Should I take the GRE for my master's applications, given my 9.15 CGPA and strong academic background, considering that many US universities in IT fields now make it optional or don't require it?
You do not strictly need the GRE with a 9.15 CGPA, especially if your target schools are test-blind or test-optional and you have strong projects. Take it anyway if your college is less globally known, you want assistantship funding, or a reach school on your list still mandates a score.
Your 9.15 CGPA already makes you a highly competitive applicant, so you are not obligated to sit the GRE. Whether you skip it depends on your exact university list and funding goals, not just your grades.
When to Skip vs Take the GRE
| Factor | Without GRE | With GRE (Target 320+, Quant 165+) |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Chances | Very high at test-optional or test-blind schools | Maximized across all university tiers |
| Profile Evaluation | Relies heavily on SOP, LORs, projects, and college reputation | Standardized score anchors and validates a high GPA |
| Funding or Scholarships | Based on GPA, research, and profile strength | Slight edge for internal department funding |
Reasons to Take It Anyway
- If your undergraduate college is relatively unknown globally, a high Quant score acts as a universal equalizer for your GPA.
- Departments still consider GRE Quant scores when awarding Teaching or Research Assistantships, even at test-optional schools.
- If even one or two of your reach schools still mandate the GRE, you will need to sit it regardless.
My Advice
Shortlist your target universities first and check their exact current test policy for each. If every school on your list is test-optional or test-blind, skip the GRE and put that time into your SOP and letters of recommendation instead.
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