10 Grad Schools That Don't Require Letters of Recommendation

Applying to grad school doesn't have to be complicated. There are many grad schools that don't require letters of recommendation.

Whether you're returning to school after a break or building on your current experience, there are plenty of quality graduate schools that don't require references. Below, we discuss the easiest graduate schools to get into.

Do All Grad Schools Require a Letter of Recommendation?

No, not all graduate schools require a letter of recommendation. Many programs, especially online or degrees with a professional focus, have removed this requirement to simplify the admissions process.

Additionally, there are many grad schools with no GRE requirements to streamline the admissions process. Some schools offer alternative pathways like provisional admission, personal statements, or work experience in place of traditional academic or professional references.

Why Do Some Graduate Programs Waive Letters of Recommendation?

Some graduate programs waive letters of recommendation to make the application process more accessible, especially for working adults or nontraditional students who may not have recent academic or professional references.

These programs often focus more on measurable qualifications, like GPA. Waiving this requirement can also speed up admissions decisions and reduce barriers for qualified applicants.

Top Grad Schools That Don't Require Letters of Recommendation

If you're looking for grad schools that don't require reference letters, check out the schools listed below.

1. Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers many graduate degree programs. The general admissions process only requires that applicants hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Students must submit their transcripts and a $65 application fee.

Individual programs may have their own admissions requirements, so you'll need to check with your intended program to see if there are any other materials you must submit.

• Estimated tuition cost: $4,486.22 per semester
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Liberty University

Liberty University offers fully online master's degrees across numerous fields, such as education, business, public health, and more. The admissions process requires transcripts showing a completed bachelor's degree program. Students do not generally need to submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).

• Estimated tuition cost: $580 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers many online and in-person programs. The graduate school application process is fast and free.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree. Supplemental materials, like references, test scores, and essays, aren't necessary.

• Estimated tuition cost:$793 per credit hour
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. Arizona State University

Arizona State University has extensive distance education opportunities. Online master's degree programs span a wide range of fields, from business administration to computer science.

While each program may have additional standards, Arizona State University has a minimum set of admissions requirements for online graduate students. These stipulations include that applicants hold at least a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA.

Some particular programs may ask for additional materials, such as test scores, resumes, short essays, personal statements, or even letters of recommendation. However, these items aren't standard for every program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $799 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. National University

National University delivers flexible, online master's degrees. The programs feature accelerated four-week courses with monthly start dates. Tuition varies significantly by program; however, most master's degrees fall under $1,000 per credit hour.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5. If students fall below that range, they may submit GRE or GMAT test scores for consideration.

• Estimated tuition cost: $455 per credit hour
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

6. University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida offers many master's programs available online and on campus. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA minimum. Supplemental materials are required and may include a personal statement, writing samples, resume, or portfolio.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,664 per year
• Accreditation: SACSCC

7. Bellevue University

At Bellevue University, students can pursue many graduate degree programs fully online. Fields span from business to health care.

To gain admittance, students need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college. Your GPA must be above a 2.5 to be considered during the graduate admissions process. Fortunately, you don't need recommenders or GRE and GMAT scores. However, there is a $75 application fee.

• Estimated tuition cost: $680 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

8. California State University, San Bernardino

California State University, San Bernardino, offers many master's degree options. Graduate students can pursue fields such as business, social work, and education.

Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 2.5. Prospective students must also pay a non-refundable $70 application fee.

• Estimated tuition cost: $564.17 per credit hour
• Accreditation: WASC WSCUC

9. Walden University

Walden University offers flexible, fully online master's programs in fields like education, nursing, counseling, and business. Tuition varies by program. During the application process, students must submit transcripts, academic history, and a resume, depending on the program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $15,000 per quarter
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global offers fully online master's programs designed for working adults. It features flexible monthly start dates and no out-of-state tuition.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA, though exceptions can be made for those with an academic performance below this level. Students must submit official transcripts. You don't need to submit letters of recommendation or GRE test scores.

• Estimated tuition cost: $675 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

FAQs About Master's Programs That Don't Require Recommendations

Many graduate schools understand that not every applicant has access to professional or academic references. Below, we answer common questions about programs that waive recommendation letters and how to apply confidently without them.

Can I Get Into a Reputable Grad School Without a Recommendation?

Yes, many respected graduate programs now offer admission without requiring letters of recommendation. These schools often focus more on your academic record, personal statement, and professional experience than on references.

Do All Programs at These Schools Waive Letters of Recommendation?

Not always, while some schools have recommendation-free pathways, others may still require them for certain programs. It's important to carefully review each program's admission requirements or contact an advisor to confirm if letters can be waived.

Will Skipping Recommendations Hurt My Chances Compared To Other Applicants?

It depends on the competitiveness of the program. If there are limited spots in the program available, it's important to include any materials that can help your application stand out to the admissions committee.

What Should I Do if I Can't Get a Letter of Recommendation for Grad School?

Be upfront with the admissions office and ask about alternatives or waivers. You can also highlight your qualifications through a compelling statement of purpose, work samples, or a professional resume to help make up for the missing recommendation.

Look for the easiest master's degrees without many admissions requirements. Many schools don't require references at all.

Enroll in a Grad Program

You can find quality degree programs here on Learn.org that match your career goals. Contact individual schools to learn more about the admissions process.