Most schools require applicants to take entrance examinations. Joint degree programs such as the MD/PhD or JD/MA generally require test scores for both areas.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)  *A New General Test will be effective October 2002*  Please see the website for further information.
This test is used by most academic graduate programs and some professional programs. There are two examinations within the GRE, aptitude and achievement. Be sure to check the requirements of each school to which you are applying. Not all programs want both.
 
Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT)
This test is used mostly by business/management schools.
 
Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)
Scores from this test are the only ones used for application to law schools.
 
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Necessary for students planning to enter Medical School.
 
Millers Analogies Test (MAT)
Sometimes this test is used instead of the GRE as a basic aptitude assessment tool.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Used to test the English language ability of persons whose native tongue is not English. This test does not replace any of the others.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is used by most graduate schools as one factor in making admissions decisions. The GRE includes two pages of tests which may be taken together or separately. The general test evaluates general verbal, quantitative, and analytical ability. The subject test is given in more than 20 fields and evaluates your knowledge of a particular field of study and your ability to reason with and apply such knowledge.

Some schools or departments require both the general and subject tests; others require only the general. Check the admissions requirements before signing up for the tests. If you are in doubt about admissions criteria, it is well worth the trouble to check with the school's admissions office.

The GRE application booklet contains information and sample questions to help you prepare for the test. There are also GRE practice books, which contain old tests and test taking strategies that may be purchased for usually less than $10.00.

The fee for taking the GRE may change from year to year. Read the application booklet for the current fee structure. There is a fee waiver plan for low income students who are receiving financial aid. Fee waiver application forms are available at the Financial Aid Office of your undergraduate institution.


Next step: Financial Aid