GRE Scores for Healthcare Programs

The healthcare field is rapidly growing in America, driven by high demand, rising wages, and new technologies. These factors attract both new graduates and career changers to health programs. If you’re exploring graduate education options in health, this article breaks down the test requirements and GRE scores that top healthcare programs in the U.S. are looking for. If you are ready to begin your GRE journey, consider a Magoosh Premium Plan today!

GRE Scores for Healthcare Programs (Intended Field of Study)
A Note About GRE Requirements
GRE Scores for Specific Programs:

Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.)
Clinical Psychology PhD
Healthcare Management and Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nursing-Midwifery (MSN and DNP)
Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)
Master’s of Public Health (MPH/MSPH)
Rehabilitation Counseling Master’s
Master’s of Social Work (MSW)
Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP)
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Takeaways

GRE Scores for Healthcare Programs (Intended Field of Study)

When you take the GRE, you choose your intended field of study for graduate school. This selection generates data showing average GRE scores by intended major, reflecting the scores of those planning to enter specific fields. Keep in mind, these scores represent test-takers, not those accepted into programs. However, this information can help you establish a baseline score goal for the exam.

Program	Average Verbal GRE Score	Average Quant GRE Score
Audiology	150	148
Clinical Psychology	153	149
Health Care Management	140	141
Nursing-Anesthesia	151	149
Nursing-Midwifery	151	149
Occupational Therapy	149	147
Pharmacy	148	155
Physical Therapy	149	149
Physician Assistant	151	150
Public Health	152	151
Rehabilitation Counseling	148	148
Social Work	149	145
Speech-Language Pathology	149	147
Veterinary Medicine	151	151

A Note About GRE Requirements

All program information below was updated in Summer 2024. Rankings are based on the U.S. News and World Report Graduate Rankings. This data is meant to kickstart your school search and provide ballpark GRE score estimates. Be sure to double-check all requirements for each school early in your application process. Note that schools listing “Not Required” rather than “Does Not Accept” for the GRE may still review scores if submitted. Contact the program directly to clarify how they consider the test.

GRE Scores for Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) Programs

Are you interested in helping people in their hearing journeys? A doctorate in Audiology prepares you to study, assess, and treat hearing disorders in children and adults. This work includes prevention, diagnosis, and habilitation/rehabilitation of hearing disorders. Here are some of the top Audiology programs and their GRE requirements!

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Vanderbilt University	Average Admitted Total Score 317-319
2	University of Iowa	Does Not Require
3 (tie)	Northwestern University	Does Not Accept
3 (tie)	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Highly Recommended
3 (tie)	University of Texas–Dallas	Average Admitted Total Score 305-315
6 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Does Not Require
6 (tie)	Washington University in St. Louis	Optional
8	Purdue University–West Lafayette	Does Not Require
9 (tie)	Ohio State University	Does Not Accept
9 (tie)	Rush University Medical Center	Required and used for scholarships
9 (tie)	University of Minnesota–Twin Cities	Does Not Accept
12 (tie)	University of Indiana–Bloomington	Does Not Require
12 (tie)	University of Maryland–College Park	Optional
12 (tie)	University of Texas–Austin	Optional
15	University of Colorado–Boulder	Required for PhD; optional for AuD

GRE Scores for Clinical Psychology PhD Programs

Clinical Psychology is a psychology specialty that focuses on providing comprehensive mental and behavioral healthcare. Clinical psychologists work with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, families, and communities, to address a wide range of psychological issues. Given the growing demand for mental health services, clinical psychologists find employment opportunities in various settings across the country, including hospitals, private practices, schools, and community health centers.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	University of California–Los Angeles	Optional; Mean Verbal Score 162.5; Mean Quant Score 160.83
2	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Does Not Accept
3 (tie)	Stony Brook University–SUNY	Does Not Accept
3 (tie)	University of California–Berkeley	Optional
5 (tie)	University of Minnesota–Twin Cities	Required
5 (tie)	University of Washington	Optional
5 (tie)	University of Wisconsin–Madison	Does Not Accept
8 (tie)	University of Pennsylvania	Optional
8 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Optional
10 (tie)	Harvard University	Required
10 (tie)	Indiana University–Bloomington	Optional, but some faculty prefer candidates with scores
10 (tie)	Pennsylvania State University–University Park	Strongly recommended; Average Verbal Score 160; Average Quant Score 163
10 (tie)	Temple University	Does Not Accept
10 (tie)	University of Colorado–Boulder	Optional, but some faculty prefer candidates with scores
10 (tie)	University of Texas–Austin	Optional
10 (tie)	Washington University at St. Louis	Does Not Accept

GRE Scores for Healthcare Management and Healthcare Administration (MHA) Programs

Master’s programs in Healthcare Management or Health Administration are designed to train students in managing healthcare businesses. Unlike MBAs, these degrees focus exclusively on the business aspects of healthcare, ensuring that every course emphasizes the unique challenges and dynamics of the healthcare system. These programs are perfect for those who want to blend their interest in health with business acumen. Similar to MBA programs, you can often find them in full-time, part-time, and executive formats, making them flexible for various career stages.

Rank	School	GRE Requirement
1	University of Alabama–Birmingham	Not currently required
2	University of Minnesota–Twin Cities	Not currently required
3 (tie)	Rush University	Not currently required
3 (tie)	University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	Does not accept
3 (tie)	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Does not accept
3 (tie)	Virginia Commonwealth University	Optional
7	Johns Hopkins University	Does not accept
8 (tie)	Cornell University	Optional for master’s, required for PhD
8 (tie)	George Washington University	Optional
8 (tie)	Ohio State University	Optional
12 (tie)	Columbia University	Optional
12 (tie)	U.S. Army–Baylor University	Required; optimal score for MHA is 300; minimum score for joint MHA/MBA is 310
14 (tie)	University of Iowa	Not currently required
14 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Optional
16 (tie)	Tulane University	Does not accept
16 (tie)	University of Southern California	Not currently required
16 (tie)	University of Washington	Optional
19 (tie)	Baylor University	Required; minimum score of 300.
19 (tie)	Boston University	Does not accept
19 (tie)	Medical University of South Carolina	Optional
19 (tie)	Pennsylvania State University–University Park	Not currently required

GRE Scores for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Programs

Nurse anesthetists, or CRNAs, play a critical role in providing high-quality, independent anesthesia care across various healthcare settings. They are essential to the American healthcare system and are in high demand nationwide. As a result, nurse anesthesia is one of the fastest-growing job sectors. This career path is perfect for those who want to work autonomously in challenging medical environments, making significant contributions to patient care. If you thrive in high-stakes situations and seek a rewarding, independent role in healthcare, becoming a CRNA could be an ideal choice.

Rank	School	GRE Requirement
1	Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences	Targeted combined score of 297 or higher
2 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Optional, but considered as part of holistic review
2 (tie)	U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing	Minimum 297 combined verbal and quant; Minimum 3.5 writing score
4 (tie)	Baylor College of Medicine	Required; recommended 50th+ percentile
4 (tie)	University of Iowa	Not required
6	Virginia Commonwealth University	Does not accept
7 (tie)	Duke University	Not required
7 (tie)	Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia – California State University–Fullerton	Not required
7 (tie)	Texas Christian University	Minimum 150 on each quant and verbal, 3.5 writing
7 (tie)	Wake Forest Baptist Health – Wake Forest School of Medicine	Scores above the 50th percentile for each section
11 (tie)	Cleveland Clinic Foundation – Case Western Reserve University	Not required
11 (tie)	Georgetown University	Required for applicants with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.5
11 (tie)	Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College	Not required
11 (tie)	Medical University of South Carolina	Required for applicants with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.6
11 (tie)	Oregon Health and Science University	Not required
11 (tie)	University of Cincinnati	Required; Minimum scores of 150 on quant and verbal and 4.0 on writing recommended
11 (tie)	University of Southern California	Does not accept
18 (tie)	Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences	Required
18 (tie)	Northeastern University	Required; minimum combined score of 300
18 (tie)	Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science	Not required
18 (tie)	University of Detroit Mercy	Optional

GRE Scores for Nursing-Midwifery (MSN and DNP) Programs

MSN and DNP programs in Midwifery are tailored for students who want to provide primary health care to individuals during pregnancy. These programs equip nurses for certification and train them to care for both individuals and newborns. Midwifery is a highly sought-after specialty in nursing, offering opportunities to work in a wide range of settings. If you’re passionate about supporting people through pregnancy and birth, these programs prepare you to make a meaningful impact in diverse healthcare environments.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Vanderbilt University	Not required
2	Oregon Health and Science University	Not required
3 (tie)	University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus	Not required
3 (tie)	University of Minnesota–Twin Cities	Not required
5	University of California–San Francisco	Not listed
6 (tie)	University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	Not required
6 (tie)	University of Washington	Not required
8 (tie)	Georgetown University	Optional, can strengthen application
8 (tie)	Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center	Not required
8 (tie)	University of Kansas	Not required

GRE Scores for Occupational Therapy (OTD) Programs

Occupational Therapy programs train students to help individuals achieve independence in their daily activities. These programs prepare therapists to assess, design, and implement personalized therapeutic interventions. With the rising demand for holistic, patient-centered care, graduates find opportunities in hospitals, schools, and health centers. This career path is ideal for those passionate about improving the quality of life for individuals facing physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Occupational Therapy offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact in various healthcare settings.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1 (tie)	Boston University	Does not accept
1 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Not required
3 (tie)	University of Illinois–Chicago	Not required
3 (tie)	Washington University in St. Louis	Not required
5 (tie)	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Not required
5 (tie)	University of Southern California	Not required
7 (tie)	Colorado State University	Does not accept
7 (tie)	Columbia University	Not required
7 (tie)	New York University	Not required
7 (tie)	Thomas Jefferson University	Not required

GRE Scores for Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) Programs

Pharmacy programs train students to dispense medications and offer expert drug-related advice. These programs prepare pharmacists to ensure the safe and effective use of medications. As the demand for healthcare services grows, graduates find opportunities in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and clinics. This career path is perfect for those interested in science and patient care, offering a crucial role in the healthcare system where you can make a significant impact on patient well-being.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Not required
2 (tie)	University of California–San Francisco	Not required
2 (tie)	University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	Does not accept
4 (tie)	Ohio State University	Optional
4 (tie)	University of Florida	Does not accept
6 (tie)	University of Kentucky	Not required
6 (tie)	University of Minnesota	Does not accept
6 (tie)	University of Texas–Austin	Optional
9 (tie)	Purdue University	Required
9 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Optional
9 (tie)	University of Wisconsin–Madison	Not required

GRE Scores for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Programs

Physical Therapy programs teach students to enhance mobility and alleviate pain in patients. These courses equip therapists with skills to create and execute personalized treatment plans. As the need for rehabilitation services rises, graduates secure positions in hospitals, clinics, and sports facilities. This profession appeals to those dedicated to aiding others in recovery and maintaining physical health. It significantly contributes to improving quality of life.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Washington University in St. Louis	Does not accept
2 (tie)	University of Delaware	Required; will consider highest section scores from multiple attempts
2 (tie)	University of Iowa	Required; mean verbal score 153.9, mean quant score 155.9, mean writing score 4.4
4 (tie)	Emory University	Optional
4 (tie)	Northwestern University	Does not accept
6 (tie)	Duke University	Required; will consider highest section scores from multiple attempts
6 (tie)	University of Southern California	Not required
8 (tie)	Creighton University	Does not accept
8 (tie)	Ohio State University	Optional
8 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Does not accept
11 (tie)	Boston University	Does not accept
11 (tie)	MGH Institute of Health Professions	Not required
11 (tie)	University of Colorado–Denver	Not required
11 (tie)	University of Florida	Not required
11 (tie)	University of Kansas Medical Center	Does not accept
11 (tie)	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Not required
11 (tie)	University of Utah	Optional
11 (tie)	U.S. Army-Baylor University	Required; minimum quant score 148, minimum writing score 3.5, minimum combined 300, recommended verbal 152
11 (tie)	University of Miami	Optional
20	Marquette University	Required; minimum verbal and quant 150, minimum writing 4.0

GRE Scores for Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) Programs

Physician Assistant programs educate students to deliver medical care under a physician’s guidance. These programs train PAs to diagnose conditions, formulate treatment plans, and perform medical procedures. With rising healthcare needs, PAs work in hospitals, clinics, and diverse medical environments. This career path attracts those passionate about patient care and medical practice. PAs are essential in enhancing healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Duke University	Required; mid 50% range verbal 153-160, mid 50% range quant 151-159
2 (tie)	Baylor College of Medicine	Optional
2 (tie)	University of Iowa	Not required
4	Emory University	Not required
5 (tie)	George Washington University	Does not accept
5 (tie)	Oregon Health and Sciences University	Not required
7	Rutgers University School of Health Professions	Optional
8 (tie)	Northwestern University	Does not accept
8 (tie)	Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science	Does not accept
8 (tie)	Stanford University	Highly recommended
8 (tie)	University of Alabama at Birmingham	Required; average verbal 53rd percentile, average quant 40th percentile
8 (tie)	University of Colorado	Optional
8 (tie)	University of Utah	Does not accept

GRE Scores for Master’s of Public Health (MPH/MSPH) Programs

Master’s of Public Health (MPH) programs prepare students to tackle public health issues and enhance community well-being. These programs train you to develop, implement, and evaluate public health initiatives. As public health challenges grow, graduates find opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations. This career path appeals to those dedicated to improving population health and preventing disease. Public health professionals play a pivotal role in shaping healthier communities. Keep in mind that dual degree programs, like MPH/MBA, may have different test requirements, and subspecialties like Biostatistics may require the GRE.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Johns Hopkins University	Optional, but recommended if transcript lacks quantitative/analytical experience
2	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Optional
3 (tie)	Emory University	Does not accept
3 (tie)	Harvard University	Optional for 2025 entry, but recommended for those with weak quant backgrounds
5 (tie)	Columbia University	Required; average verbal 78.2%, average quant 71.3%, average analytical 71.2%
5 (tie)	University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	Does not accept
7 (tie)	Boston University	Does not accept
7 (tie)	University of Washington	Optional
9	University of California–Los Angeles	Required, can be waived for applicants with 3.0+ GPAs
10	University of California–Berkeley	Optional

GRE Scores for Rehabilitation Counseling Master’s Programs

Rehabilitation Counseling programs train students to help individuals with disabilities achieve personal, career, and independent living goals. These programs equip counselors with the skills to assess needs, develop personalized plans, and provide therapeutic interventions. As awareness of disability rights grows, graduates find opportunities in schools, rehabilitation centers, and community agencies. This career path is ideal for those passionate about empowering others and promoting inclusivity. Rehabilitation counselors play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome barriers and improve their quality of life.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	University of Wisconsin–Madison	Not required
2	Michigan State University	Optional
3 (tie)	San Diego State University	Not required
3 (tie)	University of Iowa	Not required
5	George Washington University	Required
6 (tie)	Pennsylvania State University–University Park	Not required
6 (tie)	University of Kentucky	Not required
6 (tie)	Utah State University	Optional
6 (tie)	Virginia Commonwealth University	Optional
10 (tie)	University of Arizona	Optional
10 (tie)	University of Wisconsin–Stout	Not required

GRE Scores for Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Programs

Master’s of Social Work (MSW) programs equip students to tackle social issues and support vulnerable populations. These programs provide training in assessment, counseling, and advocacy for social change. As social challenges increase, graduates find opportunities in schools, hospitals, government agencies, and community organizations. This career path is ideal for those passionate about improving individual and community well-being. Social workers play a crucial role in making a positive impact on society by addressing the needs of the most vulnerable and advocating for systemic change.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	Not required
2	Washington University in St. Louis	Not required
3	University of Chicago	Optional
4 (tie)	Columbia University	Not required
4 (tie)	University of California–Berkeley	Not required
4 (tie)	University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill	Optional; may benefit applicants with <3.0 GPAs
7	University of Washington	Not required
8 (tie)	Boston College	Optional; may benefit applicants with <3.0 GPAs or non-traditional transcripts
8 (tie)	University of California–Los Angeles	Does not accept
8 (tie)	University of Pennsylvania	Optional
8 (tie)	University of Texas–Austin	Optional; may benefit applicants with <3.0 GPAs

GRE Scores for Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) Programs

Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology programs train students to assess and treat communication disorders. These programs prepare individuals to diagnose speech, language, and swallowing disorders while developing effective treatment plans. Speech-language pathologists play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with communication challenges, helping them overcome obstacles to better express themselves and interact with others. If you’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives through communication, this career path offers both fulfillment and impact.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	Vanderbilt University	Required; average combined scores between 317-319
2 (tie)	Purdue University–West Lafayette	Not required
2 (tie)	University of Wisconsin–Madison	Not required
4	Northwestern University	Does not accept
5 (tie)	Boston University	Does not accept
5 (tie)	University of Iowa	Not required
5 (tie)	University of Pittsburgh	Optional
5 (tie)	University of Washington	Does not accept
9 (tie)	MGH Institute of Health Professions	Not required
9 (tie)	University of Arizona	Optional
9 (tie)	University of Kansas	Not required

GRE Scores for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Programs

Veterinary Medicine programs train students to care for animals and address their health issues. These programs equip individuals to diagnose illnesses, perform surgeries, and create treatment plans for a variety of animals. Graduates find opportunities in diverse settings, including small animal practices, zoos, wildlife centers, and rural environments. This career path is perfect if you want the chance to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of animals.

Rank	School	GRE Requirements
1	University of California–Davis	Does not accept
2	University of Colorado	Does not accept
3 (tie)	Cornell University	Does not accept
3 (tie)	Ohio State University	Does not accept
5 (tie)	North Carolina State University	Does not require
5 (tie)	University of Pennsylvania	Does not accept
7 (tie)	University of Florida	Does not require
7 (tie)	University of Georgia	Does not accept
7 (tie)	University of Wisconsin–Madison	Optional
10	Texas A&M–College Station	Does not require

Takeaways

As you’ve seen, healthcare programs have a wide diversity of GRE requirements. This is across fields and within fields across schools. You should use this blog post as a jumping off point for your own research into the best fit programs for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to programs if you have questions about your application or their requirements. Ready to begin your test prep journey? Consider a Magoosh study plan – they’ve been successful for many thousands of students over the years. Eager to get even more support, customized GRE practice, real ETS questions, and detailed answer explanations to all questions? A Magoosh Premium Plan will help you meet, and crush, your score goals!

Author

Jen Jurgens

Jen has a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and is a PhD candidate in U.S. History at Emory University. She’s worked in education, test prep, and admissions for over 12 years and has helped thousands of students in that time.

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