GRE Score for MS in Data Science 2026: Programs & Score Targets

Data Science is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying MS degrees in the USA — and your GRE score for MS in data science is the gateway to this career-transforming opportunity. Unlike traditional CS programs, Data Science programs blend statistics, machine learning, programming, and domain expertise — which means admissions committees evaluate your quantitative readiness even more carefully. In this comprehensive guide, we cover exact GRE score targets for the top Data Science programs, how DS requirements differ from CS, salary outcomes that justify your investment, and how EEC's coaching helps you hit your target. With 27+ years of experience and 50,000+ students placed globally, EEC knows the Data Science admissions landscape inside out.

Why Data Science Needs Strong Quantitative Scores

Data Science programs are inherently mathematical. The core curriculum includes probability theory, statistical inference, linear algebra, optimization, and machine learning algorithms — all of which require strong quantitative foundations. Admissions committees use GRE Quant scores as a proxy for your ability to handle this mathematical rigour. While CS programs focus on algorithmic thinking, DS programs demand statistical thinking — and the GRE Quant section tests exactly the kinds of data interpretation, probability, and quantitative comparison skills that DS students need daily.

This means that for Data Science applications, your Quant score carries even more weight than for general CS. A Quant score below 160 is a red flag for top DS programs. At elite programs like MIT IDSS and Stanford ICME, admitted students typically score Q165+. See our complete university-wise GRE database for broader coverage.

Top MS in Data Science Programs — GRE Score Requirements

The data shows a clear pattern: elite DS programs (MIT, Stanford, Harvard) expect Q165+, while mid-tier programs (Columbia, NYU, UMich) target Q162-164, and accessible programs (USC, Northeastern) are competitive at Q158-162. For Indian students, these Quant targets are achievable with focused preparation — most of these scores are within 3-5 points of the Indian average.

GRE Score Targets by Data Science Program Tier

Data Science vs Computer Science — GRE Comparison

Many Indian students debate between MS in CS and MS in Data Science. Here is how GRE expectations differ:

Quant expectations: Comparable. Both fields expect Q160+ for competitive programs. DS programs may weigh Quant slightly more because of the statistical foundations required.

Verbal expectations: DS programs are slightly more forgiving on Verbal (V150-155 is often sufficient) compared to CS programs at the same tier (V155-160 typical).

AW expectations: Similar across both — 3.5+ is the standard threshold, with top programs preferring 4.0+.

The key difference is in supplementary requirements. DS programs place more emphasis on statistics coursework and data projects, while CS programs prioritise algorithms, systems, and research publications. For a comprehensive CS-specific guide, see our GRE Score for MS in CS article.

GRE Score + Mathematical Background — The Winning Combo

For Data Science admissions, your GRE score works best when paired with a strong mathematical transcript. Programs like MIT IDSS and Stanford ICME explicitly look for coursework in:

1. Linear Algebra — essential for machine learning, dimensionality reduction, and neural networks. 2. Probability & Statistics — the foundation of every data science pipeline. 3. Calculus (Multivariate) — needed for optimization and gradient-based algorithms. 4. Programming (Python/R) — practical data manipulation and analysis skills.

Indian engineering students (especially from ECE, CSE, and Mathematics backgrounds) typically have all four of these on their transcripts. This is a significant advantage over liberal arts or business applicants competing for the same DS seats. Explore MS in USA with EEC.

Salary After MS in Data Science — The ROI Case

Data Science roles are also among the most visa-friendly in the USA. Companies like Google, Amazon, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, Netflix, and hundreds of startups actively sponsor H-1B visas for Data Scientists. The combination of high salary, visa sponsorship, and 3-year STEM OPT makes MS in Data Science one of the best ROI investments for Indian students.

“Data Science is the single best ROI degree for Indian students in 2026. A ₹7,500 GRE coaching investment at EEC can lead to a $120,000+ starting salary in the USA. That's not marketing — that's mathematics.”

— Vikram Patel, Test Prep & Visa Strategy Head, EEC

Preparing for a DS-Focused GRE Strategy

For Data Science aspirants, EEC recommends a Quant-heavy preparation strategy:

50% Quant Optimization (Target: Q165+)

Focus on data interpretation, probability, statistics, and quantitative comparison. These GRE question types directly mirror DS skills. EEC's Quant module includes 200+ data-interpretation questions — more than any other coaching program.

35% Verbal Building (Target: V155+)

Build vocabulary systematically (800+ words) and practise Reading Comprehension passages. Verbal scores of 155+ are sufficient for most DS programs, so this is about efficiency — not perfection.

15% AW Prep (Target: 3.5+)

Practise the Analyse an Issue essay format. DS programs rarely weigh AW heavily, but below 3.0 weakens your application. EEC provides essay templates that ensure consistent 3.5+ scores.

For a complete week-by-week preparation plan, see our How to Score 320+ on GRE guide.

EEC Path to MS in Data Science

EEC provides end-to-end support for Indian students targeting MS in Data Science in the USA:

Step 1: GRE Coaching — Intensive 4-hour daily online program. Online Live and Pre-recorded at ₹7,500. Target Q165+ with our advanced Quant strategies.

Step 2: University Shortlisting — Our counsellors maintain an updated database of 100+ Data Science programs. We match your GRE score, GPA, math coursework, and career goals to the best-fit universities.

Step 3: Application Support — SOP writing guidance, LOR strategy, resume building, and application submission support. Our SOPs are tailored for DS programs — highlighting your quantitative skills, data projects, and career vision.

Step 4: Visa & Beyond — F-1 visa interview preparation, pre-departure orientation, and education loan assistance. high visa success rate since 1997. Book a free consultation to start your DS journey.

Frequently Asked Questions