutoff of your selected university, you should take the exams. This will boost your profile and offer another convincing component to your application.
Do you still have doubts about universities waiving GRE/GMAT for fall 2023? Contact us at [email protected] to get in touch with our admissions counsellors.
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FAQs
Is the GRE 2023 waived?
Yes, the GRE 2023 is waived off by many universities for both Spring 2023 as well as Fall 2023. These include Whitman School of Management (Syracuse University), University of California-Berkeley, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of California, Los Angeles, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Bentley University, Northeastern University, Texas A&M University, and the University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Which colleges have waived off GRE for Fall 2023?
Colleges that have waived off GRE fall 2023 are the University of Arizona, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, California State University Long Beach, Stony Brook University, University of Huddersfield, University of Louisville, Florida State University, and Penn State College of Engineering.
Should I give GRE for Fall 2023?
It depends on the test-taker whether or not they should give GRE for Fall 2023. As many universities have completely waived off standardised testing, taking a test could have many advantages for both the university and the applicant. However, if you have chosen not to opt for the GRE, factors like professional experience, two to three letters of recommendation (LOR), statement of purpose (SOP), academic history and curriculum vitae (CV) might highly influence your admission decision.
Can I pursue MS in USA without GRE?
Yes, you can pursue MS in USA without GRE. Many universities in the USA do not require GRE scores as a part of their application process. These include Purdue University, the University of Dayton, California State University, University of Bridgeport, University of Cincinnati, Northeastern University, San Jose State University (SJSU), University of North Texas, etc.
Is GMAT easy than GRE?
No, the GMAT is not easy as the GRE. GMAT Quant is regarded as being more challenging than GRE Quant. Your ability to solve problems is tested by GMAT Quant. Additionally, the questions of data sufficiency are very difficult. Despite the fact that GRE quant problems are simpler than GMAT ones, you can use a calculator during the GRE but not during the GMAT exam.
Can I pursue an MBA without GMAT?
Yes, you can pursue an MBA without GMAT. Top universities, such as Carnegie Mellon, MIT, and the University of Virginia, accept applicants without GMAT or GRE scores to pursue an MBA. However, each university has alternative requirements in lieu of GMAT/GRE scores.
How do I get a GMAT/GRE waiver?
You can get a GMAT/GRE waiver by providing proof of your undergraduate GPAs, excellent leadership experience, academic achievements, professional work experience, etc. An applicant may choose not to submit their GMAT/GRE exam scores by demonstrating their readiness for MBA or showcasing their exceptional professional growth.
Is Harvard waiving the GMAT/GRE?
No, Harvard is not waiving the GMAT/GRE nor does the university offer any GMAT/GRE waivers. An ideal GMAT score for Harvard Business School is between 730 and 760. Scores above 760 do give applicants an advantage and boost their likelihood of being invited to an interview.
Is Stanford waiving the GMAT/GRE?
Yes, Stanford is waiving the GMAT/GRE and international students will not require to opt for these exams for the 2023-24 academic year. However, if your application is not strong enough in other areas like the SOP, LOR, academic history, etc. you will have relatively low chances of getting admitted to Stanford.
Which universities have waived off GMAT/GRE for MBA?
There are several universities that have waived off GMAT/GRE for MBA, namely, Melbourne Business School, Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, Rice Business (Jones Graduate School Of Business), and University of Georgia (Terry), The Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, New York Institute of Technology (Vancouver), etc. Get a full list of top MBA programs with GMAT/GRE waiver here.
