Each year, millions of test takers sign up for the ACT, SAT, or other standardized test. Admissions officers rely on test scores when making underwriting decisions. So it is important to understand admission tests before you start applying to colleges or universities.
Our guides tell you everything you need to know before taking a standardized test – and we also provide study aids and tips that can boost your score.
Learn everything you need to know about standardized tests for university
Are you applying to university for the first time? Or maybe you have your eye on business or law school? You will likely be required to take a standardized test as part of the admission process.
Prepared students do better on admission tests. But what’s the best way to prepare for the ACT or SAT? And should you take the GMAT or GRE if your program accepts both? Use the resources below to learn more about standardized testing for universities.
TO TRADE
More than half of all high school students took the ACT in 2019. As one of the most popular undergraduate admission tests, the ACT is a must for many college-bound students.
View our resources about the ACT to learn about the exam format, score, and how to increase your ACT score.
GMAT
Business school is one of the most popular options for graduate school. And many business programs, including: top MBA programsrequire GMAT scores.
By reading our GMAT Guideyou will learn more about the exam and what skills you need to increase your score.
GRE
Graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, education, and engineering require GRE scores. Many business schools also accept GRE scores.
But what is the GREand what format does the exam use?
Visit our GRE guide to learn more about the test.
LSAT
Interested in law school? Then you should take the LSAT.
The exam includes reading, reasoning and writing. And its focus on logical reasoning and persuasive writing makes the LSAT different from many other standardized tests.
U.S LSAT guide walks through the exam sections, LSAT scores, and when to take the LSAT.
MCAT
Before applying to medical school, you must master the MCAT.
Of the longest standardized tests, the MCAT clocks in at eight. It tests your knowledge of biological systems and your critical analysis skills.
View our MCAT guide for information on the test format, scoring system and cost of the MCAT.
SA
One of the oldest admission tests, the SAT remains one of the most popular today.
But the coming years will see major changes in the SAT, including a move to digital testing.
Before you start studying for the SAT, check out our SAT guide for more information about the test and upcoming changes.
TOEFL
The TOEFL measures your English proficiency and your preparation for college-level study at U.S. colleges and universities. It is the most common English language assessment for international students.
Before you apply for the TOEFL, please visit our TOEFL Guide for more information on the assessment and alternatives.