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Graduate School Standardized Testing in the US


Graduate School Standardized Testing in the US

Scores on standardized assessment tests play a key role in getting into graduate programs at almost all American colleges and universities. Written in English and largely multiple choice, these tests measure general aptitude as it relates to graduate-level study, or proficiency in specific subject areas.

Depending on the field of study and individual school admission requirements, students may be required to provide scores from one or more of these tests:

Below are additional details about each test.

Schools of law, dentistry, medicine, and veterinary medicine often have special examinations.

GRE

The GRE General Test measures skills in:

Verbal Reasoning

  • Analyzing and evaluating written material and synthesizing information
  • Analyzing relationships among sentence components, and recognizing relationships between concepts and words

Quantitative Reasoning

  • Understanding concepts behind basic arithmetic, geometry, algebra and data analysis
  • Quantitative reasoning and problem solving

Analytical Writing:

  • Examining claims and the accompanying evidence, and articulating complex ideas effectively and clearly
  • Supporting ideas with relevant examples and reasons, and sustaining coherent, well-focused discussion
  • Controlling the elements of standard written English

The GRE General Test can be taken throughout the year on computer at test centers worldwide, or on paper in areas where computer-based testing is not offered.

GRE Subject Tests

To help predict an applicant's potential for academic success at the graduate level, the GRE Subject Tests assess skills earned through undergraduate study in eight fields (majors):

  • Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Computer Science
  • Psychology
  • Literature in English

The subject tests are given on paper at test centers around the world three times a year in April, October and November.

GMAT

Almost every graduate-level business or management program requires that applicants take the GMAT in addition to other standardized tests.

The GMAT assesses basic mathematical, verbal and analytical writing aptitude.

Tips for doing well on the test, test preparation materials for purchase, and free test prep software are available through the Graduate Management Admission Council®.

Miller Analogy Tests

For graduate school applicants seeking to enter the fields of education or psychology, the MAT may be required in addition to the GRE. The one-hour test uses problems stated as analogies to test high-level mental ability -- specifically analytical thinking and verbal comprehension -- rather than memorization.

The MAT is available in both computerized and paper versions, and administered through Controlled Testing Centers (CTCs). Each CTC sets its own testing schedule, fees and application process.

TOEFL®

To measure their ability to use and understand spoken, heard and written English in a college setting, almost all graduate schools require TOEFL scores from international students.

It takes up to four hours to complete the TOEFL, which includes sections on Reading, Speaking, Listening and Writing English. Some tasks measure the applicant's capacity to use combinations of skills such as reading, speaking and listening to answer questions. EducationUSA Advising Centers provide TOEFL preparation materials and some also offer prep courses.

The test is offered as Internet-based (iBT), computer-based (CBT) or paper-based (PBT), and all are administered at authorized test centers. The availability of these different formats is dependent on the applicant's location worldwide; new test center locations open frequently. Each test center schedules tests on different days, and preregistration (received at least four weeks prior to the preferred test date) is required. Registering at least two months before the desired test date is recommended.

Once admitted to a school, a Foreign Studies Advisor at the school reviews a students' documentation to determine whether he or she meets the criteria required for a student visa, including proficiency in English. If the requirements for proficiency are not met, obtaining a student visa can be difficult. If a student is registered for an intensive English as a Second Language program, TOEFL scores are not usually required.

Standardized Admissions Test Notes

  • Tests and admission - Standardized test scores are only one part of the application -- although good scores are important, they do not guarantee admission
  • Timing - Tests should be taken one year prior to the start of the targeted graduate program, and a minimum of six weeks prior to deadlines for applications and financial aid forms
  • Preparation - Preparing for standardized tests can be done through self study (including software, online practice tests and books), one-on-one tutoring, study groups and preparatory courses
  • Results - Students typically receive reports of their scores 6-8 weeks after the test date. It is recommended to have the scores sent directly to schools (rather than waiting to receive the results, then submitting them to the school)
  • English language - Students with lower levels of English proficiency will not do well on these tests, even if they have strong academic backgrounds
  • TOEFL Waivers - Students who are non-U.S. citizens and non-native English speakers, who have been educated in English throughout their schooling, have the opportunity to obtain a waiver of the TOEFL requirement. EducationUSA Advising Centers provide additional information