The majority of (but not all) graduate programs require applicants to take an exam; just like many used to require the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admission, in order to apply.

  • Among the programs that do require the GRE, there is variability in how much importance each program places on it
  • Business schools traditionally require the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). However, in recent years, business schools have been increasingly allowing applicants to choose between the GRE and GMAT and will accept either
  • International students may be required to take the TOEFL Exam to prove English language competency. However, usually having a Bachelor’s degree from the U.S. (USC) will waive this requirement

Typical exams:

  • GRE, typically required for many Graduate school programs
  • GMAT, typically required for Business school
  • LSAT, typically required for Law school
  • CBEST & CSET, typically required for Education programs
  • MCAT, typically required for Medical school
  • DAT, typically required for Dental school
  • OAT, typically for Optometry school
  • PCAT, typically required for Pharmacy school

GRE (Graduate Record Exam)

The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is one of the more popular exams for non-business or health related graduate programs.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT is the test most MBA programs consider for admission. The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). The highest score for the GMAT is 800.

LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is by far the most common test taken by candidates seeking admission into law schools.

Health-care related tests

The USC Pre-Health Advising departments handles all pre-health admission-related inquiries including testing.

CBEST & CSET

The CBEST is used for admissions to teacher preparation programs, most commonly for multiple subject teaching (elementary school). The CBEST is used for admissions to teacher preparation programs for single subject teaching (middle or high school).