10 PT Schools That Don't Require GRE in 2025

If you're thinking of becoming a physical therapist, then you're going to need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. Maybe you'd like to learn more about schools offering these programs; in particular, you're wondering if there are any PT schools that don't require GRE.

Keep reading as we explore a list of test-optional colleges and the degree programs they offer for DPT students. We'll also provide answers to various questions you may be asking.

Are There PT Schools That Don't Require the GRE?

Many colleges and universities require graduate students to take standardized tests, such as the GRE, to qualify for enrollment. However, this isn't true across the board; some schools don't require these exams.

In many cases, PT schools will waive the GRE requirements if the GPA is above a certain level. In other cases, GRE scores are optional or, even if submitted, are not considered as part of the admissions process.

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program?

Each department of physical therapy has a slightly different set of admission requirements. Some common requirements include:

• bachelor's degree or higher
• official transcripts
• minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher
• resume demonstrating work experience
• personal statement
• letters of recommendation
• English language proficiency (if applicable)
• completion of prerequisite courses

Prospective students are encouraged to verify the specific admissions requirements at their school of choice to give themselves the best chance of making it through the application process.

Top DPT Programs That Don't Require GRE Scores

If you're ready to start working toward PT licensure, keep reading. Below, we'll look at some top U.S. DPT programs that don't require GRE scores.

1. University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is a private, for-profit school headquartered in California. It has additional campuses in Florida and Texas. Students can pursue a hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program in all three of these states.

As one of only a few physical therapist degrees online, this school's programs are highly popular and provide a great deal of flexibility. Admissions standards are relatively easy as well; application materials include having a bachelor's degree, a resume, and a statement of purpose. GRE scores are generally required; however, those with a GPA of 3.6 or above are exempt from this requirement.

• Estimated tuition cost: $27,307 per year
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. University of Texas at El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso is a public school in the University of Texas System. It offers an on-campus DPT program designed for post-baccalaureate students.

Learners should apply to the program through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Services (PTCAS) platform. In addition to standard admission requirements, students must have 50 hours of supervised volunteer or work experience in a clinical setting.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,865 per year
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University is a public school in Bowling Green, OH. It offers a hybrid, accelerated DPT program that students can complete in just two years.

This intensive, full-time program prepares students for a rewarding healthcare career and uses a holistic approach to admissions. The GRE is not required; instead, students must submit two personal essays, professional references, and proof of at least 40 hours of volunteer work in a physical therapy setting.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,940 per year
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a private school in Los Angeles. It provides an in-person DPT program that lasts for three years.

Students are encouraged to have 150 hours of clinical experience in physical therapy, but this is not required. GRE scores are also optional; students must have a bachelor's degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and complete prerequisite coursework in general chemistry, physics, mathematics, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $69,904 per year
• Accreditation: WSCUC

5. Springfield College

Springfield College is a private school located in Springfield, MA. Students can complete a high-quality DPT program with robust clinical education components at this college.

Applicants must complete a PTCAS application, an essay and short-answer write-up, a resume, letters of recommendation, and send transcripts. GRE scores are not required, but students must have at least 10 documented observation hours at the time of application.

• Estimated tuition cost: $32,724 per year
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

6. Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University is a private school located in Hamden, CT. Students can complete a traditional DPT program on campus at this school.

Students must earn a bachelor's degree before matriculation into the program, and they must complete prerequisites such as general physics I and II, anatomy and physiology, and biomechanics. They must also have 60 hours of paid or volunteer work in physical therapy and other health professions. GRE scores are not required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $18,000 per year
• Accreditation: NECHE

7. South College

South College is a private, for-profit school headquartered in Knoxville, TN. It provides a hybrid DPT program for students desiring flexibility.

Students entering the program must first complete prerequisite courses and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. In addition to standard requirements, the program also requires students to complete a background check and admissions interview. They need not submit GRE scores as part of the process.

• Estimated tuition cost: $26,764 per year
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private school in Fort Lauderdale-Davie, FL. It offers a professional DPT program with a dual enrollment option for students who are still earning their bachelor's degree.

To be accepted into the program, students must have a 3.0 overall GPA and complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better. Though GRE scores are required for post-bachelor's students, those with a master's degree are not required to submit them.

• Estimated tuition cost: $22,983 per year
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Trine University

Trine University is located in Angola, IN. Learners at this private school can enroll in a flexible DPT program with a rolling admissions process and no application deadline.

The program is completed on campus in Fort Wayne, IN, and consists of 119 credit hours. Students must earn a bachelor's degree, have a 3.0 GPA, and complete prerequisites � though Advanced Placement credits with high scores may be able to replace the prerequisite requirements. No GRE scores are required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $47,850 per year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. Rockhurst University

Rockhurst University is a private school located in Kansas City, MO. Students complete the school's DPT program in a hybrid format, completing online courses concurrently with clinical experiences.

The school no longer requires the GRE when making admissions decisions. Students must meet all standard DPT admission requirements while also adhering to higher GPA standards; though a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 is required, students must also have an average GPA of 3.2 in all prerequisite and science courses.

• Estimated tuition cost: $19,860 per year
• Accreditation: HLC

FAQs About DPT Programs That Don't Require the GRE

If you still have questions about enrolling in a PT program without GRE scores, you're not alone. Read on as we look at answers to some commonly asked questions.

Is the GRE No Longer Required for PT School?

There are many graduate programs that don't require GRE scores, including the PT programs at some schools. The GRE is not a condition of programs being accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); therefore, schools can choose whether to require it as part of the admissions process.

Can I Get Into PT School With a Low GPA?

Most DPT programs require students to have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some schools may require a higher GPA, while others accept students with a lower GPA. If you have a low GPA, consider looking for schools that take a holistic approach to admissions or don't place great stock in students' GPAs. You may be able to get into these schools, but you may need to prove your eligibility for the program in some other way, such as through submitting GRE scores.

Should I Take the GRE?

Since there are so many doctoral programs without GRE requirements, the choice of whether to take the exam series is up to you. If you are trying to get into a school that requires GRE scores or are trying to compensate for a low overall GPA, then taking the GRE may benefit you.

Explore Physical Therapy Degrees

If you're ready to start your journey to becoming a licensed physical therapist, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Contact the admissions committee at any of the schools to learn more about meeting the minimum requirements and earning your degree on your terms.