PhDs & Doctorates Without GRE Requirements
Schools are beginning to look at other barometers besides GRE scores to measure a student’s likelihood for success — including academic course history, GPA, research experience, extracurricular engagement, and professional background. Use this guide to better understand these programs and find the right fit for you.
In recent years, more doctorate-level programs have recognized that GRE scores provide a limited view of student potential. Many applicants today are working adults who may be out of practice with standardized testing, and research has also shown that GRE exams may disproportionately disadvantage women and people of color.
For practice-based doctorates like social work or education, learning is hands-on — and a standardized test doesn’t always reflect a student’s ability to succeed. Likewise, PhD programs emphasize specialized knowledge and research skills that are often better reflected through academic and professional experience.
This guide walks you through applying to no-GRE doctorate programs and highlights key factors to look for, such as GRE waivers and alternative admission requirements.
Most Popular PhDs and Doctorates with No GRE Needed
Even some of the most prestigious doctoral programs no longer require the GRE. Some schools may “recommend” it, but you can be considered without submitting a score.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
For business-focused graduate programs, the GMAT often serves as the GRE equivalent — yet many DBA programs waive both for applicants with extensive work experience. These programs attract seasoned professionals, so admissions often prioritize practical experience over test results.
Program Spotlight: George Fox University
George Fox University offers a hybrid Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program combining online coursework with in-person residencies in Portland, Oregon (twice a year for the first three years). Students follow a cohort model to collaborate and network with peers and complete a dissertation in year four.
Instead of test scores, applicants must show:
- 5 years of professional business experience or a full-time faculty appointment
- A bachelor’s and master’s degree with a 3.0+ GPA
- Coursework in finance, accounting, and economics
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Because physical therapy is inherently hands-on, many DPT programs have dropped the GRE. Most require observation experience and an interview instead.
Program Spotlight: Indiana University
Indiana University’s hybrid DPT program includes online and in-person coursework, plus 30 weeks of clinical experience. Applicants must have:
- 40+ observation hours in a PT setting
- 2 letters of recommendation
- A personal statement and a bachelor’s degree (3.2+ GPA)
To accommodate pandemic-related barriers, IU offers supplemental observation opportunities for admitted students.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Many DSW programs focus on professional readiness over test performance. Schools recognize that social work requires interpersonal and analytical skills best demonstrated through experience.
Program Spotlight: Rutgers University
Rutgers University offers a no-GRE Doctor of Social Work program. Applicants must have:
- A CSWE-accredited MSW
- Two years of post-master’s work experience
- Licensure (LSW required, LCSW preferred)
- A personal statement, CV, writing sample, and transcripts
Doctor of Education (EdD)
EdD programs typically attract mid- to senior-level educators with proven leadership experience, which often outweighs standardized test scores.
Program Spotlight: Baylor University
Baylor University offers an online Doctor of Education (EdD) program. Instead of GRE scores, applicants must provide:
- Transcripts with a 3.0+ GPA
- Three letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- An updated CV
- A five-minute video interview
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Many DNP programs — both online and on-campus — do not require GRE scores because applicants are already licensed nurses with clinical experience.
Program Spotlight: The University of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers a competitive DNP program that requires:
- A bachelor’s (3.0+) or master’s (3.5+) degree
- Active RN licensure
- Two letters of recommendation, CV, and transcripts
- An admissions phone interview
GRE scores are not required, but requirements vary by specialty area.
PhD in Computer Science
Research-oriented programs like computer science PhDs increasingly assess applicants based on research experience, academic record, and recommendations, not test scores.
Program Spotlight: Brown University
Brown University’s PhD in Computer Science does not require the GRE. Applicants need:
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Official transcripts
- A research plan
- 3 letters of recommendation
PhD in Counseling
PhD counseling programs often focus on clinical experience and professional goals, making the GRE optional or unnecessary.
Program Spotlight: Oregon State University
Oregon State’s hybrid PhD in Counseling features a cohort model with online and in-person components. Applicants must have:
- A master’s in counseling
- 600+ clinical internship hours
- Transcripts, CV, and three recommendation letters
- A writing sample and statement of goals
PhD in Psychology
At this level, most applicants already hold a master’s in psychology and significant experience, so GRE scores offer little additional insight.
Program Spotlight: Saybrook University
Saybrook’s PhD in Psychology program makes the GRE optional. Applicants should include:
- Transcripts
- A resume and personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Evidence of critical-thinking and writing skills
- An admissions interview
PhD in Public Health
Public health doctoral candidates are often mid-career professionals with years of field experience. Many universities now waive the GRE to make programs more accessible.
Program Spotlight: University of Connecticut
UConn’s PhD in Public Health program has no GRE requirement. Applicants should have:
- A bachelor’s (3.0+) and MPH
- Strong performance in epidemiology, biostatistics, behavioral sciences, environmental health, and health services administration
- Exceptional candidates may be admitted without a master’s
PhD in Special Education
Applicants for special education PhDs are typically seasoned professionals with master’s degrees and extensive experience, so GRE exams are often optional.
Program Spotlight: University of Northern Colorado
UNC offers a no-GRE PhD in Special Education, available online or on campus. Applicants should have:
- A master’s degree (3.0+ GPA)
- 3 letters of recommendation
- A statement of goals, CV, and writing sample
- Current master’s students may also apply
GRE & GMAT Waivers: Do You Qualify?
Many schools have replaced standardized test requirements with waivers. Here are the most common types:
Work Experience Waivers
Some schools, like the University of Mary Washington, waive GRE/GMAT scores for applicants with 5+ years of professional experience. Requests are typically made through the graduate admissions office.
Programmatic Waivers
Universities may grant waivers based on academic excellence or program type. For example, UMass-Amherst offers GRE waivers to MS/PhD students, but not to MS-only candidates.
Terminal Degree Waivers
Students who already hold a graduate certificate, master’s, or PhD may qualify automatically.
- Georgia State University: Waives GRE for certain graduate degree holders.
- Florida State University: Offers waivers for applicants with a high master’s GPA.
Alumni Waivers
Some universities waive GRE requirements for their own alumni.
- Brandeis University: Bachelor’s graduates may skip the GRE for graduate programs.
- University of Houston: Offers similar alumni benefits.
Resources for PhD & Doctorate Students
- Brown University News
Explains why Brown dropped GRE requirements for 24 doctoral programs. - Chemical and Engineering News (C&EN)
Discusses pros and cons of removing GREs, with expert insights. - National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Coins the term “GRExit” and explores implications for applicants. - Physics Today
Examines why pandemic-era GRE changes may be permanent. - Science Magazine
Reviews research supporting the shift away from GRE scores even before COVID-19.