Best Online Psychology Master’s Programs with No GRE Requirement

Why Choose a No-GRE Psychology Master’s?

Opting for a no-GRE master’s program in psychology can save you time, stress, and money. These programs offer quicker admissions and often attract a diverse pool of students, from recent grads to working professionals. Skipping the GRE means you can focus on your experience and goals instead of test prep, without sacrificing program quality.

Lower Barrier to Entry

No GRE means less stress and cost during the application process. Instead of months spent on test prep and fees, you can channel your energy into your personal statement or gaining relevant experience. Schools sometimes explicitly evaluate applicants on their “experiences and interests” rather than a test score, making admission more holistic and accessible. This inclusive approach improves the student experience by valuing real-world background over exam performance.

Faster, More Flexible Admissions

Without needing to schedule a GRE, you can often apply on shorter notice and multiple times a year. Many online psychology programs offer several start dates annually. This flexibility lets you jump into your studies sooner, keeping your career momentum going. It also benefits working professionals who can align a program start with their schedule, rather than around test dates.

Focus on Experience and Academics (Not Test Scores)

No-GRE programs tend to do a holistic review of applicants. They often put weight on GPA, letters of recommendation, and relevant work or volunteer experience. Cohorts will include people from varied backgrounds—enhancing class discussions, group projects, and your overall learning experience. Students benefit from peers who bring diverse professional and academic perspectives, rather than just strong test-taking skills.

Featured Online Psychology Master’s Programs (No GRE Required)

Below are three accredited U.S. universities offering online or hybrid psychology master’s programs with no GRE requirement. Each program is unique—covering general and specialized psychology—and designed for flexibility to accommodate career changers and working adults.

Frequently Asked Questions about No-GRE Online Psychology Master’s

How much do no-GRE online psychology master’s programs cost?

Tuition for online psychology master’s programs varies widely. Public universities tend to have lower per-credit rates, whereas private institutions cost more. Below is a comparison of three program examples to give you an idea of the costs you can expect for your program:

Notes: All figures above are before financial aid, and costs are typically quoted per credit. Always use the university’s official calculator or speak with an advisor to get an exact quote for your situation.

Do I need a bachelor’s degree in psychology to get into a master’s program?

Not necessarily, as many no-GRE psychology master’s programs accept students from a variety of academic backgrounds. The key requirement is usually a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (in any field). Some programs do prefer or recommend prior coursework in social science, but it’s often not mandatory. Overall, as long as you meet the GPA and other admission criteria, you can transition into psychology at the master’s level even if your first degree was in another field.

Are no-GRE psychology master’s programs accredited and respected?

Yes – as long as you choose an accredited university, the program’s credibility and rigor should be on par with those that require the GRE. Accreditation (e.g. regional accreditation) ensures the curriculum meets quality standards. Employers and doctoral programs primarily care that your degree comes from a reputable, accredited school and that you gained relevant knowledge and skills. To be safe, verify each program’s accreditation (regional accreditation is the gold standard in the U.S.). If the program is intended to lead to licensure (e.g. counseling), also ensure it has the proper specialized accreditation or state approval.

Will an online no-GRE master’s in psychology prepare me for a PhD or PsyD program later?

Often, yes. A master’s in psychology (GRE or no GRE) can be a stepping stone to doctoral programs, especially if it includes research training. If your goal is a PhD or PsyD, look for a master’s curriculum that offers research methods, statistics, and possibly a thesis or capstone project. Engaging in any optional research opportunities or faculty projects during your master’s will strengthen your doctoral applications. Keep in mind that while your master’s program may waive the GRE, some doctoral programs might still require GRE scores (though an increasing number are waiving it too).

Can I work full-time while pursuing an online psychology master’s?

Yes; many students in online no-GRE programs are working professionals. These programs are built with flexibility in mind. Online courses often allow you to attend lectures asynchronously (on your own schedule) and are designed for part-time enrollment. It’s wise to start with a lighter course load (maybe one course in your first term) to gauge the workload. It’s about finding the right pace and communicating with both your employer and professors when life gets busy.

Self-Assessment: Is a No-GRE Psychology Master’s Right for You?

Online, no-GRE psychology programs come with many advantages, but how do you know if this path fits your needs and goals? This quick self-assessment will guide you through five key questions to consider. Be honest with yourself, as your answers can illuminate whether a no-GRE online master’s in psychology aligns with your learning style, career objectives, and personal circumstances.

1. Do you prefer a holistic admissions process over standardized tests?
   If you’ve struggled with exams like the GRE or simply feel your academic record and experience speak better to your abilities, a no-GRE program might be a great fit. These programs will look at your GPA, essays, and references more closely. If you have a solid undergraduate GPA or relevant work experience, you won’t need a test score to prove you’re capable.
2. Are you able to thrive in an online learning environment?
   Online programs offer flexibility – you can attend class from home on your own schedule – but they also require self-motivation. If you’re comfortable with technology and have strong time-management skills, you’ll probably do well in an online format. On the other hand, if you know you need face-to-face interaction or a structured schedule to stay on track, you might need to cultivate new habits or seek out resources to keep yourself accountable. Being honest about your work habits will help you determine which mode of learning is best for you.
3. Do you need to balance graduate school with work or other responsibilities?
   If you have significant personal commitments (family, etc.), the flexibility of asynchronous classes can be a lifesaver. One big advantage of many no-GRE programs is that they are geared toward working professionals. If the only way you can pursue a master’s is not having to attend campus several times a week or not waiting a year to take the GRE, then a no-GRE online program is likely the right path.
4. What are your career goals with this degree?
   It’s important to ensure the program you choose aligns with what you want to do. No-GRE psychology master’s programs can open doors to roles in research, human services, business, education, and more, but most are non-clinical. If you’re aiming to become a licensed therapist or counselor, you’ll want to verify that a program meets licensure requirements or consider a different path. If your goals are to advance in a related field, then a general or specialized psychology master’s will likely help. For those eyeing a doctorate later, ensure that the program provides research opportunities.
5. Are you prepared for graduate-level coursework in psychology?
   No GRE doesn’t mean “easy”, so you should be ready to dive into rigorous study. Take stock of your academic skills. Many psychology master’s courses involve research methods and statistics – do you have some familiarity or willingness to learn it? Self-assess your background: if you haven’t taken a psychology course before, consider doing some self-study or a prerequisite class on the basics (some programs might even require or recommend this). Being mentally and logistically prepared for grad-level work will set you up for success.

Introduction to Our Rankings of Top Online Psychology Master’s Programs

Choosing the right program is easier when you can see how schools stack up. In the next section, we present a ranking of top online psychology master’s programs without GRE requirements. We evaluated programs based on several key factors: tuition affordability, availability of financial aid, the number of online programs the school offers, proper accreditation, and the strength of student support services. Explore which schools made the list and how they can help advance your psychology career.