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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 |
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For those looking to pursue a PhD Without GRE in USA, the general eligibility criteria and necessary supporting documents typically include:
Here is the admission procedure to apply for the PhD programs without GRE
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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