Is the GRE Required? 📝| Fall 2025 Students 👩‍🎓👨‍🎓

Summary

This video discusses the evolving requirements for the GRE in U.S. university admissions, especially for Fall 2025 applicants. Many universities, particularly in California, continue to make the GRE optional or not required, giving students more flexibility. However, those applying to universities with GRE-optional policies may benefit from submitting a score. The average GRE score has dropped due to pandemic-era cheating issues, so scores between 310-315 are still competitive. Students are encouraged to attempt the GRE at least once for broader options. The speaker invites viewers to join a community for personalized application guidance.

Takeaways

• 📜 Many universities in the US are maintaining their GRE policies for Fall 2025, with several continuing to not require it.
• 🏫 California universities, especially the UC system, are expected to continue their GRE not-required status.
• 😌 Students who have GRE phobia or choose not to take the GRE won't be at a disadvantage in many universities.
• 📅 GRE optional universities may still give preference to candidates with GRE scores, even if it's not mandatory.
• 🎓 For those applying to competitive programs, submitting a GRE score might enhance the application, especially in GRE-optional schools.
• 📉 The average GRE score has been decreasing due to widespread cheating in the at-home GRE tests, making scores between 310-315 competitive.
• 🏆 Gradvine has seen students with scores around 310-315 get admitted to top programs like Cornell, Purdue, and Johns Hopkins.
• 🎯 It's recommended to attempt the GRE at least once to widen your options, especially for GRE-required schools.
• 📝 Even students with exam anxiety or those unable to surpass a 300-305 score can still apply to test-optional schools and have a strong chance.
• 🤝 The Gradvine team is available for in-person meetings and will host sessions to discuss the graduate school application process.

Q & A

What is the current trend regarding GRE requirements for US universities?

Many universities are maintaining their status quo regarding GRE requirements, with several indicating that the GRE will be optional or not required at all.

Is there a specific time frame mentioned for when universities will clarify their GRE requirements for fall 2025?

Applications for fall 2025 are expected to open in mid-August, which is when specific requirements, including GRE policies, will be apparent.

Which universities are particularly noted for continuing their GRE not required status?

Universities in California, especially those within the UC system, are highlighted as continuing with their GRE not required status.

What does it mean for applicants if a university maintains the GRE optional status?

If a university states that the GRE is optional, it suggests that having a GRE score might be advantageous for applicants, as it can enhance their application.

What is the implication of a university requiring the GRE for application eligibility?

If a university requires the GRE, it is a mandatory component for eligibility, and applicants must submit a GRE score to be considered.

What is the advice for applicants who are concerned about their GRE scores due to the cheating issues mentioned?

Applicants are encouraged to take the GRE at least once to have a wider pool of colleges available to them, even if they don't achieve a high score.

How has the average GRE score among candidates been affected by the at-home GRE cheating?

The average GRE score has come down due to widespread cheating in the at-home GRE, leading to a less competitive score requirement among applicants.

What are the potential outcomes for applicants with GRE scores of 310 to 315?

Applicants with scores in the range of 310 to 315 still have a good chance at being admitted to quality universities if their overall profile, including GPA, is strong.

Is there an indication that the current GRE optional trend might change in the future?

The script suggests that the current year might be the last chance for applicants to apply to test-optional universities without a GRE, implying a possible change in trend.

How can applicants interact with the presenter for one-on-one assistance?

Applicants can interact with the presenter through a WhatsApp Community where questions are answered daily, or by attending in-person events like the one mentioned on August 4th in Hyderabad.

What additional resources are available for applicants seeking more information or support?

Applicants can join separate WhatsApp groups for various fields like computer science, MEM, MBA, etc., and are encouraged to like, share, and subscribe to the channel for future videos and updates.