10 Online Master of Public Administration Programs With No GRE Requirement

A Master of Public Administration (MPA) can help you develop the leadership, management and policy skills needed to work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public service roles. As universities continue to modernize their admissions processes, many now offer online grad schools that don't require the GRE, making graduate education more accessible to working professionals and recent college graduates.

Today, you can find accredited online MPA programs with no GRE requirement at public and private universities across the country. Below, we'll explain what the GRE is, whether MPA programs still require it and some of the best online options available for students interested in public leadership and administration.

What Is the GRE and Why Do Some Schools Require It?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that has traditionally been used in graduate admissions. The exam measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing skills, providing universities with one way to evaluate applicants from a variety of educational backgrounds.

Historically, some MPA programs required GRE scores because public administration coursework often includes policy analysis, budgeting, research methods and data interpretation. Universities viewed the exam as one indicator of whether applicants were prepared for the academic demands of graduate-level study.

In recent years, however, many schools have moved away from standardized testing requirements. Admissions committees increasingly focus on factors such as undergraduate GPA, professional experience, leadership accomplishments, recommendation letters and personal statements. As a result, many online MPA programs now offer admissions pathways that do not require GRE scores. 

Is the GRE Required for MPA Programs?

A growing number of Master of Public Administration programs no longer require GRE scores for admission. This shift reflects a broader trend toward holistic admissions practices that evaluate applicants based on their overall academic and professional qualifications rather than a single test score.

Many MPA programs attract students from diverse backgrounds, including government, nonprofit organizations, education, business, healthcare and military service. Because applicants bring a wide range of experiences to the admissions process, many schools now place greater emphasis on leadership potential, work experience and academic performance than on standardized testing.

While some public administration programs continue to require GRE scores, they are becoming less common than they once were. For prospective students, no-GRE admissions policies can reduce application costs, simplify the admissions process and make graduate education more accessible. Even at schools that do not require the GRE, applicants should carefully review GPA requirements and other admissions criteria before applying.

Top Online MPA Programs That Don't Require the GRE

Public administration professionals help lead government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public service initiatives that affect communities at the local, state and national levels. The schools below offer online Master of Public Administration programs that do not require GRE scores for admission. Every program on this list is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), a widely recognized accreditor for public service and public administration education. 

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is located in Tempe, Arizona, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its online Master of Public Administration is designed for students seeking leadership roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public-sector institutions.

The program explores topics such as public budgeting, policy analysis, organizational leadership and program evaluation. Students develop management and decision-making skills while learning how to address complex public challenges. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. Arizona State University does not require GRE scores for admission.

2. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University, located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, offers an online Master of Public Administration that allows students to customize their studies based on their career goals. The program combines public administration fundamentals with specialized coursework designed to prepare graduates for leadership positions in public and nonprofit organizations. Students can choose from two concentration options:

• Nonprofit management
• Public management

The university is accredited by the HLC. Coursework covers areas such as public budgeting, organizational behavior, public policy and administrative leadership. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required admissions materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

3. Kent State University

Kent State University's online Master of Public Administration is designed for students seeking careers in public service, nonprofit leadership and government administration. The program focuses on developing leadership, policy analysis and management skills that can be applied across a variety of public-sector organizations.

Located in Kent, Ohio, the university is accredited by the HLC. Students complete coursework in public budgeting, public policy, organizational behavior and strategic management while learning how to address complex challenges facing government and nonprofit organizations. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

4. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University's online Master of Public Administration is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The program prepares students for leadership positions in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public-service institutions through coursework in public management, policy analysis, budgeting and organizational leadership.

The university is located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Students learn how to evaluate public programs, manage public resources and develop solutions to community and organizational challenges. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required admissions materials. Louisiana State University does not require GRE scores for admission.

5. Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University, one of the largest HBCUs in the country, is located in Nashville, Tennessee, and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Its Master of Public Administration is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in government, nonprofit and public-sector organizations while providing opportunities for specialized professional development. In addition to completing the MPA, students may earn a graduate certificate in one of the following areas:

• Public Policy
• Nonprofit Management
• Local Government Management
• Public Administration Executive Leadership

The curriculum covers public budgeting, administrative leadership, policy development and organizational management. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

6. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida is located in Orlando, Florida, and offers an online Master of Public Administration designed for students who want to advance into leadership positions within government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public-service institutions. The program emphasizes practical management and policy skills that can be applied across a variety of public-sector settings. Students can tailor their studies through specialization options such as:

• Public Management and Leadership
• Local Government Management
• Community Engagement
• Public Finance and Economic Development

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

7. University of Colorado Denver

The University of Colorado Denver's online Master of Public Administration is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public agencies, nonprofit organizations and policy-focused institutions. The program combines management, budgeting and policy coursework with an emphasis on practical problem-solving and public service leadership.

Students may customize their degree through concentration options such as:

• Nonprofit Management
• Environmental Policy and Management
• Public Policy Analysis
• Local Government
• Emergency Management and Homeland Security

As one of the best colleges in Denver, the university is accredited by the HLC. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required admissions materials. The University of Colorado Denver does not require GRE scores for admission.

8. University of Nebraska at Omaha

The University of Nebraska at Omaha's Master of Public Administration is accredited by the HLC. The program prepares students for careers in government, nonprofit management and public service through coursework that focuses on leadership, policy implementation, public budgeting and organizational effectiveness.

The university is located in Omaha, Nebraska. Students can choose from the following concentrations:

• Public Management
• Nonprofit Management
• Public & Social Policy

Additional specialization options are available in criminology and criminal justice as well as information management. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

9. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and is accredited by the HLC. Its online Master of Public Administration is designed for students seeking leadership positions in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public-service institutions. The program emphasizes practical management skills, policy analysis and ethical leadership while preparing graduates to address complex public-sector challenges.

Students complete coursework in public budgeting, organizational management, public policy and program evaluation. The curriculum is designed to help working professionals strengthen their leadership abilities while developing the analytical skills needed to make informed decisions in public and nonprofit settings. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. The University of North Dakota does not require GRE scores for admission.

10. Villanova University

Villanova University is located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, and offers a Master of Public Administration designed for students who want to advance their careers in public service, nonprofit leadership and public-sector management. The program combines public administration theory with practical leadership and policy coursework that can be applied across a variety of organizational settings.

The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Coursework explores public management, policy implementation, organizational leadership and financial management while helping students develop skills that support effective public-sector decision-making. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required admissions materials. Villanova University does not require GRE scores for admission.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

Because public administration is a professional field focused on leadership, public service and organizational management, we prioritize programs that provide strong preparation for careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and public-sector institutions. We also consider:

• NASPAA Accreditation: We give preference to programs accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). This specialized accreditation is widely recognized in public administration education and indicates that a program meets standards related to curriculum quality, faculty qualifications and student outcomes.
• Public Service Leadership Preparation: We evaluate coursework in areas such as public policy, public budgeting, organizational leadership, program evaluation and public management. Programs that provide practical preparation for leadership roles receive additional consideration.
• Concentrations and Career Pathways: We review the availability of concentrations and specialization options that allow students to align their studies with specific career interests. Areas such as nonprofit management, local government, public policy and emergency management can help students develop targeted expertise.
• Admissions Accessibility: Schools that do not require GRE scores receive additional weight in our rankings. We also consider GPA requirements and other admissions criteria that may affect accessibility for prospective students.
• Online Flexibility and Student Support: We evaluate online course delivery, scheduling options, faculty accessibility and student support resources that help working professionals balance graduate education with career and family responsibilities.

Typical Admissions Requirements for MPA Programs

Admissions requirements for Master of Public Administration programs vary by university, but most schools seek applicants who demonstrate academic readiness and an interest in public service, nonprofit leadership or government administration. Because MPA programs attract students from a wide range of professional backgrounds, admissions committees often evaluate multiple factors when reviewing applications.

Most online MPA programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Schools typically request official transcripts and may establish minimum GPA requirements, often ranging from 2.5 to 3.0. Some programs also require a résumé, personal statement or letters of recommendation that highlight leadership experience, professional accomplishments and career goals.

Many MPA programs no longer require GRE scores and instead use a holistic admissions process. Applicants may come from backgrounds in government, nonprofit organizations, business, education, healthcare, military service and other fields. Some schools may consider relevant work experience as part of the admissions review process, particularly for applicants who have held supervisory or leadership roles.

How Much Do Online MPA Programs Cost?

The cost of an online MPA program varies depending on the university, residency status and program length. In many cases, total tuition ranges from approximately $12,000 to $45,000, although highly ranked private universities and specialized programs may cost more.

Students should also budget for expenses such as technology fees, textbooks, graduation fees and any optional residency or networking experiences. Programs that offer specialized concentrations or professional development opportunities may have additional costs beyond tuition.

Most accredited universities accept the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), allowing eligible students to access federal loans and other forms of financial aid. Students may also qualify for scholarships, employer tuition assistance programs, military education benefits and public-service tuition reimbursement opportunities. Comparing total costs alongside available financial aid can help you identify an MPA program that aligns with your budget and career goals.

How To Choose the Right No-GRE MPA Program

With more universities eliminating GRE requirements, prospective students have a wider range of public administration programs to consider. As you compare schools, it is important to look beyond admissions policies and evaluate factors that can influence your educational experience, professional network and long-term career opportunities.

Look for NASPAA Accreditation

NASPAA accreditation is one of the most important quality indicators for MPA programs. Accredited programs have undergone a rigorous review process and are evaluated on factors such as curriculum quality, faculty qualifications and student outcomes. Choosing a NASPAA-accredited program can help ensure that your degree is recognized throughout the public administration profession.

Consider Your Career Goals

MPA programs often offer concentrations that align with specific public-service careers. If you are interested in nonprofit leadership, local government, public policy, emergency management or public finance, look for programs that provide specialized coursework in those areas. Selecting a concentration that matches your goals can help you develop relevant expertise and professional connections.

Evaluate Online Flexibility

Many MPA students balance graduate school with full-time employment. Review whether courses are offered asynchronously, synchronously or through a combination of formats. You should also consider program length, start dates and any residency requirements to determine whether a program fits your schedule.

Review Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

Public administration is a relationship-driven field where networking can play an important role in career advancement. Programs that offer internships, applied projects, alumni networks and connections to government or nonprofit organizations may provide additional value beyond the classroom experience.

Compare Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate education is a significant investment, making it important to compare tuition, fees and other expenses. Review available scholarships, employer tuition assistance programs and federal financial aid opportunities. Most accredited universities accept FAFSA applications and participate in federal aid programs.     

Career Outlook With an MPA

A Master of Public Administration can prepare graduates for leadership and management roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, public policy organizations and community service institutions. As communities face evolving challenges related to infrastructure, public health, economic development and social services, demand continues for professionals who can manage programs, develop policies and lead public organizations.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment is projected to grow in several jobs and careers in public administration, including social and community service managers, emergency management directors, and administrative services managers. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations continue to seek professionals who can oversee budgets, evaluate programs, manage personnel and implement public initiatives.

FAQs About No-GRE MPA Programs

If you're considering a Master of Public Administration, you may have questions about admissions requirements, accreditation and career opportunities. Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask when researching online MPA programs with no GRE requirement.

Can You Get Into an MPA Program Without the GRE?

Many universities no longer require GRE scores for admission to MPA programs. Instead, schools often evaluate applicants based on undergraduate GPA, professional experience, recommendation letters and personal statements. This approach allows admissions committees to consider leadership potential and public-service experience alongside academic performance.

Are No-GRE MPA Programs Easier To Get Into?

While removing the GRE requirement can simplify the application process, universities still maintain admissions standards designed to identify students who are prepared for graduate-level coursework. Applicants may still need to meet GPA requirements and submit supporting materials that demonstrate academic and professional readiness.

Is NASPAA Accreditation Important for MPA Programs?

NASPAA accreditation is one of the most recognized quality indicators in public administration education. Programs accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration meet standards related to curriculum, faculty qualifications and student outcomes. Many students prioritize NASPAA-accredited programs because they are widely respected by employers in government and nonprofit sectors.

Can You Complete an MPA Fully Online?

Many universities offer fully online MPA programs that allow students to complete coursework from anywhere. Depending on the school, students may participate in asynchronous courses, live online classes or a combination of both. Some programs may also offer optional internships, networking opportunities or applied projects that can be completed within a student's local community.

Is an MPA Worth It for Career Advancement?

For professionals interested in public service, nonprofit leadership or government administration, an MPA can provide valuable skills in leadership, budgeting, policy analysis and organizational management. The degree may help prepare graduates for advancement into supervisory and management roles across public-sector organizations. Career outcomes vary based on experience, specialization and location, but many professionals pursue an MPA to expand their leadership opportunities and increase their impact within their communities.  

Find No-GRE Grad Schools 

Start your journey toward an MPA by exploring the accessible online grad schools featured on Learn.org. To find out more about admissions and program requirements, reach out to specific institutions individually.