Pursuing a Master’s in Data Science in the USA Without GMAT/GRE
Table of contents
Introduction
Are you looking to pursue a Master's in Data Science in the USA but GRE/GMAT scores have become a major obstacle in your applications? Don’t worry.
As the demand for data scientists increases, many top universities are waiving standardized tests in favor of applicants' technical skills, academic backgrounds, and professional experience. However, GMAT and GRE aren't the only measures of quantitative aptitude and academic rigor. Your profile speaks a lot for you and universities are slowly understanding this. Several universities understand this and some of them have waived off their GRE/GMAT requirements for 2025 intake as well! If you are looking to pursue a career in Data Science in 2025, this is your cue! In this blog, we have prepared a mega-list of Master’s in Data Science in the USA without GRE/GMAT for 2025!
Why Choose a Master’s in Data Science in the USA Without GMAT/GRE?
If you have read our Guidebook on Master’s in Data Science and Analytics in 2025, you might already know the perks of studying Data Analytics in 2025 in the current economy. Getting admitted to a Master’s in Data Science in the USA without a GRE/GMAT is no less than a boon. Here are 4 key reasons why a Master’s in Data Science in the USA without GRE/GMAT in 2025 is all worth the effort:
- Skill-Focused Admissions: These programs focus more on your profile rather than on GRE/GMAT or other standardized test scores. Hence they emphasize practical skills over standardized test scores, prioritizing real-world applications and project-based learning.
- Time-Saving: Preparing for the GMAT/GRE can be time-consuming. By waiving these requirements, you can focus instead on building relevant skills.
- Cost Commitment: Sitting for any standardized test comes with its own cost for application, preparation, and other additions like study material. Applying for a Master’s in Data Science in the USA Without GMAT/GRE saves you from that cost as well.
- Flexible Admissions: Schools often consider industry experience, previous coursework, or certifications in data science or related fields as part of their criteria.
With the advent of Big Data, all companies are more focused on hiring employees who understand data better and can churn out actionable insights. As a result, more and more universities across the globe are introducing Masters in Data Science or Master’s in Data Analytics with interesting electives, tracks, and specializations one better than the other. Then how will one realize which to choose or which country to start your Master’s in Data Science in?
Key Benefits of Pursuing Data Science Without GMAT/GRE in the USA
The USA houses the best universities in the world offering world-class programs, dual degrees, exchange programs, and whatnot. In 2025, studying Data Science in the USA offers many advantages, from academic excellence and career prospects to industry integration. USA has
- Access to Top-Ranked Programs: USA houses leading universities famous for their techs like Stanford, MIT, CMU, and more. These programs are strong in data science and analytics. Faculty actively engaged in the field offer cutting-edge curriculum, exposure to leading research, and expertise.
- Strong job market: Data science roles are among the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S., with demand projected to remain high across industries like technology, healthcare, and finance(Check out a Master’s in Finacial Data Analysis, if you’re a financial data enthusiast), and consulting. According to Statista, the global analytics as a service (AaaS) market value is estimated to reach approximately 69 billion U.S. dollars in 2028.
AaaS Market Size Forecast in 2021 and 2028 (cc: Statista) - Post-Study Work Opportunities: Often, students in data science programs can work in the United States for up to three years after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT). It enhances employability worldwide by providing valuable work experience in the U.S. job market.
- Startup Incubators and Accelerators: USA hosts many startup incubators nourishing the entrepreneurship culture. Want to know the best incubators and how these work? Check out our blogs on Marketing Incubator and Finance Labs.
- Collaboration and Networking: The USA is home to global tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, along with numerous startups, creating high levels of industry integration within academic programs. Universities partner with these companies to offer students internships, practical experience, and networking opportunities.
These are just the tip of the iceberg. The USA also has a high earning potential compared to other countries. Due to substantial findings for research universities support innovative data science projects giving students access to resources, labs, and collaborative research opportunities. All these make the USA a popular choice when it comes to studying abroad.
List of top Master’s in Data Science without GRE/GMAT in 2025
Ready to kickstart your data science career in 2025? Here is a list of top Master’s in Data Science in the USA without GRE/GMAT:
University |
School |
Course |
Location |
|
Harvard University |
Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Science |
Master's in Data Science |
Massachusetts, USA |
|
Stanford University |
Stanford Engineering |
M.S. in Statistics and Data Science |
California, USA |
|
University of Pennsylvania |
Penn Engineering |
MSE Data Science |
Philadelphia, USA |
|
Cornell University |
Cornell Bowers CIS Statistics and Data Science |
MOS Data Science and Applied Statistics |
New York, USA |
|
University of Chicago |
Data Science Institute |
Masters in Applied Data Science |
Illinois, USA |
|
Yale University |
Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences |
MSc in Statistics and Data Science |
Connecticut, USA |
|
Columbia University |
Columbia University Data Science Institute |
MS in Data Science |
New York, USA |
|
New York University |
Center for Data Science |
Master’s in Data Science |
New York, USA |
|
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor |
College of Engineering and Computer Science (CSE) |
Master’s in Data Science |
Michigan, USA |
|
Carnegie Mellon University |
Mellon College of Science |
MS Data Analytics |
Philadelphia, USA |
|
Duke University |
DUKE The Graduate School |
Master in Interdisciplinary Data Science |
North Carolina, USA |
|
University of Maryland |
College of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences |
Master of Science in Data Science |
Baltimore, USA |
|
University of California - Los Angeles |
UCLA College of Physical Science |
Master of Applied Statistics and Data Science |
California, USA |
University of Texas - Austin |
College of Natural Sciences |
Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) |
Texas, USA |
|
Brown University |
Data Science Institute |
Master’s in Data Science |
Providence, USA |
|
Pennsylvania State University |
Master of Data Analytics* |
University Park, USA |
|
|
George Washington University |
School of Engineering & Applied Science |
Master of Science in the Field of Data Science |
Washington, D.C, USA |
|
University of Washington |
|
Master of Science in Data Science |
Seattle, USA |
|
University of Wisconsin–Madison |
Graduate School UW Madison |
Biomedical Data Science, MS |
Wisconsin, USA |
|
Tufts University |
School of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering |
Master Of Science In Data Science |
Massachusetts, USA |
*However, it is important to remember that the Master of Data Analytics offered by PennState doesn't require GRE scores. Still, you will need them if you wish to apply for the Master of Science in Data Analytics.
Are you aiming to do your master’s in European countries? We recommend checking out our list of universities for Master’s in Data Science in France and Germany in 2025!
Conclusion
If you are ready to jump into a high-growth field, a Master’s in Data Science without GRE/GMAT can be an excellent option. With universities focussing more on skills and experience, you have ample opportunity to get into top USA programs and make your mark in data science without the added stress of exams. Each of these universities offers unique advantages tailored to the industry’s needs making them ideal for aspiring data scientists in 2025.
Ready to start your career in 2025? Book a call with our founder and start your application today!
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