GRE Score Required For MS in USA - Know More !

Did you know more than 3900 institutions and fellowship sponsors are approved to receive GRE scores? This clearly illustrates the significance of GRE scores if you want to pursue higher education in the USA.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standard entrance exam taken to qualify for an undergraduate or postgraduate course, specifically in English-speaking nations. 

There are varying GRE cut-off scores for US universities when it comes to admissions for international applicants. A good GRE score can help you secure a place in leading courses and institutions throughout the country.

In this article, I have delved deeper into the GRE scores required for US universities, including the scores needed to pursue various MS degrees at top US universities. Read on to check them out.

GRE Cut-Off: Overview

Before we have a detailed discussion on the GRE cut-off for universities in the USA, students should know that the GRE comprises three sections: verbal reasoning, analytical writing, and quantitative reasoning. The new shorter GRE is of 1 hour 58 minutes (post 2023 update).

The quantitative and verbal sections in the GRE are scored on a 130-70 scale with one-point increments for each. Such a range indicates that even a little increase in the GRE score will greatly boost the overall percentile.

Many courses, such as engineering, often emphasize quantitative GRE scores, while humanities and arts courses put more emphasis on GRE verbal scores. In general, scoring 165-170 in a section is regarded as Excellent, while 155-164 indicates Very Good. Anything around 150-154 is Good, while 140-149 indicates Needs Improvement. A score of 130-139 in a section is considered Poor. 

The GRE cut-off for MS in the USA would entirely depend on the university a student chooses. Also, within a particular university, the score would vary depending on the chosen subject

GRE Cut-Off Scores for US Universities- Brief List

Below I have added a list of average GRE score requirements at 40 popular US universities to provide you an idea of what score you must target for verbal and quantitative sections.

GRE Cut-Offs at 40+ US Universities:

Name of the Institution	Average Score in the Verbal Section	Average Score in the Quantitative Section
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	155-167	157-168
Stanford University	163	168
University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign	Waived for 2025 admission cycles for most programs	Waived for 2025 admission cycles for most programs
University of California Berkeley	131	157
Georgia Technological University	153	155
Carnegie Mellon University	159	161
University of Texas Austin	154	154
University of Michigan Ann Arbor	155	168
Purdue University	153	164
Cornell University	155	165
Texas A&M University	GRE scores are currently  exempted	GRE scores are currently  exempted
University of Southern California	Optional/not required for most programs	Optional/not required for most programs
California State University Long Beach	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
University of California San Diego	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
Princeton University	Optional/not required for most programs	Optional/not required for most programs
Columbia University	162	168
University of Wisconsin Madison	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
Northwestern University	163	163
University of Maryland College	150	156
University of Washington	155	162
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities	Not required for most programs (from September 2023)	Not required for most programss (from September 2023)
Ohio State University	157	160
North Carolina State University	147	152
Duke University	159	167
University of California Irvine	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
University of Memphi	143	153
Iowa State University	148	163
Arizona State University	156	158
University at Buffalo – SUNY	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
Northeastern University	155	157
University of Connecticut	Optional/Not required for most programs	Optional/Not required for most programs
Colorado State University	Scores not mentioned, but GRE is recommended	Scores not mentioned, but GRE is recommended
University of Illinois–Chicago	152	151
Illinois Institute of Technology	145	159
University of Central Florida	153	155
The University of Arizona	156	158
University of Cincinnati	GRE required. No minimum scores listed.	GRE required. No minimum scores listed.
Harvard Kennedy School	160	160
University of Texas Arlington	148	157
University of North Carolina	159	158
Mississippi State University	148	145
Michigan Technological University	148	153

Source: university website

Please note these scores are indicative and may vary across programs. You are encouraged to check the specific program requirements before applying.

What is Good GRE Score for MS in USA

Determining a satisfactory GRE score for MS programs is complex, as it varies by university and specific programs. Each institution sets its own cut-off scores, which can further differ among departments within the same university.

For instance, engineering programs might prioritize higher quantitative scores, whereas arts and humanities programs may emphasize verbal scores. Thus, while a score of 150-154 in a section is considered good, an institution may ask for a higher score (say 160 or above) in the quantitative section for an engineering program. 

Hence, it is crucial to aim for a score that aligns with the requirements of your target institution and program. Researching the average scores accepted by specific universities and programs can help you tailor your preparation, ensuring your GRE score meets their expectations.

GRE Cut-Off for Subjects in USA

The GRE cut-off scores for subjects in the USA significantly differ based on the field of study. For example, social sciences and humanities often require higher verbal scores, while quantitative reasoning is crucial for engineering and physical sciences. 

Understanding the specific cut-off requirements of your chosen field is essential. Tailoring your study plan to address the unique demands of your chosen field can make a substantial difference, highlighting your strengths and meeting the academic standards of the institutions you aspire to join.

I have compiled a list of average GRE scores required by universities in the USA to help you better prepare your study abroad plans. The GRE cut-off for MS in the USA varies across courses and institutions. Here’s a closer look at average GRE cut-offs for different subjects at top US universities.

MS Course	Average Score in the Verbal Section	Average Score in the Quantitative Section
Social Sciences	153	152
Business	160	162
Life Sciences	151	151
Arts and Humanities	160	163
Physical Sciences	153	155

Source: university website

Please note that these scores are indicative and taken from a specific US university for each field. These may vary across different universities.

Conclusion

While most US universities require you to submit GRE scores, this may not be mandatory for all. You can still submit the scores if you wish, but they may not be reviewed or cast an impact if the university has not made GRE scores a mandatory requirement.

A high GRE score may provide a competitive edge to aspirants seeking admission to top-ranking US higher education institutions. Keep a tab on this section to stay updated with the latest 2024 GRE cut-off scores.

Disclaimer: All scores are indicative and subject to change at any time.

Important Resources to Read:

GRE Exam Eligibility Criteria	GRE Exam Dates	GRE Test Centers
GRE Exam fee in India	How to Register for GRE Exam in India	Best Books for GRE Preparation
Sections in GRE Exam	How to Prepare for Verbal in GRE	How to Score 170 in GRE Quant