Georgetown University GRE requirements (2026)
Georgetown does not require the GRE universally; the Graduate School states that some programs require standardized exams while many do not. In practice several high-demand programs (Computer Science, the Government PhD, biomedical PhDs) do not require the GRE, while professional schools such as McCourt and McDonough require a test with waivers available.
About Georgetown University
Georgetown University is a private Jesuit research university in Washington, D.C., known for its strengths in public policy, international affairs, government, and the biomedical sciences. Standardized testing requirements are set by individual academic programs rather than centrally.
GRE requirement by program
Georgetown University sets its GRE policy by program, so there is rarely a single university-wide answer. Below is each program we have checked, with its status, a link to the program's own admissions page, and the date we last confirmed it.
| Program | Status | Official source | Last checked |
|---|---|---|---|
Graduate School / central policy PhD and masters | Varies by program The Graduate School states that some programs require applicants to take standardized entrance examinations such as the GRE, GRE subject tests, GMAT, or MCAT, and directs applicants to refer to academic programs for the examinations required by individual programs. | grad.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
Computer Science (graduate programs) PhD and masters | Optional The Computer Science graduate program FAQ states that GRE test scores are not required to apply; the page does not state that submitted scores are rejected. | cs.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
Government (PhD) PhD | Optional The Government department states the GRE is not required for application to the PhD program, and that applications without GRE scores are acceptable and not penalized. | government.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
McCourt School of Public Policy (MPP and related masters) Masters | Optional The MPP, MIDP, and MS-DSPP programs accept the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT and applicants can apply for a waiver from the testing requirement, though McCourt still strongly recommends submitting scores; there is no minimum score requirement. | mccourt.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
McDonough School of Business (Full-time MBA) MBA / masters | Required A standardized test (GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment) is required as part of the Full-time MBA application process, but applicants may submit a test-waiver application if other components demonstrate above-average quantitative aptitude. | msb.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
Biostatistics (PhD) PhD | Optional The PhD in Biostatistics states that GRE scores are not required, but applicants are invited to report these scores if they are available. | biostatistics.georgetown.edu | Jun 2026 |
Each status was read from the program's own admissions page (last checked 20 06 2026). Policies change between cycles; always confirm on the linked official page before you apply.
Not the program you need? The status is set department by department. Use the three-step check on the is the GRE required page to confirm any program in a couple of minutes.
Should you submit a GRE score?
Where Georgetown University marks a program Optional, a score comfortably above the program's admitted-student median can strengthen a borderline application, especially for funded or international applicants. Below that median, your effort is usually better spent on the required parts of the file. Where a program is Not accepted, do not send a score, it will not be reviewed.
Unsure where you would land? Sit a free full-length mock and convert your scaled score to its exact official percentile before you decide.