The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test used by students applying for graduate degrees. Its purpose is to measure a student’s aptitude in specific areas such as math and writing. While many grad schools require applicants take the GRE exam, there are also programs which don’t – this may save students both cost and effort when selecting programs without this requirement.
Universities’ policies regarding whether or not to require the GRE vary widely depending on the field of study and school reputation. For example, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs usually do not mandate this exam; rather, portfolio work is given more consideration during enrollment.
GRE testing can be costly for students; each attempt costs over $200 and is only offered at select US sites. While this might present an obstacle, investing in higher education often outweighs GRE costs.
Universities will sometimes waive the GRE requirement for applicants with significant work experience in their field, which is especially common for MFA programs that place more importance on industry experience than GPA. Other fields, including engineering and physics, may also waive it as part of admission requirements.
Though more universities are accepting students without GRE exams, gaining entrance into top institutions remains challenging without this test. To increase your chances of admission into top institutions in America it is advisable to possess high undergraduate GPA scores, extracurricular activities or work experience that could improve chances of acceptance into them.
American University and Frontier Nursing University have waived the Graduate Record Examination for admissions into their graduate programs, making admission more likely for students with relevant bachelor’s or master’s degrees in nursing-related subjects; alternatively, candidates without such degrees could still gain admission through extensive professional experience and strong application essays.