Arizona State University's GRE policy is largely optional across its graduate programmes, including its large and popular Engineering and Computer Science master's degrees — a key part of ASU's accessibility-focused admissions approach for international students.
Does ASU Require the GRE?
| Programme | GRE Status |
|---|---|
| Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering (most MS) | Optional |
| W. P. Carey School of Business (MBA) | GMAT or GRE accepted |
| PhD programmes (most departments) | Optional, department-dependent |
| Online MS programmes | Not required |
Competitive GRE Scores at ASU
| Programme | Competitive Quant | Competitive Verbal |
|---|---|---|
| MS Computer Science | 158 – 165 | 148 – 155 |
| MS Electrical Engineering | 155 – 162 | 145 – 152 |
| W. P. Carey MBA (GRE track) | 155 – 162 | 150 – 158 |
Should You Submit If GRE Is Optional at ASU?
ASU's optional policy genuinely functions as optional — many successful international applicants, particularly to Engineering master's programmes, are admitted without submitting a GRE score at all. Submit only if your score would meaningfully strengthen an otherwise borderline profile.
GRE Is Separate From English Proficiency
A GRE score does not satisfy ASU's English language requirement. International applicants still need TOEFL or IELTS:
| Requirement | ASU Policy |
|---|---|
| GRE | Optional across most programmes |
| TOEFL | Required — see our ASU guide |
| IELTS | Required — see our ASU guide |
Prepare for TOEFL with Gabble — ASU requires IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79, regardless of GRE. AI-powered speaking and writing feedback. Or prepare for IELTS.