Is the GRE typically required for MSW programs?

No, the GRE is not a typical requirement for MSW programs. Many programs are making GRE score submissions optional, instead focusing on other applicant credentials, like previous education, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

What exams are typically required for admission to an MSW program?

The GRE is the most widely used exam in the MSW admissions process, although many schools no longer require it. Instead, you may need to submit a personal statement or essay or participate in an interview with an admissions counselor.

How do you apply to an online MSW program?

While the admissions process varies by school, most MSW programs require you to submit your official undergraduate transcripts, a résumé, a personal statement, and at least one letter of recommendation with your application. You can usually submit an application and all documents online via the school's admissions portal.

How long does it take to complete an online MSW program?

A typical online MSW program requires 30–36 credits and takes two years to complete. You may be able to reduce your completion time to just one year with programs that accept transfer credits or prior learning credits.

Explore MSW programs with no GRE requirement

If you want to save time and money on college admissions, look for online MSW programs with no GRE requirements. Learn more about non-GRE program options in this guide.

See all MSW programs

Why earn an online MSW with no GRE requirement?

Gain real-world experience

Practice on-the-job skills through in-person internships in relevant settings, like hospice, homeless shelters, or child protective services.

Access career opportunities

Pursue an array of respected careers, like school counselor, marriage and family therapist, or substance abuse counselor.

Enjoy flexible schedules

An online MSW program with asynchronous courses allows you to study at your own pace when it fits your schedule.

Are you looking to save time when applying to online master's in social work (MSW) programs? Although some schools still require the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for admissions, many online MSW programs have no GRE requirements. Find out what to expect from these programs.

See all online MSW programs with no GRE requirement

Prestigious

An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.

Flexible

Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.

Equivalent to on-campus

Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

What to expect from an MSW with no GRE requirement

An MSW program prepares learners to work with various demographics, like K-12 students, aging populations, and couples in marriages or domestic partnerships. MSW graduates can pursue careers as licensed social workers, substance use counselors, or rehabilitation counselors.

These programs usually offer multiple pathways for you to choose from, depending on your career goals. Common for MSW graduates include adult , community practice, clinical practice, and military and veteran affairs. You'll also explore concepts like privilege and oppression, , and social policy analysis.

with no GRE requirements can have asynchronous or synchronous courses. Asynchronous classes let you work on your own schedule while meeting weekly deadlines, while synchronous courses have set meeting times. You'll also need to complete in-person fieldwork — usually at least 900 hours — in a social work setting, like a community health center or family therapy clinic.

The curriculum and academic quality of online MSW programs with no GRE requirements don't differ from online MSW programs that require GRE scores for admissions.

What is the purpose of the GRE?

The Graduate Record Examination is a generalized academic test for students applying to graduate, business, or law school. It evaluates a student's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills. The exam is split into five sections with a total of 54 questions and a writing task. Test-takers have a total of 118 minutes to complete the GRE.

Many colleges and universities use the GRE to determine an applicant's strengths in key areas like writing and reasoning. However, some schools and programs omit the GRE requirement to increase accessibility for applicants and measure the academic capabilities of applicants more holistically.

Admissions requirements for MSW programs with no GRE

Online MSW programs with no GRE submission typically require the same information from applicants as MSW programs that require the GRE. You'll need to submit the following in addition to the program application:

Official transcripts
Résumé
Personal statement
At least one letter of recommendation

Some schools may also require an interview with an admissions counselor.

What can you do with an online MSW?

You can sometimes pursue entry-level social work roles with a bachelor's degree, but you'll need an MSW to work in a clinical setting and some non-clinical positions, like school and career counselors. An online MSW can open the door to numerous careers in social work, including marriage and family therapists and rehabilitation counselors. Social work is available in several industries, like healthcare, government, community services, and social advocacy.

After graduating from an MSW program, it's common to work in an office setting where you'll meet privately with clients. However, depending on your line of social work, you might work in a school or school district, career center, or rehabilitation center. Some social workers might travel between facilities or to their clients' homes.

How much can you make with an online MSW?

An can lead to higher-than-average salaries in the social work industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), social workers earned a median salary of $58,380, and employment of social workers is projected to increase by 7% between 2023 and 2033.

Several social worker specialties also offer similar salaries. Per May 2023 BLS data, child, family, and school social workers earned an average annual salary of $59,190, healthcare social workers earned an average of $67,430, and mental health and substance abuse social workers earned an average of $63,870.