phd finance without gre

2100 accredited US Universities for Graduate Programs. 400+ specializations.

1400 No GRE, GMAT schools for the Master’s program

700+ Graduate scholarships totaling $3.5 mm

Doctoral Programs in Finance offered by Top Universities that don't require GRE

Ph.D. programs in Finance are advanced study courses that help students learn about finance, economics, and similar subjects in great detail. Students study things like financial theories, how financial markets work, and how to manage investments. These programs prepare them for jobs in teaching, research, or high-level finance roles.

Some universities offer these Ph.D. programs without needing a GRE score. Instead of the GRE, these programs might look more at your past education, work experience, and ability to do research. Every university is different, so if you're interested, you should check with each one to see their requirements. Some might not need the GRE if you've done really well in your studies before, or if you have good work experience, while others might not use the GRE at all in their admissions.

Princeton University

Graduate School - Model

• GRE Required:  Yes
• Research Assistantships:  733
• Teaching Assistantships:  655
• Financial Aid: Register to view the details

Stanford University

Finance PhD

• Research Assistantships:  2280
• Teaching Assistantships:  1007

Yale University

Applied Mathematics Program

• Research Assistantships:  1565
• Teaching Assistantships:  1598

860 universities offer the Master's program in Finance.

Which one best suits your need?

Harvard University

Finance Administration - Harvard Medical School

• GRE Required:  Register to view the details
• Research Assistantships:  Register to view the details
• Teaching Assistantships:  Register to view the details

University of Chicago

PhD in Finance

University of pennsylvania.

Ph.D. in Finance

Northwestern university.

Duke University

The Graduate School - Ph.D.

Brown university.

Therapeutic Sciences Graduate Program

Washington university in st louis.

Doctoral Program Financial Information Washington University in St.Louis

What kind of scholarships are available for graduate programs in finance.

We have 19 scholarships awarding up to $92,694 for Masters program in for Finance, targeting diverse candidates and not restricted to state or school-based programs.

Find scholarships and financial aid for Finance graduate programs

Are there accredited universities that offer online Master's degrees in Finance?

Yes, you can get a Master's in Finance online from accredited universities. This is a higher-level program that's available on the internet. It's designed to teach advanced topics in finance, such as investment strategies and financial risk management. This kind of program is ideal for working professionals who want to further their education without attending a physical campus. The curriculum typically includes understanding corporate finance, investment decisions, and more. Completing this degree can open doors to careers in banking, investment, or financial consulting. Online Master's programs in Finance vary in their approach, combining academic study with practical financial applications.

The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) online program is offered at  Georgetown University.  The top-notch MSF curriculum is offered in both full-time and part-time formats over a 21-month standard track or a 10-month full-time accelerated track. The curriculum demands students complete 32 credits including six core courses, two advanced courses, and a minimum of two elective courses, among others. Another program, Master of Science in Finance (MSF) is offered by the  University of Southern California.  The program can be completed with 30 to 36 credits in 16 months.

Best online masters programs in Finance

How can I compare the Finance Graduate Programs?

Compare the GRE score requirements, admission details, credit requirements and tuition for the Master's Program, from 860 universities offering No GRE PHD/Doctoral Programs in Finance. Compare No GRE PHD/Doctoral Programs in Finance

How will you rate the search results?

 0.0 rating, based on 0 reviews

Your review has been sent

Related graduate programs, best graduate programs in finance in michigan, best universities in finance certificate programs in ohio, best paying jobs for foods, nutrition, and wellness studies, best graduate programs in finance in south carolina, most affordable master’s program in toxicology, best graduate programs in finance in delaware.

• Top Masters Programs in Finance
• Most affordable Master's program in Finance
• Cheapest Online Masters Program in Finance
• Best Graduate School Programs for Finance in West Coast
• Best Graduate School Programs for Finance in South
• Best Graduate School Programs for Finance in Midwest
• FAFSA for Graduate Programs – The complete Guide
• What is the FAFSA Deadline for Graduate Programs in 2022-23?
• Maximum and Minimum Credit Hours Required for FAFSA for Graduate Programs
• Can a Working Adult get Federal Loans for the Graduate Program through FAFSA?
• How does being a Dependent or an Independent Student Affect FAFSA for Graduate programs?
• What is the Maximum Amount of Money FAFSA gives for Graduate Programs?
• Jobs which had the highest growth projections in 2020
• Most new jobs projected in 2020-2030
• Fastest growing industries 2020-2030
• Most job losses in industries
• Sector has the highest government jobs
• Jobs which require masters degree
• Jobs which do not require masters degree

• Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees
• Top Universities & Colleges
• Abroad Exams
• Top Courses
• Read College Reviews
• Admission Alerts 2024
• Education Loan
• Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More)
• Ask a Question
• College Predictor
• Test Series
• Practice Questions
• Course Finder
• Scholarship
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Study Guide

PhD in USA Without GRE: Top Universities, Deadlines, Admission Process

Veda Burman

| Updated On - May 25, 2024

• Upcoming Deadlines: Application deadlines for PhD in USA without GRE are mostly between October and December 2024.
• Top Universities: A range of top US institutions like MIT, Northwestern University, Purdue University and others are offering GRE waiver or test optional admission to PhD programs.

Unaffected Employment Opportunities: PhD in USA without GRE is not related with job opportunities. After a PhD in USA without GRE, graduates secure high paying jobs with an average salary of 107,000 USD (89.06 lakhs INR) per annum.

PhD in USA is now available without a GRE score as a 3-6 years full time program in several institutes. Prospective students can demonstrate academic excellence and satisfactory supplementary documents for admission to US universities without GRE for PhD. International students planning to apply to PhD in USA without GRE score ideally require a GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (85%) in masters level. Universities in USA for PhD without GRE require the following supporting documents as a part of application:

• TOEFL iBT - 80 or above
• IELTS - 6.5 or above
• Essay explaining research work done
• Relevant professional experience

Top Universities for PhD in USA Without GRE

Currently, USA is home to a plethora of institutes offering PhD waiver, including top universities like MIT and Northwestern University. The top universities in USA without GRE for PhD or optional GRE requirement are as follows:

Some other universities offering PhD programs without GRE in USA are:

• Walden University
• California Southern University
• Smith College
• Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Andrews University
• Sacred Heart University

How To Apply For PhD in USA Without GRE

USA hosts a range of universities offering PhD without a GRE score. Some universities in USA offer test optional admission to international students. The significant factors to remember while applying for a USA PhD without GRE are:

• Look for universities that have completely waived off GRE requirements for admission into a PhD program.
• Try to strengthen your application profile by mentioning work experience, previous research work, letter of recommendation , where GRE is an optional requirement.
• You can consider applying for PhD in part-time or online mode, as a majority of these courses do not consider GRE as a mandatory requirement. However, on-campus programs are recommended over online programs, even while looking for PhD program in USA without GRE.

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in USA Without GRE

The admission requirements for a PhD in USA may vary across universities. While most of the university may consider applications with GRE scores, there are universities that either opted out of GRE requirements or offering waiver options on certain conditions. The general eligibility criteria and supporting document requirements for pursuing a PhD degree in USA without GRE are:

General Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree
• An overall GPA of 3.0/4.0 (85%) or above in Bachelor's
• TOEFL iBT - 80-90
• IELTS - 6.5–7.0
• An essay in at least 2000 or more words mentioning the research work done
• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Work experience

Top 10 Universities for PhD in USA Without GRE

1. massachusetts institute of technology (mit).

Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers PhD programs through the Sloan School of Management and the Center for computer science & engineering. MIT has waived GRE score requirements for several PhD programs in Fall 2024 admissions.

2. Northwestern University

Northwestern University PhD programs are offered in 20 areas of study. An overall GRE score of 320 or above is accepted for admission into a PhD program. However, GRE score submission is optional for various PhD courses in the current admission session.

3. Purdue University

Purdue University PhD programs are offered in engineering, agriculture, management, education, liberal arts, science, and pharmacy. The degrees are offered in the 3 campuses of the university and can be pursued on-site or online mode. Purdue University has opted for GRE as an optional requirement for admission into all the graduate level programs.

4. University of Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin PhD degrees are offered in disciplines like biomedical engineering, anthropology, business, operations management, and computer science. The programs can be pursued in online, on-site, accelerated, weekend and hybrid modes. There is no GRE score required for master's or doctoral programs.

5. Georgetown University

Georgetown University offers PhD degrees through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The PhD programs at Georgetown University are available in applied mathematics, biology, biostatistics, computer science, chemistry, nursing, and philosophy among others. There is no GRE score required for most PhD programs. However, GRE scores can be required for PhD in economics or PhD in Statistics degree.

6. Washington State University

Washington State University offers 63 PhD degrees in agricultural economics, anthropology, biology, biomedical sciences, business administration, computer science, economics, engineering, and more. The GRE scores are not required for admissions to PhD programs, except computer science and economics. Students applying for PhD in business administration may also be required to submit GRE in lieu of GMAT scores .

7. Oregon State University

PhD in Oregon State University is offered across 11 colleges and a graduate school. Completion of a PhD program from Oregon State University allows students to secure jobs in government or research industries. A minimum score of 150 or above is generally required for admission into PhD programs. However, the university has opted out of GRE requirements.

8. University of Oregon

University of Oregon offers PhD degrees in 52 different specializations. No GRE is required for admission into PhD programs, instead the university ask for higher GPA scores, statement of purpose and letters of recommendation.

9. University of Idaho

University of Idaho offers 31 PhD degrees in computer science, education, mechanical engineering, biological engineering, physics, natural sciences, neuroscience, food science and history. The university has completely waved off GRE requirements for admissions to PhD programs.

10. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers PhD level courses in dental medicine, criminal justice, audiology, health sciences, law, nursing, psychology and more. The admission to PhD in Nova Southeastern is quite competitive, which means admission may not be guaranteed even if all the requirements are met. The University does not require GRE score for PhD admissions.

PhD in USA opens the opportunity of higher level research and teaching for international students. Now, many US universities have opted out of GRE score requirements or waiver options for both PhD and Masters level. Hence, USA is an ideal place for international students intending to pursue PhD courses without a GRE score, based on previous academic and professional achievements.

Ques. What are the top universities for PhD in USA without GRE?

Ans . Some top universities in USA offering PhD without requiring GRE score or requiring GRE as an optional prerequisite are:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Northwestern University
• Purdue University
• University of Wisconsin Madison
• Georgetown University
• Washington State University
• Oregon State University
• University of Oregon
• University of Idaho
• Nova Southeastern University

Ques. Is GRE necessary for PhD in USA?

Ans . No, GRE is a significant requirement for PhD programs in USA, but not all universities require it. International students can secure admission to the US universities even without a GRE score, if the university does not require it. The universities generally expect a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (85%) in previous academic degree for admission to PhD in USA along with competitive English proficiency score and supporting documents.

Ques. Can we do PhD without GRE in the USA?

Ans . Yes. Several US institutes including some top universities in USA like, MIT, Northwestern University, Purdue University among others offer PhD without GRE. For admission to PhD without GRE in USA, you will need to demonstrate the following documents:

• Essay mentioning research work done
• Relevant work experience

Ques. How long is a PhD in USA without GRE?

Ans . A PhD in USA without GRE has the same duration as a common PhD degree. You can estimate to spend between 3-6 years while pursuing a PhD in USA without GRE. However, the duration of your PhD might exceed 6 years in certain conditions.

Ques. Can I directly apply for PhD without GRE and without Masters in USA?

Ans . Yes, several US universities offer admission to PhD without a masters degree. This is because the universities usually award the PhD candidates with a master's degree in the initial days of the doctoral program.

Ques. When shall I apply for PhD in USA without GRE?

Ans . The application deadlines for PhD in USA across the universities offering test-optional admission or GRE waiver are as follows:

GRE score is not required for most PhD programs. However, GRE scores can be required for PhD in Economics or PhD in Statistics degree. GRE requirements are dependent on chosen university and course. 

If the university provides scholarships to PhD students then you can apply for financial aid. In the USA during your PhD, you will get a stipend for your research work. 

Many ranked universities in the USA require prospective students to take the GRE exam for admission in master’s programs. Some prestigious universities such as the University of Florida and the University of Boston offer certain MS programs that do not mandate GRE scores.

More Articles in this Category

Dentistry in USA: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Placements & Sala...

Dentistry in USA is a 4-5 year long program available as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). DDS and DMD have similar...

Top Programs and Universities in USA for International Stude...

To study in the USA, explore top universities, courses, costs, scholarships, and post-study work opportunities for international students.

Essentials to Study Medicine in USA

The essentials to study medicine in USA include official transcripts, MCAT score, and supporting documents. USA is a hub of several globally ranked un...

MBA in USA: Fees, Top Universities & Admission Requirements

MBA in USA is one of the most popular study abroad programs among Indians. As per Statista, each year more than 300 applicants apply to get a Full-tim...

Community College in USA - Colleges, Programs, Tuition Fees,...

USA is a hub for numerous types of academic institutions, one of which is a Community College. Community Colleges offer a 2-year degree program, calle...

Psychology in USA: Ranking, Specializations, Short Courses, ...

Based on the graduation rate, psychology major is famous in the US with 116,000 students graduating per year. Mentioned is the QS World Ranking of top...

Masters in Psychology in USA: Deadlines, Eligibility, Fees &...

Masters in psychology in USA is a 2 year postgraduate degree program. For admission to Masters in Psychology in USA, international applicants require ...

What Makes US Graduate Schools Stand Out?

US graduate schools are amongst the best around the globe in offering excellent academic courses for international students. The graduate schools in U...

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWS LETTER

Best Graduate Schools That Don’t Require GRE Scores [2024-2025]

A growing number of graduate schools don’t require GRE scores for admission as mounting evidence shows the exam’s inability to predict grad school success.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Don’t waste time studying for the GRE. A number of universities offer masters degree without GRE programs, while others often waive GRE requirements if you have a good undergraduate GPA.

List of Grad Schools that Don’t Require GRE Scores

Here is a list of schools that don’t require GRE scores for admission:

American Public University

American university, anna maria college, antioch university, arizona state university, arkansas state university, ball state university, baylor university, belhaven university, benedictine university, boston university, brenau university, briar cliff university, california state university – dominguez hills, california state university – northridge, capella university, claremont lincoln university, colorado state university, colorado technical university, drexel university, emory university, emporia state university, excelsior university, fitchburg state university, florida atlantic university, florida international university, fort hays state university, franklin university, frostburg state university, george washington university, georgetown university, gonzaga university, graceland university, johns hopkins university, kent state university, lamar university, liberty university, louisiana state university, minnesota state university – moorhead, minot state university, missouri state university, national university, new york tech, north carolina state university, northeastern university, northern illinois university, norwich university, nova southeastern university, new york university – school of social work, ohio university, post university, purdue university global, queens university, regis university, rochester institute of technology, rutgers university, saint mary’s university, simmons university, southeastern oklahoma state university, southern new hampshire university, st. bonaventure university, texas a&m university, texas tech university, thomas edison state university, troy university, university of arizona, university of arkansas, university of cincinnati, university of florida, university of illinois – urbana-champaign, university of iowa, university of kansas, university of nebraska, university of new england, university of north carolina – wilmington, university of north georgia, university of saint mary, university of san diego, university of scranton, university of southern california, university of vermont, university of wisconsin, utica university, webster university, west texas a&m university, western carolina university, western governors university, wilmington university.

Many well-known graduate schools do not consider the GRE to be a reliable predictor of success.

Online Master’s Programs without GRE Requirements

A growing number of grad schools now offer online programs without GRE requirements. Accelerated 8-week online classes available. GRE is NOT required.

• Business (MBA Programs)
• Communications
• Computer Science & Technology
• Criminal Justice
• Cybersecurity
• Exercise Science
• Healthcare Administration
• Human Resources
• Human Services
• Information Technology
• International Relations
• Forensic Psychology
• Marriage and Family Therapy
• Organizational Leadership
• Political Science
• Public Administration & Policy
• Public Health
• Social Work
• Sports Management

In addition to no GRE masters programs, a number of doctorate programs don’t require the GRE or offer GRE waivers.

Business Graduate Programs

1. master’s in accounting (ma, ms, or mba).

A master’s in accounting will enable you to understand and develop the practical skills necessary to use some of the latest financial tools. Often, these financial tools are essential for the growth of any organization. You will also get an in-depth knowledge of international accounting reports and business stats.

2. Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)

A master’s degree in business administration will allow you to work on a managerial level that involves careers as managers and consultants in the private sector, research institutes, and government planning sector. This degree program offers students a chance to analyze, manage, and research study areas such as finance, administration, and marketing. MBA’s are one of the most popular masters programs that don’t require GRE scores for admission.

3. Master’s in Finance (MA or MS)

A master’s in finance will allow you to learn how to use financial analysis models and techniques. At the end of the study period, students will be able to solve critical investment problems. The aim of the course is to enable students to add value to organizations by creating financial strategies within a complex business environment.

4. Master’s in Marketing (MA, MS, or MBA)

A master’s in marketing allows students to study marketing techniques that can provide them a competitive advantage over their rivals. By identifying potential markets and segments, you will understand consumer purchasing processes. The degree program also studies methods that provide an overview of consumer buying patterns in different markets.

5. Master’s in Organizational Leadership (MA, MS, or MBA)

A master’s degree in organizational leadership focuses on leadership qualities to manage the “human aspect” of corporations. As a student, you are likely to gain detailed knowledge of various disciplines such as humanities and social sciences. After graduating, you can help your organization get maximum productivity from its workforce.

6. Master’s in Management (MA, MS, or MBA)

This master’s degree in management program allows students to gain a solid knowledge of changes that are shaping our corporate environment. You will get in-depth knowledge regarding the objectives of a modern organization that wants to add value to society. Entrepreneurship, IT, and creativity are some of the core topics of this degree program.

7. Master’s in Human Resource Management (MA, MS, or MBA)

A master’s in human resources focuses on the basic concepts linked to the supervision and management of people in the 21st century. You will learn how to deal with corporate employees in a fast paced environment of a large company. The degree program also allows students to study different tools that are useful in managing workers, efficiently.

Computer Science & Technology Grad Programs

8. master’s in computer science (ms).

Getting a master’s in computer science allows you to analyze and design new computer systems. You can also study advanced design techniques associated with artificial intelligence and robotics. Different types of degree programs in the field also offer extensive industry-experience enabling students to write complex applications related to computers, the Internet, and gaming.

9. Master’s in Cybersecurity or Information Assurance (MS)

A master’s in cybersecurity or information assurance covers legal and ethical aspects of security in the computing world. As you study detailed topics, you will notice that most topics are tailored around security in computers. Accordingly, students learn about various forensic issues that cover sources of a data hack. During the study, you will also uncover aspects of communication systems that are prone to cyber-attacks.

10. Master’s in Information Technology (MA, MS, or MBA)

A master’s in IT allows you to gain a broad knowledge of all ICT areas related to information technology. You will get insight into constantly evolving technology that is the basis of current research and innovation. While studying, graduates conceive, plan, and manage the development of complex computer applications. You will also study IT systems from the business and institutional context related to the latest gadgets in the market.

Counseling & Therapy Graduate Programs

11. master’s in counseling (ma or ms).

A master’s in counseling is mainly focused on pursuing a license in the fields of mental health counseling and school counseling. Enrolling in this program will enable you to learn modern techniques of individual and group counseling sessions. During the course of study, graduate students interact with psychologically disturbed individuals who require effective communication to solve their social issues.

12. Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA or MS)

The master’s degree in marriage and family counseling is designed to prepare highly qualified, entry-level therapists with specialized knowledge in the treatment of couples and families. You are trained to recognize individuals, couples and families from the perspective of our social system.

Students build strong conceptual, assessment, treatment planning, and intervention skills based on the main models of couple and family therapy.

Criminal Justice Grad Programs

13. master’s in criminal justice (ma or ms).

A master’s in criminal justice degree program offers students a chance to learn about prevailing criminal laws. You will learn about criminal phenomena of our time such as corruption, organized crime, corporate crime, and new technologies. Upon graduation, students are well prepared for careers in a range of fields that includes a job as FBI agent, Air Marshall, Corrections Officer, and Parole Officer.

Education Graduate Programs

14. master’s in education (m.ed).

Master’s in education students get a broad overview of the educational challenges facing the modern world. You will develop and design educational projects that are vital to a progressive society. Graduates also learn pedagogical and psychological foundations that make up the educational process.

15. Master’s in Teaching (MAT)

A master’s in teaching will assist you in creating proposals that support the use of modern technologies. The course promotes learning in the classroom. Unlike a master’s in education, which provides a broader view of the educational environment, this degree is based on techniques used inside a school environment.

Healthcare Administration Grad Programs

16. master’s in healthcare administration.

A master’s in healthcare administration will allow you to study subjects necessary for the development of leaders in the field of healthcare management. While studying, you will have a chance to learn different aspects of management related to hospitals, healthcare organizations, and public health infrastructure.

Human Services Graduate Programs

17. master’s in human services (ma).

A master’s in human services will teach you how you can plan and manage services such as discounted healthcare programs, psychological counseling projects, drug rehabilitation services, and child services. Mostly, courses are related to administering a wide range of public incentives and community-outreach initiatives.

Liberal Arts & Fine Arts Graduate Programs

18. master’s in fine arts (mfa).

The Master of Fine Arts degree program will allow you to focus on such diverse fields as visual arts, video, film, dance, theater, performing arts, and literary creation, among others. Graduate students mostly specialize in engraving, photography, conceptual art, textile art, illustration, comics, and calligraphy.

19. Masters in Communication (MA)

A master’s degree program in communication prepare students for a wide range of careers ranging from local news agencies to handling international projects in international companies and government organizations. Your specialization options usually include organizational communication and marketing communication. Also, remember that this program is designed for entry to mid-level managers working in the corporate sector.

Nursing Graduate Programs

20. master’s in nursing (msn) and msn / nurse practitioner.

A Master of Nursing degree program aims to train professionals to handle a variety of medical issues. As a student, you will develop useful skills required in the hospital environment. Students also learn cutting-edge technology that is assisting future nurses to provide specialized care in an ethical manner to their patients.

The main objective of a Master of Nursing Practice is to provide expert training to students helping them acquire first-hand knowledge of clinical skills. By the end of the Master’s degree, you will acquire the necessary expertise required to work and manage patients using traditional and scientific techniques.

Political Science & International Relations Graduate Programs

21. master’s in political science (ms).

A master’s degree in political science covers topics related to the structure and function of governments, and how they influence people and societies. You will also evaluate the political, social and economic aspects of policies. Different lines of investigation include government policies, institutional behavior, political culture, civil society, and intentional geopolitical security.

22. Master’s in International Relations (MA)

A master’s degree in international relations combines political science to define modern aspects related to globalization, terrorism, ecological sustainability, and international financial issues.

Your curriculum will focus on complex relationships between nations and states. Students also study the relationship from historical, economic, political, legal and sociocultural perspectives to understand the impact of these diverse elements on a global scale.

Psychology Graduate Programs

23. master’s in psychology (ma or ms).

The master’s in psychology is usually aimed at professionals in social science, health science, and education science. After graduating, you are able to demonstrate a solid background in various types of research methods used in psychology. During your studies, you will also develop solid skills needed to execute projects related to psychology, and create group intervention programs.

24. Master’s in Forensic Psychology (MA or MS)

The master’s in forensic psychology provides fundamental skills for the practice of the profession of a forensic psychologist in an expert role. As an expert adviser, you will learn to prepare reports for the jury in legal proceedings. You will also acquire the tools and knowledge necessary to prepare the forensic report in different jurisdictions and learn various methods to present such reports before Courts and Tribunals.

Public Administration & Public Policy Grad Programs

25. master’s in public policy & administration (ma or ms).

A master’s in public policy will allow you to study how laws, rules, and regulations are created by governmental organizations. The degree program could include the study of municipalities, regional governments, national organizations, and political and non-governmental organizations.

Students also use statistical data to analyze and diagnose the social needs of the population. Students enrolled in a master’s in public administration learn about a number of administrative and management tasks common to nonprofit agencies and government organizations.

26. Master’s in Public Health (MPH)

A master’s in public health will train you to address public health measures from various perspectives. Students learn different intervention methods allowing them to deal with the health problems of a specific population. You will learn techniques such as advocacy intervention, protection, and restoration of community health programs.

Social Work Graduate Programs

27. master of social work (msw).

A Master of Social Work is usually designed to improve the quality of life of a particular individual or community. You will likely combine research, crisis intervention, community organization, and strategy to achieve community-oriented results. After graduation, students can work directly with hospitals, NGOs, and various government institutions.

Sports Management & Exercise Science Graduate Programs

28. master’s in sports management (ms).

A master’s in sports management will allow you to apply tools for success in the sports industry. Topics of study include psychology, management, marketing, policymaking, and communications. After graduating, you can find a large number of opportunities in management and training positions within sports organizations.

29. Master’s in Exercise Science (MS)

The master’s in exercise science degree is designed for professionals who already have a college degree in exercise science, kinesiology, physical education or a related subject. Through this program, you will gain strategic and critical thinking skills needed to understand body dynamics. Knowledge about diet and nutrition that you gain from this program is immediately transferable to the current job market.

Theology & Divinity Graduate Programs

30. master’s in divinity (m.div).

The Master of Divinity is mainly designed for students who wish to serve the people of God through the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the local church. As a student, you gain comprehensive skills to recognize and understand the different views of our world and to know how the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ impacts each person in their individual context.

31. Master’s in Theology & Religion

As a master’s in theology student, you will learn the nature of divinity by reviewing a variety of religious and philosophical beliefs. It is often, but not always, studied to enhance existing knowledge in a specific religion. Your program will cover comparative religion, philosophy, and spiritual writing as well as the effects of religion on history, economics, and politics.

What types of graduate school waivers for the GRE are available?

It depends on the university, but the most common graduate programs that don’t require the GRE (or offer a GRE waiver) look at the following criteria for admissions consideration.

1. Previously Earned Graduate Degree

If you have already earned a graduate degree in a related field, some universities will often waive GRE requirements based on previous experience. Doctor of Nursing Practice is an example of such a degree.

2. Work Experience

Many reputable universities without GRE requirements may substitute the exam for work experience. This is particularly true for research-intensive programs where experience is more necessary than previous academic qualifications.

Admission directors of various programs, such as healthcare, public policy, medical science, and business administration, encourage applications from experienced students because these students can positively apply theory to practice.

A number of these schools also have PhD programs that don’t require GRE scores.

3. Undergraduate GPA Range

You will be happy to know that a number of graduate schools do not require GRE from students if their GPA falls in a particular range. It means that you can increase your chances of GRE exemption with a better GPA. The average undergraduate GPA range for most grad programs is between 2.8 and 3.0.

GMAT vs. GRE

Some programs, particularly degree programs related to business, allow students to provide GMAT scores instead of GRE. If you have already taken GMAT, talk to the admission counselor to waive GRE requirements.

No GRE Policy

Many graduate programs don’t require the GRE from their applicants. This policy is usually followed by graduate schools that put greater emphasis on your research work and past experience. In fact, you can always find a school that has a “no GRE” policy.

Should I Send GRE Scores to Grad Schools if they are optional?

If you’re looking at schools that do not require the GRE, you can still send your scores if they are good enough to be noticed. Even if GRE is optional, there are a lot of schools that encourage students to send GRE. On the other hand, it’s a bad idea to include low GRE scores, particularly when the school doesn’t ask you to send one.

Are Grad Schools that Don’t Require GRE Scores Reputable?

If your school doesn’t require GRE, it doesn’t mean that its reputation is at stake. In reality, “no GRE” is just a part of their admission policy. If you want to verify the accreditation of a grad school with no GRE requirement, you can visit the U.S. Department of Education accreditation page.

Same level of academic quality and excellence

You may not know that all graduate schools are accredited by the same educational body. It means that higher educational institutes in the United States have to follow and submit to quality guidelines that are also similar to other institutes.

GRE scores do not determine future academic success

An increasing number of graduate schools are putting less focus on GRE because recent research indicates that GRE scores do not correlate with future success. A recent publication in Science Magazine provides significant evidence related to the phenomenon. Therefore, you should not worry about taking GRE.

GRE scores are often misused by admissions committees

Research evidence also suggests that GRE scores are often misinterpreted by the admission committee of schools that rely too heavily on these scores. It is yet another reason why many schools don’t require the GRE.

Which entry exams may be required by graduate schools in the U.S.?

GRE: It is the most common admission test for graduate schools in the United States. You will take exams in basic algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and data analysis. Written material and problems solving skills are also used to compare candidates.

GMAT: The GMAT exam is the most preferred admission test for admission into business schools. You will be assessed in analytical writing assessment, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal sections.

Miller Analogies Test: The test is required for admission to specific degree programs. It is a high analytics test comprising of 120 questions in the form of an analogy.

TOEFL: This admission test is mandatory for international students whose native language is not English. It tests students for their ability to read, listen, write, and speak in the English language.

What is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?

The GRE will test you in three content areas, which include the analytical writing section, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. The score ranges from 130 and 170, where the top 10% of all test takers score an average of 164.

GRE vs. GMAT: What’s the difference?

There are three key differences between the two tests. While GMAT is preferred by business schools, GRE is the choice for admission into most other U.S. grad programs.

Experts also believe that quantitative sections on GMAT are more difficult than GRE. In contrast, GRE can be difficult for non-native speakers as its verbal section contains more obscure words compared to GMAT.

Did you know that GRE candidates are allowed to return to their questions? In contrast, the GMAT format doesn’t allow candidates to go back to previous sections. This difference in format can increase your test anxiety when taking GMAT.

Are there grad schools that don’t require GRE scores?

There are plenty of grad programs administered by reputable schools that don’t require the GRE. Your GRE scores can also be waived depending on experience, GPA, and GMAT scores .

Can you apply to grad school without GRE scores?

Yes, you can apply to graduate schools without a GRE score depending on the admission policy of each school. There are quite a few online masters programs that don’t require the GRE (and neither do the doctoral programs at those schools).

Should I apply to a graduate school without GRE requirements?

You should not hesitate to apply to graduate schools without a formal GRE requirement. A number of reputable schools in the United States do not regard GRE as a prominent factor in their admission policy. For example, there are quite a few schools with online EdD programs no GRE scores required, or a waiver may be offered.

In addition, you can also find a number of colleges that have no dissertation for doctoral programs.

Is the GRE required for adult online students?

Most accredited online programs offer similar quality of education compared to class-based programs. Accordingly, a number of online programs do not require the GRE test, while others may provide test waivers, if applicable.

Is the GRE Test Required for Graduate School?

No, the GRE exam is not required by all graduate schools. In the United States, there are over 90 reputable universities that do not require the GRE exam as a part of their admission process.

GRE requirements vary from school to school. Here’s a list of the universities that do not require GRE scores for admission.

Can you get a GRE waiver?

It doesn’t hurt to ask the graduate school for the GRE test waiver. Many schools will waive the admission test if you have many years of relevant experience. A good GPA may also qualify you for the test waiver. Similarly, if you have already taken GMAT, GRE may not be required.

Does applying to a no GRE graduate program save time?

Yes, it is more practical to apply to a no GRE graduate program if you’re short of time. Remember, GRE takes several months to prepare properly. The preparation means that you can delay your application to graduate school by 6 months to one year. If time to completion is a major consideration, check out our article on Accelerated PhD Programs .

Hopefully, this information will be able to bust the myth that every reputable graduate school requires GRE. If you don’t have the time to take the test, don’t wait for another semester to get admission. Instead, start looking for a program that encourages your skills and experience rather than your test-taking abilities.

News from Brown

Brown eliminates gre test requirement for 24 doctoral programs.

In enabling Ph.D. program leaders to drop the requirement to submit test scores, the Graduate School looks to attract talented, high-achieving students from an increasingly diverse pool of candidates.

Photo by David DelPoio / Brown University

PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — For prospective graduate students applying to enroll in the 2020-21 academic year and beyond, Brown University will no longer require Graduate Records Examination (GRE) test scores for admission to 24 of its Ph.D. programs.

Eliminating the requirement will enable the programs to attract a wider pool of applicants, Graduate School leaders said. The move adds to a growing array of initiatives at Brown to reduce barriers that discourage some students from groups historically underrepresented in higher education and from low-income backgrounds from applying for admission.

“The future success of graduate education at Brown depends on the diverse, innovative and intellectually independent candidates we admit and the varied skill sets they bring to their disciplines,” said Dean of the Graduate School Andrew G. Campbell. “By removing the Graduate School’s GRE requirement and allowing programs to decide whether to require the exam, we will broaden the talent pool of students who apply to and have access to graduate education at Brown.”

A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that the GRE is not always an accurate predictor of success in graduate school, Campbell said. In considering prospective doctoral students, Brown evaluates a wide range of factors, from academic strength and intellectual curiosity to research experiences, through application components including transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements and in-person interviews.

“Twenty-four of our doctoral programs have decided that the GRE is not required for a holistic review of potential applicants to their disciplines,” Campbell added. “This, in conjunction with a new transitional stipend for newly matriculating doctoral students and our fully-funded Ph.D. and MFA programs, continues our work to ensure that a Brown education is accessible to students from all income groups and that all graduate students can thrive on campus.”

Brown faculty who direct individual Ph.D. programs evaluate applications from prospective students in consultation with leaders from the Graduate School. Already, GRE scores were considered as one among a wide variety of factors weighed as each applicant’s credentials are considered individually.

“We’re not just looking at scores — we’re looking at students,” said Marlina Duncan, associate dean of diversity initiatives at the Graduate School.

Financial considerations such as exam fees, GRE prep-course tuition or tutoring expenses — and logistical challenges such as finding transportation and taking time away from school or work to take the test — can discourage some prospective students, particularly from historically underrepresented groups or first-generation or low-income backgrounds, from applying.

Moreover, many academic leaders said the GRE does not capture a candidate’s predilection toward critical thinking, innovation and collaboration — three areas that are crucial to success in the Graduate School at Brown.

“We’re looking for the fire — we’re looking for the drive,” said Anita Zimmerman, graduate program director for Brown’s molecular pharmacology and physiology program. “We’re looking for the motivation from someone who isn’t daunted by obstacles and is willing to dive into research with creativity and an ability to solve difficult problems. Those kinds of indicators are not easy to put into numbers, but they’re much more useful and telling than a score on an exam that repeatedly has been shown to be a very poor predictor of student success.”

Zimmerman noted that in recent years, the program had already begun to decrease emphasis on GRE scores in lieu of recommendation letters, personal statements and interviews.

Ravit Reichman, director of graduate studies for the English program, agreed that test scores have been but one factor in the department’s evaluation of prospective students.

“Not once in my time at Brown have we had a substantive conversation about a candidate’s GRE scores,” Reichman said. “We’ve always focused more on a person’s curiosity and intellectual itinerary — that is, how they got to thinking about the ideas they think about, and how they express that on the page.”

The Graduate School’s decision to eliminate the overarching GRE requirement enables program leaders across Brown’s 51 doctoral programs to make individual choices about whether to continue to require scores. The 2020-21 application for admission is open now on the school’s website. The following academic programs will no longer require GRE scores:

• American Studies
• Biotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Comparative Literature 
• Computational Biology
• Computer Science
• Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences
• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
• French Studies
• German Studies
• Hispanic Studies
• Italian Studies
• Mathematics
• Modern Culture and Media
• Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry
• Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology
• Neuroscience
• Pathobiology
• Portuguese and Brazilian Studies
• Religious Studies
• Slavic Studies
• Theatre and Performance Studies

• Youth Program
• Wharton Online

PhD Program

• Program of Study

Wharton’s PhD program in Finance provides students with a solid foundation in the theoretical and empirical tools of modern finance, drawing heavily on the discipline of economics.

The department prepares students for careers in research and teaching at the world’s leading academic institutions, focusing on Asset Pricing and Portfolio Management, Corporate Finance, International Finance, Financial Institutions and Macroeconomics.

Wharton’s Finance faculty, widely recognized as the finest in the world, has been at the forefront of several areas of research. For example, members of the faculty have led modern innovations in theories of portfolio choice and savings behavior, which have significantly impacted the asset pricing techniques used by researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Another example is the contribution by faculty members to the analysis of financial institutions and markets, which is fundamental to our understanding of the trade-offs between economic systems and their implications for financial fragility and crises.

Faculty research, both empirical and theoretical, includes such areas as:

• Structure of financial markets
• Formation and behavior of financial asset prices
• Banking and monetary systems
• Corporate control and capital structure
• Saving and capital formation
• International financial markets

Candidates with undergraduate training in economics, mathematics, engineering, statistics, and other quantitative disciplines have an ideal background for doctoral studies in this field.

Effective 2023, The Wharton Finance PhD Program is now STEM certified.

• Course Descriptions
• Course Schedule
• Dissertation Committee and Proposal Defense
• Meet our PhD Students
• Visiting Scholars

More Information

• Apply to Wharton
• Doctoral Inside: Resources for Current PhD Students
• Wharton Doctoral Program Policies
• Transfer of Credit
• Research Fellowship

PhD in Finance - Admissions

Apply to Gies, form your future in finance academia

The Finance PhD program seeks to admit students with the highest possible aptitude and potential for academic careers. Admission is based on the applicant’s background and accomplishments, potential for academic and professional success, stated educational and professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Decisions are made by a faculty committee and depend upon available space and the qualifications of the other applicants.

Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission are as follows:

• Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited U.S. institution or its equivalent from a university in another country.
• The minimum acceptable grade point average for admission is a 3.0 average (A = 4.0) in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework and in all graduate coursework.
• Acceptable scores on the verbal and quantitative sections of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). While there is no required minimum score, the average score of students admitted in recent years is over 700. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), with an average quantitative score being 160, is accepted as a substitute for the GMAT. GRE scores are reported electronically by the Electronic Testing Service (ETS).  Please self-report your score on your application and request ETS to report your score electronically to the University of Illinois (Institution Code 1836, Department Code 4102).
• International applicants from countries whose first language is not English are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Certain international applicants are exempt from the TOEFL requirement. Please see English Proficiency Requirements for details.
• IELTS is jointly owned by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL), British Council and IDP Education Australia: IELTS Australia.

Application Deadlines

For 2024-2025 Academic Year: October 1, 2023 through January 15, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i apply for the spring semester.

No. Admission to the Ph.D. program is only offered for the Fall semester.

Are all international applicants required to submit TOEFL scores?

• International applicants are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), unless they satisfy one of the conditions for exemption listed below. Applicants are exempt from the TOEFL requirement if one or both of the following conditions are met:
• The applicant has completed at least two academic years of full-time study (as defined by the home institution) within five years of the beginning of the proposed term of enrollment, or the applicant has completed a graduate degree, in a country where English is the primary language and at a school where English is the primary language of instruction. That is, English must be both the language of the country and the language of instruction at the school.
• The applicant is from a country in which English is both the primary language and the official language. Please be aware that if you are admitted into the program you will be required to provide a TOEFL score in order to fulfill the TA requirement

Do you accept GRE scores in place of GMAT scores?

Yes, we accept GRE scores in place of GMAT scores.

How long does it take students to finish the program?

For most students, the program takes five years to complete.

Do I have to take the SPEAK test as part of the admission requirements?

The SPEAK test is not required for admission. However, international students must take the SPEAK test after they arrive on campus. (The University of Illinois requires that graduate students whose native language is not English pass the SPEAK test before they can be appointed as Teaching Assistants.) The Department of Finance makes arrangements for students to take this test on campus during the first year of the program.

Do you admit students who do not have a Master’s degree?

Yes, we admit students who do not have a Master’s degree. If admitted into the Finance PhD program, a Master’s degree can be earned, but students desiring a terminal masters degree are not admitted to the PhD program and should consider applying to the M.S. in Finance or the Masters of Business Administration.

Am I eligible to apply to the program?

If you have an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or the equivalent from a university in another country, you are eligible to apply.

In a typical year, how many people apply and how many are admitted?

In recent years, around 100 people applied for an entering class of 3 students.

Do you provide financial support?

All admitted students are offered a tuition waiver plus a living stipend for 5 years that is conditional on making normal academic progress and fulfilling their obligations as a research assistant (RA) or a teaching assistant (TA). First year students are assigned as 10-hour per week RAs. Typically, second, fourth, and fifth-year students are assigned as 20-hour per week RAs. Third-year students serve as TAs to fulfill the program requirement that they obtain teaching experience.

Are international students eligible for scholarships or financial aid?

Admitted students receive financial support, regardless of nationality.

How long will it take before I am notified of the committee’s decision?

Applications are not reviewed until after the deadline date to apply. Please allow 3-4 weeks for a decision to be made. We will notify you of our decision via email.

May I submit unofficial or non-certified copies of my transcripts and degree certifications?

Official transcripts and degree certifications are only required if admitted into the PhD program.

I received my admission letter and I am admitted on limited status. What does that mean?

You may be admitted on limited status for a variety of reasons. The admission letter will clearly indicate the admission terms and the steps that need to be completed before full-admission status can be obtained. Some possible reasons for limited-status admission are:

• admission has been granted as long as a minimum grade-point average is maintained,
• non-native English speakers admitted with TOEFL scores below 103 or below 7.0 on the IElTS are required to complete an English Placement Test prior to their first semester of classes. Based on their performance on this test, they may be required to take English as a Second Language course(s) as part of their degree requirement.

If you are admitted on limited status you will be allowed to enroll for the first semester. You must satisfy whatever restriction is indicated in your admission letter to continue in the program.

Do I have to provide the proof of funding?

No, applicants do not need to provide the proof of funding. Students admitted into our Finance PhD Program receive a waiver of tuition and most fees, along with a living stipend. Students are still responsible for a small portion of fees, typically less than $1,000.

Do you recommend preparatory math classes?

Our program is heavily quantitative, so our admissions committee will want to see competency in this area.

Can I waive the GMAT/GRE requirement?

No. The GMAT/GRE test scores are a strong indication of the quantitative and verbal skills of an applicant. While the committee considers the composite application of each applicant, an official GMAT or GRE score must be included.

How can I order my official test score reports?

You can request your official test scores for the TOEFL and the GRE from the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Applicants to the PhD program should request their scores be sent to Institution Code #1836; Department Code 00 or 02 – all department codes populate the campus score database. Please note, this is an undergraduate code; however, it does populate all campus test score databases.

GMAT scores are provided by PearsonVue. Scores should be sent to the PhD program using the code VKR-TK-03.

May I come in for an interview?

Interviews are conducted on an invitation-only basis. Please refrain from calling or emailing the PhD office to request an interview. You will be contacted by the PhD committee if an interview is necessary to make a decision on your application.

Who should write recommendation letters?

Your recommendation letters should come from academic and business sources. These recommendations should emphasize your strengths in the following areas: quantitative and analytical analysis, written and oral communication, research potential, and relevant work experience.

How do I make a change on my application once it has been sent?

Once your application is submitted you cannot make changes online. Email [email protected] to let us know if any changes that need to be done or documents that need to be uploaded to your file.

• Youth Program
• Wharton Online

Application Requirements

The application for fall 2024 is now closed. the application for fall 2025 admission will open september 15, 2024 and deadline to apply is december 15th, 2024 11:59 p.m. eastern standard time. a complete application includes a completed online application and supplemental application materials. we recommend that you begin the application process early as it may take longer than expected. allow enough time to complete your online application, gather and submit your materials, and take the necessary standardized tests..

Wharton only accepts applications submitted via our online application system.

Letters of Recommendation

The Admissions Committee requires three recommendations. The recommendations must be submitted using our online system.

When you apply online, you will provide the names and email addresses of three recommenders. These recommenders will receive an email with a password, login, and link to our site that will enable them to submit their recommendation directly to our office via the online system.

To submit letters of recommendation via Interfolio, please follow the instructions from Interfolio:  https://product-help.interfolio.com/en_US/about-dossier-accounts/dossier-quick-start-guide

Assistance for applicants or the Interfolio agent can write to  [email protected] .

Transcripts & Academic History

You must submit transcripts of your academic work by scanning and uploading copies of your transcripts through the online application system. The file cannot exceed 600 KB in size and should be in .doc, .wpd, .rtf, .xls, .pdf, .docx, .xlsx or .txt format. For Mac users, please note that the filename must include the appropriate three- or four-letter extension. Also, please do not attempt to upload a document that is password-protected or that contains macros. This will cause the process to fail.

If you are offered admission, you will be required to provide official transcripts of all previous academic work to verify the information provided. If there are discrepancies between the self-reported academic work and official records, the offer of admission will be revoked. Offers of admission are not binding until academic records are verified.

When applying, list all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended, including technical and professional schools. Use the full, actual names of the institutions attended, and provide the titles of all diplomas or degrees earned. If you have attended more than one institution, submit official records from each institution, with the exception of study-abroad programs. If academic records and diplomas are not issued in English by the institution, both the official record and an authorized English translation must be submitted.

All translations should be complete and literal renditions of the original record. Records should show the date of enrollment, courses taken, units of credit or time allotted to each subject during each term or year, your marks or ratings in each subject, and, if available, your rank in the total class or group.

The institutional grading scale or other standards of evaluation, including minimum passing and failing marks and definition of grades between them, should appear on official records or be provided as an attachment.

Pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, personally identifiable information can be disclosed to persons outside the University only with the written consent of the student or alumnus/alumna. The complete confidentiality statement is available in the University’s graduate academic bulletins.

You must complete the Personal Statement essay question on the online application.

There is also an optional essay question where you may provide additional information or clarification on other points of your application.

Standardized Test Scores

The Wharton Doctoral Programs requires ALL applicants to take and provide scores for either the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Test requirements vary by program, as described below. Applicants whose native language is not English must also take the TOEFL.

Self-reported test scores may submitted in the application, pending receipt of your official scores.

We no longer accept late test scores due to Covid-19. Please plan accordingly to ensure test scores and materials are submitted by the December 15 deadline.

Accepted applicant GMAT and GRE test scores usually fall within the top 10 percent. For the TOEFL test, a high level of proficiency is expected. You can find information about the average GRE and GMAT scores for our most recent fall matriculates in our FAQ section.

To expedite the processing of your application, you must self-report your scores via the online application. In addition, you must request that the ETS send an official copy of your scores to the Wharton Doctoral Office.

We strongly encourage applicants to take the necessary tests in the fall at the latest so that the test scores reach the Wharton Doctoral Office before the December 15 deadline. It has been our experience that students often underestimate the time it takes for the School to receive grade transcripts and test scores. Since this time period may be as long as two months, students are well advised to send requests for grade transcripts and to schedule the appropriate tests as early as possible. Note: Late arrival of test results prevents evaluation of your application.

GRE & GMAT Requirements by Program

• Accounting: GRE or GMAT
• Applied Economics: GRE only
• Ethics & Legal Studies: GRE or GMAT
• Finance: GRE or GMAT
• Health Care Management & Economics: GRE or GMAT
• Management: GRE or GMAT
• Marketing: GRE or GMAT
• Operations, Information & Decisions: GRE or GMAT
• Statistics and Data Science: GRE only

We will accept GMAT and GRE scores that are up to 5 years old. If your test scores are more than 5 years old (taken prior to July 2019), you will have to take the test again and submit the new scores. Please see the GRE and GMAT websites for further information on taking those tests.

The GMAT and GRE in-person and home tests will both be accepted.

We evaluate only GMAT and GRE results from tests taken prior to the receipt of your application. The highest score is used — we do not combine multiple scores. This requirement cannot be waived; there are no exceptions.

Ask the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to report your test scores using the following Wharton Doctoral Programs’ ETS codes:

• GRE: 2954-5199 or 2954-0000
• GMAT: G56-97-12

TOEFL Applicants whose native language is not English must take the TOEFL. You may request a TOEFL waiver if you have earned an undergraduate or master’s degree (or will receive the degree by June 2025) in an English-speaking country or from an institution in which English is the language of instruction.

To waive the TOEFL, you must submit your request under the optional essay section of the application and have it documented that your medium of education was English. Your transcripts may serve as documentation that English was the language of instruction.

TOEFL scores are valid for two years. If your TOEFL test was taken prior to July 2022 you will need to submit new scores.

• TOEFL: 2954-02 or 2954-00

Please note:

• The TOEFL IBT and TOEFL ITP in-person and home tests will be accepted.
• We do not accept IELTS scores in place of TOEFL scores

Application Fee

A nonrefundable application fee of $80 must accompany your application. Credit card payments, made with a Visa or MasterCard only, are processed through Wharton’s secure server using Cybersource. The application fee cannot be waived; there are no exceptions.*

* McNair, Fulbright,  Leadership Alliance, IDDEAS and GRE Fee Reduction recipients applicants may waive the application fee. Please follow the instructions in the application.

Application Deadline

To begin your studies in Fall 2025, you must make sure that all your supporting materials (letters of recommendation, transcripts, and either GMAT or GRE scores) and your application are submitted no later than December 15, 2024.

As states on our website, please submit your application by December 15, 2024, 11:59PM ETS.

Prior Convictions Information

If an applicant has ever been convicted of, or plead guilty or no contest to, any felony or misdemeanor (excluding minor traffic violations), he or she must report that information. We offer a secure site for the applicant; answers will be reviewed by the Wharton Doctoral Programs Review Officer.

This information will not be provided to the admissions committee as part of the regular academic review process. If you have questions, you may contact the Review Officer directly at  [email protected] .

Generative AI Policy

The Wharton School embraces the use of generative AI technology and sees it as an important tool for business scholars in this rapidly changing world. While we believe that generative AI will continue to provide utility to all students, your work contained within this application must be your own. We recommend applicants treat generative AI as you would the guidance or writings of another person. For example, this means that, as it is unacceptable to have another person substantially complete a task like writing an admissions essay, it is also unacceptable to have AI substantially complete the task.

By embracing AI responsibly, Wharton aims to uphold the integrity of the application process while leveraging technological advancements to enrich the admissions experience. The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania requires that the work in your application must be completely accurate and exclusively your own, and may use its own proprietary and/or licensed AI solutions in order to identify AI-authored elements of applications. Any such flagging will result in a more holistic investigation of an application.

Recognizing the challenges of teaching, learning, and assessing academic performance during the global COVID-19 pandemic, Penn’s admissions committees for graduate and professional programs will take the significant disruptions of the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 and 2021 into account when reviewing students’ transcripts and other admissions materials as part of their regular practice of performing individualized, holistic reviews of each applicant. In particular, as we review applications now and in the future, we will respect decisions regarding the adoption of Pass/Fail and other grading options during the period of COVID-19 disruptions. An applicant will not be adversely affected in the admissions process if their academic institution implemented a mandatory pass/fail (or similar) system for the term or if the applicant chose to participate in an optional pass/fail (or similar) system for the term. Penn’s longstanding commitment remains to admit graduate and professional student cohorts composed of outstanding individuals who demonstrate the resilience and aptitude to succeed in their academic pursuits.

• Penn Rules for Graduate Degrees
• Office of International Program
• International Student & Scholar Services
• English Language Programs

MBA applications are open! First deadline: October 14. 

Enter a Search Term

Finance ph.d., earn a ph.d. in business and a major concentration in finance and learn from and work with top faculty members.

The Ph.D. in Business and a Major Concentration in Finance at Rice University prepares doctoral graduates to be superior classroom instructors and research scholars in financial economics upon graduation.

Our emphasis on research productivity, collaboration and collegiality is reflected in the students’ high completion rate in the program and the faculty’s commitment to the success of their students.

Deeply invested in the path their students take, the finance faculty believe in an open-door policy and collegial atmosphere during the program and after graduation. The essence of the finance doctoral program is the opportunity to learn from and work with top quality faculty members on a broad range of topics in modern finance. 

Interested in Rice Business?

Discussing and debating my ideas with professors at Rice Business honed the ideas into specific and testable questions. When time is a person's most precious commodity and people who give it to you believe strongly in what you are doing, you know you're in the right place. Lizzy Berger, Ph.D. in Finance '16 Assistant Professor of Finance, Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell University

Program Information

Rice Business offers an outstanding program for doctoral students interested in finance.

Full financial assistance will be offered to each admitted student in the Ph.D. in Finance program in the form of a research assistantship, where the student must work as a research assistant for assigned faculty members. The financial assistance is merit-based and is contingent on continued satisfactory progress (which includes prior satisfactory performance as a research assistant).

Tuition Grants

Full tuition support is available for each year of full-time study, conditional on satisfactory progress in the doctoral program.

Admitted students will be offered stipend support of $40,000 per fiscal year*. This stipend is available for each year of full-time study, conditional on satisfactory progress in the doctoral program.

Research and Academic Support

Each student will be provided with a workspace, a personal computer with office software**, including all necessary (as determined by area faculty) statistical packages and access to the Rice University network, library access, online academic journals access and e-mail. Each student will also have available $1,000 per year for miscellaneous research and academic expenses such as text books required for classes, computer upgrades, conference travel etc. Students may roll over unused monies from one year to the next.

*A condition for such stipend support is that the student must not engage in outside work for pay without prior permission from the Ph.D. program director. An incoming student bringing outside financial support in the form of a merit-based or fellowship will still be eligible to receive the stipend in full in addition to such outside support. If a student in the third year or beyond generates such outside support, the Rice Business stipend will be decreased by 50 percent of the outside support.       

**The computer will be refreshed after successful defense of the dissertation proposal. Instead, students completing their third year of study may be eligible for a computer refresh if needed and with the recommendation of their advisor.

Most coursework is completed in the first three years of the Ph.D. program. Students are expected to be in residence throughout the calendar year. Exceptions to this requirement must be approved by the student's dissertation chairperson, area advisor, and the director of the Ph.D. program.

All Ph.D. students are required to complete a doctoral dissertation and must maintain at least a 3.0 (B) grade point average. Students must defend their dissertation research proposal within a maximum of five years from the time of matriculation and defend their dissertation within a maximum of seven years from the time of matriculation.

Academic Timeline

Your coursework over the first two years, which should cover a minimum of nine courses, will be determined by you in consultation with the finance area faculty advisor.

You must defend your dissertation research proposal within a maximum of five years from the time of matriculation and defend your dissertation within a maximum of seven years from the time of matriculation.

These times represent generous upper limits. Students will be expected to complete their doctoral studies well within these stipulated deadlines.

Requirements

Course, Research Work and Dissertation Advisor

• The student’s course work must be approved by the area faculty advisor.
• The student is expected to attend all research seminars organized in the finance area during the student’s tenure in the Ph.D. program. Moreover, during each semester of the second and third years, the student must write a short summary and critical comments on two papers presented in the research seminar during the semester. These reviews are to be submitted to the area advisor and will be graded by a subset of area faculty for a Pass/Fail grade.
• Students are expected to be fully engaged in research during all the summers, including the summer of their first year, of their tenure in the Ph.D. program.
• Students must have a Rice Business finance faculty member who has agreed to serve as their dissertation advisor by January 1 of their third year in the program.

Exam Requirements

• Students must successfully pass a comprehensive exam administered by the finance faculty at the end of the fall semester of the second year. The exam will be administered and graded by finance faculty, under the supervision of the finance area advisor.  

Third-Year Research Paper Each student must write and present a sole-authored original research paper during their third year in the program. The paper must be presented by October 15 of the student's third year in the program. The specific procedures are as follows:

• By March 1 of the student’s second year in the program, two Rice Business faculty members must agree to serve as readers of the paper.
• A student must submit a detailed outline of the paper and a copy of the  Third-Year Paper Outline Approval Form , signed by the two faculty readers, to the finance area advisor by June 1 following the student's second year in the program. The outline for an empirical paper should include: (1) the research hypothesis, 2) motivation for the research hypothesis, (3) description of the data, (4) description of the empirical tests, and (5) the expected contribution to the literature. The outline for an analytical paper should include: (1) the basic phenomenon under study, (2) the economic setting, (3) the modeling approach, (4) the fundamental assumptions, and (5) the expected contribution to the literature. The outline should also include references to the related literature investigating the research topic and to any studies underpinning the analytical methods to be used.
• A student must submit a copy of the completed third-year paper to the finance faculty advisor and to the two faculty readers by September 15 of the student's third year in the program.
• A student must present the third-year paper at a research workshop at a date chosen by the faculty during the first half of October of the student's third year in the program and at least one of the faculty readers must be present and sign the  Third-Year Paper Presentation Form , stating that the presentation is acceptable.

Failure to complete the Third-Year Paper requirement, as outlined above, will mean that the student is not making satisfactory academic progress in the Ph.D. Program and is grounds for dismissal from the doctoral program.

Sample Course Sequence

The course curriculum is designed around a challenging course of study in both the theory of financial economics and in cutting edge empirical work. Here is a sample course sequence for a doctoral student in finance. BUSI 524, 525, 526, and 527 are half-semester courses on special topics in finance taught biennially. Students should consult the finance area advisor regarding whether to substitute a more advanced math course for Math 321 in the fall of the first year.

Year 1 - Summer (May 23 - August 15) Math Camp and Stat Camp

Year 1 - Fall ECON 501 - Microeconomic Theory I ECON 502 - Macroeconomics I MATH  321 Introduction to Analysis I ECON 510 - Econometrics I   Year 1 - Spring ECON 508 - Microeconomic Theory II ECON 511 Econometrics II BUSI 521 Asset Pricing Theory    Year 2 - Fall BUSI 524 or BUSI 525 BUSI 523 - Empirical Methods in Finance BUSI 522 - Corporate Finance   Year 2 - Spring BUSI 526 or BUSI 527

Year 3 - Fall BUSI 524 or BUSI 525 

Year 3 - Spring BUSI 526 or BUSI 527   Course Descriptions BUSI 521: Asset Pricing Theory This course is an introduction to portfolio choice and asset pricing theory. Topics include expected utility maximization, stochastic discount factors, arbitrage, mean-variance analysis, representative investors, and beta-pricing models. Single-period and dynamic models are studied.

BUSI 522: Corporate Finance The purpose of this course is to provide a background for understanding the major research directions in corporate finance. Topics include theory of the firm, capital structure, external financing decisions, payout policy, agency problems, corporate control and governance, investment decisions, and the role of financial institutions in corporate transactions.

BUSI 523: Empirical Methods in Finance This course is an introduction to empirical research in finance, covering the techniques most often used in the analysis and testing of financial economic theory. The course covers both time-series and cross section methods. Topics include event studies, empirical tests of asset pricing models, forecasting relationships, return predictability in the time-series and cross-section, asset pricing anomalies, and specification and identification issues in corporate finance.

BUSI 524, 525, 526, 527: Advanced Topics in Finance These are half-semester courses covering various topics in financial economics.

Certification of Candidacy indicates that a student has reached the advanced stage of the Ph.D. Program, permitting him/her to devote full time to writing a dissertation. At least eight months must elapse between admission to candidacy and conferral of the degree. The requirements for candidacy are:

• Successful completion of the course work requirements.
• Successful completion of the examination requirements.
• Seyed Mohammad Kazempour, Assistant Professor, Louisiana State University
• Billy Xu, Assistant Professor, University of Rochester
• Lawrence Zhao, Assistant Professor, Texas Tech University
• Yessenia Tellez , Assistant Professor, Virginia Tech
• Livia Yi , Assistant Professor, Boston College
• Emmanuel Yimfor , Assistant Professor, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan
• Michael Dong , Assistant Professor, College of Business, California State University Long Beach
• Justin Balthrop , Assistant Professor, School of Business, University of Kansas
• Jonathan Bitting , Assistant Professor, Walker College of Business, Appalachian State University
• Ron Ruomeng Liu , Assistant Professor, College of Business, University of Nebraska
• Alberto Teguia , Assistant Professor, Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia
• Erik Mayer , Assistant Professor, Cox School of Business, Southern Methodist University
• Ioannis Spyridopoulos , Assistant Professor, Kogod School of Business, American University
• Lizzy Berger , Assistant Professor, Johnson College of Business, Cornell University
• Morad Zeknini , Assistant Professor, Freeman School of Business, Tulane University
• Edwin Hu, Financial Economist, Office of Markets, Securities and Exchange Commission

Every year, we have a diverse group of applicants for the finance Ph.D. program. Successful applicants have been music majors, engineers, newly graduated undergraduates, MBAs, Ph.D.s in other fields, economists, finance majors, computer scientists, and financial professionals. Although applicants who have strong backgrounds in mathematics, economics, and statistics and demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English are among the most competitive in our applicant pool, we give all applicants due consideration.

Successful candidates for admission typically have had GMAT scores between 710 and 760. Roughly half of admitted candidates take the GRE instead of the GMAT and have comparable scores. In the spring, we arrange for finalists come to campus to see the school and meet the faculty.

The business school accepts students for full-time study beginning in the fall semester each year.

International applicants whose native language is not English need to submit a TOEFL score. If you applied to Rice Business previously, we ask that you submit the complete application package again regardless of the previous decision. You will be required to use a new e-mail address to start a new application.

An applicant must declare finance as their intended area of study while applying to the Ph.D. in Finance program. Selected candidates will be notified of admission decisions via e-mail no later than April 15. Candidates who submitted an application to the doctoral program and were not offered admission may re-apply for a later year.

Unlike MBA program applicants, Ph.D. program applicants are not required to have work experience. While experience is certainly helpful, evidence of strong intellectual ability is the most important factor.

Online Application: Using the online application , you will create a user account for the creation, submission and status of your application, including receipt of your supplemental documentation.

Application Requirements:  To be considered for admission, the following documents must be received no later than the posted application deadline: 

• Completed online Ph.D. application including a Statement of Purpose and CV/Résumé.
• Three confidential recommendations (academic strongly preferred). Recommendations should be submitted using the online application recommendation feature. After entering your recommender’s contact information into your application, the application system will immediately send an electronic "Recommendation" form to that individual.
• For reviewing purposes, electronic copies of transcript(s) can be uploaded through the online application system to meet the application requirements. (If you are offered admission to Rice, official paper or electronic transcript(s) will be required and should be sent directly to the Rice Jones Graduate School of Business by the issuing institution. Official transcript(s) are required from all undergraduate and graduate schools you have attended.)
• Your official Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score report, or GRE test score report submitted directly to us (test taker copy not acceptable). This requirement will not be waived.
• To send your official GMAT score report, log on to  http://www.mba.com/mba/ , click “The GMAT” then “GMAT Scores and Score Reports”. The “Rice University Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business – PhD Program” code is 3WS-WD-54.
• To send your official GRE score report, log on to  http://www.ets.org , under “Tests” click “GRE”. Under “Test Takers” click “Order Additional Score Reports”. The “Rice U Mgmt PhD Program” code is 6618.

If you did not earn your undergraduate degree in the U.S., English-speaking Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom, an official score report of your TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) taken within 2 years of your application date is required (test-taker copy not acceptable). This requirement is waived for international applicants who have received a Master's degree or a Doctorate from an institution within the U.S., English-speaking Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom by the application deadline.

• To send your official TOEFL score report, log on to  http://www.ets.org , under “Tests” click “TOEFL” and then “Test Scores.” The “Rice University-Management PhD Program” code is 6618. 

A non-refundable application fee of $40 payable via credit card or check. Please make checks payable to Rice University. Applications will not be processed without the required application fee.

Please note that applicants may not apply for, or be considered for, more than one program at a time within the Jones Graduate School.

Minimum GMAT/GRE Score Requirements: While our program is highly competitive, we do not have a minimum GMAT/GRE score requirement.

Supplemental Application Materials:  While most of your application materials will be submitted electronically via our online application, materials that must be mailed should be addressed to:

Melinda Pena Ph.D. Admissions / MS 531  Jones Graduate School of Business  Rice University 6100 Main Street  Houston, TX 77005  

Finance Area Advisor

Keep Exploring

Melinda Peña

• Accreditation
• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Internships

Narrow by Program

Top 5 online phd programs without the gre requirement.

Earning a Ph.D. or doctoral degree is often a good career choice for professionals in many fields. Research indicates that earning a doctorate can provide one with many excellent benefits.

For example, many Ph.D. holders earn more over their lifetimes than the typical person with only a master’s degree. This statement is confirmed by a study from the US Census Bureau. It found that for all of the disciplines studied, the increase in salary with a Ph.D. ranged from 7% to 33% more.

The data indicated that higher salaries with a Ph.D. were especially common in the science and math fields, as well as industrial research and development.

Those who are considering their Ph.D. could be making a very good financial decision over the long run. Fortunately, there are more online Ph.D. programs available today than ever before.

Getting your Ph.D. is often more convenient and affordable than you might think at first. And many of them no longer require the student to take the GRE to be considered for admission. Or, the program may offer a GRE waiver for students with a certain GPA and/or a high level of work experience.

Recommended online Ph.D. and doctoral programs without a GRE requirement are:

#1 Temple University

– Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration at Temple University is a partially online doctoral program made for business professionals with many years of managerial business experience, who want to transform their business practice. Most students are current, senior managers who want to advance their business careers by learning new skills to solve tough business problems. The majority of graduates intend to advance in their company to a senior level executive position, such as CEO or COO.

Students in this three year, part time, online program investigate applied business research problems. For example, you may study how customers react to new pricing structures, or how effective a new social media strategy is.

The curriculum emphasis is upon general business, globalization, innovation and entrepreneurship. The program is well known for its rigorous, and prestigious business education. Learn the techniques and tools of applied business research, so you may solve your organization’s complex business problems.

Each doctoral student enjoys a one-on-one mentorship with world class business faculty. The program has three onsite residencies each semester, with online courses between each residency.

• University Type: Non-profit
• Campus Location: Philadelphia PA; online
• Accreditation: AACSB, Middle State Commission on Higher Education
• Degrees Offered: DBA
• GMAT/GRE Required: No
• Additional Information: The Fox Business School at Temple ranks as one of the top 1% institutions in the world for business and economics citations.

#2 University of New England

– Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed. D)

The University of New England has a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, with a focus on transformative leadership. It will teach you how to transform yourself, organization and community through a highly flexible but rigorous curriculum.

Graduates of the program gain skills to build allies with others who want to achieve common outcomes in educational leadership, and learn how to collaborate with those with very different perspectives and values.

This doctoral program is fully online, with no campus visits needed, and consists of 51 credit hours. End goals of the accredited program are:

• To prepare educational leaders who are focused on the future and are capable of bringing change and innovation to their organization
• To promote highly educated and knowledgeable leaders in education who are able to connect and collaborate with each other
• To build a reputation that is based upon collaborative, action based research
• To provide every doctoral student with a strong faculty mentoring team that will enhance their program of study

Required courses include:

• Preparation for Transformative Leadership (Credits: 3)
• Qualitative Research Methods (Credits: 3)
• Interpreting Empirical Data (Credits: 3)
• Technology & Organizational Transformation (Credits: 3)
• Managing Change (Credits: 3)
• Policy Analysis (Credits: 3)
• Enacting Transformative Leadership (Credits: 3)
• Research Team Project A (Credits: 3)
• Research Team Project B (Credits: 3)
• Ethical Leadership (Credits: 3)
• Diagnosing Organizational Dynamics (Credits: 3)
• Dissertation Seminar (Credits: 3)
• Campus Location: Boston, Massachusetts; online
• Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
• Degrees Offered: Ed.D.

#3 University of South Florida

– Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

The University of South Florida offers a Doctor of Public Health that stresses both public health education and training. It is designed to prepare the public health professional with a master’s degree for leadership roles in many practice-based settings, such as:

• Non-profit organizations
• Health services
• International agencies
• Community based groups

The emphasis of this online DrPH is on developing advanced knowledge and expertise in the development, implementation and evaluation of public health practice. The focus is slightly different than a Ph.D., which is heavily focused on research.

This program is completed online, and there also is on-campus learning three times with on campus visits in Tampa. It requires the student to complete a total of 43 semester hours beyond the master’s degree. The core curriculum for the DrPH has four curriculum clusters of 25 credits, and also 12 electives. The major curriculum clusters are in these areas:

• Community Engagement
• Leadership and Management
• Communication and Education
• Evidence-Based Public Health

Advanced training in this DrPH includes collaborating with senior-level public health professionals via applied practice experiences that are designed to hone leadership and professional skills. Understanding of DrPH core knowledge is verified through an exam performed by the doctoral committee. A field-based doctoral project also is required.

• Campus Location: Tampa, FL; online
• Accreditation: CEPH, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Tuition: Inquire
• Degrees Offered: DrPH
• GMAT/GRE Required: Yes; can be waived for students who have a 3.5 or higher GPA in previous work

#4 Colorado Technical University

– Doctor of Management – Project Management

Colorado Technical University offers a Doctor of Management degree online with a concentration in project management. This is a terminal degree for higher level management professionals. The online program with no GRE requirement will encourage you to think and act in a strategic fashion, and to enhance your ability to make meaningful contributions to your area of management.

It features a rigorous curriculum that integrates cutting edge project management tools with advanced concepts in management. This will provide students with the business and management skills to manage the whole lifecycle of a program or product.

The project management concentration will expand the skills of senior level or executive program and portfolio managers. Students also are strongly challenged to contribute to the business and management body of knowledge through scholarly writing projects.

Graduation from this program requires the student to complete a dissertation. It will document your research processes and will present both the findings and conclusions of your research. All doctoral degree programs at CTU require the student to complete a residential symposium.

• Management Theory
• Management and Ethics
• Leadership Theory and Development
• Application of Action Research
• Strategic Thinking and Organizational Alignment
• Practice and Theory of Consulting and Intervention
• Organization Innovation and Scenario Thinking
• Principles of Research Methods and Design
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Doctoral Research I: Principles of Research and Writing
• Doctoral Research II: Annotated Bibliography
• Dissertation Research Process
• Campus Location: Denver, Colorado; online
• Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools
• Degrees Offered: Doctor of Management

#5 Chamberlain University

– Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice, with a focus on Healthcare Systems Leadership from Chamberlain University, will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to assist in the transformation of healthcare where you have the most ability to make a difference.

Faculty provide plenty of support and guidance from your first class, and throughout your project and practicum that you complete in your local area. You may complete these projects at your place of work in some cases.

This online DNP program is grounded in the eight essentials that are described in The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, which was published by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Input from major nursing profession stakeholders are incorporated into this program from such organizations as the Institute of Medicine and Quality and Safety Education for Nurses.

The program is appropriate for RNs and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who already earned their MSN degree.

Required courses in this online doctoral program are:

• Scientific Underpinnings
• Application of Analytic Methods
• Applied Organizational and Leadership Concepts
• Health Policy
• Fiscal Analysis and Project Management
• DNP Project
• Foundational Concepts and Application
• Theoretical Basis for Advanced Nursing Practice
• University Type: For-profit
• Campus Location: Downer’s Grove, IL; online
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Degrees Offered: DNP

Additional Resources

• Guide to Online Doctorate PhD Programs without GRE
• Things You Can Do with a PsyD Degree
• Why Choose a Doctorate in Education Degree? + No GRE Options
• PhD in Leadership + 3 Online No GRE Degrees
• 50 Best Careers to Get with a Doctorate Degree
• How to Get a PhD in Nursing Programs + No GRE Options
• Salary Difference Between Master’s and Ph.D. (2017, July). Retrieved from http://www.wesstudentadvisor.org/2014/07/salary-difference-between-masters-and-phd.html
• About Us/Disclosure
• Add Your School Profile
• Feedback/Corrections
• News & Features
• Health & Medicine
• Business & Management
• Jobs & Careers
• Graduate Tips
• Education & Teaching
• Mental & Social Science
• Society & Law
• Science & Engineering
• Terms of Use

PhD Handbook

Phd In USA Without GRE: Study In Top Universities In USA Without GRE For Phd

You can now pursue Phd in USA without GRE. The GRE exam has been a popular entrance exam undertaken by millions of students globally. The aim of this exam was to enhance the admission process of students globally. While GRE scores are still a mandate in US universities, there are a few of them that are marking this optional.

Thus instead of GRE scores, such universities are focusing on other admission requirements. This is a convenient option as it saves students time to prepare themselves for another entrance exam and instead lets them focus on their previous academics better. So how can you pursue Phd in USA without GRE? This blog covers everything you need to know to understand the same.

How To Pursue A Phd Program In USA Without GRE?

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a common exam undertaken by international students when applying for graduate admissions abroad. A good score can help enhance the admission process and give them leverage over the million other applications.

While GRE scores were mandatory, it has now been made an optional or waived off requirement in the admission requirements of a few US universities. So this action clearly indicates that from now on, international students can study at the top US universities without GRE for Phd.

So instead of GRE scores, there will be a set of other admission requirements which students need to fulfil, such as scoring good academic marks, etc.

Top Universities In USA For Phd Without GRE

There are multiple US universities without GRE for Phd available at the moment. These universities are highly ranked, provide the right academic experience and have been a popular choice, especially for those students who wish to eliminate the need for GRE.

Here is an overview of the top universities in USA for Phd without GRE:

Stanford University

University of chicago, purdue university, walden university, university of idaho.

More details about the universities are mentioned below:

Stanford University is ranked as the number one university to pursue good academic studies in USA. The doctoral programs offered here vary in number, giving a better choice for students to study in this highly ranked university.

University of Chicago is another well-reputed university when it comes to pursuing doctoral studies in USA. Here students can easily enroll on a Master’s program and then continue to pursue Phd studies for the same.

Suggested: PhD in Biotechnology in USA

Purdue University is a great option when it comes to choosing the right university for Phd studies in USA. Purdue University offers an on-campus and off-campus educational approach to cater to the interest of multiple international students.

Walden University is a popular choice amongst Phd students and have been popular due to the 80+ programs they offer and the tons of specializations that come with it. You can study any program of your choice at Walden University and experience better academic learning.

Lastly, University of Idaho is another great choice to study Phd in USA without GRE. The university is the number one ranked university to pursue any program here. They offer good doctorate program choices for multiple core subjects.

Suggested: Comprehensive guide of top universities waiving off gre/gmat in 2023

How To Apply For USA Phd Without GRE?

To successfully apply to US universities without GRE for Phd 2022, there is a simple admission process that needs to be followed.

• Identify which USA university offers doctoral programs
• Visit the chosen USA universities official website to check the entry requirements.
• If the admission requirements list no GRE details or mention that GRE scores are optional or its waived, this is the university you should apply for.
• You can even check the Phd programs available and view each of their admission requirements.
• Once you’ve chosen the Phd program, clear other entrance exams and submit all relevant documents before the application deadline.
• Once selected, apply for a US student visa and arrange for funds

Eligibility Criteria For Phd Admission In USA Without GRE

You’re now aware that you can easily apply to US universities without GRE for Phd. So if you’re eliminating this exam, how can you be eligible for doctoral admission in USA?

With GRE out of the application requirements, there is a set of eligibility criterias that international students should cater to during their application process. Thus here is an overview of this standard academic requirement:

• A Bachelor’s & Masters’s Degree
• English Language Proficiency Test
• Submission of Relevant Documents
• Payment of Application Fee

1. A Bachelor’s & Master’s Degree,

International students should have completed all of their previous educational qualifications, for instance, when applying to a Phd program at top US universities, having an undergraduate and Master’s degree is mandatory. Ensure your GPA score is 3.0 and above to speed up your admission process.

2. English Language Proficiency Test

International students should write and clear the English language proficiency test so that universities can learn their understanding of this language. There are many English language tests available, but the popular ones which are written are TOEFL ibt and IELTS .

Based on your exam choice, ensure the below scores are achieved:

• IELTS- 6.5/7
• TOEFL ibt- 79/90/100

Suggested: Which ELP exam should you take?

3. Submission Of Relevant Documents

To successfully complete your admission process, there is a set of USA supporting documents required, such as

• Statement of Purpose
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
• All Official Transcripts
• Work Experience
• Writing Sample

4. Payment of Application Fee

Before you fill in the online application form, international students should pay the application fee amount and submit the proof along with their relevant supporting documents. The non-refundable application fee costs 80 to 125 USD ( differs from one university to another).

Wrapping Up….

Pursuing a doctoral program in USA will lead students towards accessing high-quality academic standards, a better learning experience and enhanced career development. Now with the possibility of Phd in USA without GRE, the application process becomes simpler and allows students to deliver their best in their previous academic performance. If you still wish to clear more queries related to how to study Phd in USA without GRE, speak to our Yocket counsellors today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phd In USA Without GRE

Can you get a USA Phd without GRE?

Yes, international students can now study Phd in USA without GRE. Most US universities have eliminated the need to submit GRE scores during the application process.

Is GRE required for Phd in USA 2023?

No, this exam is not required. Students can still study in the top universities in USA for Phd without GRE in 2023.

Which are the US universities without GRE for Phd 2022?

There are multiple universities in USA without GRE for Phd such as Walden University, Purdue University Global, etc.

Do you need GRE for Phd if you have a masters?

Since most Phd admission in USA without GRE is taking place currently, having good academic scores previously, which in this case is masters is enough to push your application forward and get you admission to the top universities in USA.

Which Phd programs don’t require GRE?

There is multiple Phd program in USA without GRE that international students can conveniently pursue, such as Business administration, Psychology, Social Work, etc.

Rohan Deshmukh

More Topics

Top Premium Admits

Columbia University

Yocketers Admitted

Scholarships granted

Sharwari Bhosale

Cornell University

Atharva Thodge

New York University

Shravan Khunti

University of California, Los Angeles

Prateeka Rawat

Johns Hopkins University

Kaustubh Rai

University of Washington

Neeharika Eddula

University of Pennsylvania

John Harshith

University of Toronto

Meghamala Dash

Duke University

Varun Bhardwaj

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Romil Gupta

University of California, San Diego

Harshit Timmanagoudar

The University of Chicago

Northwestern University

The University of Edinburgh

Nandita Shekar

Articles you might like

The Indian Dream To Go For Higher Studies Abroad?

Hold all the aces before you depart for your higher studies

What After SAT / ACT Exam? | Things to do for Studies Abroad

Upcoming Events

Scholarships and Other Funding Strategies 2025

June 15th, 7:00 pm IST | 1hr

Fireside chat with Brown uni admitted student

June 21st, 3:00 pm IST | 1hr

Looking for Funding options: Scholarships, RA & TA are the way forward!

July 2nd, 5:00 pm IST | 1hr

Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs

Are you interested in an affordable online PhD doctorate degree, but hope to avoid the GRE? We rank the most affordable programs with no GRE.

Key Takeaways

• Many graduate schools are changing their admissions process and eliminating the GRE requirement, especially encouraging if you are seeking a doctoral degree.
• Contrary to common knowledge, online doctoral degree programs are very credible, something that is closely tied to the school’s accreditation status.
• It is possible to find an affordable online PhD doctoral degree program that doesn’t require a GRE for admission.

Positions with the most leadership authority and the highest income are usually reserved for the most demanding careers. This is true for businesses, government agencies, and non-government organizations. These positions are often occupied by doctoral degree holders.

Earning a doctorate degree through an online PhD program is no mean feat. One must be financially, mentally, and physically ready to complete an online PhD. Thankfully, more and more online PhD doctorate degree programs no longer require a GRE as an admission requirement.

And even better, there a numerous top-ranked doctorate degree programs that not only do not require a GRE, but are also very affordable.

Featured Programs

The online phd: a research-oriented doctorate degree.

The doctorate degree is the highest degree you can earn in most fields of study in the US. People who have earned this degree demonstrate a mastery of a specific area of study.

Students who complete an online doctoral degree must have researched a topic or subject thoroughly, conducted research and analysis, and provided a better solution and interpretation of the field.

Research doctorate programs are popularly known as Doctor of Philosophy (PhDs). Common doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Arts (DA)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Theology (ThD)
• Doctor of Public Health (DPH)

“Philosophy” here refers to the pursuit of knowledge and the concept of research, and not the actual subject of philosophy. A major component of this type of doctorate is the dissertation process.

Doctoral Student Dissertations

In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After being accepted as an online PhD candidate, most doctorate students will develop an original research question.

This research question forms the basis of the dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. A doctoral student will work closely with an advisor or mentor, although much of the dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Upon completion of the written portion of the dissertation you will be expected to defend their findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Bottom Line: The main component of affordable online doctorate degrees is the dissertation. It will be a central part of your online doctoral degree program.

Reasons to Earn a PhD Through an Affordable Online Doctorate Degree Program

These are the two major reasons doctoral students pursue a PhD in their field of choice:

Better Earning Potential and More Career Options

A doctorate opens more career opportunities in terms of higher salaries and better job positions. According to the US Census Bureau, the annual salary (average) of those with professional doctorates in the US is $152,703. This includes the annual salary of people holding professional degrees like lawyers (JD) and medical doctors (MD).

Build Expertise and Contribute

Enrolling in an online doctoral degree program provides you with the training and time to become an expert in a specific subject matter. Think of earning your doctorate degree as a way to build a deeper specialization that can jumpstart your plan to make original contributions.

Why the GRE May NOT be Necessary in Graduate School

Today, many schools no longer require GRE test scores. Why are graduate schools dropping GRE test scores from their admission standards? What’s the reason behind this change in online PhD programs?

Limited connection between GRE Test Score and Success

The GRE score is not a feasible success predictor because any student can just retake the test several times to get a better score. The qualifying GRE score for admission also changed in most schools to show the changing expectations of graduate students.

When assessing whether students of online doctorate programs qualify or not, other factors like letters of recommendation, undergraduate grades, and research experience are considered.

Inapplicable to field of study

The field of study in many doctoral programs plays a role in why GRE test scores are no longer necessary. The average score by major and school widely differ based on the student’s interests.

The better news is, some of today’s best schools with the most affordable online doctorate degrees are rolling out the no-GRE policy!

How can I make an online PhD degree program as affordable as possible?

A growing number of highly reputable universities have hybrid or fully online doctorate degrees. These programs are perfect for busy graduate students trying to manage their time and balancing coursework, career, and family demands. This makes an affordable online PhD programs especially attractive.

Luckily, there are several ways to ensure that online doctorate degrees are as affordable as possible.

In-state Tuition

Many affordable PhD online doctoral programs may charge a higher tuition rate for non-state residents, but there are affordable online doctoral programs that charge a flat tuition rate regardless of graduate student state residency.

Other Expenses

Earning an online PhD as opposed to a traditional on-campus doctorate degree makes it possible to save money on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees.

Continue Working

Online PhD doctoral programs also make it possible to continue working in your field, which means you can complete your degree program while still earning a living. This can ultimately reduce your dependence on student loan debt.

Financial Aid

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue a PhD online doctoral degree program, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information on financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website. It is especially important that you choose an online program that is accredited in order to qualify for financial aid.

Assistantships

Many schools offering an online PhD also have assistantship opportunities for their graduate students. Assistantships may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so you will need to check into the online doctorate degree program you are interested in.

Bottom Line: Affordable online PhD degree programs are possible when you factor in things like in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assistantships.

The Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs

University of wisconsin–madison.

• #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
• #22 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #15 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #2 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #2 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #5 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Wisconsin
• #15 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

University of Wisconsin–Madison’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Mathematics
• Anthropology
• Computer Science

Most Influential Alumni

• Frank Lloyd Wright
• Carl Rogers
• Edward Witten
• John Bardeen
• Charles Lindbergh
• Abraham Maslow
• Joshua Lederberg
• Warren Weaver
• C. Wright Mills
• Jayaprakash Narayan

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has always been a channel for the extraordinary. As a major research institution and public-grant university, its faculty, staff, and students engage in a world-class education while dealing with real-world problems. The Wisconsin Idea serves as its guiding principle, creating a better future for everybody.

The University of Wisconsin E-Campus offers nearly 60 graduate degrees in a wide range of academic fields, such as the Education Specialist in Educational Administration- Superintendent District Administrator Online . All these programs meet the same high standards that made UW a world-class leader in higher education.

• Required Credits: 30
• Completion Time: 18 months
• Format: Online

What we love about the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Depending on your degree path, tuition ranges from $600 to $700 per credit hour. What’s great about UW-Madison Online is the flat tuition rate for all students, regardless of whether or not they are Wisconsin residents.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is great for students who:

Seek to socialize with fellow learners. The university is home to a multitude of clubs and organizations.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison might not be a great fit for students who:

Can get distracted easily, as there are so many activities and opportunities in school. Concentrating is always a challenge.

University of Southern California

• #19 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
• #4 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #4 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #5 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #1 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #1 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
• #1 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
• #1 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #1 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #1 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #1 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #2 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #3 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #4 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's in Management
• #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
• #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #17 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern California

University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Social Work
• Engineering
• Criminal Justice
• Communications
• Political Science
• Frank Gehry
• Neil Armstrong
• Jack L. Warner
• John Mearsheimer
• Boris Podolsky
• Michael D. Griffin
• Maulana Karenga
• O. J. Simpson
• Robert Ballard

The University of Southern California is home to the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, as well as 22 academic schools and units. This leading private research university is located in Los Angeles, California, and is a global center for arts, technology, and international business.

The Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership prepares students to facilitate conditions that make efficient, competitive, and adaptable organizations across industries, including private firms, colleges and universities, nonprofits, and government organizations.

• Required Credits: 43
• Completion Time: 3 years

What we love about the University of Southern California

The University of California’s cost of tuition is on the higher end of the college tuition prices. However, many tuition assistance programs can help students attend this prestigious school at a more affordable price. In fact, USC’s Financial Aid office spends more than $773 million in financial aid programs every year.

The University of California is great for students who:

Love and enjoy a fun atmosphere with a lot of spirit, especially during the football season. This is also great for those who want to learn and like a huge campus where everything is always going on.

The University of California might not be the best fit for students who:

Cannot handle a heavy workload. The school’s workload is heavy, and some students can’t seem to balance academic time and fun time.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
• #3 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2024
• #24 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
• #2 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #2 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #6 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024

Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Paul Halmos
• Eugenio Calabi
• Richard Hamming
• James Tobin
• Steven Best
• Roger Ebert
• Jerome Lettvin
• Irving Azoff
• Temple Grandin
• Hamilton O. Smith
• Brendan Eich

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is the pioneer in innovative research that covers global problems and expands the human experience. The school’s transformative learning experiences, out and in the classroom, are designed to produce students who plan to make a significant, societal impact.

The Online Doctor of Education of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign consists of online video synchronous sessions that meet once a week. These sessions are designed for students to interact with the course instructors and peers synchronously for an enriched learning experience.

• Required Credits: 64
• Completion Time: 2 years

What we love about the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The tuition rates at the University of Illinois set during the student’s freshman year are guaranteed for four years at all their universities, in Urbana-Champaign, Springfield, and Chicago. More than half of the University of Illinois System students pay less than the full cost of tuition because of federal and state grant programs, as well as need and merit-based aid provided by the university.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is best for students who:

Are both hard-working, social, and good time managers.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign may not be ideal for students who:

Do not care about their grades. The school parties a lot but the academics are extremely challenging. If you’re not going to fight until graduation, this school is not for you.

University of Arizona

• #1 Best Grad Schools in Arizona 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Arizona 2024
• #23 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #1 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Arizona 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Arizona
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Arizona 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Web Design Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology
• #2 Best Online MBAs in Finance
• #2 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Arizona
• #3 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #4 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #4 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #4 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
• #4 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #4 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's in Economics
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #6 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #7 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #7 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #8 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #8 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #9 Best Online Master's in Management
• #10 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #11 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #12 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #13 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
• #6 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for degree at University of Arizona

University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Geraldo Rivera
• Clifford Stoll
• Garry Shandling
• Brian Schmidt
• Henry Eyring
• Michael McClure
• Barbara Kingsolver
• George H. Smith
• Allen Buchanan
• Frank Press

The University of Arizona is a top-global university constantly recognized for its impressive academic programs and exceptional value. Whether it’s finding out ways to feed the planet or leading space missions with NASA, the University of Arizona prepares its students for the rapidly changing world via hands-on approaches to learning.

The online Doctorate of Education - Educational Leadership at the University of Arizona will enhance a student’s ability to improve outcomes in an organization. They will be taught how to tackle challenging educational problems through simulations, case studies, group activities, and individual projects.

• Required Credits : 36
• Completion Time : 3 years
• Format : Online

What we love about the University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a lot of financial aid and support. Typically, undergraduate students receive different amounts in grants or scholarships. Students living in Arizona are offered a 64.3% discount for tuition and fees. First-year students also receive financial aid totaling $12,569. Students from low-income families also receive $16,855 (average) during their first year.

The University of Arizona is great for students who:

Like Greek life, love warm weather, and a friendly environment. The school is also perfect for those interested in astronomy, health sciences, or business administration—some of the top programs of the school.

The University of Arizona might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not fans of big schools. It is a very big school, and if you are scared to get out there and make friends, you might just end up hiding in your room.

George Washington University

• #2 Best Colleges in DC 2024
• #6 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #6 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #6 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #7 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #7 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University

George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• J. Edgar Hoover
• L. Ron Hubbard
• Glenn Greenwald
• Bob Woodward
• Allen Dulles
• George Armitage Miller
• Juan Guaidó
• Roger Stone
• James E. Webb
• Lester Frank Ward
• Brian Williams

George Washington University , a private, federally chartered research school in Washington, D.C, was chartered in 1821. As the biggest institution of higher education in the capital, GWU offers a multitude of degree programs in 71 disciplines. A variety of student life programs, 450 student organizations, and a strong Greek culture are strong features of GWU.

The Online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering at George Washington University teaches learners to demonstrate mastery of broad-based knowledge in systems engineering, as well as in specific areas of knowledge relevant to their research interests, including methodologies and theories.

• Required Credits: 54

What we love about George Washington University

Being a leading research institution, George Washington University promotes the advancement of knowledge across different fields throughout its libraries, research centers, and schools. The school also offers a dynamic community where students can exchange ideas and diversity is highly valued.

George Washington University is great for students who:

Work hard and play hard, students with political ambitions, and those who enjoy an urban environment but think New York is a bit too much.

George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to enjoy dorm life without a roommate. Especially among freshmen, getting a single room is next to impossible.

University of Missouri

• #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Missouri 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #2 5 Inexpensive Online Master's Programs in Library Science
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #3 Best Online Master's in Economics
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
• #4 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #5 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #5 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
• #5 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #6 Best RN to BSN Online
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #9 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #10 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #10 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #12 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #12 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #14 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #14 Best Online Master's in Management
• #16 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #16 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #16 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #18 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #1 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #9 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for degree at University of Missouri

University of Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Tennessee Williams
• Barbara McClintock
• Harlow Shapley
• David McClelland
• Richard Matheson
• Eugenie Scott
• Suisheng Zhao
• Robert W. McChesney
• Charles Stark Draper
• William Manchester
• Margaret Weis

The University of Missouri , a Columbia-based public land-grant research school, is the largest in the state. It is the flagship institution of University of Missouri System. Popularly called Mizzou, the school has more than 600 clubs and organizations, nearly 280 majors (70 can be completed online).

The online doctor of education (EdD) lets students continue their careers while also earning skills that they can use immediately. The program is designed for practicing educational leaders who are ready to improve their leadership skills and career opportunities.

• Completion Time: 2-3 years

What we love about the University of Missouri

The University of Missouri is a decently expensive college, but they do an amazing job with financial aid. It makes sure that students have the financial support they need.

The University of Missouri is great for students who:

Can balance well and want the full college experience. There are so many things to do at Mizzou—the constant activity and friendships, parties, and more; all these while focusing on your academics.

The University of Missouri might not be a good fit for students who:

Lack good study and organizational skills. The school offers a lot of frills and thrills, and sometimes, it’s hard to study and focus.

Oregon State University

• #2 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024
• #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon 2024
• #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #1 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Oregon
• #2 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Oregon 2024
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Nevada
• #9 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
• #17 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for degree at Oregon State University

Oregon State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Linus Pauling
• Douglas Engelbart
• Michael Waterman
• Katharine Jefferts Schori
• Derald Wing Sue
• Gary Payton
• George Andrews
• Paul Hugh Emmett
• Jerald Ericksen
• Philip Emeagwali
• William J. Ripple
• George I. Mavrodes

Located at Corvallis, Oregon, Oregon State University is a public land-grant research university that offers more than 200 undergraduate degree programs plus a variety of graduate and doctoral degrees. Also called OSU, Oregon State is the largest public research university in the state and specializes in studies of marine science, sustainable food systems, forestry, and more.

OSU’s Online Ph.D. in Counselling program prepares students to work as clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, and counselor educators in both academic and clinical settings. This program also emphasizes student contribution to the counseling profession through research while addressing and understanding the societal changes in today’s communities.

• Required Credits: 150
• Completion Time: 4-6 years
• Format: Hybrid

Why We Love Oregon State University

OSU is bent on removing financial barriers so students can get access to education. Grants, scholarships, student work experiences, and loans are offered at OSU to help students achieve their ultimate goal of receiving a college education.

Oregon State University is great for students who:

Are not big city people or those who wish to be in a calmer town. The town may seem small, but it offers so many interesting things.

Oregon State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are out-of-state enrollees. However, there are summer classes when students can get in-state tuition rates.

Concordia University Chicago

• #24 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024

Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Carl Schalk

Concordia University Chicago is a private university located in River Forest, Illinois. The school was once a college exclusively for parochial teacher education. Today, it now offers more than 100 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, with more than 5,000 students.

Concordia University Chicago offers an online PhD program in Leadership . The program focuses on enlightened perspectives and knowledge about innovative leadership practices, decision-making, knowledge management, conflict and change management, and unique approaches to leadership.

• Required Credits: 67

What we love about Concordia University Chicago

At CUC, students will experience a faith that uplifts, learning that enriches and leaders that will take them to places. All the distinctive academic programs are created to meet the needs of the world in which we serve, live, and work.

Concordia University Chicago is best for students who:

Love a quiet campus where everybody is friendly. If you are a shy type of student, this school will work well for you.

Concordia University Chicago might not be a great option for students who:

Cannot have control of their time. There is so much to do, and managing one’s time proved to be a challenge.

University of South Dakota

• #1 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in South Dakota
• #1 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Wyoming 2024
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Wyoming
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Montana
• #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs
• #10 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling

Career Outlook for degree at University of South Dakota

University of South Dakota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Ernest Lawrence
• David Rumelhart
• Herbert J. Davenport
• Anna Johnson Pell Wheeler
• Pat O'Brien
• Robert Legvold
• John H. Lawrence
• Elizabeth Cook-Lynn
• Maria Yellow Horse Brave Heart

The University of South Dakota in Vermillion is a public research institution, and the state’s flagship university. It is home to the only medical and law school in the state, as well as the National Music Museum. USD also has seven colleges offering 205 undergraduate and 75 graduate programs.

The online Adult and Higher Education Ph.D. develop education leaders to become efficient school administrators by cultivating change for the future. This CAEP-accredited program is designed for school district superintendents, elementary and secondary principals, special education directors, curriculum directors, and higher education administrators.

• Required Credits: 90-95

What we love about the University of South Dakota

The school is very affordable and has lots of great professors.

The University of South Dakota is great for students who:

Want a wonderful education in a big yet still small college. The school is big enough for many opportunities but not so large as to not be able to feel part of the community.

The University of South Dakota may not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for student events, house parties, and the like.

Duquesne University

• #9 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
• #9 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Pennsylvania
• #4 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2024
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #12 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #13 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #15 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #17 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students

Career Outlook for degree at Duquesne University

Duquesne University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Michael Hayden
• Derrick Bell
• Richard E. Nisbett
• Thomas L. Thompson
• George Yancy
• Daniel A. Helminiak
• Thomas Hopko
• Samuel John Hazo
• Jerome Loving
• George Delahunty
• John Clayton

Duquesne University is a private Catholic research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is composed of nine schools that offer degree programs at the baccalaureate, professional, master’s, and doctoral levels in 189 academic programs. The school is the only online Spiritan institution of higher education globally, and hosts international students from more than 80 different countries.

Duquesne University offers an online Philosophy PhD program that specializes in continental philosophy and the history of philosophy. The aim is to provide advanced philosophical training to students with demonstrated outstanding scholarly competence so that they can pursue high-quality independent research.

• Required Credits: 56

What we love about Duquesne University

Duquesne University is a very beautiful and small campus. Students can walk the entire length of the school in just 20 minutes. Class sizes are relatively small, and professors are always willing to help struggling students.

Duquesne University is great for students who:

PhD assistantships are available to doctoral students and include $18,000 per year stipends and full tuition waivers.The tuition waivers cover all tuition expenses associated with required coursework and dissertation credits.

Duquesne University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not into the dorm life or campus residentcy that abides by strict rules.

University of Idaho

• #1 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Idaho 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #10 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #16 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #16 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #17 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #19 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #20 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #20 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #22 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #25 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for degree at University of Idaho

University of Idaho’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Sarah Palin
• Harry Huskey
• Douglas Wilson
• Jeffrey L. Whitten
• Leonard J. Arrington
• Guy McPherson
• E. E. Smith
• C. Scott Green
• D. Mark Hegsted
• Arden L. Bement Jr.

The University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, is a public land-grant research university, and the lead university in the Idaho Space Grant Consortium. Sprawled on a 1,585-acre of land in the rolling hills of the Palouse region, the school offers 142 degree programs, from accountancy to wildlife resources, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and specialist degrees.

The online Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Idaho prepares students as faculty, researchers, or discipline-based scholars who contribute to the knowledge base of their chosen field. This program is primarily designed for students who wish to have research/teaching careers in higher education.

• Required Credits: 78
• Completion Time: 24-36 months

What we love about the University of Idaho

Despite the school’s large size, the University of Idaho still manages to create a personalized learning experience for all undergrads. The school also provides numerous network opportunities for its students.

The University of Idaho is great for students who:

are looking for ways to save some money, and for those who prefer a small-town atmosphere, since it is in a small town.

The University of Idaho might not be the best fit for students who:

Are not into constant parties and Greek life, as the Greek community is active in the school, and parties are somehow normal in this school.

Gonzaga University

• #5 Best Colleges in Washington 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Washington 2024
• #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Washington
• #7 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)

Career Outlook for degree at Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University is a private Jesuit school in Spokane. The school offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate degree programs through its college and six schools. It has 92 fields and 26 graduate programs.

The online Doctor of Educational Leadership at Gonzaga University provides advanced preparation for educational leaders in different school settings across the world. This is designed for those who are currently working in a Pre-K-12 setting.

What we love about Gonzaga University

The school’s mission is to help every student reach their full potential, and that can only be achieved by giving them opportunities through financial aid and scholarships to make Gonzaga’s education more accessible.

Gonzaga University is great for students who:

Truly care about their education and are willing to sacrifice a little fun to pursue their career aspirations and life goals.

Gonzaga University might not be a great fit for students who:

are not up for a challenge. Professors will expect a lot from the students, so it’s expected students work extra hard.

Clarkson University

Career outlook for degree at clarkson university.

Clarkson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Kevin Granata
• Thomas Zacharia
• Sanjeev Kulkarni
• Bernard F. Schutz
• Rajkumar Chellaraj
• Brenda Romero
• Jarmo Kekäläinen
• Gregory C. Farrington
• Randy Sexton
• Annie Selden
• M. Emmet Walsh

Clarkson University is a private school in Potsdam, New York, roughly a 90-minute drive from Ottawa. The school has 50 academic programs, and graduates also have options including those in the schools of business and engineering.

The online PhD in Computer Science curriculum is designed to improve the basic knowledge of learners and to give them guidance and experience in research. This can be achieved by taking advanced courses, joining seminars, and reporting on a research project.

• Required Credits: 36

What we love about Clarkson University

Although the price is overwhelming at first, the college does its best to help with financial aid to help minimize the costs of going there.

Clarkson University is great for students who:

Want to avoid the big city and are ready to step up their game and be challenged to do their best.

Clarkson University might not be a good option for students who:

Are always procrastinating. The academic challenges in this school are overwhelming, and the last thing you want to happen is to study or do your homework until the last minute.

Liberty University

• #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #8 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
• #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
• #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Education
• #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
• #2 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
• #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
• #4 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
• #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #8 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #8 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Associate's in Physics
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #11 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #11 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #12 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #12 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
• #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #17 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #18 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #18 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #23 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
• #25 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
• #5 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #6 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
• #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #14 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for degree at Liberty University

Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Ravi Zacharias
• Susan Wise Bauer
• Michael R. Licona
• Robert H. Smith
• Michael Tait
• Jerry Falwell Jr.

Liberty University is in Lynchburg, Virginia. This private Baptist university is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia. It consists of 17 colleges, including a school of law, a school of osteopathic medicine, and a seminary. Most of the school’s enrollment is in online courses.

Liberty University offers the online Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Apologetics . This program provides students the opportunity to research a topic related to the defense of the Christian faith. Students will produce a written dissertation and contribute to the base of knowledge in the fields of religion and apologetics.

• Required Credits: 51

What we love about Liberty University

The university offers high-quality, Christ-centered education, with incredibly kind and supportive faculty.

Liberty University is great for students who:

Want to grow in Christ and get a great education while doing it.

Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

Cannot balance studying and relaxing. If you study too much without relaxing, it can be very stressful.

Ball State University

• #5 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Indiana
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Indiana 2024
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Indiana
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Indiana 2024
• #3 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #6 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
• #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology
• #15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for degree at Ball State University

Ball State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• David Letterman
• Shirley Brice Heath
• Swanee Hunt
• William Benoit
• Juleen Zierath
• Eugene Habecker
• Melvin N. Johnson
• Philip F. Deaver

Ball State University , located in Muncie, Indiana, is a public research university with two satellite facilities in Fishers and Indianapolis. Students can choose from about 180 undergraduate majors and more than 100 master’s and doctorate programs.

The EdD in Adult and Community Education prepares you for a broader span of careers, you will learn critical skills and conduct research in program planning, teaching and learning, leadership, community organizing, and continuing education using a social justice framework.

• Required Credits: 91

What we love about Ball State University

Ball State University has the lowest total increase in 20 years. The university is the leader in the Mid-American Conference for the lowest tuition rate among all other universities.

Ball State University is great for students who:

Are very sociable. The school has Greek fraternities and sororities, but you don’t have to be in them just to have a good time.

Ball State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Hate taking the bus. If you don’t have your car by your dorm, you will have to take the bus regularly, and the waiting time is long.

Quinnipiac University

• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Connecticut
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Connecticut 2024
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #17 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #25 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity

Career Outlook for degree at Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Vikki Ziegler
• Turk Wendell
• Freddy Hall
• Triston Henry

Quinnipiac University is located in Hamden, Connecticut. This private university offers 58 undergraduate majors, 20 graduate programs, and a Juris Doctor program. It also offers several media outlets, including a professionally run commercial radio station, WATX.

Quinnipiac University offers the online post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Care of Population . This 100% online program exposes experienced nurses to the the gaps in care that impact population on the local, national, and global fronts.

What we love about Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University is an expensive school, but it awards non-need-based scholarships or grants awarded to first-year students. The school, however, meets 61% of its students’ financial aid needs.

Quinnipiac University is great for students who:

Want to be challenged, have fun, and have social college experiences.

Quinnipiac University might not be the best fit for students who:

Cannot afford this expensive but amazing school, although there are lots of academic scholarships and financial aid available.

Nova Southeastern University

• #2 Top 3 Best Online MBA in Real Estate Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
• #3 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #3 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #3 Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
• #4 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
• #5 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #5 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
• #5 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
• #6 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
• #6 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #7 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
• #7 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
• #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #7 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024
• #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
• #9 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2024
• #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #9 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #11 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
• #15 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #15 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #16 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #17 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
• #18 Best Online MBAs in Finance
• #18 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
• #20 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #21 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #22 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #22 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #24 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #7 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #16 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for degree at Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John E. Douglas
• Megan Squire
• Tyler Cymet
• Charles Morin
• Andia Chaves Fonnegra
• Laurie J. Patterson

Nova Southeastern University consists of 14 colleges, centers, and schools that offer more than 150 programs of study. Located in Davie, Florida, this private nonprofit research university also offers professional degrees in the social sciences, business, law, osteopathic medicine, allied health, allopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, physical therapy, education, and nursing.

Nova Southeatern Unviersity’s Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice offers an online Doctor of Education program . This is designed with the student’s needs in mind, so they can further advance their careers while completing their education.

• Required Credits: 55

What we love about Nova Southeastern University

The campus is very beautiful and the people are very nice. NSU is the perfect choice to go to college also because of its small class sizes.

Nova Southeastern University is ideal for students who:

Need extra attention, thanks to its small class sizes.

Nova Southeastern University might not be a good choice for students who:

Cannot commit to working hard and knowing how to balance. Academics and fun can be hard to balance.

Bradley University

• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
• #12 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #17 Best Online Master’s in Counseling

Career Outlook for degree at Bradley University

Bradley University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Philip José Farmer
• Aldon Morris
• Morris Kleiner
• Anthony Parker
• Danny Granger
• Laura Kelly
• Paul Powell
• Daniel J. Crowley
• Jerry Hadley
• Stan Albeck

Bradley University is located in Peoria, Illinois, and enrolls students who are pursuing degrees in more than 100 undergraduate programs. Graduate students also have options, with around 40 programs available. Outside of the classroom, 30% of the students at Bradley join in Greek life, while others enjoy clubs, volunteer groups, and other campus organizations.

The Online Doctorate in Education at Bradley University offers a focus on higher education administration. This is designed for students who are interested in community college leadership or higher education.

• Required Credits: 60-61
• Completion Time: 28 months

What we love about Bradley University

Although there is no tuition reduction for Illinois students, about 99.8% of freshmen students get to enjoy some form of financial aid, averaging about $20,000.

Bradley University is great for students who:

Are looking for a warm and inviting classroom atmosphere. The professors are always ready and willing to sit with their students.

Bradley University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are not into Greek life. The university talks about and promotes Greek life heavily.

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Study in USA /

PhD in USA Without GRE

• Updated on  
• Oct 29, 2022

The USA leads the world in terms of bringing scientific revolutions throughout its history. Be it Medicine, Bioengineering, or Military Technology, it has imperatively brought newer technologies to our world through its cutting-edge research universities and institutions working across varied areas of study. With hundreds of groundbreaking research in almost every sphere, international students planning to pursue their PhD abroad are choosing to study in the USA to avail the best research opportunities. Often, PhD aspirants face certain hindrances in appearing for qualifying exams such as GMAT , IELTS or GRE . In this insightful blog, we aim to explore the best alternatives for pursuing your PhD in USA without GRE including the substitutes you can choose from or the universities offering doctoral programs without the requirement of GRE scores.

This Blog Includes:

List of universities for phd in usa without gre, eligibility criteria for phd in usa without gre, how to apply for phd in usa without gre, doctor of business administration by walden university, phd in psychology by cal southern’s school of behavioral sciences, phd in family therapy by nova southeastern university, psyd in clinical psychology by argosy university, phd in social work by smith college, list of gre waiver universities in the usa, masters in usa without gre, why study in the usa.

Following is the list of top universities for PhD in the USA without the GRE:

• Walden University
• Purdue University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Nova Southeastern University
• Cal Southern’s School of Behavioral Sciences
• Argosy University
• Northwestern University
• University of Wisconsin
• University of Oregon
• Oregon State University
• University of Idaho
• Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Washington State University
• Smith College
• Georgetown University
• Andrew University
• Sacred Heart University

Since you’re looking for alternatives that waive GRE requirements, you must first familiarize yourself with the admission requirements for PhD in the USA. Though the actual course requirements can differ across courses and universities, here are some general eligibility requirements for pursuing PhD in the USA:

• A master’s degree is the minimum requirement you must hold to pursue a PhD at a university in the USA.
• You must get your academic transcripts ready for both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. If the certificate or transcript is written in a non-English language, it has to be translated into English.
• You can be asked to submit an essay of about 2000 or more words as a personal statement. You have to briefly mention your research interest.
• You should have at least qualified for one of the language tests, either IELTS or TOEFL.
• You can be asked to provide a minimum of three Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from a professional academician along with a Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• For some universities a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0  in a post-baccalaureate degree is mandatory.
• Many universities also require GRE scores for doctoral degree programs in the USA but if you haven’t qualified for this exam, make sure to check out the alternatives and universities mentioned in the next section!

While applying for PhD in the USA, you will come across many universities which don’t necessarily require GRE scores but prefer applications that include these scores. To help you understand the major ways for applying for PhD in the USA without GRE, here are the top alternatives:

• You can apply to those universities offering PhD programs in the USA [ mentioned in the next section ] which have specified that GRE is not necessarily required.
• You can opt for online or part-time PhD degree programs in the USA or the less-selective ones which also won’t need GRE.
• You can look for the best-suited PhD programs which mention GRE as a non-essential criterion and apply for these courses. For such PhD courses, it is important that you must have a strong academic record as well as recommendation letters and an excellent research proposal. You can strengthen the other parts of your application to ensure that it can get highlighted from the pile of others.

Universities for PhD in USA without GRE

Now that you are familiar with the major alternatives, we have curated a complete list of universities which provide doctoral degrees in the USA without the GRE as their compulsory criteria. Check out the following list of universities offering PhD in the USA without the GRE:

The doctorate degree provided by Walden University is specifically intended for those students who are looking to acquire more advanced knowledge of the different theories in management as well as its modern applications. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Walden University is a top choice among management students to study PhD in the USA without GRE because it offers different areas of focus like Finance, International Business and Global Supply Chain Management , Human Resource Management, Accounting and Marketing.

This Behavioral Sciences program at Cal Southern’s school provides a doctorate in Psychology without you having to bother about GRE. Students are required to complete a range of different programs before taking a PhD, where they learn Advanced Theories of Psychology, a multitude of Personality Theories as well as Psych-Pharmacology. Upon completing this course, students become eligible to receive authorization to practice clinical psychology within California. This doctorate helps you gain an understanding of the practical applications of Psychology.

Nova Southeastern University’s doctorate in Family Therapy provides career opportunities for students, in academia, and research fields among others. This doctorate program is aimed at building a thorough understanding of the related theoretical ideas with the various popularly growing areas of family therapy. Throughout this program, a student understands how, both, qualitative and quantitative research methodology is important in this study area.

Argosy University’s PhD program is mainly designed to teach research scholars with applicable skills required in clinical practice. Furthermore, it devotedly makes certain that students are trained efficiently to reduce psychological dysfunction. This research degree has incorporated theoretical, practical and research aspects so that students possess adequate knowledge to contribute their services to different psychological domains, like society and offers medical interventions for the betterment of mental health. This university allows you to study PhD in the USA without GRE.

Want to ascertain your cost of education in the USA? Check Out our Cost of Living Calculator

This PhD program ensures that students adequately know how to pitch in to spread awareness regarding social work and its practice. Here, students understand the need to develop and pursue research on clinical social work. This program broadens students’ ability to think critically vis-a-vis understanding the importance and skills necessary in the field of clinical social work.

COVID-19 has caused many universities to modify their entry requirements to ease admission procedures for international students. Among the many changes, various universities have waived off the GRE and GMAT tests for students. Here is a list of Universities In the USA that have a GRE waiver.

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• North Carolina State University
• Stanford University
• University of California San Diego
• Princeton University
• New York University
• University of Michigan Ann-Arbor
• University of Maryland
• University of Washington
• Yale University
• The University of Texas at Dallas
• University of South Florida
• Iowa State University
• University of Huddersfield
• Florida State University 
• University at Buffalo
• Rice University
• The University of Illinois at Chicago
• California State University Long Beach 
• The University of Texas at Austin
• University of Minnesota 
• The University of California Irvine
• Rutgers University
• Texas A&M University
• Syracuse University
• Northeastern University

Various universities in the USA require prospective students to take the GRE exam besides IELTS or TOEFL. However, students from non-technical backgrounds find it tough to clear the GRE exam. Apart from that, COVID-19 has caused several restrictions and has led to the cancellations of many exams including the GRE, GMAT, etc. To facilitate students with their study abroad plans, many universities offer a GRE waiver for their master’s as well. Here is a list of Masters’s universities in the USA without the GRE.

• Boston University 
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln
• Washington State University 
• University of Florida 
• Northeastern University, Boston
• San Jose State University
• National Louis University
• Alliant International University
• Oklahoma State University
• Point Park University
• ECPI University
• Missouri Western State University
• City University of Seattle
• Rivier University
• Monroe College
• Trine University
• Fisher College
• Marymount California University
• Westcliff University
• Virginia International University
• International Technological University
• Montclair University
• IGlobal University

There are multifarious reasons why international students frequently choose the USA as their preferred study destination. Whether you want to pursue your PhD in USA or any other course, here are the top benefits you can avail yourself:

• USA is home to world-class universities which have consistently featured at the top of THE and QS World University rankings some of the most prominent ones include, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, and California Institute of Technology , to name a few.
• STEM courses in the USA are among the popular academic programs offered by universities and you can also explore a plethora of specializations across varied fields of study from Business and Management to Arts and Social Sciences.
• The universities in the USA are home to world-renowned faculties and experts across different disciplines.
• The academic institutions are also extensively associated with globally famed brands and organise timely career placement events and drives to ensure a higher employability rate for their graduates.

Hence, we hope that this blog provided you with all the essentials you need to know about pursuing PhD in USA without GRE. Planning to study for a doctoral degree abroad? Our Leverage Edu experts are here to guide you in picking the best course and university as per your interests and we will also assist you throughout the admission process to ensure that you send a winning application! Sign up for a free consultation session with us today!

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Thanks for the Great Content. I will also share with my Friends and once again Thanks a lot for sharing valuable information with us. Please keep on sharing.

Thank you for the comment and support! We really appreciate it.

Nice writeup and very concise and informative. Thank you

Thank you for the comment!

very nice information. please if i may ask i am looking at taking a PHD in Finance in USA or Canada but i want a school that does not require the GRE or GMAT for the PHD in Finance Program

Hello, We are delighted to know that you are considering to pursue PhD from either America or Canada. Since you are sure about your specialisation of study and that you wish to pursue your PhD without GRE, we would suggest you to get in touch with our Leverage Edu experts on 1800572000 as they would be the best people tp give you the right mentorship and guidance to make you land at the right university abroad.

Hello, We are delighted to know that you are considering to pursue PhD from either America or Canada. Since you are sure about your specialisation of study and that you wish to pursue your PhD without GRE, we would suggest you get in touch with our Leverage Edu experts on 1800572000 as they would be the best people to give you the right mentorship and guidance to make you land at the right university abroad. Wishing you good luck for your future goals!

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

PhD in USA without GRE: Requirements, universities, and tips

A PhD is the highest academic degree a student can achieve in the higher education sector. Students often pursue these courses abroad to enhance their knowledge and skills and excel in their fields of interest. Studying doctoral courses in countries like the USA and the UK gives students an excellent academic and practical experience.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an admission entry requirement for native and international students in the USA who want to pursue a PhD in the country.

Educational institutions in the USA require GRE exam scores to assess your profile and determine your eligibility for doctorate courses. However, some universities have started to waive the GRE requirement for PhD applicants, easing the application process for international students. Here, we cover everything you should know about pursuing PhD in the USA without GRE.

Table of Contents

Is gre required for phd in the usa, phd requirements in the usa for international students, student requirements for phd in the usa without gre, eligibility criteria for phd admission in the usa without gre, cost to study phd in the usa, universities offering phd without gre, tips to apply for a phd in the usa without gre, jobs & salary for phd in the usa without gre, are phd programs without gre requirements less competitive, do all universities in the usa offer phd programs without gre requirements, will not submitting gre scores hurt my chances of being admitted, how can i make my application stand out without gre scores, can i do a masters in the usa without gre, what is the gre waived university in the usa for phd, who is eligible for phd in the us, can i apply to harvard without gre, what are the criteria for a phd in the usa for indian students, is it easy to get phd in the usa from india, graduate record examination: an overview.

Before we learn about the university requirements for a PhD without GRE, here’s a rundown of the exam and its significance.

• GRE is a standard entrance exam that tests a candidate’s academic and practical skills to determine their eligibility to pursue postgraduate and doctorate education in institutions abroad.
• The GRE pattern analyses the students’ critical and abstract thinking abilities and tests their problem-solving skills.
• There are two types of GRE: GRE General and Subject test .
• Educational institutions across the globe accept the GRE for admission to various courses. The USA, UK, Canada, and Australia are some of the top study destinations that require these scores.

Some universities have made the GRE scores optional, so ensure you check your desired university’s requirements before applying for the exam.

The USA is one of the leading study destinations for students pursuing doctorate courses abroad. The GRE plays a vital role in admission for these courses, as the scores help universities better assess a student's profile. However, some institutions have dropped this requirement, making GRE scores optional for students .

Planning to pursue higher education in the USA? Bring your dream of studying abroad to life in just a click!

Here are the standard requirements for international students to pursue PhD in the USA.

• Academic transcripts
• Letter of recommendation
• Application form
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
• GRE or GMAT scores
• Statement of purpose

Also read: Cost of living in the US for international students

PhD programs in the USA that do not require the GRE have similar requirements to those that need the exam. However, the main difference is that these programs may ask for other aspects of an applicant's profile, such as undergraduate and graduate coursework, research experience, and letters of recommendation.

Some standard requirements for PhD in the USA without GRE include the following:

• Academic transcripts - Applicants must submit their official transcripts from all institutions attended. These documents should indicate the courses taken, grades earned, and overall GPA.
• Letters of Recommendation - Most PhD programs require applicants to submit two to three letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors familiar with their academic and research abilities.
• Statement of Purpose - Applicants should provide a purpose statement outlining their interests in research, career goals, and motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Resume/CV - Students must submit their resume or CV highlighting their academic and research achievements and professional experience.
• Writing Samples - Some PhD programs may require applicants to submit writing samples, such as research papers or essays, demonstrating their writing and analytical skills.
• English Language Proficiency - International students must take English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS to exhibit their fluency in English skills.

Note: Some requirements for students pursuing PhDs in the USA without GRE scores may vary depending on the university and program. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the application instructions for each program to ensure that you meet the criteria.

Data updated as of November 2023

Also read: Why study in the USA for a Master’s?

Fees for PhD and doctorate courses depend on various factors.

• The institution
• Location of the university
• Length of the course (4-8 years)

The average overall cost for an international student to study PhD in the USA is around $150,000 .

Source: educationdata.org

Universities offering PhDs in the USA without GRE

Here are some GRE-waived universities in the USA for PhDs for international students.

Also read: Study in USA for International Students

Applying for a PhD program without the GRE requires research, preparation, and attention to detail. Here are some tips for applying for a PhD in the USA without GRE.

• Research PhD programs - Allot time to research programs that suit your needs and interests and find out as many details as possible about their requirements, faculty, and research opportunities. This will help you determine which PhD program best fits your interests and goals.
• Focus on your strengths - While the universities do not require the GRE, other aspects of the application, such as your academic record and research experience , will still be necessary. Highlight your strengths in these areas to make your application stand out.
• Connect with faculty - Contact faculty members in your field of interest to learn more about their research and express your interest in their program. This can help you build relationships with potential mentors for the course.
• Craft your application - Customise your application materials for each program to which you apply. This enables you to demonstrate your fit with the program and show that you have done your research.
• Be prepared for interviews - Some programs have interviews as part of the application process. Make sure you prepare for these interviews by researching the program, practising your responses to common interview questions, and being ready to ask your own questions about the program.
• Apply early - Many PhD programs have rolling admissions, meaning they may fill up quickly. Applying early gives you a better chance of being admitted and may help you secure funding or scholarships.

Also read: Best Courses In USA For International Students

Explore exciting academic opportunities in the USA and apply for the upcoming intake today!

Frequently asked questions

While the GRE may be a factor in the admissions process, programs that do not require the GRE can still have a rigorous application process that considers other aspects of the applicant's academic and professional record.

No, not all universities in the USA provide PhD programs without GRE requirements. It's important to research the eligibility criteria for individual programs to determine their specific qualifications.

It depends on the program and their weight on the GRE in their admissions process. However, if the program does not require the GRE, not submitting scores should not be a disadvantage.

You can make your application stand out by focusing on other aspects of your academic and professional record, such as your research experience, publications, academic achievements, and letters of recommendation.

In some cases, you can pursue your master's in the USA without GRE. Some universities have made the GRE scores optional, so you can check your desired institution's requirements before applying for the course.

Here are the basic qualifications for international students to apply for a PhD in the USA.

Ensure you have the documents below while applying for your PhD in the USA.

Yes, you can apply to Harvard without GRE. The Russell Group University has made it optional for international students to take the GRE assessment to apply for PhD courses of their interest.

Here are the basic requirements for Indian students to apply for a PhD course in the USA.

PhD courses in the USA are competitive for Indian students. But with a well-crafted application and strong profile, one can pursue a doctorate course in their field of interest.

Begin your study abroad journey in just a click!

Edvoy strives to provide the finest experience and assistance for students planning to pursue higher education abroad. Kick-start your study abroad journey by connecting with an Edvoy Counsellor today !

Study Abroad Expert

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this site solely belong to the individual authors and do not necessarily represent t ...Read More

Most affordable cities in USA for Indian students

Top 12 highest paying US majors 2024

Go Greek - Your guide to Greek life in the USA

University welcome week around the world: USA

Why are college sports so popular in the USA?

5 things you should know about applying to study in the USA

Top Streams

• Data Science Courses in USA
• Business Analytics Courses in USA
• Engineering Courses in USA
• Tax Courses in USA
• Healthcare Courses in USA
• Language Courses in USA
• Insurance Courses in USA
• Digital Marketing Courses in USA

Top Specialization

• Masters in Data Analytics in USA
• Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA
• Masters in Supply Chain Management in USA
• Masters in Computer Science in USA
• MBA in Finance in USA
• Masters in Architecture in USA

Top Universities

• Cornell University
• Yale University
• Princeton University
• University of California Los Angeles
• University of Harvard
• Stanford University
• Arizona State University
• Northeastern University
• Scholarships to Study in USA
• Project Management Courses in Australia
• Accounting Courses in Australia
• Medical Courses in Australia
• Psychology Courses in Australia
• Interior Designing Courses in Australia
• Pharmacy Courses in Australia
• Social Work Courses in Australia
• MBA in Australia
• Masters in Education in Australia
• Masters in Pharmacy in Australia
• Masters in Information Technology in Australia
• BBA in Australia
• Masters in Teaching in Australia
• Masters in Psychology in Australia
• University of Melbourne
• Deakin University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Monash University
• University of Sydney
• University of Queensland
• RMIT University
• Macquarie University
• PR Courses in Australia
• SOP for Australia Student Visa
• Data Science Courses in Canada
• Business Management Courses in Canada
• Supply Chain Management Courses in Canada
• Project Management Courses in Canada
• Business Analytics Courses in Canada
• Hotel Management Courses in Canada
• MBA in Canada
• MS in Canada
• Masters in Computer Science in Canada
• Masters in Management in Canada
• Masters in Psychology in Canada
• Masters in Education in Canada
• MBA in Finance in Canada
• Masters in Business Analytics in Canada
• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• McGill University
• University of Alberta
• York University
• University of Calgary
• Algoma University
• University Canada West
• IELTS requirement for Canada Student Visa
• Canada Visa Interview
• Top cities in Canada for International Students
• Project Management Courses in UK
• Data Science Courses in UK
• Public Health Courses in UK
• Digital Marketing Courses in UK
• Hotel Management Courses in UK
• Nursing Courses in UK
• Medicine Courses in UK
• Interior Designing Courses in UK
• Masters in Computer Science in UK
• Masters in Psychology in UK
• MBA in Finance in UK
• MBA in Healthcare Management in UK
• Masters in Education in UK
• Masters in Marketing in UK
• MBA in HR in UK
• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Coventry University
• University of East London
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Birmingham
• Imperial College London
• University of Glasgow

Top Resources

• Universities in Germany
• Study in Germany
• Masters in Germany
• Courses in Germany
• Bachelors in Germany
• Germany Job Seeker Visa
• Cost of Living in Germany
• Best Universities in Germany

Top Courses

• Masters in Data Science in Germany
• MS in Computer Science in Germany
• Marine Engineering in Germany
• MS Courses in Germany
• Masters in Psychology in Germany
• Hotel Management Courses in Germany
• Masters in Economics in Germany
• Paramedical Courses in Germany
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• University of Bonn
• University of Freiburg
• University of Hamburg
• University of Stuttgart
• Saarland University
• Mannheim University
• MBA in Ireland
• Phd in Ireland
• Masters in Computer Science Ireland
• Cyber Security in Ireland
• Masters in Data Analytics Ireland
• Ms in Data Science in Ireland
• Pharmacy courses in ireland
• Business Analytics Course in Ireland
• Universities in Ireland
• Study in Ireland
• Masters in Ireland
• Courses in Ireland
• Bachelors in Ireland
• Cost of Living in Ireland
• Ireland Student Visa
• Part Time Jobs in Ireland
• Trinity College Dublin
• University College Dublin
• Dublin City University
• University of Limerick
• Dublin Business School
• Maynooth University
• University College Cork
• National College of Ireland

Colleges & Courses

• Masters in France
• Phd in France
• Study Medicine in France
• Best Universities in Frankfurt
• Best Architecture Colleges in France
• ESIGELEC France
• Study in France for Indian Students
• Intakes in France
• SOP for France Visa
• Study in France from India
• Reasons to Study in France
• How to Settle in France

More About France

• Cost of Living in France
• France Study Visa
• Cost of Living in Frankfurt
• France Scholarship for Indian Students
• Part Time Jobs in France
• Stay Back in France After Masters

About Finland

• Universities in Finland
• Study in Finland
• Courses in Finland
• Bachelor Courses in Finland
• Masters Courses in Finland
• Cost of Living in Finland
• MS in Finland
• Average Fees in Finland Universities
• PhD in Finland
• Jobs in Finland
• Bachelor Degree in Medicine & Surgery
• MBBS Courses in Georgia
• MBBS Courses in Russia
• Alte University
• Caucasus University
• Georgian National University SEU
• David Tvildiani Medical University
• Caspian International School Of Medicine
• Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University
• Kyrgyz State Medical Academy
• Cremeia Federal University
• Bashkir State Medical University
• Kursk State Medical University
• Andijan State Medical Institute
• IELTS Syllabus
• IELTS Prepration
• IELTS Eligibility
• IELTS Test Format
• IELTS Band Descriptors
• IELTS Speaking test
• IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS score validity
• IELTS Cue Card

IELTS Reading Answers Sample

• Animal Camouflage
• Types Of Societies
• Australia Convict Colonies
• A Spark A Flint
• Emigration To The Us
• The History Of Salt
• Zoo Conservation Programmes
• The Robots Are Coming
• The Development Of Plastic

IELTS Speaking Cue Card Sample

• Describe A Puzzle You Have Played
• Describe A Long Walk You Ever Had
• Describe Your Favourite Movie
• Describe A Difficult Thing You did
• Describe A Businessman You Admire
• Memorable Day in My Life
• Describe Your Dream House
• Describe A Bag You Want to Own
• Describe a Famous Athlete You Know
• Aquatic Animal

IELTS Essay Sample Sample

• Best Education System
• IELTS Opinion Essay
• Agree or Disagree Essay
• Problem Solution Essays
• Essay on Space Exploration
• Essay On Historical Places
• Essay Writing Samples
• Tourism Essay
• Global Warming Essay
• GRE Exam Fees
• GRE Exam Syllabus
• GRE Exam Eligibility
• Sections in GRE Exam
• GRE Exam Benefits
• GRE Exam Results
• GRE Cutoff for US Universities
• GRE Preparation
• Send GRE scores to Universities

GRE Exam Study Material

• GRE Verbal Preparation
• GRE Study Material
• GRE AWA Essays
• GRE Sample Issue Essays
• Stanford University GRE Cutoff
• Harvard University GRE Cutoff
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning
• GRE Verbal Reasoning
• GRE Reading Comprehension
• Prepare for GRE in 2 months

Other Resources

• Documents Required For Gre Exam
• GRE Exam Duration
• GRE at Home
• GRE vs GMAT
• Improve GRE Verbal Scores

Free GRE Ebooks

• GRE Preparation Guide (Free PDF)
• GRE Syllabus (Free PDF)
• GMAT Eligibility
• GMAT Syllabus
• GMAT Exam Dates
• GMAT Registration
• GMAT Exam Fees
• GMAT Sections
• GMAT Purpose

GMAT Exam Study Material

• How to prepare for GMAT?
• GMAT Score Validity
• GMAT Preparation Books
• GMAT Preparation
• GMAT Exam Duration
• GMAT Score for Harvard
• GMAT Reading Comprehension
• GMAT Retake Strategy

Free GMAT Ebooks

• GMAT Guide PDF
• Download GMAT Syllabus PDF

TOEFL Exam Registration

Toefl exam eligibility, toefl exam pattern.

• TOEFL Exam Preparation
• TOEFL Exam Tips
• TOEFL Exam Dates
• Documents for TOEFL Exam

TOEFL Exam Fee

Toefl exam study material, toefl preparation books.

• TOEFL Speaking Section

TOEFL Score and Results

• TOEFL Writing Section
• TOEFL Reading Section
• TOEFL Listening Section
• TOEFL Vocabulary
• Types of Essays in TOEFL

Free TOEFL Ebooks

• TOEFL Exam Guide (Free PDF)
• PTE Exam Dates
• PTE Exam Syllabus
• PTE Exam Eligibility Criteria
• PTE Test Centers in India
• PTE Exam Pattern
• PTE Exam Fees
• PTE Exam Duration
• PTE Exam Registration

PTE Exam Study Material

• PTE Exam Preparation
• PTE Speaking Test
• PTE Reading Test
• PTE Listening Test
• PTE Writing Test
• PTE Essay Writing
• PTE exam for Australia

Free PTE Ebooks

• PTE Syllabus (Free PDF)
• Duolingo Exam
• Duolingo Test Eligibility

Duolingo Exam Pattern

• Duolingo Exam Fees
• Duolingo Test Validity
• Duolingo Syllabus
• Duolingo Preparation

Duolingo Exam Study Material

• Duolingo Exam Dates
• Duolingo Test Score
• Duolingo Test Results
• Duolingo Test Booking

Free Duolingo Ebooks

• Duolingo Guide (Free PDF)
• Duolingo Test Pattern (Free PDF)

NEET & MCAT Exam

• NEET Study Material
• NEET Preparation
• MCAT Eligibility
• MCAT Preparation

SAT & ACT Exam

• ACT Eligibility
• ACT Exam Dates
• SAT Syllabus
• SAT Exam Pattern
• SAT Exam Eligibility

USMLE & OET Exam

• USMLE Syllabus
• USMLE Preparation
• USMLE Step 1
• OET Syllabus
• OET Eligibility
• OET Prepration

PLAB & LSAT Exam

• PLAB Exam Syllabus
• PLAB Exam Fees
• LSAT Eligibility
• LSAT Registration
• PLAB Accepted Countries
• TOEIC Result
• Study Guide

Application Process

• LOR for Masters
• SOP Samples for MS
• LOR for Phd
• SOP for Internship
• SOP for Phd
• Check Visa Status
• Motivation Letter Format
• Motivation Letter for Internship
• F1 Visa Documents Checklist

Career Prospects

• Popular Courses after Bcom in Abroad
• Part Time Jobs in Australia
• Part Time Jobs in USA
• Salary after MS in Germany
• Salary after MBA in Canada
• Average Salary in Singapore
• Higher Studies after MBA in Abroad
• Study in Canada after 12th
• Most Demanding Engineering Fields

Trending Topics

• Best Education System in World
• Best Flying Schools in World
• Top Free Education Countries
• Best Countries to Migrate from India
• 1 Year PG Diploma Courses in Canada
• Germany Post Study Work Visa
• Post Study Visa in USA
• Packing List for Indian Students
• Data Science Vs Data Analytics
• Public Vs Private Universities in Germany
• Universities Vs Colleges
• Difference Between GPA and CGPA
• Undergraduate Vs Graduate
• MBA in UK Vs MBA in USA
• Degree Vs Diploma in Canada
• IELTS vs TOEFL
• Duolingo English Test vs. IELTS
• Canada Vs India
• Why Study in Canada
• Cost of Living in Canada
• Education System in Canada
• SOP for Canada
• Summer Intake in Canada
• Spring Intake in Canada
• Winter Intake in Canada
• Accommodation in Canada for Students
• Average Salary in Canada
• Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
• Why Study in USA
• Cost of Studying in USA
• Spring Intake in USA
• Winter Intake in USA
• Summer Intake in USA
• STEM Courses in USA
• Scholarships for MS in USA
• Acceptable Study Gap in USA
• Interesting Facts about USA
• Free USA course
• Why Study in UK
• Cost of Living in UK
• Cost of Studying in UK
• Education System in UK
• Summer Intake in UK
• Spring Intake in UK
• Student Visa for UK
• Accommodation in UK for Students
• Scholarships in UK
• Why Study in Germany
• Cost of Studying in Germany
• Education System in Germany
• SOP for Germany
• Summer Intake in Germany
• Winter Intake in Germany
• Study Visa for Germany
• Accommodation in Germany for Students
• Free Education in Germany

Country Guides

• Study in UK
• Study in Canada
• Study in USA
• Study in Australia
• SOP Samples for Canada Student Visa
• US F1 Visa Guide for Aspirants

Exams Guides

• Duolingo Test Pattern

Recommended Reads

• Fully Funded Masters Guide
• SOP Samples For Australia
• Scholarships for Canada
• Data Science Guide
• SOP for MS in Computer Science
• Study Abroad Exams
• Alumni Connect
• Booster Program
• Scholarship

GPA CALCULATOR Convert percentage marks to GPA effortlessly with our calculator!

Expense calculator plan your study abroad expenses with our comprehensive calculator, ielts band calculator estimate your ielts band score with our accurate calculator, education loan calculator discover your eligible loan amount limit with our education calculator, university partner explore growth and opportunities with our university partnership, accommodation discover your perfect study abroad accommodation here, experience-center discover our offline centers for a personalized experience, our offices visit us for expert study abroad counseling..

• 18002102030
• Study Abroad

Ph.D. in USA Without GRE - Things to Know

• GRE Registration
• GRE Exam Dates
• GRE Exam Fee
• GRE Syllabus
• GRE Test Centers
• How to Study for GRE

Updated on 13 April, 2023

Mrinal Mandal

Study abroad expert.

Pursuing a  Ph.D. in USA without GRE   is possible, although only a limited number of institutions provide this allowance for applicants. The United States of America (USA) has retained its position as one of the most-preferred global Ph.D. destinations for international students. With its cutting-edge research and academic infrastructure and a globally-recognized curriculum, the USA offers the best Ph.D. programs and opportunities for students.

Table of Contents

Ph.d. admission in usa without gre- eligibility criteria, major universities in usa without gre for ph.d., cost of studying ph.d. in usa, download these useful guides to ace your gre preparation.

• Job Prospects after Ph.D. in the USA

Frequently Asked Questions

Important resources for duolingo & toefl exam.

You can apply for a Ph.D. without GRE in the USA at some institutions, provided you meet other eligibility criteria. While these vary across institutions, here are some general criteria that applicants have to meet: 

• Minimum GPA requirements (varies across universities) and bachelor’s/master’s degrees in related fields. 
• Some institutions require minimum professional experience 
• You may have to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) or sit for a written and oral examination in order to qualify for the Ph.D. program. 
• References from academic supervisors or letters of recommendation may be required to  study Ph.D. in USA without GRE . 
• English language proficiency could be a criterion at some institutions as well. 

You should check the official websites of universities carefully for more information in this regard. 

Some universities offer Ph.D. programs in the USA without mandatory GRE requirements. This is only an indicative list, and other universities could offer the same, depending on the doctoral program and other parameters.

While the cost of studying Ph.D. vary across universities; the average figure is between $28-55,000 as per estimates.

Recommended Reads:

Job Prospects after Ph.D. in the USA 

The job prospects are bright for applicants successfully completing their PhD programs in the USA. The average salary is $101,000 per year as per Payscale. Here are some high-paying job profiles and average salaries for PhDs in the country according to Payscale. 

• Research Scientist- $64-129,000
• Data Scientist- $79-138,000 
• Assistant Professor- $51-98,000 
• Physical Therapist- $60-85,000 
• Research Scientist (Biotechnology)- $71-124,000
• Senior Research Scientist (Biotechnology)- $80-139,000 
• Professor- $57-143,000
• Associate Professor- $63-140,000 
• Software Engineer- $81-143,000
• Clinical Psychologist- $57-119,000

Study Abroad Preparation Course

What does the Course include:

• 12 Weeks of Dedicated Coaching to Build a robust profile for Top 1% Universities
• SOP & Personal Statements For Academic Writing
• 25 hours of live online classes with mock tests for IELTS
• Visa, University Application & Submission
• Country-specific Support with Education loan Guidance
• International Faculty Masterclass

Name some universities in the USA without GRE for a Ph.D.?

There are a limited number of universities in the USA that accept Ph.D. applications without GRE scores. Some of them include MIT, Northwestern University, the University of Idaho, and others.

Can I opt for a Ph.D. in the USA without GRE?

Yes, you can choose to do your Ph.D. in the USA without the GRE. However, you will have a limited number of institutions to choose from in this regard. It is recommended that you get your GMAT scores instead.

What Ph.D. programs don’t require GRE?

Many Ph.D. courses offered by leading universities do not require GRE scores. For example, the Doctor of Philosophy course at Northwestern University does not require GRE scores. There are many such options available for aspirants.

Can I go to the USA without GRE?

There are many universities and colleges that may take applications without GRE scores at the master's or Ph.D. levels. However, you will have to either furnish GMAT scores in place of GRE or meet other stringent criteria at these institutions.

Duolingo Exam Eligibility

The Duolingo English test does not require any academic transcripts or certificates for qualification. Anyone willing to assess his/her English language proficiency can take the test from any part of the world.

The Duolingo English test pattern is planned and designed using Data Forensics and Artificial Intelligence technology to maintain the clarity of the test.

Duolingo English Test Fees

The Duolingo exam fees are significantly lower than IELTS and TOEFL because of its unique testing pattern.

Duolingo Exam Validity

Like any certificate, once you receive your result for the Duolingo English Test, validity is for 2 years. The only caveat is that you must retake the exam within this time frame to verify that your English language skills have progressed.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK

Major UK universities are also opening up to the idea of Duolingo test results to analyze the candidate’s English proficiency. With the rising number of Duolingo accepted universities in UK for 2022, you will find some great options.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA

1,326 universities in the USA accept Duolingo test scores for enrolling students. Some of these reputed institutions are listed below.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia

Indeed, we have established all the right reasons one should opt for a Duolingo test, but the main question remains unanswered! What are the universities that accept the Duolingo test in Australia?

List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada

Aspirants can find out the Duolingo accepted universities in Canada from the list provided below. If students want to enroll in any of the universities in Canada, taking the Duolingo test will be an added advantage.

Duolingo Exam Registration

Duolingo English test registration is a hassle-free procedure. To register for the exam, one needs to click on the 'Take The Test' and fill in all the necessary information.

Duolingo Exam Syllabus

There is no defined Duolingo English test syllabus as the test assesses you on your existing knowledge of the language. A language fluency test requires your aggregate reading, writing, and grammar skills.

Duolingo Exam Results

As per the official website, you receive the test results within two days after the exam. So, the Duolingo English test results do not keep you waiting for long.

TOEFL exam registration should be done four months prior to the examination date, as walk-in registrations are not allowed. Photo ID proofs like passports are compulsory while registering.

TOEFL Exam Syllabus

The TOEFL exam syllabus is divided into four sections–writing, speaking, reading, and listening. Students are required to solve integrated tasks that test various English language skills.

TOEFL exam measures the English language proficiency of individuals willing to study abroad, therefore, there is no specific eligibility criterion that ETS has set for the exam.

It is vital that candidates get an idea of the examination pattern and the entire syllabus in advance. This will help them plan out their study and practice schedules better, enabling the achievement of their coveted TOEFL scores.

The fee for the TOEFL exam in India is slightly higher in comparison to other entrance tests, it is recommended that the aspirants take the test only once or twice.

The TOEFL minimum score is 0 while the TOEFL maximum score is 120. A good average TOEFL score is usually around 78-79 for admissions into leading global universities.

Universities Accepting TOEFL in Canada

However, international students must prove their English fluency before applying to Canadian schools. One of the globally accepted language proficiency examinations is TOEFL. This article will tell you more about TOEFL accepting universities in Canada.

Here is a list of the best TOEFL preparation books that you should check out carefully.

Important Exams

Important resources for gre, get free consultation for gre, refer your friend & earn upto ₹15000.

Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.

TRENDING SEARCHES

• University Of Hertfordshire
• University Of East Anglia
• Chichester University
• University Of Roehampton
• Middlesex University
• Leeds Trinity University
• Queen Mary University Of London
• Nottingham Trent University
• York St John University
• University Of Gloucestershire
• Describe an interesting Song
• Collocation For Ielts
• Describe your Favourite Singer
• Difference between Paragraph & Essay
• Describe your Favourite Movie
• Describe a Cafe you like to visit
• IELTS Exam Pattern
• Childhood Memories
• Largest Species of Penguin
• IELTS Test Report Form
• IELTS Common Spelling Mistake
• Send IELTS Score To Universities
• Mordern Form Of Communication
• Importance of IElTS Coaching
• Online Shopping Essay
• Describe an English Class Lesson
• Talk about an important event you celebrated
• Mobile Phone for Student Essay
• Describe an interesting Neighbour
• Describe your first day at School
• Describe a positive change in your Life
• Every Year Several Language Die Out
• Describe a chocolate you didnt like
• Srh University Heidelberg

The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.

Call us to clear your doubts at:

• Grievance Redressal
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Report a Vulnerability
• University Partner
• Accommodation
• IELTS Band Calculator
• Download Study Abroad App
• Education Loan Calculator
• upGrad Abroad Office
• Expense Calculator
• Knowledge Base
• Business Partner

Top Destinations

Masters programs.

• MBA in Germany, IU
• MIM in Germany, IU
• MS in CS in Germany, IU
• MS in Data Analytics in USA, Clark University
• MS in Project Management in USA, Clark University
• MS in IT in USA, Clark University
• MS in Data Analytics & Visualization in USA, Yeshiva University
• MS in Artificial Intelligence in USA, Yeshiva University
• MS in Cybersecurity, Yeshiva University

Study Abroad Important Blogs

• Cost of Study:
• Cost of Studying in Canada
• Cost of Studying in Ireland
• Cost of Studying in Australia
• Cost of living:
• Cost of living in UK
• Cost of living in Australia
• Cost of living in Germany
• Cost of living in Ireland
• Cost of living in Canada
• Cost of Living in Singapore
• Cost of Living in Netherlands
• Career Opportunities:
• Career Opportunities in Australia
• Career Opportunities in Germany
• Job Opportunities in After MS in Canada
• Job Opportunities After MBA in Australia
• Job Opportunities After MS in UK
• IELTS Exam Resources:
• IELTS Registration
• Academic IELTS
• IELTS Band Score
• IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Slot Booking
• IELTS Band Score Chart
• IELTS Score for UK
• IELTS Score for USA
• Validity of IELTS Score
• IELTS Speaking Topics
• IELTS Reading Tips
• How to Prepare for IELTS at Home Without Coaching
• IELTS Preparation Books
• Types of IELTS Exam
• IELTS Academic vs General
• IELTS Exam Fee
• IELTS Results
• IELTS Essay
• IELTS Exam Dates
• Top Streams:
• Fashion Designing Courses in Australia
• Accounting Courses in Canada
• Management Courses in Canada

• Top Colleges
• Top Courses
• Entrance Exams
• Admission 2024
• Study Abroad
• Study in Canada
• Study in UK
• Study in USA
• Study in Australia
• Study in Germany
• IELTS Material
• Scholarships
• Sarkari Exam
• Visual Stories
• College Compare
• Write a review
• Login/ Register
• Login / Register

How to Pursue PhD in USA without GRE?

Mar 4, 2024 | 4 min read

Students looking to pursue PhD in USA without GRE need to fulfill additional requirements. Check out top universities, eligibility, application process, and more.

The GRE is a prerequisite for admission to top universities in the United States offering graduate programs. However, it is possible to pursue a PhD in USA without GRE. For those PhD programs that do not require GRE scores, there are other requirements you must meet to be considered.

The purpose of this article is to help you explore the top universities in USA without GRE for PhD, popular programs, eligibility requirements, GRE waiver universities, and much more.

Table of Contents

Top Universities in USA for PhD without GRE

Eligibility requirements for phd in usa without gre, how to apply for phd in the usa without gre, list of gre waiver universities in usa 2022-2023, masters without gre in usa.

In the following table, you can find the best universities in USA to pursue PhD without GRE, along with the PhD programs offered by these universities:

Walden University

Walden University's doctorate program is designed for students who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge of management theory as well as its modern applications. Walden University's Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is one of the top choices among management students seeking PhD programs in the United States without GRE due to its focus areas like international business, human resource management, marketing, finance, international business, accounting, global supply chain management, etc. 

California Southern University

California Southern University offers a behavioral sciences program that provides a Doctorate in Psychology without any GRE requirements. There are several programs that students must complete before they can take a PhD at California Southern University. This program helps you learn about the practical applications of psychology as well as psychology and personality theories. Students who complete this course are qualified to practice clinical psychology within California. 

Nova Southeastern University

The doctoral program in Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University provides career opportunities in research fields. The purpose of this PhD program is to build a thorough understanding of the theoretical ideas related to the different areas of family therapy. As a student in this program, you'll learn how both qualitative and quantitative methodologies are valuable in this study area.

Read More:  Nova Southeastern University

Argosy University

Argosy University’s PhD program is mainly designed to teach research scholars with applicable skills required in clinical practice. Furthermore, it devotedly makes it certain that students are trained efficiently to reduce psychological dysfunction. 

This research degree combines theoretical, practical, and research elements to ensure that students have the necessary knowledge to contribute to various psychological domains. This university allows you to pursue a PhD in the United States without taking the GRE.

Smith College

This PhD program makes sure that students are well-equipped to spread awareness about social work and its practice. Here, students understand the need to develop and pursue research on clinical social work. This program enhances students’ ability to think critically vis-a-vis understanding the importance and skills necessary in the field of clinical social work.

Read More: Smith College

When seeking alternatives to the GRE, you should first learn about the PhD admission criteria in the United States. Though course requirements vary by course and university, the following are some basic qualifying requirements for pursuing a PhD in the USA:

• Students must pursue a master's degree
• Applicants must provide academic transcripts from previous institutions. If the certificate or transcript is not written in English, it must be translated.
• An SOP/essay of 2000 words will be required. You must briefly describe your research interest in the purpose statement.
• You must qualify for one of the language tests, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
• At least three reference letters from a professional academician.
• A GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0 in a post-baccalaureate degree is required by some universities.

When applying for a PhD in the USA, you will find several universities that do not require GRE scores but prefer applications that include these scores. Below are the major alternatives for applying for a PhD in the USA without taking the GRE:

• You can apply to PhD programmes at US universities that do not require the GRE.
• You can choose from online or part-time PhD programs in the USA or the less-selective programs that do not require the GRE.
• You should apply for PhD programs that do not have GRE as an essential requirement. However, you must have a solid academic record, as well as recommendation letters and an exceptional research proposal, to be considered for such PhD courses. This way you can improve the other aspects of your application to make it stand out from the crowd.

Many universities have changed their entry requirements in response to COVID-19, making it easier for overseas students to get admission. Various colleges have waived the GRE and GMAT assessments for students, among other changes. The following is a list of universities in the United States that have a GRE waiver for the academic year 2022-2023:

• North Carolina State University
• Stanford University
• Princeton University
• New York University
• University of Michigan Ann-Arbor
• University of Maryland
• University of Washington
• Yale University
• University of South Florida
• Iowa State University
• University of Huddersfield
• Florida State University 
• Rice University
• University of Texas, Austin
• Texas A&M University
• Syracuse University

In addition to IELTS or TOEFL, several universities in the United States require prospective students to take the GRE exam. Students with non-technical backgrounds, on the other hand, find it difficult to pass the GRE exam. However, due to Covid 19, a number of universities offer a GRE waiver for international students to study in the USA. Here is a list of master's degree programs in the USA that do not require GRE:

• Boston University 
• Washington State University 
• University of Florida 
• San Jose State University
• National Louis University
• Alliant International University
• Oklahoma State University
• Point Park University
• Missouri Western State University
• City University of Seattle
• Rivier University
• Monroe College
• Trine University
• Fisher College
• Marymount California University
• Virginia International University
• International Technological University
• Montclair State University

POST YOUR COMMENT

Get Free Scholarship worth 25000 INR

• Harvard Business School →
• Doctoral Programs →

Admissions & Financial Support

Application requirements.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Outreach Events
• Tuition & Financial Support
• Application Requirements →

Admissions & Financial Support

Interested in applying to one of our fully funded PhD Programs? Before you begin, learn more about our application requirements. Please note that applicants are only required to possess a bachelors degree. Undergraduate applicants in their senior year are welcome to apply

We realize that the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, recent natural disasters, and other extenuating circumstances may have significant impacts on applicants’ academic and personal lives, including the ability to provide all required application materials prior to our stated deadlines. If this pertains to your circumstances, please review the information below for next steps.

Required Application Materials

• Completed online application form
• Statement of Purpose
• Personal Statement
• Transcripts for all college/university degrees and courses Self-reported transcripts are accepted for both all programs at the application stage. Applicants must upload copies of his/her transcripts to the online application system. Hard copy transcripts will only be required if admitted to a program, prior to enrollment.
• Current GMAT or GRE scores (see details below)
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers see details below)
• Three letters of recommendation (at least one from an academic source). Recommendation letters must be submitted online through the online application system. Hard copy recommendation letters will not be accepted.
• $105 application fee via credit card
• Optional writing sample (no more than 10 pages)

GMAT & GRE

All applicants are required to take either the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Submitted test scores are valid for no longer than five years. If you are applying for admission for Fall 2025, we will accept at-home versions of the GRE. You may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2020. There is no minimum test score requirement, and admissions committee does not have a preference in tests.

We accept both valid GMAT 10th Edition scores and scores from the new GMAT Focus exams. As writing is an essential component of the PhD program, all students must submit an official writing assessment. As the GMAT Focus lacks a writing section, HBS will contact you at the interview stage about taking the separate GMAC Business Writing Assessment if you submit a GMAT Focus score.

• Institution Codes for PhD Programs
• GMAT: HRL-X8-30

A department code is not required for score submission.

We realize that the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, recent natural disasters, and other extenuating circumstances may have significant impacts on applicants’ academic and personal lives, including the ability to provide all required application materials prior to our stated deadlines. If you are unable to take the GRE or GMAT before the deadline, we still encourage you to apply, even if your scores are missing. Our application form includes a section for you to let us know about any of your materials that may be unavailable or delayed.

International Applications

Adequate command of spoken and written English is required for admission. Applicants whose native language is other than English and who do not hold a Bachelor degree or its equivalent from an institution at which English is the language of instruction must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.

Submitted scores are valid for no longer than two years. If you are applying for admission for Fall 2025, we will accept at-home versions of the TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic. You may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2023. The committee prefers scores of at least 100 on the the TOEFL internet-based test and at least 7.5 on the IELTS test. Applicants are strongly encouraged to choose the TOEFL internet-based test when possible.

Institution Codes for Toefl score reports PhD programs: 3451

Instructions for submitting IELTS score reports Designate Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences as a recipient of your test results. Our address, for the record only, to identify us in the IELTS system, is 1350 Massachusetts Ave. Smith Campus Center 350, Cambridge, MA 02138. Paper test report forms will not be accepted at this address.

Accomodations for COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, or other extenuating circumstances

Reapplicants.

Applicants who applied last year are considered reapplicants. Those reapplying must submit a completely new application. The new application must include all required documents to be provided by the applicant - we will not re-use material previously submitted. These materials include an updated statement of purpose, transcripts, test score reports, updated letters of recommendation, the application fee, and any other supporting materials

Please note, Harvard University will accept no more than three applications from any one individual over the course of their lifetime. If your 2025 application is incomplete and you are denied admission, GSAS will not count it toward our lifetime limit of three total applications that an individual may submit due to the global pandemic.

APPLY FOR A PROGRAM

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My Portfolio
• Latest News
• Stock Market
• Biden Economy
• Stocks: Most Actives
• Stocks: Gainers
• Stocks: Losers
• Trending Tickers
• World Indices
• US Treasury Bonds
• Top Mutual Funds
• Highest Open Interest
• Highest Implied Volatility
• Stock Comparison
• Advanced Charts
• Currency Converter
• Basic Materials
• Communication Services
• Consumer Cyclical
• Consumer Defensive
• Financial Services
• Industrials
• Real Estate
• Mutual Funds
• Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer Cards
• Cash-back Cards
• Rewards Cards
• Travel Cards
• Credit Card Offers
• Best Free Checking
• Student Loans
• Personal Loans
• Car Insurance
• Mortgage Refinancing
• Mortgage Calculator
• Morning Brief
• Market Domination
• Market Domination Overtime
• Asking for a Trend
• Opening Bid
• Stocks in Translation
• Lead This Way
• Good Buy or Goodbye?
• Financial Freestyle
• Capitol Gains
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Yahoo Finance

I'm a yale graduate but can't afford to live on my own, so i share an apartment with my mom. i have no plans to move out..

After graduating college, I couldn't find a full-time job, so I moved into my mother's apartment.

Multigenerational living is heavily stigmatized in American culture but valued in my family.

My mother's support has allowed me to thrive, and our relationship has never been stronger.

In May 2021, I prepared to graduate from Yale University with a degree in molecular biology. Instead of pride in my accomplishment or excitement to finally enter adulthood, I was filled with dread.

I had applied to over 60 job openings throughout my senior year but could not secure a full-time position in any field — let alone the highly specialized field for which I'd been trained. I had no job or plan, so two days after my graduation ceremony, I moved into my mother's rent-stabilized two-bedroom apartment in Queens.

For the first summer I lived in New York, I worked odd jobs like babysitting, teaching short-term writing workshops, and editing high schoolers' college essays. I revised my résumé and sent out a job application every day. I've always been passionate about writing, so I expanded my range to include literary and publishing jobs. No bites.

The salary ranges for every entry-level position I applied for were well below what I would need to live in New York City without my parents' help. Even with a full-time job, I wouldn't be able to afford to move out. But I ended up right where I needed to be.

My mom welcomed me back home after graduation

My mother immigrated to the US from Ecuador when she was 8 years old, and my father from Mexico when he was 9. The three of us are incredibly close. I was raised in Rhinebeck, a small town in the Hudson Valley, which is predominantly white.

Our family's cultural values constantly clashed with those of my peers' families, especially regarding multigenerational living. My friends' parents constantly emphasized to them that "the minute you turn 18, you're out."

Those families seem to represent the norm around the US. In 2022, the Pew Research Center found that  only 13%  of non-Hispanic white Americans live in multigenerational households, compared to 26% of Hispanic and Black Americans.

In contrast, throughout my life, my parents made it clear that if I ever needed to live with them again after college , no matter the reason, they would welcome me with open arms. My father has always said, "We're not just a family. We're a team. Whatever you want to do, we will support you in any way we can."

My family's culture normalizes multigenerational living , so I felt comfortable moving in with my mother.

I love living with my mother and have no plans to leave

Six months after graduating, I finally got a 15-hour-a-week position as a marketing assistant at a literary nonprofit. My mother was thrilled I had found a job I was passionate about and over the moon that I would have to keep living with her.

Overall, it's been better than I could've imagined. We eat dinner together most weeknights and then watch an episode or two of whatever TV show we're binging together. On weekends, we go to the beach or concerts in the East Village. We even went to Queens Pride together for the first time.

This time together has only brought us closer together, and our relationship has never been stronger than it is now. I am grateful for this time we have together.

I still work for the same nonprofit. Though my hours and pay rate have increased, I am still not full-time, but I'm fine with that. I love the work I do and the people I do it with. That means I will be living with my mother for the foreseeable future, and I am OK with that. Not having to worry about making New York City rent allows me to save most of my income.

I use the extra hours in my day to write. It's paid off: My first book will come out next February, and I couldn't have done any of it without my mother's support.

Read the original article on Business Insider

• Individual College Courses Undergraduate Certificates Graduate Certificates Associate Degrees Bachelor's Degrees Master's Degrees " tabindex="0"> View All Undergraduate Degrees > " tabindex="0"> View All Graduate Degrees > " tabindex="0"> View All Degree Programs >
• Accounting Business Human Resource Management Sales and Marketing Project Management Master’s of Project Management (MPM) Master's of Business Administration (MBA) " tabindex="0"> View All Business Programs >
• Health Administration Health Information Technology Health Information Management Medical Billing and Coding " tabindex="0"> View All Health Programs >
• Artificial Intelligence Cyber Security Engineering Technology Information Technology and Networking Media Arts and Technology Software and Information Systems Website Design Certificate " tabindex="0"> View All Tech Certificates > " tabindex="0"> View All Technology Programs >
• Master's of Business Administration (MBA) Master's of Accounting and Finance Master's of Human Resource Master's of Information Technology Master's of Project Management " tabindex="0"> View All Graduate Programs >
• Understand Tuition Costs & Fees Payment Plans Student Loans
• Financial Aid How to Apply for Financial Aid Scholarship & Grants State-funded Programs Employer Tuition Assistance Military Benefits Alumni & Family Tuition Savings Contact Us
• Undergraduate Graduate Transfer Student International Military & Veteran High School Graduates Adult Learners
• Admission Process Our Academic Standards Our Faculty Accreditations Academic Catalogs Prior Learning Assessment School + Work Balance Understand Tuition Costs & Fees Contact Us
• Online Education How Online Classes Work? Find Campus Locations Learning with Technology
• Student Success & Testimonials Academic Calendar Academic Catalogs Alumni Network
• Our Guiding Principles Our Commitment Our Support Financial Aid School + Work Balance Student Online Tools DeVry Blog Disability Services Contact Us
• Career Resources Career Services How to Choose a Career Careers in Business Careers in Healthcare Careers in Technology
• About DeVry University Keller Graduate School of Management Accreditations Center for Cybersecurity
• Our Faculty Student Success & Testimonials AI Resource Center
• DeVry Blog Find Campus Locations Contact Us
• Request Info Apply Now

Degrees & Programs

• By Degree Level Individual College Courses Undergraduate Certificates Graduate Certificates Associate Degrees Bachelor's Degrees Master's Degrees View All Undergraduate Degrees > View All Graduate Degrees > View All Degree Programs >
• Business Accounting Business Human Resource Management Sales and Marketing Project Management Master’s of Project Management (MPM) Master's of Business Administration (MBA) View All Business Programs >
• Healthcare Health Administration Health Information Technology Health Information Management Medical Billing and Coding View All Health Programs >
• Technology Artificial Intelligence Cyber Security Engineering Technology Information Technology and Networking Media Arts and Technology Software and Information Systems Website Design Certificate View All Tech Certificates > View All Technology Programs >
• Keller Graduate School of Management Master's of Business Administration (MBA) Master's of Accounting and Finance Master's of Human Resource Master's of Information Technology Master's of Project Management View All Graduate Programs >

Tuition & Financial Aid

• Tuition & Expenses Understand Tuition Costs & Fees Payment Plans Student Loans
• Paying for College Financial Aid How to Apply for Financial Aid Scholarship & Grants State-funded Programs Employer Tuition Assistance Military Benefits Alumni & Family Tuition Savings Contact Us
• By Applicant Type Undergraduate Graduate Transfer Student International Military & Veteran High School Graduates Adult Learners
• Admission Assistance Admission Process Our Academic Standards Our Faculty Accreditations Academic Catalogs Prior Learning Assessment School + Work Balance Understand Tuition Costs & Fees Contact Us
• Student Experience
• Learning Experience Online Education How Online Classes Work? Find Campus Locations Learning with Technology
• Academic Journey Student Success & Testimonials Academic Calendar Academic Catalogs Alumni Network
• Student CARE Our Guiding Principles Our Commitment Our Support Financial Aid School + Work Balance Student Online Tools DeVry Blog Disability Services Contact Us
• Career Support Career Resources Career Services How to Choose a Career Careers in Business Careers in Healthcare Careers in Technology

About DeVry

• AI Resource Center
• Workforce Solutions
• Transfer Students
• Student Portal Login

855.890.3001

Have a question?

We are here to help. Connect with our DeVry University representatives.

Take the Lead

Here at DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management, you can prepare for what’s next in your career journey with business and technology programs designed to help you develop next-level leadership skills.

10-Course MBA: Earn your MBA in as few as 10 courses when you pursue your degree without a specialization. 1

Stackable Programs: Qualifying credits earned in our graduate certificate programs can be applied toward an eligible master’s degree. 2

Flexibility: Complete our 8-week class sessions online or in a hybrid format and choose between accelerated, normal and part-time schedule options. 3

Up-to-date Curriculum: Our courses are regularly updated to ensure you learn the latest processes, technology and skills for today’s careers. 

No GRE or GMAT Required: Submit your application today—GRE and GMAT test scores are not required for admission.   

Find Your Program

Explore a variety of programs in areas like accounting, project management, information technology, human resources, analytics and health services. 

Classes Start Monday, September 2, 2024

Contact us to connect with your dedicated Keller Admissions Rep today.

Online Admissions

An Award-Winning University

For the third consecutive year, DeVry University was named one of America's Top Online Colleges in a study of online students by Newsweek in partnership with Statista.

Accreditation and Recognition Matter

Being accredited means we’ve met rigorous quality standards and are committed to giving you the education you deserve. We're proud to be accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org .

DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org . The University’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation.

The Keller Difference

At Keller Graduate School of Management, we’re here for you from the moment you connect with us, to graduation day and beyond.

Student Resources

We support you when and where you need it with easy access to 24/7 tutoring, e-library resources and courses—all via our online platform and mobile app.

See how we elevate your learning experience and success through our commitment to student care, 1:1 support and diversity.

Career Services

Amplify your job search. Build your resume, explore job leads and networking opportunities and prep for interviews with side-by-side support from our Career Services team.

Experienced Faculty

With real-world experience in their field of study, our faculty use hands-on learning to create a dynamic classroom experience.

Affordability

Build a more affordable tuition plan. Learn about scholarships, grants and financial aid options available to those who apply and qualify. 4  

50+ Years and Growing

Founded in 1973, Keller has helped more than 70,000 students pursue their education goals.

Your Future Begins Today

Big leaps start with small steps. Kick off your journey by connecting with our Admissions Team. We’re here to answer any questions you have about our programs, financial aid options, career support and so much more. 

FAQ: Tuition and Expenses

Is keller graduate school of management accredited.

DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org . The University's Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation.

How much does Keller Graduate School of Management cost?

The cost of your Keller degree or certificate program can vary based on several factors such as the program you choose, any scholarships or grants 4 you may qualify for and any qualifying transfer credits you may have. To learn more about our cost per credit hour, visit our Tuition page . 

What is Keller Graduate School of Management ranked?

From 2022-2024, DeVry University has been named one of America's Top Online Colleges in a study of online students by Newsweek in partnership with Statista.

Is Keller Graduate School part of DeVry?

Yes, Keller Graduate School of Management is our graduate school here at DeVry University. At Keller, we offer our graduate certificate and master’s degree programs with all the same great student resources, career services and individual support we offer at DeVry. 

1 Eligibility and application of course waivers vary based on the type of course waiver credit earned, the student’s enrolled location and/or the student’s state of residence. For more information, please refer to the Course Waiver section of the Keller Academic Catalog.

2 At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied. Future programmatic changes could impact the application of credits to a future program. Refer to the academic catalog for details.

3 Program and course availability vary by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.

4 Students may participate in only one DeVry University-based scholarship, grant or group tuition benefit program at a time. Those who qualify for more than one program will be presumed to accept the program with the highest reduction in by- session cost. Students who qualify for and prefer a different tuition benefit program must confirm, in writing, the alternate program in which they wish to participate prior to starting classes at DeVry. Scholarship and grant terms and eligibility conditions are subject to change. Scholarships are available to those who apply and qualify. Click here for more information.

By Degree Level

• Individual College Courses
• Undergraduate Certificates
• Graduate Certificates
• Associate Degrees
• Bachelor's Degrees
• Master's Degrees
• "> View All Undergraduate Degrees >
• "> View All Graduate Degrees >
• "> View All Degree Programs >
• Human Resource
• Sales and Marketing
• Project Management
• Master’s of Project Management (MPM)
• Master's of Business Administration (MBA)
• "> View All Business Programs >
• Health Administration
• Health Information Technology
• Health Information Management
• Medical Billing & Coding
• "> View All Health Programs >
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Engineering Technology
• Media Arts and Technology
• Software and Information Systems
• Website Design Certificate
• "> View All Tech Certificates >
• "> View All Technology Programs >

Keller Graduate School of Management

• Master's of Business Administration
• Master's of Accounting and Finance
• Master's of Human Reosurces
• Master's of Information Technology
• Master's of Project Management
• "> View All Graduate Programs >

Tuition & Expenses

• Understand Tuition Costs & Fees
• Payment Plans
• Student Loans

Paying for College

• Financial Aid
• Scholarship & Grants
• State-funded Programs
• Employer Tuition Assistance
• Military Benefits
• Alumni & Family Tuition Savings

Admissions & Catalogs

• Admissions Overview
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Transfer Applicants
• Working Adult Applicants
• Academic Catalogs

Experience & Information

• Academic Calendar
• Transcript Requests
• Accountability Principles
• Title IX Information
• COVID-19 Updates and Online Resources
• About DeVry University
• Campus Locations
• Accreditation + State Authorization
• Student Testimonials
• Center for Cybersecurity
• " tabindex="0"> View All Undergraduate Degrees >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Graduate Degrees >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Degree Programs >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Business Programs >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Health Programs >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Tech Certificates >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Technology Programs >
• " tabindex="0"> View All Graduate Programs >
• Terms Of Service
• Privacy Policy
• California Employee Privacy Policy
• Careers at DeVry
• Accessibility Statement
• Student Consumer Information
• Student Complaint Procedure
• California State Disclosures
• California School Performance Fact Sheets
• DeVry University California BPPE Annual Report
• California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education

In New York, DeVry University operates as DeVry College of New York. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org . The University’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. DeVry is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Arlington Campus: 1400 Crystal Dr., Ste. 120, Arlington, VA 22202. DeVry University is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission,  www.tn.gov/thec . Lisle Campus: 4225 Naperville Rd, Suite 400, Lisle, IL 60532. Unresolved complaints may be reported to the Illinois Board of Higher Education through the online complaint system https://complaints.ibhe.org/ . View DeVry University’s complaint process  https://www.devry.edu/compliance/student-complaint-procedure.html Program availability varies by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.

© DeVry Educational Development Corp. All rights reserved.

The 15 Graduate Schools With the Best Return on Investment

The post-college job landscape can be daunting. Should you just go to grad school instead? That depends on what you plan to study.

Obviously not all grad programs are created equal. And not everyone has the resources to spend another five to six figures on a degree with not-so-great financial or professional prospects (or worse, one that no one will have any use for by the time you’re 30). So we asked IvyWise for a few guidelines for gauging whether a master's degree is the right path for you.

First, ask yourself why. Start with some soul-searching, advises Team IvyWise. Be honest about your motivations. Are you a recent college graduate who is unsure about what you want to do? Then taking time off to reflect, and then getting a job that puts your bachelor’s to use, is better than spending more years and more money on another degree you’re not even that excited about. On the other hand, if you are crystal clear about your long-term career goals—and how this degree will help achieve them—then grad school may be worth it. Have C-suite ambitions? Then a master’s is essential. According to a 2021 study , half of North American CEOs have one, while 74% of Europe’s top executives do.

When should you go? “There are advantages to working in the field for a few years prior to applying to graduate schools, as it can give you a better understanding of yourself, in particular the knowledge and skill gaps you need to fill to advance in your chosen field,” Team IvyWise says. “It also allows you to contribute your professional experiences in the classroom.” Plus, some employers will even pay for grad school. But again, it all depends on your personal goals. Do keep in mind, though, that certain programs, especially MBAs, often want applicants to have work experience.

How to find the right program. Ultimately, you know what’s best for you, but look for certain clues. For example, “programs that emphasize real-world application in their curriculums, and where you can participate in internships and applied learning projects, contribute to industry and academic publications, and receive mentorship,” Team IvyWise says.

And then there is the ROI. That specialized, skills-based expertise is becoming an increasingly valuable asset should be a factor when determining whether a certain program is going to be worth it in the end. To help narrow it all down, we asked IvyWise's consultants for a list of the degrees (and the top schools for each) with the best return on investment . Below, with insight gleaned from metrics like job opportunities, student feedback, and earning potential, among other things—as well as with the help of resources like the U.S. World News Report, Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce, and the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity —they make the case for which MBA programs, STEM subjects, and liberal arts degrees are really going to pay off.

The Best MBA Programs

Despite the oft-cited opinion that going to business school doesn’t amount to more than a very costly networking exercise, there are plenty of reasons to justify the time and financial investment it takes to obtain an MBA, especially if you want to change careers, switch industries, or just earn more money. According to IvyWise's consultants, in today’s job market an increasing number of employers are looking at grad school degrees as an indicator that candidates have acquired valuable skills, including leadership, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

To maximize your investment towards an MBA, “look for programs with far-reaching industry alumni networks and robust career services,” advises the IvyWise team, who created a list of the top business schools that are worth it, based on data both quantitative (median starting salary, tuition, ranking) and qualitative (including skills acquired, career paths, and fellowship opportunities).

Georgia Institute of Technology

SCHELLER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Atlanta, Georgia

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $189,539 Lifetime return on investment: $1,623,056

“Georgia Tech’s MBA program focuses on the intersection of business and technology, offering 14 STEM-designated concentrations, including sustainability and the TI:GER program, which prepares students to become technology innovators.”

University of Texas at Austin

MCCOMBS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Austin, Texas

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $207,935 Lifetime ROI: $1,879,816

“McCombs’s home city of Austin is consistently named one of the best cities in the U.S. for business, technology, entrepreneurship, startups, job growth, real estate, and livability, so students will surely be able to explore their professional interests in a wide variety of fields.”

Indiana University

KELLEY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Bloomington, Indiana

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $170,927 Lifetime ROI: $1,593,023

“Kelley’s MBA program is particularly strong in professional development, beginning during orientation with Me, Inc., a one-of-a-kind business professional development workshop that guides students to identify the right professional fits for their skills, personalities, and values—and ultimately setting them up for long-term success.”

University of Michigan

STEPHEN M. ROSS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Ann Arbor, Michigan

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $218,806 Lifetime ROI: $2,300,312

“UMich’s MBA offering is known for REAL (Ross Experiences in Action-Based Learning), a program that allows students to learn business by actually doing business. Hallmarks of the approach includes providing resources for new business ideas, offering seven-week-long consulting projects in 20 countries, letting students manage one of six student-led investment funds overseeing millions of dollars, and having them manage real businesses.”

Duke University

FUQUA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Durham, North Carolina

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $228,716 Lifetime ROI: $2,646,085

“Fuqua’s Global Academic Travel Experience (GATE) encourages students to dive into international business for two months, starting with six weeks of interactive coursework on a particular country’s history and current economic landscape, followed by an intense 2-week tour to the country or region studied that includes meetings with business and government leaders in a wide variety of industries and economic sectors.”

Top STEM Degrees

Engineering.

The School: MIT

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $386,193 Lifetime ROI: $6,534,312

“Engineering degrees are routinely in the top five highest earning master’s degrees. With jobs growing across the discipline and median annual salaries falling in the high $150,000 range for some areas, a career in engineering ensures growth and financial stability. MIT’s rank as the #1 school for engineering, plus its strong selection of graduate programs, world-class faculty, extensive industry pipelines, and cutting-edge lab facilities make MIT an excellent (and highly competitive) choice. The Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (MEng) program enables students to solve some of the world’s hardest problems and conduct groundbreaking research to drive progress in every sector touched by electrical engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence and decision-making.”

Computer Science

The School: Columbia University

FU FOUNDATION SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING & APPLIED SCIENCE New York, New York

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $463,450 Lifetime ROI: $6,041,342

“No surprise here, as steady career advancement and strong earning potential makes computer science a lucrative academic discipline. Particularly high-growth areas include AI, Machine Learning, Big Data, Cybersecurity, and Software Development. Columbia’s M.S. in Computer Science program provides advanced education in several tracks, including computational biology, natural language processing, and software systems, while also offering opportunities to participate in state-of-the-art research. In addition, its strong reputation, robust alumni network, well-connected faculty, and NYC location make it ideal for establishing industry connections and getting applied experience—and all contribute to the high ROI of the program.”

Applied & Computational Mathematics

The School: University of Washington, Seattle

DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED MATHEMATICS Seattle, Washington

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $169,280 Lifetime ROI: $909,219

“Actuaries and economists are some of the highest paying jobs in this field, but this is a discipline that can be applied across so many sectors, including finance, business, technology, government, scientific research, and healthcare. UW is internationally known for being at the forefront of cutting-edge research, and the Department of Applied Mathematics offers a welcoming environment that is also flexible for working professionals, thanks to both in-person and online options. As a top-rated public institution with strong value for money, UW is known for its exceptional research profile and collaborative faculty—not to mention the perks of its location in Seattle, and its proximity to beautiful natural settings.”

Architecture

The School: Notre Dame University

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE Notre Dame, Indiana

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $137,145 Lifetime ROI: $1,306,807

“As we face the worsening impacts of climate change, architects are at the forefront of thoughtful and sustainable design to adapt to new demands. Using alternative and recycled materials, engaging in eco-friendly design practices, and repurposing old buildings are some of the ways this field is evolving to meet society’s needs. Not to mention all the advances in technology, which make this a particularly exciting time to be an architect. A unique facet of Notre Dame’s Master of Architecture program is that all students are required to spend a semester in Rome to do a deep dive into Italy’s rich history of successful urbanism and lasting architecture. A classical approach with a focus on principled design and community is the Notre Dame program’s M.O., while the emphasis on academic advising and teaching assistant positions, as well as a 100% placement rate upon graduation, are some of the top reasons it is a stellar choice for those interested in architecture.”

The School: Ohio State University

COLLEGE OF NURSING Columbus, Ohio

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $113,590 Lifetime ROI: $686,656

“Two million new jobs will be added in the healthcare sector in the next 10 years, and in particular, there is a 38% projected growth for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioner roles. Practitioners, especially, are highly skilled medical professionals who enjoy a great degree of career fulfillment, versatility, and advancement. OSU’s option for a Graduate Entry Master of Science in Nursing welcomes students with a college degree in a different major to transition to the field after meeting specific prerequisites, while the traditional master’s program is designed for those who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in nursing. No matter which path a student chooses, the OSU College of Nursing is consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. and sets graduates up for success in roles across private practices, clinics, hospitals, managed care organizations, and governmental agencies and across specialties like pediatrics, nurse-midwifery, psychiatry, and women’s health.”

Top Liberal Arts Degrees

Applied psychology.

The School: University of Southern California

DANA & DAVID DORNSIFE COLLEGE OF LETTERS, ARTS, AND SCIENCES Los Angeles, California

Median annual salary 10 years after graduationn: $118,274 Lifetime ROI: $812,883

“A master’s in psychology will enable you to pursue work across industries, from education to healthcare to the private sector, and in various roles like school counseling, social work, corporate training, and criminology. With a projected 6% job growth in the next ten years, this is a great career path. USC’s applied psychology students explore how psychology fosters organizational success, setting them up for a wide variety of careers, including learning and development; user experience; diversity, equity, and inclusion; consumer insights; and organizational consulting. The program also has exciting global immersion components and robust career services. The emphasis on cross-sectoral applied training is apparent in the alumni who have jobs in large consulting firms, innovative tech companies, and media, as well as those traditional counseling roles. Plus, an online option provides flexibility for working professionals.”

Communications

The School: Northwestern University

SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION Evanston, Illinois

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $118,496 Lifetime ROI: $983,693

“Communications encompasses a broad range of roles across marketing, technical writing, human resources, public relations, social media, and journalism. Salaries and earning potential will vary widely across these areas, but at the higher end, the median salary for advertising, marketing, and promotions managers was $135,900 in 2019. Students pursuing a Master of Science in Communication at Northwestern can customize their programs to suit the skills and topics they are most passionate about, with innovative elective options like brand management, crisis communication management, generative AI & the media, and public persuasion. Northwestern’s MSC is one of the most user-friendly options out there, with a rolling admissions process, online modalities, and customizable curricular options. It also takes just one year to complete, making it a more affordable option.”

Human Resources

The School: Pepperdine University

GRAZIADIO BUSINESS SCHOOL Malibu, California

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $178,885 Lifetime ROI: $1,399,249

“According to the BLS, jobs in this sector will grow 5% between 2022 and 2032. Human Resource professionals can find particularly high paying jobs in the professional, scientific, and technical service industries. Pepperdine’s online Master of Science in Human Resources program offers a curriculum aligned with the official requirements of the Society for Human Resource Management and provides the relevant skills needed by modern HR professionals. A standout online option for busy professionals, the 16-month program features two immersion experiences in Los Angeles, which enables cohort community-building and knowledge application in professional settings. The program has an extensive global network and offers robust career development services, including one-on-one executive coaching.”

International Affairs & Public Policy

The School: American University

SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL SERVICE Washington, D.C.

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $120,343 Lifetime ROI: $565,479

“For those who enjoy public service and international engagement, careers in these fields can facilitate highly rewarding opportunities to make an impact on the local, national, or global levels. AU has two excellent schools for international affairs master’s degrees and public affairs and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as #5 in Global Policy and Administration, #12 in Public Policy, and #13 in Public Affairs. Students getting the M.A. in International Affairs Policy and Analysis (IAPA) self-design specializations by selecting courses in areas such as environmental policy, foreign policy, and peace-building, and apply their analytical skills and substantive experiences to real-world problems in the Integrated Policy Exercise course, a capstone experience. The Master in Public Policy (MPP) program emphasizes experiential learning opportunities in Washington, D.C., and students select from 11 concentrations, like Education Policy, Public Financial Management, and Cyber Policy and Management.”

The School: Johns Hopkins University

KRIEGER SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Baltimore, Maryland

Median annual salary 10 years after graduation: $166,959 Lifetime ROI: $1,560,302

“Providing an extremely useful and broadly applicable skill set, economics degrees can be leveraged in industry roles or for advanced study. Specialized skills will enable you to take on high-level positions, including those dealing in personal financial management, national budget concerns, or international lending. (According to the BLS, in 2022, econ master’s degree holders made about 15% more than those who just completed a bachelor’s degree.) JHU’s M.S. in Applied Economics program focuses on preparing students to support decision-making processes involving global markets and policy, while the M.S. in Financial Economics sets students up for careers that focus on modeling financial markets, forecasting trends, and elevating decision-making in both the public and private sectors. Multiple program modalities, three intake terms, and numerous electives make this a highly customizable option. Plus, Johns Hopkins’s MSFE has a lower tuition than similar programs in business schools. For those who want to pursue an in-person degree, the program’s D.C. campus scores high for professional networking and a vibrant city life. The program is also heavily focused on career placement, ensuring your time and money are well-spent.”

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Education @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Biggest Mistakes Students Make Applying to College

Do Parents Overstay During College Move-in Day?

College Art Museums Are Making the Grade

The Impossible Job of College President

The Best Public Universities

How to Hire a College Admissions Consultant

How the Superrich Do College Tours

The Power of a High School Network

Is BU the New MIT? The Top Alt-Ivies of 2024.

Here's What's Cool on College Campuses Right Now

This NYC Private School Is Graduating Rock Stars

Watch CBS News

We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Best graduate student loans for fall 2024

By Aly Yale

Edited By Angelica Leicht

Updated on: August 2, 2024 / 3:12 PM EDT / CBS News

Depending on what field you're planning to go into, graduate school might be a necessity. But even if it's not, you may still want an advanced degree to improve your earning or employment prospects.

It's an effective strategy . After all, having a master's degree or higher offers earnings about 20% higher than those with only a bachelor's degree, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Unfortunately, those advanced degrees don't come for free. The average cost of graduate school is just under $20,000 per year, the latest data shows — and that's for in-state tuition only. While federal student loans and aid can often help cover some of these costs, it may not be enough. If that's the case for you, private student loans can be an option to fill in the gaps. 

Start comparing the top student loan rates available to you here .

Here are the best private graduate student loans to consider: 

Best overall: College Ave

When it comes to private student loans for graduate school, College Ave is tops overall. The lender offers general graduate school loans as well as loans specifically for graduate students in dental, MBA, medical and law programs. Its interest rates are among the lowest we looked at and come in both fixed and variable options.

There are also four repayment plans to choose from, including a flat $25 payment during school. Loan terms range from five to 15 years. 

Learn more about your College Ave student loan options here .

Best for low rates: Sallie Mae

Sallie Mae offers low interest rates on both fixed-rate and variable-rate graduate loans. Fixed interest rates range from 3.99% to 14.48%, while variable rates range from 5.37% to 14.97% (including an autopay discount). 

There are zero origination fees tied to these loans, and you can get up to 48 months of payment deferment while doing an internship or fellowship. There's also a six-month grace period upon graduation with this lender.

Find out how affordable your student loans could be with Sallie Mae .

Best for no fees: Earnest

If you want to avoid fees when getting your graduate student loan, look to Earnest, which charges no origination, disbursement or late payment fees. You can also skip a payment once a year without penalty, and there are four repayment options to choose from. 

Another standout: Earnest offers a rare nine-month grace period after graduation vs. the six-month option offered by most lenders.

Check your private student loan options with Earnest today .

Best for borrowers with a cosigner: Ascent Funding

If you can find a creditworthy cosigner, you may to look to Ascent Funding for your graduate school loans. The lender offers some of the lowest rates around for cosigned loans, with fixed APRs starting at just 3.79%. Be aware, though, that its non-cosigned loans have APRs much higher (ranging from 8.65% to nearly 15%). 

There are also graduate loans for a number of programs, including MBA, medical school, dental school, law school, PhD programs, master's programs and health professions, and the maximum loan amounts can be as high as up to $400,000.

Start comparing your loan options from Ascent Funding now .

Best for students with bad credit: SoFi

If you don't have great credit, you may want to look to SoFi. Not only does the lender offer a number of cosigner options you can use to qualify , but as a member, you can also check your credit score and get access to financial advisor and career services, too. There are opportunities to earn cash for good grades as well, and there are several options for rate discounts.

Loans are available for graduation programs and certificates, and the minimum loan amount is just $5,000.

See what rate you could get with SoFi here .

Best for students with good credit: LendKey

If you've got good credit and are willing to set up autopay, you can get a rate as low as 3.99% with LendKey (or as low as 6% on variable-rate loans). The marketplace boasts a variety of loan options from credit unions nationwide and streamlines the application process on its digital platform. You can also refinance student loans through LendKey.

The bottom line

When getting any sort of loan — education or otherwise — make sure to shop around for your lender. Rates, fees, and loan offerings can vary widely between companies, so comparing several options can help ensure you get the best deal.

If you need help deciding what private student loan or lender to go with, reach out to a financial professional. They can point you toward the right options for your goals.

More from CBS News

Need to pay off $10,000 in credit card debt? 3 options you may not have considered

5 options for consolidating credit card debt with bad credit

Mortgage interest rates hit a 15-month low: How to get an even lower rate now

Thinking about filing for bankruptcy? Explore these 7 options first

• Student Loans

How The FAFSA Differs For Grad School

Updated: Jan 30, 2024, 10:41am

Returning to school for a graduate or professional degree is a big decision that more people are choosing. In fact, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) estimates that enrollment in master’s, doctoral and professional degree programs will increase 6% by 2031.

Graduate school can be expensive, but many students don’t realize financial aid is available. Besides loans, you can use grants, assistantships and work-study programs to finance your degree.

To access financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)—the same form you filled out during undergrad. However, the FAFSA works differently for graduate students.

Find the Best Private Student Loans of 2024

Do i need to file a fafsa for grad school.

Earning a master’s degree can help accelerate your career, but you may be worried about the high cost of graduate school—and with good reason. The average annual cost of tuition and fees is about $20,000 for full-time graduate students, according to the NCES.

However, there are many financial aid opportunities available, if, you fill out the FAFSA .

Submitting the form, which should take under an hour, could result in major savings. The most recent data from the NCES shows the following statistics for the 2019-2020 award year:

• 74% of graduate students received some form of financial aid
• 43% of graduate students received grants, averaging $11,300 per student
• 12% of graduate students received assistantships, worth an average value of $18,800
• 39% of graduate students took out direct unsubsidized loans
• 11% of graduate students loans took out direct PLUS loans

If you skip the FAFSA as a graduate student, you could miss out on valuable financial aid, including gift aid that doesn’t require repayment.

How Does the FAFSA Work for Grad School?

The FAFSA for grad school is pretty similar to the FAFSA for undergraduate students. You’ll need the following information for the FAFSA form:

• Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID to sign into StudentAid.gov
• Social Security number or Alien Registration number
• Account statements for your checking and savings accounts
• Information about investment accounts
• Federal income tax returns
• Records of untaxed income

However, the FAFSA for graduate school differs in several key ways:

• Dependency status. Almost all graduate students are considered independent for financial aid purposes . This means you’ll only have to enter your own income and asset information rather than your parents’.
• Aid options. Graduate students have different loan and aid options than undergraduate students. As a graduate student, the only loans you can qualify for are direct unsubsidized loans and grad PLUS , so you’re responsible for all interest that accrues on your loan. Most grad students are also ineligible for Pell Grants, though you may qualify for other types of grant aid.
• Borrowing limits. Undergraduate student loans have annual and aggregate borrowing limits . Graduate unsubsidized loans also have borrower caps, but grad PLUS loans have no borrower maximum. You can borrow up to the total school-certified cost of attendance.

Grad School FAFSA Eligibility

As with undergraduate students, graduate school applicants are only eligible for federal financial aid if they meet the following requirements:

• Are U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens
• Are planning to attend an accredited university in an eligible degree program
• Demonstrate financial need for programs like grants and work-study

In general, any degree you pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree is considered graduate school from a financial aid perspective. Graduate school financial aid includes financing for master’s degrees, business school and doctorate programs, as well as law, medical or dental school.

Financial Aid Options for Grad School

There are several forms of federal financial aid you can receive as a graduate student, based on your FAFSA information:

• Student loans. The government uses the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal student loans, which tend to have lower interest rates and more repayment options than private student loans for graduate school .
• Grants. You may be eligible for federal, state or local grants based on your FAFSA information. Grants are a form of gift aid and don’t need to be repaid. For federal grants, graduate students pursuing an education degree may be eligible for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.
• Work-study. Another federal program available to graduate students, the work-study program helps you get a part-time job to offset your education expenses.

Grad School Loan Limits and Fees

If you’re like most graduate students, you’ll borrow some money to pay for your degree. On average, graduate borrowers took out about $26,000 in loans for the 2019-20 school year alone. For federal loans, there are two borrowing options:

• Direct unsubsidized loans. Direct unsubsidized loans for graduate students have an interest rate of 7.05% for the 2023-24 school year. The annual borrowing limit is $20,500 and lifetime limit is $138,500; any federal loans you took out for your undergraduate degree also count toward the lifetime maximum. The loan disbursement fee for unsubsidized loans is 1.057%.
• Grad PLUS loans. Unlike direct unsubsidized loans, PLUS loans don’t have an annual or aggregate limit. You can borrow up to the total cost of attendance in your program. However, PLUS loans have the highest interest rate of all federal loan options, at 8.05% for the 2023-24 school year. They also have a disbursement fee of 4.228%.

What To Expect After You Submit Your Graduate FAFSA

Submit your FAFSA as soon as you can after the application opens each year. After you submit it, you’ll receive your federal Student Aid Report (SAR) . The SAR summarizes the information on your FAFSA and explains your eligibility for financial aid. For the 2024-25 award year and onward, the SAR will be replaced with the FAFSA Submission Summary.

Contact your intended school’s financial aid office to see if there are any other steps you need to complete. Some universities have their own financial aid applications you’ll have to submit, or you may have to send in additional information to be considered for scholarships or other institutional aid.

The university will review your FAFSA information and other documents to determine your financial aid awards. They will send you a financial aid award letter detailing what grants, scholarships and student loans you’re eligible for and what steps you must complete to accept.

Once you’ve received your financial aid offer from the university and are enrolled at least half-time, any federal student loans you have from your undergraduate studies should be automatically deferred. If they’re not, you should ask the school you’re attending to report your enrollment to make you eligible for in-school deferment .

Planning for Graduate School

If you’re pursuing a master’s or another professional degree, filling out the FAFSA is an essential first step in paying for grad school . While the FAFSA for grad school has slightly different requirements than it does for undergraduate students, it can help you qualify for grants, work-study programs and federal student loans. To get the maximum amount of financial aid you deserve, apply as early as possible.

Looking for a student loan?

• Best Private Student Loans
• Best Student Loan Refinance Lenders
• Best Low-Interest Student Loans
• Best Student Loans For Bad or No Credit
• Best Parent Loans For College
• Best Graduate Student Loans
• Best Student Loans Without A Co-Signer
• Best International Student Loans
• Best 529 Plans
• SoFi Student Loans Review
• College Ave Student Loans Review
• Earnest Student Loans Review
• Ascent Student Loans Review
• Citizens Bank Student Loans Review
• Student Loan Calculator
• Student Loan Refinance Calculator
• Net Price Calculator
• What Is The FAFSA ?
• Applying Financial Aid Using The FAFSA
• When Is The FAFSA Deadline ?
• Answers To Biggest FAFSA Questions
• FAFSA Mistakes To Avoid
• Guide To Hassle-Free FAFSA Renewal
• How To Correct Or Change Your FAFSA
• How Do Student Loans Work?
• How To Get A Private Student Loan
• How To Refinance Student Loans
• How To Get A Student Loan Without Co-Signer
• How To Apply For Federal & Private Student Loans
• How To Pay Off Student Loan Debt
• How To Recover From Student Loan Default
• How Much Can You Borrow In Student Loans?

Next Up In Student Loans

• Best Student Loan Refinance Lenders Of August 2024
• Student Loan Calculator: Estimate Your Payments
• Best Private Student Loans Of August 2024
• Best Low-Interest Student Loans Of August 2024
• Best Parent Loan For College Of August 2024: Parent PLUS Loan & Private Options
• How To Get A Student Loan Without A Co-Signer

Private Student Loan Rates: August 6, 2024—Loan Rates Stay Put

Rising College Expenses: 5 Things To Consider

Private Student Loan Rates: July 30, 2024—Loan Rates Move Down

How To Pay For College With No Money

Can You Use Student Loans To Pay Past-Due Tuition?

Private Student Loan Rates: July 23, 2024—Loan Rates Move Up

For the past seven years, Kat has been helping people make the best financial decisions for their unique situations, whether they're looking for the right insurance policies or trying to pay down debt. Kat has expertise in insurance and student loans, and she holds certifications in student loan and financial education counseling.