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PhD in USA without GRE for Indian Students

According to the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, during the 2023-2024 academic year, there were over 200,000 Indian students enrolled in higher education institutions in the United States, making India the second-largest source of international students in the country. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a mandatory requirement for admission into many graduate programs in the United States. However, in recent years, many universities have begun to initiate PhD programs without GRE to attract talent from a wider pool of students.

Top Universities Offering PhD in USA without GRE

There are universities in the USA that focus more on the successful academic record, research experience, and letters of recommendation rather than the GRE score. Here are the top universities offering PhD without GRE in USA :

Universities 

QS Ranking 2025

International Student Ratio

Rivier University

151-167

84 : 100

Northern Arizona University

1001-1200

56 : 100

New York University

38

43 : 100

Northeastern University

375

55 : 100

Rochester Institute of Technology

98

67 : 100

Rivier University

The PhD in Education at Rivier University is a program for any educator who aims to develop advanced skills in educational leadership, curriculum development, and new instructional strategies applicable in schools. It provides flexibility for professionals studying full-time and part-time students.

Students are also provided with opportunities for practical applications of research in educational settings. Tuition fees for the PhD program in Education from Rivier University can cost students roughly around $750 per credit hour

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers various PhD programs in the areas of education, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, and Health Sciences, with an emphasis on applied research and interdisciplinary work.

Admission to this university typically requires a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline, excellent academic standing, and three letters of recommendation. The approximate tuition fee costs range from $11,896 to $19,252 per year for graduate students attending classes full-time.

New York University

New York University offers multiple PhD degrees in Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, Engineering, and Professional Studies—all with very strong research and global reputations. The admission criteria differ from one program to another, but the common features include a good academic record and letters of recommendation. At NYU, the tuition fee differs from one program to the other; the average per year for graduate students is $49,062 for full-time programs.

Northeastern University

Northeastern University has PhD programs in Business Administration, Engineering, Health Sciences, Computer Science, and Social Sciences. Core focus is placed on co-op experiences and global engagement. For admission to most programs, a relevant master's degree with a strong academic background is required, along with letters of recommendation. Northeastern University tuition rates vary by program, but full-time graduate students pay around $27,370 per semester.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology has PhD programs in Engineering, Science, Computing, Business, and the Arts, with a niche in applied research and industry collaboration. It requires a master's degree in a relevant field, along with good academic standing; this should be followed by letters of recommendation. The tuition fees at RIT will vary by program. Generally, graduate courses at this institute cost around $1,448 to $2,269 per credit hour.

Alternatives to the GRE Exam and Its Requirements

Although many universities still consider GRE scores as part of their application process, there are some that have either eliminated the GRE requirement or offer waivers under specific conditions. Some alternative exams whose scores are accepted for admission include:

It is useful primarily for business and management-related PhD programs. It is a test of quantitative, analytical, and verbal skills. This test is particularly useful for applicants whose research interests lie within business schools or other areas where quantitative analysis is required.

  • MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

Some biomedical PhD programs accept the MCAT. This exam is an aptitude test that gauges candidates' knowledge in biological and physical sciences. It would prove beneficial for applicants who aspire to pursue research in biomedical areas and who, as part of the application to medical school, have already taken this test.

  • LSAT

Specially accepted by PhD programs in law or related fields, the LSAT focuses on critical reading, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning. It might be relevant for applicants pursuing interdisciplinary studies that interface with the law, policy, or social science.

  • Subject-specific Tests

These tests measure knowledge at deeper levels in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, or mathematics. They are useful for those applicants who would like to highlight their expertise in specialized areas that could be of greater relevance to PhD interests.

  • Portfolio or Professional Experience

Some creative arts, design, or architecture PhD programs will require portfolios of previous work or professional experience. This option is especially useful for students whose research is founded upon creative practice or design-based inquiry instead of traditional academic analysis.

Eligibility Criteria for PhD Admission in USA without GRE

For those looking to pursue a PhD Without GRE in USA, the general eligibility criteria and necessary supporting documents typically include:

  1. Acquire a bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited institution.
  2. Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (equivalent to 85%) in the bachelor's degree program.
  3. Demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests:
    1. TOEFL iBT score between 80-90, or
    2. IELTS score between 6.5-7.0.
  4. Submit an essay of at least 2000 words discussing previous research experience and academic interests.
  5. Provide 2-3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant's academic abilities and potential for research.
  6. Submit a statement of purpose outlining career goals, academic interests, and reasons for pursuing a PhD.
  7. Highlight any relevant work experience that supports the applicant's academic and research aspirations.

Here is the admission procedure to apply for the PhD programs without GRE

  • Identify Universities and Programs
    • Look for a university that clearly states that a PhD program does not require GRE scores.
    • Check the official website of the university regarding admission criteria to confirm that GRE is optional.
  • Check for Online or Part-Time Programs
    • Look to apply to online or part-time PhD programs. Admission procedures at these institutions are less tight, and most of the time, there is no need to submit GRE scores.
    • Look into less-selective universities, many not even requiring the GRE.
  • Find Suitable PhD Programs
    • Search for PhD programs that have explicitly stated or indicated that a GRE score is not an important criterion in their admission process.
    • Make sure to meet the other admission requirements, like a good academic record, letters of recommendation, and a good research proposal.
  • Strengthen Other Parts of Your Application
    • Maintain high GPAs that demonstrate your academic experience.
    • Get strong recommendation letters from professors or professionals independently testifying to your capabilities as a researcher and your potential for graduate school.
    • During this period, take time to write up an excellent research proposal that clearly states your research interest and how it fits the focus of the program.
  • Meticulously Check Your Application
    • Make sure you reply to each part of your application in a good way. Always reflect on the positive side.
    • Make sure that when you include your CV or resume, you emphasize your research experience, your own publications, and other work experience relevant to it.

Takeaway

Doing a PhD program without a GRE is becoming more and more popular because many universities now eliminate this requirement in their admission criteria. This is benefiting international students, such as those coming from India, by removing expenditure and troubles associated with the GRE. In addition to good academic records, importance is being given to research experience and strong letters of recommendation.

Are you an international student aspiring to pursue a PhD in the USA but concerned about GRE requirements? AECC specialises in guiding students through the admissions process for top universities that waive the GRE. Contact us today for personalized advice and take the next step towards achieving your academic dreams in the USA. 

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