Why Schools Require GRE Scores: Importance and Benefits Explained

The GRE test policies for graduate programs have changed dramatically over the past few years. For prospective students, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the variety of policies from different programs. The pandemic, changes in professional association guidelines, and shifting academic standards have created a more flexible testing environment for applicants. As a result, GRE requirements are no longer consistent across all graduate programs. The policies have become so varied that one school might require the GRE for admission, while another has a test-optional policy or even doesn’t consider GRE scores at all.

The Evolving Landscape of GRE Requirements

For many students, this evolving landscape is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it provides a broader range of options, but on the other hand, it increases the complexity of determining what’s required for each program. Some graduate schools still see the GRE as an essential component of their admissions process, while others have made it optional or no longer require it for specific programs. The key takeaway is that not all programs require the GRE, and whether it’s needed depends on the school and specific graduate program you are applying to.

For instance, many business schools have started accepting the GRE alongside the GMAT, and some have even made it the preferred option for applicants. This change is particularly beneficial for students who may not be able to afford the time and cost associated with preparing for the GMAT. As more schools embrace GRE scores for MBA admissions, it opens up the opportunity for applicants to be evaluated on a standardized basis across multiple business programs. Similarly, certain law schools now accept the GRE as an alternative to the LSAT, offering even more flexibility for law school aspirants.

Test-Optional Policies: What Does It Mean for You?

One of the most important steps in your preparation process is researching the specific test policies of the graduate programs you’re considering. Understanding whether the GRE is required or optional is crucial before you begin your preparation, as it allows you to set realistic expectations and decide how much time and energy to invest in studying for the test.

While many programs still require the GRE, others have shifted to a test-optional policy. This means that applicants are not required to submit GRE scores but may choose to do so if they feel it would strengthen their application. Test-optional policies have gained popularity, especially in the wake of the pandemic when many standardized testing centers were closed, and students found it difficult to take the GRE. Schools have since become more flexible, acknowledging that standardized test scores are just one piece of the puzzle when evaluating applicants.

Moreover, some programs, especially at top universities, have adopted a test-optional policy but still encourage applicants to submit their scores. The belief is that if an applicant has a strong GRE score, it can give them an advantage by helping their application stand out. On the other hand, if a student feels their score does not reflect their true potential or academic abilities, they may opt not to submit it, trusting that their GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statement will carry more weight.

Understanding When GRE Scores Can Strengthen Your Application

The challenge for applicants lies in determining what is right for their specific situation. For example, applicants to a competitive program may feel that submitting GRE scores—even if optional—will bolster their application. On the other hand, if you have strong academic performance and unique professional experience, you may feel confident in applying without GRE scores. For some programs, test scores are not required for admission, but may be a consideration when determining merit-based scholarships or funding. This additional nuance makes understanding each program’s GRE policy crucial for a successful application process.

It’s also worth noting that while many graduate programs have made the GRE optional or removed it entirely from their admission requirements, the GRE is still an important element in certain fields, especially in the sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines. These programs often rely heavily on standardized test scores to assess an applicant’s readiness for the rigor of graduate-level coursework. In fields like physics, engineering, and economics, a strong GRE score may serve as a reliable indicator of an applicant’s quantitative reasoning abilities and ability to excel in demanding academic environments.

Variability Across Disciplines: Humanities vs. STEM

In contrast, for humanities or social science programs, the emphasis on GRE scores may be less significant. Programs in these fields may place more value on other components of the application, such as writing samples, research experience, and letters of recommendation. As a result, students applying to humanities programs might find themselves in a position where submitting GRE scores is less crucial, though it can still provide a competitive edge.

As you research programs, it’s essential to gather as much specific information as possible about each school’s GRE policy, as requirements vary significantly across institutions and disciplines. For example, some schools may require GRE scores only for certain tracks within a program, or they may only require them for specific types of degrees, such as PhDs, while waiving the requirement for Master’s applicants. Even within the same university, one department may have a mandatory GRE requirement while another department may not. Understanding the nuances of each program’s requirements will help you streamline your preparation process and allow you to make informed decisions about whether to take the GRE.

How to Navigate GRE Policies for Graduate School

The GRE may not be required across the board for all master’s and PhD programs, but for many applicants, it remains a standard component of the admissions process. As a result, it’s important to stay informed about changes in GRE policies and to carefully assess the requirements of the programs you’re interested in. Make sure to check the official program websites or contact admissions offices directly to clarify any uncertainties about test policies.

Lastly, if you find that the GRE is optional for the programs you’re applying to, it’s crucial to consider whether submitting your scores will enhance your application. A well-rounded application that showcases your academic abilities, research potential, and professional experience can often make a strong case for admission without the need for GRE scores. However, if you feel that your GRE scores can help demonstrate your academic potential, it may be worth the time and effort to take the test. Either way, understanding the specific requirements for each program is the first step toward crafting a successful graduate school application.

Know Your Goals

Once you’ve determined whether or not the GRE is required for your graduate program, the next important step is to clearly define your goals. Researching the GRE requirements of each program and degree track is crucial, as it helps you understand the role that GRE scores will play in your application process. This will enable you to set a realistic preparation strategy, allocate your time efficiently, and determine whether the GRE is something you need to prioritize in your graduate school journey.

The Importance of Researching Specific Programs

As you begin your application process, it’s essential to research each graduate program thoroughly. GRE requirements can vary not only from school to school but also from department to department within a single institution. This is particularly important because different degree tracks within the same program can have distinct GRE policies. For instance, a school might require the GRE for PhD applicants but not for Master’s candidates, or they may have different expectations for students applying to specialized tracks within a department.

By identifying the specific degree program you intend to pursue, you can narrow down your focus and better understand what’s expected from applicants. For example, MIT’s Chemical Engineering program may not require the GRE for either the MS or PhD tracks, but they may “recommend” it for certain specialized PhD tracks. In this case, having a solid understanding of the requirements for your desired degree track can help you make an informed decision about whether to take the GRE.

Researching Degree Tracks and Their Specific Requirements

Some programs may only require the GRE for certain specialized tracks or offer different GRE requirements for different types of degrees. It’s important to dig into the specifics of the degree you’re interested in. Take, for example, a student interested in applying for a PhD in Environmental Engineering. While some programs may explicitly require the GRE, others might only ask for it if you’re applying to a highly competitive track. In cases like this, understanding whether GRE scores are essential or recommended can save you time and effort in preparing for a test that might not even be necessary.

Additionally, some programs will publish their average GRE scores or middle 50% score ranges for admitted students. While these are not formal requirements, they provide insight into the scores typically seen from accepted applicants. If your score falls within or above this range, it can provide reassurance that your application will be viewed favorably. However, if your score is below the typical range, it may be worth considering a retake or spending more time on your application to strengthen other areas.

Deciding If You Need the GRE

Once you’ve thoroughly researched the GRE policies of your target programs, you need to make a strategic decision about whether to take the GRE. If the program requires the GRE, then your path is clear. However, if the GRE is optional or recommended, you’ll need to evaluate whether taking the test will enhance your application.

There are several factors to consider when making this decision:

• Your Strengths: If you believe that your GRE scores will reflect your academic abilities and make your application stronger, it may be worth investing the time and effort to prepare for the test. Strong GRE scores can demonstrate your proficiency in areas like quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing, which can give you a competitive edge. 
• The Competitiveness of the Program: Highly competitive programs may expect strong GRE scores even if they are optional. If you’re applying to a program with a large pool of applicants, submitting GRE scores—especially if they are strong—can help you stand out. 
• Your Background: If you have a nontraditional academic background or are coming from a field that does not have standardized testing, submitting your GRE scores might provide admissions committees with a clearer understanding of your academic capabilities. 

By understanding these factors, you can make a more informed decision on whether the GRE is a crucial part of your application process.

Optional vs. Required: What’s the Difference?

Understanding whether a program has a required GRE policy or an optional GRE policy is vital, as the two are not the same. When a program lists GRE scores as optional, many applicants think that they are free to skip the test altogether. However, in some cases, this is not the best strategy, especially if you are applying to a competitive program or a program that has specific expectations.

Should You Take the GRE for Optional Programs?

When a program lists GRE scores as optional, you still have the opportunity to submit your scores if you feel they will positively impact your application. Many applicants see this as a “get out of jail free” card and opt not to take the GRE. However, this approach can backfire, particularly if the program you’re applying to is highly competitive. A competitive graduate program may expect applicants to demonstrate their academic abilities in multiple ways, including through standardized testing.

If you feel confident in your ability to perform well on the GRE, it might be worth taking the test even if it’s optional. Submitting strong GRE scores can provide admissions committees with additional evidence of your academic capabilities, helping you stand out from other applicants who may choose not to submit scores. In some cases, GRE scores can be the deciding factor in securing an offer of admission, particularly if your GPA or other application components don’t fully reflect your academic potential.

The Risks of Not Submitting GRE Scores

For programs that are test-optional, there is always the risk that not submitting your GRE scores could be viewed unfavorably by admissions committees. While many schools have adopted test-optional policies, they still consider GRE scores as an important measure of academic readiness. As a result, if you choose not to submit your GRE scores, your application might be missing a crucial element that could help your case.

If your GRE scores are strong, submitting them may bolster your application, especially if you’re concerned about other areas of your application (like your undergraduate GPA or research experience). Conversely, if your scores are low or you don’t feel confident about your performance, you may decide that submitting them isn’t the best option. It’s crucial to weigh your decision carefully and consider how your GRE scores fit into the overall context of your application.

“Recommended” vs “Optional” GRE Policies

Some programs have a unique policy in which GRE scores are “recommended” rather than simply optional. While this may seem like a grey area, the fact that a program recommends submitting GRE scores means they likely view it as an important part of the evaluation process. In this case, if you choose not to submit your scores, it could be interpreted as a missed opportunity to strengthen your application.

For programs with a “recommended” GRE policy, you should seriously consider taking the test. Even if you feel your GPA and other application materials are strong, submitting GRE scores can help ensure that your application is as competitive as possible. The “recommended” status should not be seen as an invitation to skip the test, but rather as a nudge to submit your scores if you can do so with confidence.

Understanding GRE Policies for Top Graduate Programs

When applying to graduate programs at prestigious schools or highly competitive departments, it’s easy to assume that the GRE will be a mandatory part of the process. However, this is not always the case. Just like other schools, top-ranked graduate programs have diverse testing policies that are subject to change. Understanding how these policies apply to the programs you’re interested in will help you tailor your application strategy.

Top Graduate Programs and GRE Requirements

At top-tier universities, the GRE test policies are just as varied as at other institutions. Many top-ranked schools have moved toward making the GRE optional for certain programs or departments, particularly in response to changing attitudes about standardized testing. However, this doesn’t mean that GRE scores are irrelevant at these schools. Many top programs still value the GRE as an important part of the admissions process, even when it’s not explicitly required.

Researching the specific testing policies of top graduate programs is essential, as this will give you a clear understanding of what’s expected. For instance, a highly selective PhD program in engineering might still require the GRE to evaluate candidates for technical proficiency, while a top law school might have a more flexible policy regarding standardized testing.

Evaluating the Role of GRE Scores at Top Schools

Even at top schools where the GRE is optional, submitting strong scores can help your application stand out. Competitive programs at top universities often have many applicants with stellar academic records, and submitting GRE scores could provide an additional differentiator. For example, a high GRE score may help compensate for a slightly lower GPA or demonstrate a particular strength in a specific area, like quantitative reasoning.

Ultimately, whether or not to submit GRE scores for top schools depends on the individual program’s emphasis on standardized testing, as well as your strengths as an applicant. If you have strong GRE scores and feel they will reflect positively on your application, submitting them, even when optional, could help you gain a competitive advantage.

Do Graduate Programs Have Minimum Score Requirements?

When preparing for the GRE, one of the most common concerns for prospective graduate students is whether they need to meet a specific minimum score to be considered for admission. The reality is that most graduate programs do not explicitly set a formal minimum GRE score requirement. However, understanding how GRE scores are evaluated, along with recognizing the importance of benchmarking your score against averages or ranges, is essential for navigating the admissions process successfully.

Understanding GRE Score Ranges and Averages

While many graduate programs do not specify a strict minimum GRE score, they often provide valuable data regarding the average GRE scores of admitted students. This data, which can usually be found on program websites or in school brochures, often includes the middle 50% score range (the range in which the middle half of admitted students fall). This is an essential tool for gauging how competitive your GRE score is relative to the rest of the applicant pool.

For example, if a program lists that the middle 50% of students scored between 160 and 165 on the quantitative reasoning section, and your score is 155, you might find yourself at a disadvantage when compared to other applicants. While this doesn’t necessarily disqualify you, it may affect the strength of your application. On the other hand, if your score falls within or above the middle 50% range, you’ll likely be viewed more favorably.

How Your Score Fits into the Larger Application

Although a minimum GRE score is not usually a requirement, your score is one of several factors that admissions committees consider when evaluating your application. Most graduate programs have a holistic admissions process, which means they look at a variety of components beyond just your GRE score, including:

• GPA: Your undergraduate GPA remains a critical measure of your academic performance and how well you’ve done in your coursework. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters from professors or employers can provide insights into your academic or professional abilities. 
• Research Experience or Work Experience: These aspects help admissions officers evaluate how you will contribute to the field and whether you are prepared for the rigor of graduate study. 
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: This is where you express your motivation, research interests, and long-term career goals. It gives context to your application, helping admissions understand your aspirations and fit within the program. 

Thus, while a low GRE score could be a disadvantage, it is not necessarily a dealbreaker if other aspects of your application are strong. For example, a candidate with a lower GRE score but exceptional research experience and a clear alignment with the program’s goals may still stand out.

When Low Scores May Be an Issue

While many programs do not have specific minimum score requirements, some highly competitive or rigorous programs may have an informal threshold. In particular, STEM programs that require strong quantitative reasoning skills, such as physics, mathematics, or engineering, may place higher importance on the quantitative portion of the GRE. If your score in the quantitative section is significantly lower than the average for admitted students, this could raise concerns for admissions committees.

For example, if you’re applying to a highly competitive PhD program in computer science and your GRE Quantitative score is 145, this may raise red flags, especially if the middle 50% of admitted students score between 160 and 170. In such cases, admissions committees may feel that you lack the foundational math skills necessary for success in the program. This is where a low score could affect your application, and you may need to take steps to mitigate it, such as improving other parts of your application or even retaking the GRE to improve your score.

Why a Low GRE Score Doesn’t Always Mean Rejection

It’s important to note that a low GRE score doesn’t automatically result in rejection from a graduate program, particularly if you bring other strengths to the table. Many graduate programs understand that standardized tests may not fully capture an applicant’s potential, especially for non-traditional applicants or those with unique academic backgrounds.

If your GRE score is lower than the program average, consider how you can emphasize other parts of your application. For instance, highlighting significant professional experience, research accomplishments, or exceptional letters of recommendation can help you offset a low GRE score. Programs also take into account other indicators of your academic potential, such as your GPA, the rigor of your coursework, and your ability to articulate your research interests.

Furthermore, some schools have a more lenient approach toward applicants who demonstrate strong potential in other areas. For example, a candidate who has a proven track record of research or has worked in the field they’re applying to may still be considered even if their GRE score is slightly lower than the program’s average.

The Role of GRE Scores as a “Filter”

As previously discussed, the GRE serves as a standardized metric that admissions committees use to evaluate applicants. This role is crucial, especially in programs with large pools of applicants. However, it’s important to understand that while the GRE is an important tool for filtering candidates, it is only one piece of the puzzle. Here’s how the filtering process works.

How the GRE Helps Admissions Narrow Down Candidates

Graduate programs, especially those at competitive schools, often receive thousands of applications each year. With such a high volume of applications, admissions committees need to have a way to efficiently narrow down the pool of candidates. The GRE acts as one of the tools for this filtering process. A high GRE score can help you stand out from the pack, while a low score may mean your application is less likely to make it past the first stage of consideration.

The GRE helps admissions committees quickly assess whether you have the basic skills necessary to succeed in graduate school. For example, if a program has a heavy emphasis on quantitative coursework, a low GRE Quantitative score may lead admissions to doubt your preparedness for the academic challenges of the program.

While a GRE score may not be the deciding factor in your acceptance, it can certainly be an initial threshold. Programs that receive a high number of applications often have a more competitive admissions process. In these cases, GRE scores may be used to determine which applicants should be moved forward in the review process.

The GRE as a Signal of Preparedness

Even in programs where the GRE is not explicitly required, admissions committees may use the GRE as a signal of your preparedness for graduate-level coursework. The GRE serves as an objective measure of your readiness for the program’s academic demands. While it’s not a perfect reflection of your capabilities, it does provide a baseline for assessing key skills such as reasoning ability, verbal comprehension, and analytical writing.

For example, an applicant with a low GRE score may be seen as less prepared for the rigors of graduate-level research and coursework. In contrast, an applicant with a strong GRE score might signal to admissions that they are well-equipped to handle the academic challenges ahead. This is why some graduate programs choose to consider GRE scores as an important factor, even if they are not required for admission.

What This Means for Your Application Strategy

If your GRE scores fall below the average for the program you are applying to, this might prompt you to consider retaking the GRE or enhancing other aspects of your application to mitigate the impact of a low score. By addressing other factors, such as gaining additional research experience, improving your personal statement, or seeking out strong letters of recommendation—you can make your application stronger and provide a more comprehensive view of your qualifications.

If your GRE score is significantly above average, you can confidently submit it as part of your application. A strong score can help you stand out in the admissions process and demonstrate your academic aptitude in a concrete, quantifiable way.

While most graduate programs do not have formal minimum GRE score requirements, your score is still a critical element of your application. It provides a standardized measure that admissions committees use to evaluate your preparedness for the program and your ability to compete in the applicant pool. Understanding how your GRE score compares to the middle 50% of admitted students, as well as how it fits into the larger context of your application, will help you make strategic decisions about your preparation and submission. Moreover, if your GRE score is low, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you from consideration, but it may require you to compensate with other strengths in your application. Ultimately, your GRE score, while important, is just one part of a larger holistic review process.

Why Schools Require GRE Scores: Standardized Metrics and Filtering Mechanisms

The GRE serves multiple roles in the graduate admissions process, but two of the most significant functions are providing a standardized metric for comparing applicants and acting as a “filtering” tool to help admissions committees quickly narrow down the applicant pool. Understanding these roles can help you better grasp why schools require GRE scores, even in cases where they are not the only factor in the admissions decision.

The Importance of Standardized Metrics

Graduate schools often receive thousands of applications, each with a variety of educational backgrounds, professional experiences, and unique achievements. Without a standardized measure, comparing applicants would be a daunting, if not impossible, task. The GRE provides that standardized metric, offering admissions committees a clear, uniform basis to assess candidates’ abilities, regardless of their academic or professional backgrounds.

How the GRE Levels the Playing Field

The GRE is designed to be the same for all applicants, regardless of where they come from, what school they attended, or their professional history. The test is structured to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These core areas are crucial for success in graduate school, making the GRE an effective tool for evaluating candidates’ readiness for advanced academic work.

For example, a student from a liberal arts college with a strong background in humanities may be highly skilled in writing and analytical reasoning but have limited exposure to advanced quantitative work. On the other hand, a student from an engineering background may have excellent quantitative reasoning skills but less experience in verbal reasoning or writing. The GRE allows admissions committees to objectively compare these two applicants in a standardized way.

By comparing GRE scores, admissions committees can assess which applicant has the required skills for the program, regardless of how their backgrounds differ. If both candidates scored highly on the GRE in their respective areas (verbal reasoning or quantitative reasoning), admissions committees can have a more concrete understanding of their capabilities, beyond the subjective assessment of individual GPAs, recommendation letters, or extracurriculars.

GRE Scores as a Benchmark

The GRE provides a useful benchmark for graduate programs. Since the test is widely recognized and used by a large number of schools, it allows institutions to gauge an applicant’s potential using a familiar, standardized measure. This is especially important for schools with rigorous programs where academic performance is crucial. The GRE scores offer a comparative tool that admissions committees can rely on, ensuring that applicants are evaluated against a consistent standard.

Furthermore, since applicants may come from a variety of different educational systems, the GRE helps level the playing field. Students from institutions with different grading scales or educational systems might have highly varied GPAs that are difficult to compare. A solid GRE score, however, provides a clearer indication of an applicant’s academic aptitude in a standardized format.

The GRE as a “Filtering” Tool

While the GRE serves as a standardized metric for assessing academic readiness, it also plays a more strategic role in the admissions process: filtering out applicants who may not be able to succeed in the program. This role, while potentially uncomfortable for some, is a practical necessity for graduate admissions committees. Graduate programs typically receive large volumes of applications, making it impossible to give each applicant the detailed attention they deserve without some level of initial filtering.

Narrowing the Applicant Pool

Many graduate programs are highly competitive, and for programs that receive thousands of applications each year, a method is needed to quickly and effectively narrow down the pool. The GRE serves as one such tool. Admissions committees often have to review a vast number of applications, so they need to identify applicants who meet the academic standards required for success in the program.

The GRE provides a quick way for admissions officers to screen applicants based on their performance in core academic areas. If a student’s GRE scores fall well below the average or mid-range for the program, they may not make it past the initial stages of consideration. In this sense, the GRE acts as a first step in the filtering process, helping admissions committees prioritize candidates who are most likely to succeed.

In some cases, this filtering process may involve “cutoffs” or thresholds that are not explicitly stated but are understood by the admissions committee. For instance, if a program’s average GRE Quantitative score is 165, and an applicant scores 145, the committee may view this as a significant red flag, signaling that the candidate may not be academically prepared for the program’s rigorous coursework. Even though the school may not have a formal minimum score, applicants with scores significantly lower than the program’s average may be considered less competitive.

Filtering by Specific Skill Set

Another way the GRE functions as a filtering mechanism is by evaluating specific areas of academic competence that are important for success in a given program. For example, graduate programs in fields like engineering, mathematics, and economics often place a strong emphasis on quantitative reasoning skills. In these fields, a low GRE Quantitative score could raise significant concerns for admissions committees, as it may indicate that the applicant is not prepared for the advanced math and data analysis required in these programs.

Similarly, for programs in the humanities or social sciences, a low verbal reasoning or writing score could be a red flag, suggesting that the applicant may not be equipped to succeed in a program that demands strong reading, writing, and critical thinking abilities. Programs in fields like English, History, or Political Science often expect applicants to demonstrate proficiency in these areas, making GRE scores in the verbal reasoning and analytical writing sections important factors for consideration.

Thus, the GRE helps admissions committees filter candidates by ensuring that applicants possess the foundational skills required for success in their respective fields. A strong score in the relevant areas can indicate that the applicant is prepared for the specific academic challenges they will face, while a weak score may signal that the applicant needs additional preparation before entering the program.

GRE as a Supplement to Other Admissions Criteria

While the GRE is an essential filtering tool, it is only one part of a larger admissions process that includes other critical elements such as GPA, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and research experience. The GRE doesn’t automatically guarantee admission, nor does it automatically disqualify applicants. It works alongside these other factors to provide admissions committees with a comprehensive picture of an applicant’s abilities and potential for success.

However, in highly competitive programs, the GRE can be one of the most influential factors, especially if other parts of the application (like GPA) are average or below expectations. If an applicant’s GRE scores are strong in the relevant areas, they may be able to compensate for a lower GPA or less impressive work experience. Conversely, if an applicant’s GRE scores are low, even stellar academic performance and research experience may not be enough to outweigh concerns about their academic readiness.

The Risk of Underestimating the GRE

Some applicants may view the GRE as an optional component or fail to recognize its significance, particularly in programs where it is not strictly required. However, even if a program does not mandate GRE scores, submitting a strong score can provide a competitive advantage, especially if other applicants are submitting their scores. Ignoring the GRE in such cases might mean missing out on an opportunity to bolster your application.

In programs where the GRE is “optional” or “recommended,” it is especially important to recognize that a high score can strengthen your application. If your test scores fall significantly below the average for the program, however, it could put you at a disadvantage compared to other candidates who submit higher scores. As such, while the GRE may not be a mandatory requirement, it can be a valuable tool in demonstrating your qualifications and enhancing your overall application.

Conclusion: The Multifaceted Role of the GRE

The GRE serves a critical role in the admissions process, providing a standardized metric that allows admissions committees to compare applicants from diverse backgrounds. It helps level the playing field by offering an objective measure of academic readiness and a common basis for evaluating candidates. Furthermore, it acts as a filtering tool that helps admissions committees narrow down the pool of applicants to those who are most likely to succeed in the program. While the GRE is only one piece of the admissions puzzle, understanding its role in the process can help you make informed decisions about your application strategy, preparation, and whether or not to submit your scores.

Even if a program does not have a formal minimum GRE score requirement, a strong GRE score can bolster your application, provide valuable insights into your academic potential, and improve your chances of gaining admission to your desired graduate program.