Will going test-optional hurt my masters application? High GPA and lots of work experience

rflatley

rflatley

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9/9/25
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I’m applying to MFE programs for Fall 2026 and I’m currently studying for the GRE. My practice scores haven’t been great (158V, 162Q), so I’m wondering how much going test-optional might hurt my chances.

Here’s my background:

  • 3.95/4.00 GPA at a mid-tier state flagship
  • Double major: Mathematics & Data Science | Minors: Computer Science & Business
  • 4 internships (including one at a near level FAANG tech company)
  • 2 years of teaching assistant experience in math and machine learning courses
  • 3 recommendation letters (2 strong, 1 moderate)
Target programs: UChicago, Columbia (MSFE & MAFN), NYU MFE, CMU CQF, Georgia Tech, and Rutgers.

Would really appreciate any insight, thank you!
 
Are you domestic student?
Some people don't do well on test so don't stress too much on it. With the right preparation, getting a 169-170 in GRE Q is possible.
If not, some programs make it optional and they will evaluable you in different ways.
Baruch MFE has its own QBA test. You should apply to it as well.
Take C++/Python, do well and then practice a lot of leetcode.
Get the interview books and practice with friends or mentors so be comfortable during interviews.
 
Hi Andy! Yes I am a domestic student. I have 2 SWE internships, 1 ML internship, and 1 Quant Analyst at Boutique firm so i feel ok with interviews just dont do well on tests. I will apply to Baruch if you think so. So overall being test optional in my position will likely not be an application killer?
 
Andy Nguyen said:
Are you domestic student?
Some people don't do well on test so don't stress too much on it. With the right preparation, getting a 169-170 in GRE Q is possible.
If not, some programs make it optional and they will evaluable you in different ways.
Baruch MFE has its own QBA test. You should apply to it as well.
Take C++/Python, do well and then practice a lot of leetcode.
Get the interview books and practice with friends or mentors so be comfortable during interviews.
Click to expand...
Hi Andy! Yes I am a domestic student. I have 2 SWE internships, 1 ML internship, and 1 Quant Analyst at Boutique firm so i feel ok with interviews just dont do well on tests. I will apply to Baruch if you think so. So overall being test optional in my position will likely not be an application killer?
 
These programs have optional GRE for a reason: to encourage you to apply.
Definitely apply to Baruch. They are pretty rigorous so make sure you put in enough work to prepare. It is tough but the ROI is tremendous.
Talk to @MikeLawrence, he is another American from a state university who got in Baruch. Ask him how he prepared.
If you need any help, just ask and we'll be happy to help you get the right resources to succeed.
 
MikeLawrence said:
The GRE is pretty pointless. Test-optional should be fine. There are people with max scholarship at Chicago who when test-optional.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the input Mike! As for Baruch, do they look for anything besides passing their interviews? Any good ways to prepare for it too?
 
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