LSE does not require the GRE for most of its taught Master's and research programmes, UK-style admission based on academic transcript and references applies broadly. The notable exception is LSE's most quantitative economics, finance, and econometrics programmes, several of which do require or strongly recommend a GRE score.
Does LSE Require the GRE?
| Programme Type | GRE Status |
|---|---|
| Most MSc programmes (Social Sciences, Management) | Not required |
| MSc Economics | Often required or strongly recommended |
| MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics (EME) | Required |
| MSc Finance / MSc Financial Mathematics | Sometimes required |
| PhD (Economics, Finance) | Often required or strongly recommended |
| LSE MBA (Global Executive) | GMAT preferred; GRE occasionally accepted |
The Quantitative Economics Exception
LSE's Department of Economics is one of the very few departments outside the US that consistently requires the GRE, particularly for MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics and for Economics PhD applicants. This reflects the highly mathematical, globally competitive nature of these specific programmes.
| Programme | Competitive Quant | Competitive Verbal |
|---|---|---|
| MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics | 167 - 170 | 155 - 162 |
| MSc Economics | 165 - 170 | 155 - 165 |
| Economics PhD | 168 - 170 | 158 - 165 |
What LSE Evaluates for Most Other Programmes
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate degree classification (First/2:1) | Primary factor |
| Relevant coursework and academic references | High |
| Personal statement | Moderate |
| English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) | Mandatory, separate requirement |
GRE Is Separate From English Proficiency
Even in the departments where GRE matters, IELTS or TOEFL is a completely separate, mandatory requirement:
| Requirement | LSE Policy |
|---|---|
| GRE | Not required for most programmes; required for MSc EME and often Economics |
| IELTS | Required, see our LSE IELTS Requirements guide |
| TOEFL | Required, see our LSE TOEFL Requirements guide |
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