What are Some of the most popular exams accepted in the USA in 2023? Many people keep asking themselves this question.

Before applying for admission to universities in the USA, individuals intending to study there should consider several factors in addition to obtaining a visa. To be eligible for admission, applicants must take standardized tests to assess their academic abilities and demonstrate their proficiency in English. While some English language proficiency tests are common to both undergraduate and graduate programs, the tests required for each level of study are generally different.

In addition to English language tests, several exams are widely accepted in the United States, including the SAT/ACT, GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and LSAT. Undergraduate applicants are typically required to submit SAT or ACT scores, while graduate-level programs generally require GMAT/GRE or MCAT scores. International students may find it challenging to determine which exams to take when studying in the USA. As a result, we have highlighted the top exams in the USA and provided guidance on how international students can select the most appropriate option.

Top 10 Entrance Exams to Study in USA 2023

The most popular exams accepted in the USA depend on the purpose and field of study. Here are some of the commonly accepted exams:

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test): A standardized test widely used for college admissions in the USA.
ACT (American College Testing): A standardized test accepted for college admissions in the USA.
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): A standardized test widely used for graduate school admissions in the USA.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): A standardized test used for admission to graduate-level management programs, such as MBA programs.
LSAT (Law School Admission Test): A standardized test used for admission to law school in the USA.
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): A standardized test used for admission to medical school in the USA.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A standardized test used to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A standardized test used to measure the English language proficiency of non-native speakers.
CPA Exam (Certified Public Accountant Exam): A standardized exam used to test the knowledge and skills of individuals seeking to become certified public accountants in the USA.
USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination): A three-step exam used to assess the knowledge and skills of medical students and graduates seeking to practice medicine in the USA.

1. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. The test is designed to assess a student’s readiness for college-level work and is accepted by most colleges and universities in the US.

The SAT consists of two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). The Math section measures a student’s understanding of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. The EBRW section includes Reading, Writing, Language, and an optional Essay.

The SAT is scored on a scale of 400-1600, with each section scored on a scale of 200-800. The optional Essay section is scored separately.

The SAT is offered several times a year at various testing centers across the US and internationally. Students typically take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school, and the test fee is around $50 (with additional fees for the optional Essay section).

While the SAT is just one factor in the college admissions process, it is an important one, as it can help colleges and universities evaluate a student’s academic readiness and potential.

2. ACT (American College Testing)

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test that is used for college admissions in the United States. It measures a student’s knowledge and skills in the areas of English, mathematics, reading, and science. There is also an optional writing section.

The ACT is typically taken by high school students, usually in their junior or senior year, who are preparing to apply to college. Many colleges and universities in the United States require students to submit ACT scores as part of their application process.

The test consists of multiple-choice questions, and students are given a set amount of time to complete each section. The test is scored on a scale of 1-36, with a composite score being the average of the four section scores.

In addition to being used for college admissions, the ACT can also be used for scholarship applications and academic placement purposes.

3. GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test that is used to assess the aptitude of students who wish to pursue graduate-level studies in various fields, such as business, law, engineering, and social sciences. The GRE is accepted by thousands of graduate and business schools around the world, and it is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

The GRE measures skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The verbal reasoning section assesses a student’s ability to analyze and evaluate written material and synthesize information from it. The quantitative reasoning section tests a student’s problem-solving ability in areas such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The analytical writing section evaluates a student’s ability to analyze and articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

The GRE is a computer-based test, and it is administered year-round at testing centers around the world. The test is scored on a scale of 130-170 for the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections, and 0-6 for the analytical writing section. The test takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Many graduate schools require applicants to submit GRE scores as part of their application package, although some schools may waive this requirement or consider other factors, such as work experience or undergraduate GPA, instead. Students should consult the admissions requirements of the schools they are interested in to determine whether they need to take the GRE.

4. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized test used to assess the aptitude of prospective students for graduate-level management and business programs. The exam is used by many graduate business schools as part of their admissions process, and it is designed to measure a candidate’s critical thinking, analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills.

The GMAT consists of four sections: Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal. The exam is computer-adaptive, which means that the difficulty of the questions will adjust based on a candidate’s performance. This is done to provide a more accurate assessment of a candidate’s abilities.

The GMAT is typically taken by individuals who are interested in pursuing an MBA or other graduate-level business programs. Many business schools require a GMAT score as part of their application process, although some schools may accept alternative exams such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).

Preparing for the GMAT typically involves studying the test format and content, practicing with sample questions and exams, and possibly taking preparatory courses or working with a tutor. It is important to note that a strong GMAT score is not the only factor that business schools consider when evaluating applicants. Other factors, such as work experience, academic performance, and personal qualities, are also taken into account.

5. LSAT (Law School Admission Test) – One of the most popular exams accepted in the USA in 2023

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test that is required for admission to most law schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries. The test is designed to assess a candidate’s reading and analytical skills, logical reasoning, and ability to understand and interpret complex texts.

The LSAT is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), and consists of multiple-choice questions in several sections, including logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension. The test is scored on a scale of 120 to 180, with the average score being around 150.

Law schools use LSAT scores, along with undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other application materials, to evaluate a candidate’s potential for success in law school. A high LSAT score can help a candidate stand out in the competitive law school admissions process, and may also improve their chances of receiving scholarships or other financial aid.

Preparing for the LSAT typically involves studying test-taking strategies, practicing with sample questions and practice tests, and working with a tutor or study group. Many test-takers also enroll in LSAT prep courses offered by test preparation companies or through their undergraduate institutions.

6. MCAT

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized test that is required for admission to most medical schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries. The test is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge of scientific concepts and principles, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.

The MCAT is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and consists of multiple-choice questions in several sections, including biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, and critical analysis and reasoning skills (CARS). The test is scored on a scale of 472 to 528, with the average score being around 500.

Medical schools use MCAT scores, along with undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other application materials, to evaluate a candidate’s potential for success in medical school. A high MCAT score can help a candidate stand out in the competitive medical school admissions process, and may also improve their chances of receiving scholarships or other financial aid.

Preparing for the MCAT typically involves studying scientific concepts and principles, practicing with sample questions and practice tests, and working with a tutor or study group. Many test-takers also enroll in MCAT prep courses offered by test preparation companies or through their undergraduate institutions.

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

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English. It is used by universities, colleges, and other educational institutions as a tool to assess the English language skills of applicants for admission or scholarships.

The TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is offered in more than 165 countries worldwide. The test consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The total testing time is approximately four hours.

The Reading section measures your ability to understand academic texts written in English. The Listening section measures your ability to understand spoken English in academic settings. The Speaking section measures your ability to speak English in an academic setting. The Writing section measures your ability to write academic essays in English.

The TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0-120, with each section scored on a scale of 0-30. Scores are valid for two years from the date of the test. Many universities and colleges require a minimum TOEFL score for admission, and the required minimum score can vary depending on the institution and the program of study.

Preparing for the TOEFL typically involves studying English language skills, practicing test-taking strategies, and taking practice tests. ETS offers a variety of study materials and resources, including practice tests and test preparation courses.

8. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The International English Language Testing System, commonly known as IELTS, is a standardized test designed to measure the proficiency of non-native English speakers in the English language. It is accepted as proof of English language proficiency by over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, government agencies, and employers.

The IELTS test assesses four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. There are two types of IELTS tests: the Academic IELTS and the General Training IELTS. The Academic IELTS is designed for students who want to study at universities or other higher education institutions in English-speaking countries, while the General Training IELTS is for those who want to work or immigrate to an English-speaking country.

The IELTS test is scored on a nine-band scale, with each band representing a different level of English proficiency. The highest score, band 9, indicates that a candidate is an expert user of English, while a score of band 1 indicates that the candidate has non-existent English skills.

The IELTS test is conducted by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. The test is available in over 140 countries and can be taken up to four times a month, depending on the test center’s availability.

9. CPA Exam (Certified Public Accountant Exam)

The CPA Exam (Certified Public Accountant Exam) is a professional licensing exam that is required in the United States for individuals who wish to become Certified Public Accountants. The exam is developed and administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and is used by state boards of accountancy to determine whether an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to be licensed as a CPA.

The CPA Exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Each section is a four-hour computer-based test and covers specific topics related to accounting, business, and taxation.

To be eligible to sit for the CPA Exam, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and have completed a specific number of accounting and business courses. In addition, candidates must meet other requirements, such as having a certain amount of work experience under a licensed CPA.

Passing the CPA Exam requires a significant amount of preparation and study. Many candidates enroll in review courses or use study materials to help them prepare for the exam. The passing score for each section of the exam varies by state but typically ranges from 75 to 80.

Once a candidate passes all four sections of the CPA Exam, they must also meet any additional requirements set by their state board of accountancy, such as completing additional education or work experience, before they can become licensed as a CPA.

10. USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-step exam that is required to obtain a medical license in the United States. It is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of medical students and graduates who want to practice medicine in the US.

The USMLE is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). The three steps of the exam are as follows:

Step 1: This exam is taken after the second year of medical school and tests basic science knowledge. It includes multiple-choice questions on topics such as anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, and physiology.
Step 2: This exam is divided into two parts:
- Step 2 CK (Clinical Knowledge): This exam tests clinical knowledge and is typically taken in the fourth year of medical school or during the first year of residency training. It includes multiple-choice questions on topics such as internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and preventive medicine.
- Step 2 CS (Clinical Skills): This exam tests clinical skills and is typically taken during the fourth year of medical school or during the first year of residency training. It includes 12 standardized patient encounters in which students are evaluated on their ability to take patient histories, perform physical exams, and communicate with patients.
Step 3: This exam is taken during residency training and tests the application of medical knowledge and understanding of patient care. It includes multiple-choice questions and computer-based case simulations.

Passing all three steps of the USMLE is required to obtain a medical license in most states in the US. The USMLE is a rigorous and comprehensive exam that is designed to ensure that medical professionals in the US are competent and qualified to provide safe and effective patient care.