Standardized Tests for U.S. Higher Education
Holistic admission has become standard practice for American colleges, universities, and professional schools. However, standardized examinations are still important in identifying qualified candidates and shaping versatile cohorts. This is a brief overview of the most common examinations for admission into U.S. higher education.
Undergraduate Level
American College Testing (ACT)
The ACT is an examination used by educational institutions and private organizations to evaluate post-secondary readiness and academic competitiveness. The test taker will complete multiple-choice tests for English, mathematics, reading, and science with an optional writing section.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
The SAT is also used by educational institutions and private organizations to evaluate post-secondary readiness and academic competitiveness. The test taker will complete multiple-choice tests for evidence-based reading and writing, math, and an optional writing section.
Note: Since COVID-19, many U.S. colleges and universities have developed test-optional policies. This means that an ACT or SAT score is not required for admission, but may still be considered in the application review process if provided.
Graduate Level
Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
The GRE is used to evaluate skills needed in graduate and professional education. The General Test measures verbal, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The optional Subject Tests measure undergraduate-level knowledge in preparation for graduate study. Schools of law and business may accept the GRE in lieu of the LSAT and GMAT.
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
The GMAT evaluates core competencies necessary for success in modern business contexts. GMAT measures problem-solving, logic, critical thinking, and data sufficiency. The GMAT Focus Edition is shorter and more holistic, which may be preferred by applicants and admission committees.
Professional School
Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is used for admission to law school. LSAT features multiple-choice questions for analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension. The fourth required writing section is administered separately.
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The MCAT is used for admission to medical school. MCAT is a standardized, multiple-choice examination that assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, and general knowledge of the natural, behavioral, and social sciences.
Dental Admission Test (DAT)
The DAT is required for admission to a school of dentistry. DAT is multiple-choice, measures knowledge of the natural sciences, and tests for reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, and perceptual ability.
Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
The OAT is required for admission to a school of optometry. OAT is multiple-choice, measures knowledge of the natural sciences, and tests for reading comprehension and quantitative reasoning.
We recommend that you review the testing policy for the school or program of interest and consult the official test administrator for current information.