adminFor Indian students who dream of studying in the USA, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) can be a major hurdle. Fortunately, many top universities in the USA now offer GRE waivers, allowing students to focus on academic performance, work experience, and Statement of Purpose (SOP) instead of test scores.
Additionally, if you’re looking for:
✅ Study abroad scholarships
✅ Affordable study abroad options for Indian students
✅ Study abroad without IELTS
✅ Best study abroad programs for Indian students
Then this guide will help you understand your options for US universities that do not require GRE, along with a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
Consulting study abroad consultants or overseas education consultants can also help simplify the admission process for studying abroad.
Why Study in the US Without GRE?
1. Simplified Admission Process Without GRE
- No need to prepare for a tough entrance exam, making the application process smoother.
- Universities focus more on academic records, Statement of Purpose (SOP), work experience, and recommendation letters instead of standardized test scores.
- This allows students to highlight their practical skills, projects, and real-world experience rather than relying solely on test performance.
- Best study abroad consultants often recommend GRE-waived universities for students with strong academic performance or relevant work experience.
- Many universities also waive the requirement for IELTS, making it possible to study abroad without IELTS by accepting alternatives such as Duolingo, PTE, or TOEFL.
2. Cost Savings & Affordability
- The GRE exam costs around $205-$250, and if a student needs to retake it, the costs add up.
- Many universities with GRE waivers also have low tuition fees, making them a great choice for students looking for affordable study abroad options for Indian students.
- Application fees range from $50-$150 per application, but some universities waive fees for applicants not submitting GRE scores.
- Students can further reduce costs through study abroad scholarships, which are available based on academic merit, need, and extracurricular achievements.
- Many students take advantage of education loans for studying abroad, which become more accessible when applying to recognized universities.
3. Higher Acceptance Rates for Indian Students – Overseas Education Consultants’ Insights
- GRE scores are not always the best measure of a student’s potential, and many universities prefer evaluating a student’s academic records, practical experience, and skills.
- Universities offering GRE waivers often have higher acceptance rates, especially for students with internship experience, research work, or relevant job experience.
- Overseas education consultants advise students that strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and Statements of Purpose (SOPs) significantly improve admission chances.
- Many best universities abroad provide admission process guidance, and students can apply through study abroad consultancy like IDP, AECC, or The Chopras.
4. Faster Application Processing
- Many US universities without GRE offer rolling admissions, meaning they evaluate applications as soon as they are received.
- This speeds up the process, allowing students to get early acceptance letters and start their student visa process without delays.
- Faster admissions also mean more time for visa applications, travel planning, and scholarship searches.
- Working with student visa consultants or USA student visa consultants helps students get guidance on SEVIS registration, financial proof submission, and visa interview preparation.
5. Higher Student Visa Success Rate in the USA Without GRE
- The USA student visa process can be complex, but applicants from universities with GRE waivers have a higher student visa success rate in the USA.
- Universities with flexible admission requirements often provide strong visa support services and assist students with documentation.
- Many students consult student visa consultants for step-by-step assistance with their F-1 visa application.
- Best study abroad consultants provide mock interviews, improving the chances of visa approval.
6. Strong Career Opportunities & Industry-Relevant Skills
- Many top universities in the USA without GRE focus on career-oriented learning, internships, and industry partnerships.
- Programs emphasize practical training, hands-on projects, and research work, preparing students for the real-world job market.
- Several universities provide OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training), allowing students to gain valuable work experience while studying.
- Some universities even offer job placements, career counseling, and networking events, making them the best study abroad programs for Indian students.
- Students can find work opportunities for international students in Canada, the UK, and the USA, making the transition to employment smoother.
7. Study Abroad Without IELTS – Alternative English Proficiency Options
- Many US universities allow students to study abroad without IELTS by accepting alternatives such as:
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English)
- English Proficiency Waivers for students who studied in English-medium institutions
- This benefits students who want to avoid multiple standardized tests while still securing admission.
- Many universities in the UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia also accept alternative English proficiency tests.
8. Availability of Study Abroad Scholarships
- Universities that do not require GRE often provide study abroad scholarships for Indian students to help reduce tuition costs.
- Some of the most common scholarship options include:
- Merit-based scholarships for students with high academic achievements
- Need-based scholarships for financially disadvantaged students
- Assistantships (Research & Teaching Assistantships) that cover tuition fees and provide stipends
- Diversity scholarships for international students from underrepresented backgrounds
- Many Indian students apply for fully funded scholarships for international students, reducing the financial burden of studying abroad.
- Cheapest universities abroad for Indian students often provide tuition waivers for academically strong candidates.
9. Ideal for Indian Students Seeking Affordable Study Abroad Options
- Many US universities that waive GRE also have low tuition fees, making them a great choice for students looking for affordable study abroad options for Indian students.
- Universities in states like Texas, Florida, and Ohio offer high-quality education at lower tuition costs.
- Many students also choose study and work abroad programs, allowing them to earn while studying.
- The best way to explore affordable options is through overseas education consultants, who can guide students on financial aid and scholarships.
- Students can also explore PR (Permanent Residency) opportunities after completing their studies in the USA.
Top 9 Universities in the US Without GRE
1. University of California, Berkeley
📌 Popular Programs: Data Science, Public Health, MBA, Engineering
📌 Why Choose?
- UC Berkeley offers some of the best study abroad programs for Indian students.
- Strong industry connections with Silicon Valley for internships and job opportunities.
- Several programs provide study abroad scholarships for Indian students.
- Some professional master’s programs waive GRE for applicants with strong work experience.
📢 Pro Tip: If you want to study in the USA without IELTS, UC Berkeley accepts English proficiency waivers in some cases.
2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Select Programs
📌 Popular Programs: AI, Business Analytics, Finance, Robotics
📌 Why Choose?
- MIT, one of the best universities abroad, waives GRE for specific master’s programs.
- Excellent opportunities for research and innovation.
- Provides fully funded scholarships for international students through various fellowships.
- High student visa success rate in the USA for MIT admits.
📢 Pro Tip: MIT’s business and technology programs emphasize project-based learning and industry collaboration.
3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
📌 Popular Programs: Computer Science, MBA, Information Systems
📌 Why Choose?
- One of the top universities in the USA for STEM and management programs.
- GRE waiver applies to multiple graduate programs, including online degrees.
- Offers low-cost study abroad destinations with affordable tuition and assistantships.
📢 Pro Tip: UIUC has a high visa approval rate for international students, making it a safe option for study abroad applicants.
4. Northeastern University
📌 Popular Programs: Biotechnology, Cybersecurity, Data Science
📌 Why Choose?
- Offers one of the best study abroad programs for Indian students with strong job placement rates.
- GRE is optional for several technical and business programs.
- Located in Boston, a hub for technology and finance jobs.
- Offers multiple study abroad scholarships for Indian students.
📢 Pro Tip: If you want to study abroad without IELTS, Northeastern allows alternative English proficiency tests.
5. University of Dayton
📌 Popular Programs: Engineering, Business Management, Public Health
📌 Why Choose?
- Provides affordable study abroad options for Indian students with lower tuition fees.
- Many master’s programs have permanent GRE waivers.
- Offers education loans for studying abroad and financial aid to international students.
📢 Pro Tip: The university has a strong alumni network in business and technology, helping with career growth.
6. Boston University
📌 Popular Programs: Public Health, Law, Communications, Finance
📌 Why Choose?
- Recognized among the top universities in the USA with world-class faculty.
- Offers fully funded scholarships for Indian students.
- No GRE required for various programs in health sciences, business, and law.
- Strong partnerships with Fortune 500 companies for internships.
📢 Pro Tip: Boston University provides student visa consultants support, making it easier to secure a USA student visa.
7. University of Arizona
📌 Popular Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Psychology
📌 Why Choose?
📢 Pro Tip: The university has a simplified application process for students applying without GRE.One of the low-cost study abroad destinations in the US.
- Provides a GRE waiver for select professional programs.
- Multiple education loans for studying abroad options are available.
8. New York University (NYU) – Select Programs
📌 Popular Programs: Public Policy, Business Analytics, Journalism
📌 Why Choose?
- NYU has a high student visa success rate in the USA.
- Located in New York City, offering global networking opportunities.
- Several study abroad scholarships for Indian students are available.
📢 Pro Tip: NYU’s business and policy programs focus on practical experience, not standardized tests.
9. University of Cincinnati
📌 Popular Programs: Computer Science, Healthcare, Data Science
📌 Why Choose?
- Offers some of the best study abroad programs for Indian students.
- Provides fully funded scholarships for international students in select fields.
- GRE waived for many professional master’s programs.
📢 Pro Tip: Known for its co-op education model, providing real-world experience during your degree.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Without GRE
Step 1: Research Universities & Programs
- Identify top universities in the USA that don’t require GRE.
- Check official websites or contact study abroad consultants for confirmation
Step 2: Prepare Application Documents
✅ Academic Transcripts
✅ Statement of Purpose (SOP)
✅ Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
✅ Resume & Work Experience (if applicable)
Step 3: Check for Scholarships & Study Abroad Loans
- Look for study abroad scholarships for Indian students.
- Consider education loans for studying abroad to finance tuition and living expenses.
Step 4: Apply for a USA Student Visa
- Universities listed here have a high student visa success rate in the USA.
- Prepare documents like Form I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial proof.
Step 5: Plan Travel & Accommodation
- Once your student visa is approved, book your flights and housing.
- Many universities offer on-campus accommodation for international students.
Conclusion
If you want to study abroad without GRE, these top universities in the USA offer a fantastic opportunity. With the right scholarships, financial aid, and visa support, your dream of studying in the USA can become a reality.
