No-GRE Master's in Library Science Programs

Learn more about MLS and MLIS degrees that do not require GRE test taking for program admissions

No-GRE MLIS Programs

Pursuing a Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) can be an exciting step in advancing your career. For many students, however, the thought of taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) can feel daunting. Luckily, many schools have removed the GRE as an admissions requirement, making it easier and more accessible for prospective students to enroll in these programs.

These No-GRE MLS and MLIS programs focus on academic achievements, work experience, and passion for the field, ensuring that students can begin their journey without the added stress of standardized testing. Below, you’ll find a table featuring a comprehensive list of schools offering No-GRE programs, along with details such as program levels, accreditation, and links to more information.

Why Consider a No-GRE MLS or MLIS Program?
No-GRE programs are particularly beneficial for students who may not excel in standardized testing but possess the skills, dedication, and experience needed for success in library science. These programs emphasize practical experience and academic performance, streamlining the admissions process while maintaining high educational standards.
Admissions for No-GRE programs typically require:

A strong undergraduate GPA
Letters of recommendation
A resume showcasing relevant experience in libraries, archives, or related fields
A personal statement outlining career goals and interest in library science

Schools that do not require GRE testing will require a collection of personal and professional information for the admissions and acceptance process.

No GRE Required Library & Information Science Programs

University Name	State	GRE Required	Program Level	Accreditation
Chicago State University	Illinois	No	Master's	ALA
Clarion University of Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania	No	Master’s	ALA
CUNY Queens College	New York	No	Master's	ALA
Drexel University	Pennsylvania	No	Master’s	ALA
East Carolina University	North Carolina	No	Master's	CAEP
East Central University	Oklahoma	No	Master’s	CAEP
Georgia College and State University	Georgia	No	Master’s	CAEP
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania	No	Master’s	CAEP
McDaniel College	Maryland	No	Master's	CAEP
New Mexico State University	New Mexico	No	Master’s	No
North Carolina Central University	North Carolina	No	Master's	ALA
Oklahoma State University	Oklahoma	No	Master’s	CAEP
Olivet Nazarene University	Illinois	No	Master's	CAEP
Plymouth State University	New Hampshire	No	Master’s	CAEP
Rutgers, State University of New Jersey	New Jersey	No	Master's	ALA
San Jose State University	California	No	Master’s	ALA
Simmons University	Massachusetts	No	Master's	ALA
Southern Connecticut University	Connecticut	No	Master’s	ALA
St. Catherine University	Minnesota	No	Master's	ALA
Syracuse University	New York	No	Master's	ALA
University of Alabama	Alabama	No	Master's	ALA
University of Arizona	Arizona	No	Master's	ALA
University of California – Los Angeles	California	No	Master's	ALA
University of Colorado Denver	Colorado	No	Master's	CAEP
University of Denver	Colorado	No	Master's	ALA
University of Maryland	Maryland	No	Master's	ALA
University of Maryland College Park	Maryland	No	Master’s	CAEP
University of Michigan	Michigan	No	Master's	ALA
University of Missouri	Missouri	No	Master’s	ALA
University of Montana	Montana	No	Master's	No
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	North Carolina	No	Master's	ALA
University of Pittsburgh	Pennsylvania	No	Master's	ALA
University of Rhode Island	Rhode Island	No	Master’s	ALA/CAEP
University of South Carolina	South Carolina	No	Master's	ALA
University of Southern California	California	No	Master's	ALA
University of Texas at Austin	Texas	No	Master's	ALA
University of Washington	Washington	No	Master's	ALA
University of Wisconsin-Madison	Wisconsin	No	Master's	ALA
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee	Wisconsin	No	Master's	ALA
William Paterson University	New Jersey	No	Master's	CAEP

What is the GRE Test?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that serves as an admissions requirement for many graduate programs worldwide. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the GRE measures a student’s readiness for graduate-level academic work, assessing skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These sections are designed to evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to articulate complex ideas effectively.

While the GRE is used to provide a standardized comparison among applicants, it has faced criticism for its potential biases, including those related to socioeconomic status and test-taking skills. For this reason, many programs, including a growing number of MLS and MLIS programs, no longer require the GRE, opting to focus on other indicators of a candidate’s potential, such as academic history, professional experience, and personal achievements.

Why Are Some MLS/MLIS Programs Dropping the GRE Requirement?

The decision to remove the GRE as a requirement for MLS and MLIS programs is rooted in creating more equitable and accessible pathways to graduate education. The GRE, while once a staple of graduate admissions, has been criticized for its limitations in accurately predicting student success in specific fields, particularly in humanities-based disciplines like library science.

By dropping the GRE, schools aim to:

Reduce Barriers: Standardized tests can be costly and time-consuming. By eliminating the GRE, programs make graduate education more accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Focus on Relevant Skills: Admissions committees increasingly prioritize academic achievements, work experience, and personal statements that demonstrate commitment and aptitude for library science.
Align with Industry Trends: Many professional organizations, including the American Library Association (ALA), emphasize practical skills and hands-on experience over test scores, influencing schools to follow suit.

Programs that waive the GRE often report a broader pool of qualified applicants, fostering a diverse and well-rounded student body.

Benefits of No-GRE MLS/MLIS Programs
Opting for a No-GRE program comes with several advantages:

Cost Savings: The GRE exam costs over $200, not including preparation materials or courses. Removing this requirement saves applicants significant expenses.
Faster Admissions Process: Without the need to schedule, prepare for, and take the GRE, prospective students can focus on completing their applications and enrolling sooner.
Emphasis on Holistic Evaluation: No-GRE programs look beyond test scores, valuing personal statements, academic records, and work experience. This approach allows applicants to highlight their unique strengths.

For students who excel in hands-on environments or bring relevant work experience, these programs often provide a better opportunity to showcase their qualifications.

FAQs About No-GRE Library Science Programs

Do No-GRE programs have lower admission standards?
No. These programs evaluate candidates holistically, placing greater emphasis on academic performance, professional experience, and other relevant qualifications instead of standardized test scores.

Are No-GRE programs less prestigious?
Not at all. Many highly respected universities, including ALA-accredited institutions, offer No-GRE MLS and MLIS programs, ensuring graduates receive a quality education recognized in the industry.

What if I’ve already taken the GRE?
If you have GRE scores and believe they strengthen your application, some programs will still accept them even if they are not required. Always check the specific admissions policies of the program you’re applying to.

Are online No-GRE programs as credible as in-person ones?
Yes, as long as they are ALA-accredited. Online programs provide the same rigorous curriculum and standards as their in-person counterparts, with the added flexibility of remote learning.

Online MLIS Degree Resources

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