10 Online School Counseling Programs With No GRE Requirement 2026

If you want to become a school counselor, you may be wondering whether you need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) before applying to graduate school. The good news is that many universities have removed GRE requirements from their admissions process, making it easier for aspiring counselors to pursue a master's degree and begin working toward licensure or certification.

Today, you can find accredited online school counseling programs with no GRE requirement at public and private universities across the country. Below, we'll explain what the GRE is, whether school counseling programs still require it and some of the best online options available for future school counselors.

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

The GRE is a standardized test that has traditionally been used in graduate admissions. The exam evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing skills, providing schools with one way to compare applicants from different academic backgrounds.

Many universities historically required GRE scores because they believed the exam could help predict academic success in graduate-level coursework. In recent years, however, many counseling and education programs have moved away from standardized testing requirements, and as a result, there are many grad schools that don’t require the GRE. Admissions committees increasingly focus on factors such as undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation and personal statements when evaluating applicants.

Is the GRE Required for School Counseling Programs?

A growing number of online school counseling programs no longer require GRE scores as part of the admissions process. This shift reflects a broader trend in graduate education toward holistic admissions practices that consider an applicant's overall qualifications rather than a single test score.

Most school counseling programs that do not require the GRE still maintain other admissions standards. Applicants are often expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, meet minimum GPA requirements and submit supporting materials such as transcripts, recommendation letters and personal statements. Some schools may also require an interview or background check before admission.

Because school counselors work closely with students, families and educators, many programs place significant emphasis on communication skills, professional readiness and a commitment to helping others. As a result, admissions committees often find that academic records and personal qualifications provide a more complete picture of an applicant's potential than standardized test scores alone.

Top Online School Counseling Programs That Don't Require the GRE 

Many school counseling programs have moved away from GRE requirements and now focus on academic achievement, professional potential and a commitment to supporting student success. The schools below offer online programs that can help prepare students for school counselor certification or licensure while providing flexible learning options for working adults.

1. Campbellsville University

Campbellsville University is located in Campbellsville, Kentucky, and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Its Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling P-12 is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), an important consideration for students pursuing counselor licensure and certification.

The online program prepares future school counselors to support the academic, career and social-emotional development of students in P-12 settings. Coursework covers counseling theories, assessment, ethics, multicultural counseling and school counseling practices. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and application materials required by the university. GRE scores are not required for admission.

2. Chadron State College 

Chadron State College, located in Chadron, Nebraska, offers a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) with a School Counseling concentration designed for students seeking careers in elementary and secondary school settings. The program includes coursework in counseling techniques, human development, career counseling and student support services, along with supervised field experiences.

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its school counseling program is accredited by the CACREP. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required application materials. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.

3. Concordia University Irvine

Concordia University Irvine offers a master’s in school counseling in California that prepares students to support the academic, personal and career development of K-12 learners. The program emphasizes counseling techniques, child and adolescent development, crisis intervention and ethical practice while incorporating fieldwork experiences that help students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

Located in Irvine, California, Concordia University Irvine is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The school counseling program is accredited by the CACREP. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for admission.

4. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in School Counseling is accredited by the CACREP. The program is designed to prepare future counselors to work with students across elementary, middle and high school settings through coursework in counseling theory, assessment, career development and school-based interventions.

The university is located in Hays, Kansas, and is accredited by the HLC. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and supporting application materials. Students complete practicum and internship experiences as part of the curriculum, and GRE scores are not required for admission.

5. Liberty University

Liberty University is based in Lynchburg, Virginia, and is accredited by the SACSCOC. Its Master of Education in School Counseling is accredited by the CACREP and is designed to help students pursue school counselor licensure opportunities while developing counseling and leadership skills.

The online program explores topics such as counseling techniques, child and adolescent development, multicultural counseling and crisis response. Students also complete supervised practicum and internship experiences that provide hands-on training in school environments. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, official transcripts and other required application materials. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.

6. Regent University

Regent University, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers a Master of Arts in School Counseling that prepares students to work with children and adolescents in educational settings. The program covers counseling theories, assessment, group counseling, career development and ethical practice while incorporating supervised field experiences that help students develop practical counseling skills.

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

7. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling track designed for students seeking licensure or certification as school counselors. The program includes coursework in counseling methods, human development, multicultural counseling and career development, along with practicum and internship experiences that provide hands-on training.

Located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the university is accredited by the HLC. The counseling program is accredited by the CACREP. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required application materials. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.

8. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands' Master of Arts in Education with a School Counseling concentration is accredited by the CACREP. The program is designed to prepare future school counselors through coursework in counseling techniques, assessment, ethics, child and adolescent development and school counseling practices.

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

9. University of West Alabama 

The University of West Alabama is located in Livingston, Alabama, and is accredited by the SACSCOC. Its Master of Education in School Counseling is designed for students who want to help K-12 learners navigate academic, career and personal challenges while working toward school counselor certification.

The program includes coursework in counseling theory, human development, assessment, ethics and school counseling practices, along with practicum and internship experiences in educational settings. 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.

10. Walsh University

Walsh University, located in North Canton, Ohio, offers a Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development with a School Counseling concentration. The program prepares students to support the academic, social-emotional and career development of students through coursework in counseling techniques, assessment, group counseling and school-based interventions. It’s one of a few accelerated online master’s in counseling programs.

The university is accredited by the HLC, and the counseling program is accredited by the CACREP. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and submit official transcripts and other required application materials. GRE scores are not required for students with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.

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 school counseling programs must prepare students for licensure or certification requirements, we focus on factors that can affect both educational quality and career readiness, such as:

• Accreditation: We give preference to regionally accredited colleges and universities. For school counseling programs, we also consider specialized accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), which is recognized by many state licensing and certification agencies.
• Licensure Preparation: We evaluate whether programs are designed to help students meet school counselor certification or licensure requirements. Programs that include practicum and internship experiences receive additional consideration.
• Admissions Accessibility: Schools that do not require GRE scores receive additional weight in our rankings. We also review GPA requirements and other admissions criteria to identify programs that provide accessible pathways for qualified applicants.
• Online Flexibility and Student Support: We consider factors such as online course delivery, field placement assistance, faculty support, advising resources and services that can help students succeed while balancing work and personal responsibilities.

Typical Admissions Requirements for School Counseling Programs

Admissions requirements for school counseling programs vary by institution, but most online programs look for applicants who demonstrate academic readiness, professional potential and a commitment to supporting students. Because school counselors play an important role in student development and well-being, admissions committees often evaluate both academic qualifications and interpersonal skills.

Most online school counseling 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, which often range from 2.5 to 3.0. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a résumé or documentation of relevant work or volunteer experience.

Many programs have eliminated GRE requirements and instead use a holistic admissions process. Depending on the school, applicants may also complete an interview, writing sample or background check. Because school counseling programs include practicum and internship experiences, students should review any additional requirements related to field placements before applying.

How Much Do Online School Counseling Programs Cost?

The cost of an online school counseling program depends on factors such as the university, program length, residency requirements and state of residence. In many cases, students can expect total tuition costs to range from approximately $15,000 to $60,000, though some programs may fall outside that range.

In addition to tuition, students should budget for books, technology fees, background checks, professional liability insurance and costs associated with practicum or internship placements. Programs that lead to licensure or certification may also require application, testing or credentialing fees after graduation.

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, grants, military education benefits or employer tuition assistance programs. Comparing total program costs and available financial aid can help you find a school counseling program that fits both your career goals and your budget.

How To Choose the Right No-GRE School Counseling Program   

Finding the right school counseling program involves more than identifying schools that do not require the GRE. Because these programs are designed to prepare students for certification or licensure, it is important to evaluate factors that can affect your education, field experiences and long-term career opportunities.

Accreditation and Licensure Alignment

Accreditation should be one of your top priorities when comparing programs. Look for regionally accredited universities and consider programs accredited by the CACREP. You should also confirm that the curriculum meets school counselor certification or licensure requirements in the state where you plan to work.

Practicum and Internship Opportunities

Hands-on experience is a critical part of counselor training. Review each program's practicum and internship requirements, including the number of field hours required and whether the university helps students secure placement sites. Strong field experiences can help you build practical skills and professional connections before graduation.

Online Format and Flexibility

Some online school counseling programs offer fully asynchronous coursework, while others include live class sessions or residency requirements. Consider how classes are delivered and whether the schedule fits your work, family and personal commitments. Flexible programs can make it easier to balance graduate school with other responsibilities.

Cost and Financial Aid

School counseling programs vary significantly in cost, making it important to compare tuition, fees and other expenses. Review available scholarships, grants, military benefits and employer tuition assistance programs. Most accredited universities participate in federal financial aid programs and accept FAFSA applications.

Student Support Services

Graduate school can be demanding, especially when balancing coursework with practicum and internship requirements. Look for programs that offer academic advising, field placement assistance, faculty mentorship and career support services. These resources can help you stay on track from admission through graduation.  

Career Outlook With a Degree in School Counseling

School counselors play an important role in helping students navigate academic challenges, career planning and personal development. As schools continue to focus on student well-being, college readiness and mental health support, trained school counselors remain an important part of many educational systems.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of school and career counselors is projected to grow 4%, or about as fast as the average for all occupations, through the next decade. Thousands of openings are expected each year due to workforce turnover, retirements and the need to replace workers who leave the profession.

FAQs About No-GRE School Counseling Programs

If you're considering a school counseling degree, you may have questions about admissions requirements, licensure and career preparation. Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask when researching online school counseling programs with no GRE requirement.

Can You Become a School Counselor Without Taking the GRE?

Many universities no longer require GRE scores for admission to school counseling programs. Instead, schools often evaluate applicants based on factors such as undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters, personal statements and professional or volunteer experience. However, you will still need to meet your state's school counselor certification or licensure requirements after completing your degree.

Are No-GRE School Counseling Programs Easier To Get Into?

While the absence of a GRE requirement can simplify the application process, schools still maintain academic and professional standards. Many programs require a minimum GPA, supporting documents and evidence that applicants are prepared for graduate-level coursework and counseling responsibilities.

Is CACREP Accreditation Important for School Counseling Programs?

CACREP accreditation is often considered an important quality indicator for counseling programs. Some states incorporate CACREP standards into their licensure or certification requirements, and employers may view CACREP-accredited programs favorably. Even when it is not required, attending a CACREP-accredited program can provide additional flexibility if you move to another state in the future.

Can You Complete a School Counseling Degree Fully Online?

Many school counseling programs offer online coursework, but most also require practicum and internship experiences that must be completed in person at approved school sites. Some programs may include occasional residency requirements as well. Before applying, review the program format and field placement expectations to ensure they fit your schedule and location.

How Long Does It Take To Complete an Online School Counseling Program?

Most online school counseling master's programs take approximately two to three years to complete, depending on the number of credits required and whether you attend full time or part time. Program length may also be affected by practicum and internship requirements, which are necessary components of counselor training and licensure preparation.  

Find No-GRE Grad Schools 

Start your journey toward a school counseling degree by exploring the accessible online programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to specific schools to find out more about program and admissions requirements.