Understanding Graduate

School Admissions Exams

Understanding Graduate School Admissions Exams

Graduate school admissions exams are standardized tools that graduate programs use to assess applicants’ readiness for graduate-level academic work. These exams provide a common metric for comparing applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and evaluate skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge. 

Graduate School Entrance Exams

Different graduate programs require specific entrance exams because these exams are designed to assess the skills and knowledge that are most relevant to success in those fields of study. For example: 

By requiring specific exams, graduate programs can ensure that applicants possess the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to handle the rigors of their curriculum. 

  • The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test used for admission to many graduate programs. The general GRE assesses Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing skills. In addition to the general test, there are also GRE subject tests.  
  • The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) has these sections: Reading Comprehension, Analytical Reasoning, and Logical Reasoning. It emphasizes critical thinking and reading skills for law school. 
  • The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice exam used for admission to medical schools in the United States, Canada, and a few other countries. It’s designed to assess your problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts relevant to medicine. 
  • The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is focused on skills relevant to business and management programs and has these sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. Its focus is on skills relevant to business and management programs. 

By requiring specific exams, graduate programs can ensure that applicants possess the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to handle the rigors of their curriculum. 

Key preparation Strategies

  • Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance of your target test date to allow ample time for studying and practice. 
  • Understand the Exam: Familiarize yourself with the exam format, content, and scoring. Official websites and test preparation materials are excellent resources. 
  • Develop a Study Plan: Create a structured study schedule that outlines specific goals and timelines. Consistency is key to success. 
  • Use Quality Resources: Invest in reputable test preparation materials, such as study guides, practice tests, and online courses. 
  • Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for improving your skills and building confidence. Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience. 
  • Analyze Your Performance: Review your practice test results to identify areas where you need to improve. Focus your studying on those areas. 
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek help from academic advisors, career services, or test preparation professionals. They can provide valuable guidance and resources. 
  • Manage Test Anxiety: Develop strategies for managing test anxiety, such as relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, and positive self-talk. 

Remember, thorough preparation is essential for achieving your best score on graduate school entrance exams. By following these tips and utilizing available resources, you can increase your chances of success in the graduate school application process. 

Example Timeline Related to Admissions Deadline

  • 12-18 Months Before the Application Deadline: 
    • Research graduate programs: Identify programs that interest you, and note their specific admissions exam requirements (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc.). 
    • Initial test preparation: Begin some initial review of the required exam content to gauge your strengths and weaknesses. 
  • 6-9 Months Before the Application Deadline: 
    • Intensive test preparation: Dedicate consistent study time using resources like study guides, practice tests, or prep courses. 
    • Register for the exam: Sign up for your required admissions exam, keeping in mind score reporting deadlines. Ensure the test date allows your scores to arrive at programs before their application deadlines. 
  • 3-6 Months Before the Application Deadline: 
    • Take the exam: Take the admissions exam. 
    • Retake the exam (if necessary): If your initial scores are lower than your target scores, consider retaking the exam. Factor in the time it takes to receive scores and send them to schools. 
    • Gather application materials: Begin compiling other application materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and your personal statement. 
  • 1-2 Months Before the Application Deadline: 
    • Confirm score delivery: Verify that your official test scores have been sent to the designated graduate programs. 
    • Finalize applications: Complete and submit your graduate school applications, ensuring all required materials, including test scores, are included. 

Important Timeline Considerations

  • Program Deadlines: Graduate program application deadlines vary widely. Prioritize programs with earlier deadlines. 
  • Test Dates: Admissions exams are offered on specific dates. Register early, as popular test dates can fill up quickly. 
  • Score Reporting: It takes time for testing services to process and send your scores to graduate programs. Check the score reporting timelines for your specific exam. 
  • Retakes: If you plan to retake an exam, factor in the time between test dates and score reporting deadlines. 
  • Allow buffer time: Things can happen. Give yourself time to deal with unforeseen circumstances.