US Universities for Low GRE Scores (260 to 289)
Applying to U.S. universities for graduate studies can feel overwhelming, especially when considering the GRE score requirements for various institutions. While the GRE is only one aspect of your application, many universities use it as a benchmark to evaluate applicants. Understanding which schools align with your GRE score can help narrow down options and set realistic expectations. This guide categorizes universities by GRE score ranges, from lower to higher thresholds.
1. U.S. Universities for Low GRE Scores (260 to 289)
This range is generally considered on the lower end for GRE scores. However, many reputable institutions recognize that a strong application goes beyond test scores alone. If you fall within this range, these schools may be a good fit for you:
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
Dominican University
< 290
Howard University
< 290
Florida Atlantic University
< 290
Golden Gate University
< 290
Troy State University
< 290
Stevens Institute of Technology
< 290
Governors State University
< 290
Northwood University
< 290
Johnson and Wales University
< 290
Fitchburg State University
< 290
Ohio Dominican University
< 290
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Applicants with a strong academic or professional background.
- Individuals with unique experiences, leadership, or other strengths to showcase.
2. U.S. Universities for GRE Score Range (290 to 300)
In this range, universities are generally mid-tier, and many programs will consider applicants with GRE scores around 290-300, especially if other aspects of the application are strong.
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
Ball State University
290-300
University of Texas El Paso
290-300
Columbus State University
290-300
Arkansas State University
290-300
University of Denver
290-300
North Dakota State University
290-300
New York Institute of Technology
290-300
St. Cloud State University
290-300
University of North Carolina, Greensboro
290-300
Eastern Washington University
290-300
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Those with relevant professional experience or internships.
- Candidates who demonstrate strong recommendations, achievements, or skills in their field.
3. U.S. Universities for GRE Score Range (300 to 308)
This score range opens up more competitive options. Universities in this bracket are moderately selective but highly reputable.
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
New Jersey Institute of Technology
300-308
California State University Long Beach
300-308
University of Memphis
300-308
University of Colorado Denver
300-308
University of Massachusetts Lowell
300-308
University of New Hampshire
300-308
University of San Francisco
300-308
Wichita State University
300-308
San Diego State University
300-308
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Applicants who have balanced profiles with a combination of good academics and strong GRE scores.
- Those with a background in research or prior exposure to relevant projects.
4. U.S. Universities for GRE Score Range (308 to 314)
Scores in this range are competitive and meet the criteria for a larger selection of reputable universities, including those known for specific programs or fields.
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
University of Arizona
308-314
University of South Florida
308-314
SUNY Buffalo
308-314
University of Houston
308-314
Mississippi State University
308-314
University of Illinois at Chicago
308-314
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
308-314
University of Oklahoma
308-314
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Those with solid academic records, possibly complemented by work or research experience.
- Applicants with strong personal statements that emphasize their goals and motivations.
5. U.S. Universities for GRE Score Range (315 to 325)
This is a high GRE score range that is often required by well-ranked programs. With scores in this range, candidates are competitive for many strong programs and reputable schools.
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
University of California, Irvine
315-325
University of Maryland, College Park
315-325
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
315-325
Texas A&M University, College Station
315-325
University of Pittsburgh
315-325
Ohio State University
315-325
University of Florida
315-325
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Students with strong academic achievements and relevant experience.
- Those who have engaged in research or have clear career objectives aligned with their chosen field of study.
6. U.S. Universities for GRE Score Range (326 to 340)
In this range, students are eligible for some of the most selective programs, including prestigious institutions where competition is fierce.
Name of University
Website
GRE Scores
Stanford University
326-340
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
326-340
University of California, Berkeley
326-340
Harvard University
326-340
California Institute of Technology
326-340
University of Chicago
326-340
Princeton University
326-340
Ideal Candidates for this Range:
- Applicants with outstanding academic, research, and professional accomplishments.
- Candidates with a clear research focus or advanced knowledge in their chosen field.
Choosing a university based on your GRE score range is a practical way to streamline your application process. But remember, while the GRE is important, factors like academic background, professional experience, recommendations, and personal statements also weigh heavily in admission decisions. Focus on building a well-rounded application that reflects your strengths and goals. Good luck!