Test scores are a key component of determining a student’s admission into US university graduate degree program.
Depending on your program of study, different standardized tests will be required for determining your eligibility when applying to universities.
Listed below are the most common standardized tests typically required for admittance into US graduate degree programs:
GRE (Graduate Record Exam)
The GRE is a standardized test that helps US admissions officers determine your academic capabilities and whether the program would be a good fit for you or not. Each program has different GRE requirements, so please check with your prospective school to get an idea of what score to aim for.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The GMAT is typically required for those looking to enroll in an MBA program. The test helps admission officers for MBA programs get an idea for your academic ability and your potential success in that particular program. It is one of the many parts of the MBA application process and can play a key part in the MBA admission process.
MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test)
The MCAT is required for students applying to medical school not only in the US, but several other countries across the globe. The MCAT tests on concepts and principles in several scientific disciplines and also measures problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
LSAT (Law School Admissions Test)
The LSAT is a mandatory exam for students applying to law school in the US. Similar to the previous three exams, you will be tested on your problem solving skills as well your potential success in the field of law.
As an international student coming to the US, you will also be required to take English proficiency tests by most of the schools you apply to:
Listed below are the two most commonly accepted English proficiency exams required by most graduate degree programs in the US:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS measures a foreign, non-English speaker’s proficiency in communicating in English. The IELTS is more focused on educational, immigration and occupational-based purposes of English. Not only is it usually a requirement for international students looking to study in the United States, but it is also used for international people who wish to work in the United States.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL also measures the English proficiency of a non-English-speaking international student. As opposed to the more broad applications of the IELTS, the TOEFL is more focused on academic, university, and classroom-based purposes.
Both exams are accepted by thousands of universities and other educational institutions in the US. Please research the universities you are considering to see which test(s) they will accept.
