GRE Accepted Universities in USA: Top Picks, Scores & Fees

If you are planning for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 graduate admissions and are unsure how your GRE score fits into today’s shifting landscape? You’re not alone. As more universities adopt test-optional policies where they allow but do not require GRE scores, students often feel uncertain about when the exam still matters.

In reality, a strong GRE score can still fill gaps in your profile, strengthen your chances for competitive STEM programs, and boost your eligibility for scholarships and assistantships that rely on measurable academic performance.

This guide clearly organizes the top GRE accepted universities in USA into practical tiers, so you can quickly identify the best options for your score, goals, and budget. When you’re ready to build a targeted application strategy, Leap Scholar provides structured guidance, data-backed university suggestions, and personalized application support, helping you use any GRE score, whether it’s a 330 or a 295 in a more strategic and informed way.

Is GRE Required for MS in the USA? (2025 Update)

The answer isn’t a straightforward “yes” anymore. After 2024, US universities fall into three clear categories when it comes to GRE requirements, making it important for students to understand which policies apply to their target programs and preferred GRE-accepting universities in the USA.

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• GRE Mandatory: Most top-tier STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) programs still require scores. (e.g., Carnegie Mellon for CS).
• Test Optional: You can submit scores, and they will be considered if they strengthen your profile. (Recommended if your GPA is below 3.5/4.0).
• Test Blind/Waived: The university will not look at your GRE score, even if you send it. (e.g., Northeastern University for many programs).

Expert Tip: If a university is "Test Optional," submit your score only if it is above the program's average.

Tier 1: Top GRE Accepted Universities (The “Reach” List)

“Reach” universities set very high admission standards and admit only a small percentage of applicants. Even if you meet most requirements, you compete with candidates who have exceptional GRE scores, strong academics, and standout achievements.

These institutions represent the global elite. They demand high GRE scores, particularly in the Quantitative section, for engineering aspirants. Admissions here are holistic but highly competitive.

Note: Exchange rates vary. INR values are approximate estimates based on 1 USD = ₹84.

Tier 2: Universities Accepting GRE 310 - 325 (The "Target" List)

These universities are widely recognized for their strong academic reputation, extensive research output, and solid graduate outcomes. They offer rigorous programs and competitive opportunities without the extremely low acceptance rates associated with Ivy League institutions.

They’re a strong fit for students with balanced profiles who want access to high-quality faculty, robust campus resources, and a realistic pathway to admission at a well-regarded public research university.

Why Target These? Schools like Texas A&M and ASU are favorites among Indian students because they offer high ROI and lower tuition fees compared to private universities, but with excellent job placement rates in tech hubs.

Tier 3: Universities Accepting GRE 290 - 300 (The "Safety" List)

If your GRE score falls between 290 and 300, you still have a solid range of GRE-accepting universities in the USA that focus more on practical skills, industry readiness, and overall academic performance than on test scores. These programs often offer strong career outcomes and serve as reliable safety options in a balanced application list.

Some universities such as CSU Long Beach, which has waived the GRE for select 2026 programs may offer additional flexibility, making this score range even more manageable for applicants aiming for applied or professional master’s degrees.

Did you know? San Jose State University (SJSU) is a top feeder school for Silicon Valley companies like Apple and Google, despite having a lower GRE cutoff than Stanford. Location matters!

Universities with GRE Waivers for Fall 2025 & 2026

For students who wish to bypass the exam entirely, several top universities have waived the GRE for specific programs (mostly MS in CS/Data Science) for the upcoming intakes.

• Northeastern University: GRE waived for most College of Engineering programs.
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC): GRE optional for MS in Computer Science.
• UC San Diego (UCSD): GRE not required for PhD and MS applications in Computer Science & Engineering for Fall 2026.
• Stevens Institute of Technology: Test optional for most master's programs.

Note: “Waived” means the GRE won’t be considered at all, while “Optional” means the university will review your score if you choose to submit it. Always double-check the department website, as policies change every year.

GRE Score Requirements by Major

Your ideal GRE target score depends on the program you plan to pursue. Engineering and other STEM programs typically place greater weight on the Quantitative Reasoning section, while Humanities and Social Sciences focus more on a strong Verbal Reasoning score.

For Indian applicants, a high Quant score often serves as an important differentiator, especially for competitive MS programs because it helps demonstrate readiness for data-heavy and analytical coursework.

Understanding how different majors evaluate your GRE sections helps you set realistic goals and shortlist the right GRE-accepting universities in the USA for your profile.

Conclusion

Choosing the right GRE-accepting universities in the USA ultimately comes down to knowing how your score aligns with each program’s expectations. Whether you target competitive reach schools, balanced match programs, or reliable safety options, your GRE score can guide you toward realistic and high-impact choices.

Focus on what each major values - Quant for STEM, Verbal for Humanities and use that insight to strengthen gaps in your profile. If you're an Indian applicant, leverage a strong Quant score to stand out in data-driven fields.

Don’t overlook flexibility: some universities, like CSU Long Beach, have already waived the GRE for select 2026 programs, widening your opportunities.

Now it’s time to take action: set a clear GRE target, shortlist universities by tier, and align your applications with programs that match your strengths, goals, and budget. A strategic approach today can dramatically improve your chances of earning admission and funding at a U.S. university that fits your future.

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