Study Abroad Admissions Tests: SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT Explained

To gain admission into universities abroad, especially in the US, Canada, and some European schools, standardised tests are often required. Each test serves a different purpose. Here is what you need to know.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is for undergraduate admissions. It measures reading, writing, and math. The digital SAT takes about 2 hours and 14 minutes. Scores range from 400 to 1600. Most competitive US colleges expect scores above 1300. It is offered several times a year. Nigerian candidates can register on the College Board website. Many universities are now test-optional, but a strong SAT score still helps. Official site: www.collegeboard.org. ACT (American College Testing) is another undergraduate admissions test. It covers English, math, reading, and science reasoning. There is an optional writing section. Scores range from 1 to 36. The ACT is curriculum-based and includes a science section. It is widely accepted in the US and by some international institutions. Choose between SAT and ACT based on your strengths. Try a practice test for each. Official site: www.act.org.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is for master's and doctoral programmes. It tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Scores for verbal and quant range from 130 to 170 each. Writing is scored 0 to 6. Many graduate schools require the GRE, but some now waive it. The exam is computer-based. Nigerian test centres are available. Prepare for at least three months. Official site: www.ets.org/gre.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is the standard for MBA and business master's programs. It tests analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative skills, and verbal reasoning. The total score ranges from 205 to 805. The GMAT is adaptive. The difficulty changes based on your answers. Top business schools expect scores above 650 on the old scale or equivalent. Prepare with official GMAT materials. Official site: www.mba.com.

LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is required for law schools in the US, Canada, and some other countries. It tests logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension. The exam is now mostly digital. Scores range from 120 to 180. A score of 160 and above is competitive. It is offered multiple times per year. Official site: www.lsac.org. MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is for aspiring medical students in the US and Canada. It tests biological sciences, physical sciences, psychological sciences, and critical analysis. Scores range from 472 to 528. A score of 510 and above is strong. The exam is long and demanding. Plan a dedicated study period. Official site: www.aamc.org.

Before registering, confirm whether your chosen programme requires these tests. Prepare methodically. Use official guides and practice tests.

Sources: SAT – www.collegeboard.org; ACT – www.act.org; GRE – www.ets.org/gre; GMAT – www.mba.com; LSAT – www.lsac.org; MCAT – www.aamc.org