Northeastern University's GRE policy is largely optional across its graduate programmes, including its popular Khoury College of Computer Sciences and College of Engineering master's degrees — consistent with Northeastern's broader test-optional admissions approach.
Does Northeastern Require the GRE?
| Programme | GRE Status |
|---|---|
| Khoury College of Computer Sciences (MS) | Optional |
| College of Engineering (most MS) | Optional |
| D'Amore-McKim School of Business (MBA) | GMAT or GRE accepted |
| Align MS in Computer Science (career-changer track) | Not required |
Competitive GRE Scores at Northeastern
| Programme | Competitive Quant | Competitive Verbal |
|---|---|---|
| MS Computer Science (Khoury) | 160 – 166 | 150 – 158 |
| MS Data Science | 158 – 165 | 148 – 155 |
| D'Amore-McKim MBA (GRE track) | 155 – 162 | 150 – 158 |
Should You Submit If GRE Is Optional at Northeastern?
Northeastern's optional policy functions genuinely as optional — many successful international applicants to Khoury College and Engineering programmes are admitted without submitting a GRE score. Submit only if your score would meaningfully strengthen an otherwise borderline profile.
GRE Is Separate From English Proficiency
A GRE score does not satisfy Northeastern's English language requirement. International applicants still need TOEFL or IELTS:
| Requirement | Northeastern Policy |
|---|---|
| GRE | Optional across most programmes |
| TOEFL | Required — see our Northeastern guide |
| IELTS | Required — see our Northeastern guide |
Prepare for TOEFL with Gabble — Northeastern's competitive TOEFL and IELTS scores matter regardless of GRE. AI-powered speaking and writing feedback. Or prepare for IELTS.