Many international students dream of attending American universities, but the application process may take time and effort. Understanding the exams needed for admission is one of the most critical components of the application process.
The standardised tests, like the SAT and ACT and English language proficiency tests, like the TOEFL and IELTS, will be covered in this blog article regarding the exams needed to study in the USA. International students can prepare and improve their chances of admission to their preferred American colleges by being aware of the requirements for these exams.
TOEFL
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardised exam used to assess non-native speakers' level of English language ability. It is frequently necessary for entry into American universities and colleges and those in other nations where English is the medium of instruction.
Registration Process:
You can register for the TOEFL exam over the phone or online at the official TOEFL website. The test taker must choose the exam day and venue and enter personal data, such as name, birth date, and contact info. A legitimate ID must also be uploaded, such as a passport or national identity card. The registration fee ranges from $200 to $250, depending on the location and testing facility.
Format:
- The SAT exam is divided into two primary sections: math and evidence-based reading and writing. A total score is calculated by adding the scores from the two sections. Each portion is graded on a scale of 200 to 800. Additionally, there is a supplemental essay portion that is optional and is graded separately.
- A reading test and a writing and language test are included in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing part. The Reading Test is a series of multiple-choice questions gauges a student's understanding and critical thinking of challenging materials. The multiple-choice questions on the Writing and Language Test evaluate students' ability to edit and improve written passages.
- A calculator portion and a no-calculator section are both included in the math section. Students' ability to apply mathematical ideas and problem-solving techniques is evaluated in the math part.
SAT
The Scholastic Aptitude Test, or SAT for short, is a standardised test used in the US for college admissions. It is given by the College Board and is intended to evaluate a student's preparation for college-level work.
Format:
The SAT exam is divided into two primary sections: math and evidence-based reading and writing. A total score is calculated by adding the scores from the two sections. Each portion is graded on a scale of 200 to 800. Additionally, there is a supplemental essay portion that is optional and is graded separately.
A reading test and a writing and language test are included in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing part. The Reading Test is a series of multiple-choice questions gauges a student's understanding and critical thinking of challenging materials. The multiple-choice questions on the Writing and Language Test evaluate students' ability to edit and improve written passages.
A calculator portion and a no-calculator section are both included in the math section. Students' ability to apply mathematical ideas and problem-solving techniques is evaluated in the math part.
Registration Process:
Students can register for the SAT exam online through the College Board website. The registration process requires students to provide personal information, including their name, date of birth, and contact information. They must also upload a photo and select the test date and location. The registration fee is $55 for the SAT and an additional $16 for the optional essay section.
GMAT
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardised exam to determine if a candidate is academically prepared to undertake graduate-level business and management coursework. Analytical writing, combined reasoning, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning are all assessed on the exam.
GMAT Exam Registration:
You can register for the GMAT exam over the phone or online at the official website. The test taker must choose the exam day and venue and enter personal data, such as name, birth date, and contact info. A legitimate ID must also be uploaded, such as a passport or national identity card. Depending on the location and testing facility, the registration fee ranges from $250 to USD 350.
Format:
The GMAT exam consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Verbal Reasoning. The total test time is 3 hours and 30 minutes. Here is an overview of each section:
- Analytical Writing Assessment: The analytical writing assessment section consists of one task that assesses a test taker’s ability to analyse an argument and express those analyses in writing.
- Integrated Reasoning: The integrated reasoning section consists of multiple-choice questions that assess a test taker’s ability to analyse and evaluate complex data from various sources and formats.
- Quantitative Reasoning: The quantitative reasoning section consists of multiple-choice questions that assess a test taker’s ability to understand, interpret, and analyse quantitative information.
- Verbal Reasoning: The verbal reasoning section consists of multiple-choice questions that assess a test taker’s ability to analyse and evaluate written material and synthesise information from it.
GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test to assess students' academic readiness to pursue graduate studies in the United States. The exam measures critical thinking, analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills.
Registration Process:
The registration process for the GRE can be done online through the official GRE website or by phone. Test takers must select the exam date and location and provide personal information, including their name, date of birth, and contact information. They must also upload a valid ID, such as a passport or national identity card. The registration fee varies depending on the location and testing centre but is typically between $205-USD 255.
Format:
- The GRE has six sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing, and an ungraded research section. The exam lasts 3 hours, 45 minutes in total. The summary of each section is as follows:
- Analytical Writing: The analytical writing component of the test consists of two assignments that evaluate a test taker's capacity for critically analysing a topic and an argument, as well as for communicating such analyses in writing.
- Verbal Reasoning: The verbal reasoning component of the exam comprises of multiple-choice questions that measure a test-takers aptitude for reading, analysing, and synthesising textual content.
- Multiple-choice questions in the test's quantitative reasoning section gauge a test-takers aptitude for comprehending, interpreting, and analysing numerical data.
- Research portion: The research portion is not graded and does not count toward the test.
Tips to ace the GRE:
Start your studies early because the GRE is difficult. Therefore, you need to give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Start your search at least three months before the test.
- Make a study plan: As soon as you know when you'll take the GRE, outline what you must learn and when. You'll be able to maximise your study time and stay on task.
- Buy a reputable GRE prep book: Find the best GRE prep book by researching. There are many excellent GRE prep books available. You can raise your GRE score using the practice questions, drills, and tactics in an excellent prep book.
- Take practice exams: One of the best ways to prepare for the GRE is to take practice exams. By doing this, you'll be able to better adapt to the exam's structure, the kinds of questions you'll be asked, and the time limits.
- Get adequate rest: Getting a decent night's sleep the night before the GRE is crucial. Doing this lets you focus and stay awake during the exam.
- Have a nutritious breakfast: You can maximise your performance on the day of the GRE by eating a good breakfast.
- Get there early: Arriving early for your GRE appointment is crucial. You'll have time to unwind and go over your notes as a result.
- Be calm: Being anxious before the GRE is regular, but maintaining your composure is crucial. Take some deep breaths and remind yourself that you've prepared well.
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Talk to an ExpertFAQs
What exams are required to study in the USA?
The exams required to study in the USA vary depending on the level of study and the institution you are applying to. For undergraduate studies, the SAT or ACT are typically required. The GRE or GMAT may be required for graduate studies, depending on the program. Some institutions may also require specific subject tests, such as the LSAT for law school or the MCAT for medical school.
How do I determine which exams are required for the school I want to attend?
The best way to determine which exams are required for the school you want to attend is to contact the school directly.
What are the benefits of taking the exams?
Taking the exams required to study in the USA can give you a competitive edge in the admissions process. The exams can demonstrate your academic abilities and potential for college or graduate school success. In addition, the exams can help you to improve your English language skills, which can be essential for success in an English-speaking environment.
