11 Standardized Tests Required for Graduate Programs
Applying to graduate or professional programs often means deciding which standardized tests to take. For many programs, tests give admissions committees a common measure to compare applicants from different schools and backgrounds. At the same time, a wide test-optional movement means not every program requires every exam. That makes it essential to confirm each program’s rules before paying fees or booking a test. Start by checking program admissions pages and national test providers so you know deadlines, score-reporting timelines, and available dates. Build a realistic timeline that includes prep time, a practice test, and a possible retake. Practical steps right away: 1) List your target programs and note required or recommended tests. 2) Visit official test-provider sites (for example ETS for GRE and TOEFL, AAMC for MCAT, GMAC for GMAT, LSAC for LSAT) to confirm fees and registration windows. 3) Budget for prep resources and test-day expenses. If you’re an international applicant, confirm whether the program accepts your English test (TOEFL or IELTS) and whether remote testing is available. Use this article as a guide to the most common tests you might encounter and as a starting point for deeper research on official websites.
1. GRE General Test
The GRE General Test is one of the most commonly requested exams for many master’s and doctoral programs across the U.S. and Canada. It evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing so programs can compare academic readiness across different undergraduate backgrounds. Many arts, sciences, and social science programs still list the GRE as either required or recommended; however, a growing number of programs now allow applicants to apply without GRE scores. Before you register, check each program’s admissions page to confirm whether a score is required, optional, or waived. The GRE is scored on scaled sections (verbal and quantitative sections commonly report scores on a 130–170 scale per section, and analytical writing uses a 0–6 scale), and the test is administered by ETS. As of recent reporting, a common base fee is around $220, but fees for rescheduling and extra score reports can add up. Plan your prep around the test’s format: take at least one full-length practice test under timed conditions, review weak areas, and allow 6–12 weeks of consistent study for most test-takers. Official ETS materials and reputable prep courses can help you target your study efficiently.
2. GRE Subject Tests
GRE Subject Tests assess knowledge in specific fields like Biology, Chemistry, Literature, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology. Some graduate programs, particularly in research-focused master’s or PhD tracks, request a subject score in addition to or instead of the GRE General Test. These subject tests measure depth of knowledge in an academic discipline and can strengthen applications when your undergraduate major directly aligns with the intended graduate area. Subject tests differ from the GRE General Test by focusing on course-based knowledge rather than reasoning skills. If your program lists a subject test as required, check which specific subject is needed and when the test is offered. Prep typically involves focused review of undergraduate coursework, practice exams, and targeted problem sets. Registration and official preparation materials are available through ETS; check their site for test dates, fees, and the most current availability because offerings can change from year to year.
3. GMAT
The GMAT is the longstanding entrance exam many business schools use for MBA and specialized business master’s programs. It measures analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills with the goal of evaluating readiness for graduate-level business coursework. Some MBA programs have moved to test-optional or accept either the GMAT or GRE, so check admissions pages closely before committing. The GMAT is administered by GMAC and uses a standardized scale to report scores. Business programs often provide guidance about competitive score ranges on their admissions pages, and many schools list average incoming class scores so you can benchmark your target. Prep approaches typically include a diagnostic test, focused math and verbal review, and several timed practice exams. Consider scheduling your test at least six weeks before application deadlines to allow time for a retake if needed. Official GMAC resources and reputable prep providers give practice materials aligned with the test format.
4. LSAT
The LSAT remains the primary exam for law school admissions in the U.S. and Canada. It assesses reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning with an emphasis on critical thinking skills that matter in legal study. Many law schools continue to require LSAT scores, although some programs now accept the GRE as an alternative or have temporary test-optional policies, so verify each law school’s requirements before you prepare. LSAC administers the LSAT and provides official prep materials and practice tests. The test moved to a digital format in recent years, which affects timing and navigation—so include digital practice in your study plan. Most applicants spend several months preparing, with regular practice on logic games and complex reading passages. Law schools often publish median LSAT scores for admitted cohorts; use those benchmarks to set a realistic target and schedule your test with enough buffer time for any retake.
5. MCAT
Medical schools typically require the MCAT, which examines problem-solving, critical analysis, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social sciences. The exam is central to medical school applications and is administered through the official association that oversees medical admissions. Because the MCAT covers a large amount of science content, preparation often demands a longer study window than many other tests. Plan for a prep timeline that includes review of science coursework, multiple full-length practice exams, and targeted practice on weaker areas. Medical schools often indicate preferred MCAT score ranges for competitive applicants, and official resources list test-day logistics and registration details. Given how central the MCAT is to medical admissions, schedule the exam with plenty of lead time before application deadlines and verify score-reporting timelines so your scores arrive before schools’ review periods.
6. TOEFL (iBT)
For applicants whose native language is not English, the TOEFL iBT is a widely accepted way to demonstrate English proficiency to graduate programs in the U.S. The test evaluates reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills in an academic context. Many universities list TOEFL minimum scores on their admissions pages and will note whether alternatives such as IELTS are accepted. Check each program for minimum accepted scores and whether they accept home-based or remote TOEFL testing options. Registration, official practice materials, and score-sending instructions are available through the test provider. Prep should include timed reading passages, note-taking for listening practice, spoken responses recorded under test-like conditions, and writing practice. Allow time for scheduling and for scores to be delivered to universities before application deadlines.
7. IELTS Academic
IELTS Academic is another common English-proficiency exam accepted by many U.S. and Canadian graduate programs. It reports band scores (commonly on a 1–9 scale) for reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Some programs prefer TOEFL while others accept both TOEFL and IELTS, so check admissions pages to see which test is accepted and the minimum score required. Test formats differ in how speaking sections are administered and in scoring detail, so choose the exam that best fits your strengths and testing logistics. Official IELTS sites provide test dates, registration steps, and sample questions. For prep, use timed practice sections, focus on academic vocabulary, and simulate the test’s pace. International applicants should also confirm whether the program accepts scores from home-based testing or requires an in-center appointment.
8. DAT (Dental Admission Test)
Applicants to dental schools commonly take the DAT, which assesses academic ability, perceptual ability, and scientific knowledge relevant to dental education. Dental programs typically publish whether the DAT is required and may list score expectations for competitive applicants. Because the DAT includes unique perceptual ability sections, specific practice on spatial and visual tasks is important. The official dental association provides registration details, official practice materials, and test-day policies. A sensible prep plan includes content review for biology and chemistry, practice with perceptual ability items, and full-length simulated tests to build stamina. Schedule your DAT so your scores are available during application review, and consider a buffer for a potential retake if necessary. Contact dental school admissions offices if you have questions about acceptable score timelines or application windows.
9. OAT (Optometry Admission Test)
The OAT is the exam commonly used for optometry school admissions and covers natural sciences, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. Optometry programs generally state whether OAT scores are required or recommended, and they sometimes provide typical score ranges for admitted cohorts. Because optometry schools use OAT results alongside GPA and other application materials, solid OAT preparation can strengthen your candidacy. Official OAT resources include test content outlines, registration specifics, and practice materials. Your study timeline should include subject-focused review, timed practice sections, and at least one full-length practice exam to build endurance. Make sure you understand each optometry program’s submission deadlines and whether they accept recent scores or set limits on the reporting window. If you’re unsure about any programs’ timelines, contact their admissions offices for clarification.
10. PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test) / Pharmacy Admissions Notes
The PCAT has historically been used in pharmacy admissions to assess scientific knowledge and academic ability. However, some pharmacy programs have adjusted their testing policies in recent years, with a mix of programs still accepting or requiring PCAT scores and others placing greater emphasis on GPA and prerequisites instead. Because policy varies, prospective pharmacy applicants should verify whether each target program requires—or merely recommends—the PCAT. If a program requests PCAT scores, prepare by reviewing chemistry, biology, and quantitative material and taking practice exams to build familiarity with question formats. Check the official PCAT or pharmacy admissions pages for current registration and score-reporting guidance. If a program does not require the PCAT, identify alternative ways to demonstrate readiness such as strong science coursework, experiential learning, or standardized grades in key prerequisites.
11. CASPer and Situational Judgment Assessments (SJAs)
Some health and professional programs now include situational judgment assessments like CASPer as part of a holistic review. These tests evaluate non-academic skills—ethical decision-making, communication, empathy, and professionalism—that complement academic exam scores. Schools may use CASPer results alongside exams like the MCAT or LSAT, or as a screening tool prior to interviews. CASPer is delivered online and typically requires scheduling through the test provider. Preparation differs from content-based exams: practice situational judgment scenarios, refine clear written responses under time pressure, and familiarize yourself with the test format. Because weighting varies across programs, check each school’s admissions page to see how CASPer or other SJAs factor into selection. If a program requires CASPer, schedule it early enough to allow time for next steps such as interviews and secondary materials.
Final steps to choose and prepare the right tests
Choosing which tests to take starts with a program-by-program checklist. First, make a list of target programs and confirm each program’s current testing policy on its official admissions page. Second, weigh the time and cost of each test against potential benefits—if a program is test-optional, a strong application without a test can still succeed, but a high score can strengthen your file. Third, build a realistic calendar: include registration deadlines, official test dates, at least one full-length practice test, and buffer time for a retake if needed. When you begin studying, use official practice materials from test providers and mix them with focused review or a reputable prep course if you need structure. If English is not your first language, confirm whether programs accept TOEFL, IELTS, or both, and plan accordingly. Finally, don’t hesitate to contact admissions offices with questions about acceptable score windows or alternative assessments; admissions staff can confirm details and sometimes advise about waivers or test substitutions. With planning, focused study, and official resources, you can choose the right exams and present a competitive application tailored to each program’s expectations.