Do top universities in the USA require GRE?
No, top US universities do not universally require the GRE anymore, since schools like MIT, Stanford, and Berkeley let individual departments set policy. STEM programs are more likely to still request it, while humanities programs have gone GRE-optional or dropped it, leaning instead on your GPA and statement of purpose.
No, top US universities no longer require the GRE across the board, so your actual requirement depends entirely on the specific department and program you are applying to. You need to check each program individually rather than assuming a blanket university-wide policy.
How GRE Policy Varies by Field
| Field | Typical GRE Policy |
|---|---|
| STEM and engineering | Most likely to still require or strongly recommend it, though notable exceptions exist |
| Humanities and social sciences | Largely GRE-optional or dropped entirely, favouring writing samples and academic record |
| Business / management | GMAT or GRE typically expected, but waivers are common with strong work experience |
What to Strengthen if You Skip the GRE
- Your undergraduate GPA, especially in core or major-related quantitative and analytical courses.
- Strong letters of recommendation from professors who can speak to your research or academic capability.
- A compelling statement of purpose that clearly explains your goals and readiness for graduate work.
- Any publications, internships, or research experience that offsets the missing standardized test score.
My Advice
Check the exact admissions page for your target department before you decide either way, and if the GRE is optional, submit a strong score only when it genuinely strengthens a weak spot elsewhere in your application, since a mediocre score submitted voluntarily can hurt more than help.
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