Applications, Requirements, and Entrance Exams
Choosing the right graduate program involves understanding application components, entrance exams, and preparation timelines. Requirements vary by field, and even programs offering similar degrees may evaluate applicants differently. As you research options, it’s important to understand how each element of the application is used and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
While specific requirements depend on the program, many graduate schools commonly ask for:
- Application forms and fees: Be mindful of deadlines, as some programs use rolling admissions while others have fixed submission dates.
- Personal or goal statements: Essays that explain your academic interests, professional goals, and reasons for pursuing graduate study.
- Academic transcripts and entrance exams: Used to assess your academic preparation and readiness for graduate-level work.
- Letters of recommendation: References who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success.
- Interviews: Some programs include interviews as part of the evaluation process.
Career Connections can help you evaluate these requirements, plan ahead, and determine which elements are most important for the programs you’re considering.
Graduate School Entrance Exams
Some graduate programs require standardized entrance exams as part of the application process. The exams required—and whether they are required at all—depend on your intended field of study and the specific programs you are applying to.
The most common graduate school entrance exams include:
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Organizations that administer these exams provide official preparation materials and test information online. In addition, the OhioMeansJobs website offers free access to practice tests and preparation resources.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
The GRE is commonly required for a wide range of graduate programs and is designed to assess general academic readiness.
- Measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills
- Includes both general and subject-specific test options, depending on the field
- Assesses critical thinking and writing abilities relevant to graduate-level study
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
The GMAT is primarily used for business and management programs and is designed to predict academic success in graduate business education.
- Assesses analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal skills
- Includes multiple timed sections and writing components
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is required by most law schools and focuses on skills essential for success in legal education.
- Measures reading comprehension and logical reasoning skills
- Often recommended to be taken well in advance of law school application deadlines
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The MCAT is required for admission to most medical schools in the United States and evaluates both academic knowledge and critical skills.
- Assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific knowledge
- Covers biological sciences, physical sciences, and verbal reasoning
Planning ahead is key. Career Connections can help you determine which exams are required, build a preparation timeline, and identify study resources so you can approach the application process with confidence.