What Exams are Required to Study in USA in 2024?

Updated on 11 July, 2024

Bulbul SharmaKeshav Garg

Bulbul, Keshav

Planning to study in the USA and wondering about the necessary exams? As a recent applicant, I discovered that exams like SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, GMAT, TOEFL, and IELTS play a crucial role in the admissions process. These tests assess your academic readiness and English Proficiency, ensuring you meet the standards of top universities. Ready to dive into the details? Scroll down to learn everything you need to know!

What Exams Are Required to Study in USA 

1. ACT (American College Test) 

The multiple-choice ACT is a standardized college admission test that evaluates critical thinking and analytical skills to assess students’ readiness for college. Official ACT score requirements vary by university and course. Some universities seek scores in the 30s, while others consider mid-20s competitive. Here are further details about the ACT exam:-

Exam duration 3 hours, 35 minutes (writing included)
Exam fees

$68.00 (without writing) 

$93.00 (with writing)

Number of Sections Math, English, Reading, Science, Writing
Qualifying score Based on selectivity and academic demands of the colleges.
Who should apply for the ACT High school graduates applying for UG courses, stronghold on science, trigonometry and English

2. SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)

The SAT is a multiple-choice test that evaluates students’ knowledge in writing, reading, and mathematics. This paper-based test also helps to secure government grants. The College Board uses SAT scores to assess students applying for undergraduate courses. Top universities in the USA including Harvard, accept SAT scores. Many universities in India also consider SAT scores for admission. Here are further details about the SAT exam:-

Exam duration 2 hours, 14 minutes (writing included)
Exam fees $60
Number of Sections Reading, Writing and Mathematics
Qualifying score

1200-1600

Who should apply for the SAT High school graduates applying for UG courses, strong problem-solving capability 

3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The GRE is mandatory for engineering and master’s programs in the USA. Along with the GRE, subject-specific tests are also available. Some business schools now accept GRE scores for admission in MBA. The test has three sections and is accepted by over 1,400 universities worldwide. It is offered in both online and offline modes. Here are further details about the GRE exam:-

Type of test General test and Subject test
Sections
Analytical writing, verbal reasoning, critical thinking and quantitative reasoning
Score  160
Test Duration General- 3 hours, 45 minutes | Subject- 2 hours, 50 minutes
Who can take the test Students aiming to take admission in MBA, MS, and law etc.
Exam fees

General-$220

Subject- $150

USA Free Course

The USA hosts the largest number of international students from across the world. Over the past few years, it has become one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad. Reasons such as best-ranked institutions, excellent support facilities, flexible academic environment, and cultural diversity contribute to making it the most preferred destination amongst students planning to study abroad.

4. LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

To take admission in law school, students must take the LSAT. The minimum accepted score is 130 but for top law schools like Yale, Harvard, Stanford, and more a score above 160 is essential. Here are further details about the LSAT exam:-

Exam duration 2 hours, 20 minutes
Exam fees $238 ( includes writing)
Number of sections Analytical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning I, Logical Reasoning II, and Reading Comprehension.
Qualifying score 150-160
Who should apply for LSAT Students aiming to enroll in law schools

5. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

The GMAT exam is mandatory for admission to top B-schools in the USA with an average required score of around 700. While some universities do not require GMAT scores for admission, many companies ask for it during interviews. If you aim to pursue an MBA in the USA, a strong GMAT score is crucial. Here are further details about the GMAT exam:-

Exam duration 2 hours and 15 minutes long (with one optional 10-minute break)
Exam fees $275
Number of Sections Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights
Qualifying score 650-700
Who should apply for GMAT Students enrolling for MBA

6. MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

Aspiring medical students must take MCAT, a computer-based test evaluating biological and physical science, writing, and verbal reasoning skills. It includes sections on psychological, biological, and social behavior. The MCAT serves as a reliable success meter , helping officials gauge your ability to navigate the rigorous curriculum. Here are further details about the MCAT exam:-

Exam duration 7 hours, 30 minutes
Exam fees $335
Number of Sections
  • Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems.
  • Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems.
  • Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behaviour.
  • Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Qualifying score 500-650
Who should apply for MCAT Students aiming to enroll in medical schools

7. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Most universities in the USA accept IELTS scores to measure the English Proficiency of international students. However some universities may waive the requirement if you can provide alternative documentation of language proficiency. Here are further details about the IELTS exam:-

Exam duration 2 hours, 45 minutes
Exam fees INR 17,000
Number of Sections Speaking, Reading, Writing, & Listening
Qualifying score 6.0 to 8.0
Who should apply for IELTS Students aiming to enroll in the best universities of the USA
Other Useful IELTS Reads:-
How to Prepare for IELTS at Home How to Get 6.5 Band in IELTS How Much Time is Required for IELTS Preparation
How to Get Band 7 in IELTS Speaking How to Get 8 Band in IELTS How to Get 9 Bands in IELTS

8. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL Exam is a widely used English language frequency tests to determine the required language knowledge. It's essential for students aiming for international programs to achieve admission at top universities globally. However, it's crucial to consult your chosen university for their specific requirements. Here are further details about the TOEFL exam:-

Exam duration 2 hours, 30 minutes
Exam fees $205
Number of Sections Speaking, reading, writing, & listening
Qualifying score 70-110
Who should apply for TOEFL Students aiming to enroll in the best universities of the USA

9. PTE (Pearson English Test)

PTE, a computer-based English language exam, is widely accepted by universities worldwide. Particularly beneficial for students aspiring to study in major English-speaking country, the PTE-academic test stands out. It is a computer-based test and recently has launched the test-from-home format.

Exam duration 2 hours 15 minutes
Exam fees $245 
Number of Sections Speaking & Writing, Reading & Listening
Qualifying score 10-90
Who should apply for PTE Students aiming to enroll in best US universities

10. DAT (Dental Admission Test)

The DAT, or the Dental Admission Test, is an entrance examination designed by the American Dental Association. It is one of the exams required to study MS in the USA and Canada. This exam is accepted by 66 dental schools across both countries and evaluates the student’s academic capabilities, perceptual abilities, and scientific understanding.

Exam Duration 4.5 hours
Exam Fees $540
Number of Sections Four, that includes Natural Sciences (General Chemistry, Biology, and Organic Chemistry), Perpetual Ability, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitive Reasoning. 
Qualifying Score No such passing score
Who Should Apply for  Prospective dental students

11. Duolingo

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a widely accepted standardized English language proficiency exam required for studying in the USA. It offers students one of the fastest and most convenient ways to prove their proficiency. Students can take the online test at any time, from any part of the world, and receive their results within two days of completing the test.

Exam Duration 1 hour 
Exam Fees $65 for a single test and $110 for a double test 
Number of Sections Three (introduction and onboarding, adaptive test, writing and speaking sample)
Qualifying Score No such passing score
Who Should Apply for  Anyone willing to test their English reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. 

12. OAT (Optometry Admission Test)

The OAT is a standardized entrance exam designed to test a student’s general academic ability and scientific understanding. This entrance exam is sponsored by ASCO or the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, and is ideal for students seeking admissions in optometry programs. 

Exam Duration 5 hours and 5 minutes 
Exam Fees $515
Number of Sections Four
Qualifying Score No official passing score
Who Should Apply for  Students seeking admission to optometry programs

13. Advanced Placement Exams

Advanced Placement (AP) exams and courses are taken in high school that help establish a good impression during the admission process at the college level. AP exams help students stand out, as the scores showcase their academic abilities.

Exam Duration Two to Three hours
Exam Fees $98 per exam (if taken within US territories and Canada, and DoDEA Schools), $128 (for exams taken outside the US)
Number of Sections Two (multiple choice and free response)
Qualifying Score No official passing score
Who Should Apply for  Students seeking admission to colleges

Conclusion

Understanding the required exams is crucial for international students before seeking admission to top universities in the United States. Each exam caters to specific academic programs and institutions, so selecting the right one depends on your preferred course and university. High scores in these exams can also open doors to scholarships, easing your financial burden.

For personalized guidance on choosing the best exams for your goals, connect with our upGrad Abroad academic coaches today.

FAQs

Is the SAT exam necessary to study in the USA?

Most colleges in the USA have made SAT scores optional. Some may require you to submit the SAT score depending on the course you are applying for.

Do USA universities accept IELTS or TOEFL?

Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted by US colleges and universities, although some institutions may prefer one exam over the other. It's essential to research which exam your chosen institutions prefer before registering for a test.

Which Exam is Required for MS in the USA for Indian Students?

One of the most common exam scores required to study for an MS in a university in the US is the Graduate Record Examination or GRE score. Indian students must also submit other exam scores to prove their proficiency in English, such as IELTS and TOEFL.

Which Exam is Required to Study Engineering in the USA?

To study engineering in the USA, students are required to submit either GMAT or GRE scores.

Which exam is tough in the USA?

The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, IELTS or the International English Language Testing System, and the GMAT or Graduate Management Admission Test, are among the toughest exams required by US universities for admissions.

What exams are required to study in the USA after the 12th?

The different types of exams required to study graduate in the USA after the 12th are SAT and ACT test scores, GMAT and GRE scores, TOEFL, PTE, or IELTS exam scores.

Did you find this article helpful?

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!

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