The answer to what exams are required to Study in USA depends on the applicant’s degree level, chosen university, and program requirements. Students from non-native English-speaking countries generally need to prove their English proficiency, while undergraduate applicants may need SAT or ACT scores and graduate applicants may require GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the program and university.
Some professional programs in the USA may also require course-specific admission tests. These include the MCAT for medical schools, LSAT for law schools, and DAT for dental schools. Each test assesses skills relevant to the chosen field, so applicants should check their target university’s current admission requirements before selecting an exam.
This guide explains what exams are required to study in USA for MS, bachelors along with English proficiency tests, course-specific tests, eligibility requirements, exam patterns, and other key details students should know before applying.
English Language Proficiency Tests Required in USA
International students applying to universities in USA may need to highlight their English-language proficiency as part of the admission process. The accepted tests and minimum scores vary by university, program, and level of study.
Below are the commonly accepted English proficiency tests for studying in USA, along with their typical score requirements:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
This is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for international students applying to universities in USA. However, the minimum score required varies by university, program, and level of study.
Many US universities typically look for a TOEFL iBT score of around 80-100, although competitive programs may require higher scores.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
This is a widely accepted English proficiency test used by international students to demonstrate their ability to study in an English-speaking academic environment. Students need to do IELTS preparation as they assess four language skills.
Many US universities typically expect an IELTS score of around 6.5-7.5, depending on the institution and program.
Duolingo English Test (DET)
This is an online English proficiency test that offers a flexible alternative to traditional language tests. It is accepted by many US universities, although acceptance and minimum scores vary by institution and program.
A typical score requirement at many US universities may fall around 105-120, although students should check the specific requirement of their chosen institution.
This is a computer-based English proficiency test that measures an applicant's ability to communicate in an academic environment. It is accepted by a growing number of universities in USA.
While there is no universal score requirement across all US universities, applicants should check the specific English proficiency criteria for their chosen program before booking a test.
Exams Required for Bachelors in USA
Students applying for undergraduate programs in USA may need to submit standardised test scores, depending on the university and program. International applicants may also need to demonstrate English-language proficiency.
The most commonly encountered undergraduate admission tests are the SAT and ACT.
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
This is a standardized college admission test used by some US universities to evaluate an applicant's academic readiness. However, not every university requires SAT scores, as testing policies vary between institutions.
The test is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, with separate scores for Reading and Writing and Math.
American College Test (ACT)
The ACT is another standardised admission test accepted by many US colleges and universities. It assesses students with overall score of around 22-36 across areas such as:
English
Mathematics
Reading
Science
The ACT also includes an optional Writing component.
Students asking what exams are required to study in USA after 12th should first identify their target universities and check their latest undergraduate admission policies.
Exams Required for Graduates & Postgraduates in USA
Students applying for Masters and PhD programs may encounter different requirements from undergraduate applicants. Depending on the course and university, applicants may need a graduate admission test such as the GRE and GMAT, while some programs have made the test optional or removed it entirely.
English-language proficiency for graduates and postgraduates may also be required for international applicants.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
It is a graduate-level standardised test that may be accepted or required for admission to certain Masters and doctoral programs.
The total GMAT score ranges from 205-805, with 645 roughly equivalent to the previous 700 benchmark.
Students researching what exams are required to study in USA for MS should consider both graduate admission tests and English language proficiency requirements, as universities may require one or both depending on the program and applicant profile.
Certain professional programs in USA may require specialised admission tests to assess an applicant’s academic knowledge, reasoning skills, or readiness for the chosen field. These exams are different from general admission tests such as the SAT or GRE and are typically specific to disciplines such as medicine, law, and dentistry.
Below are some of the course-based exams required in USA.
MCAT
The Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, is used in the admissions process for medical schools in USA and Canada.
It usually has a total score range of 472-528, with individual sections scored from 118-132.
It assesses areas such as:
Biological and Biochemical Foundations
Chemical and Physical Foundations
Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations
Critical Analysis and Reasoning
Applicants should check the eligibility and admission requirements of individual medical schools.
The Dental Admission Test, or DAT, is used by dental schools as part of their admissions process.
The DAT uses a 3-digit scoring scale with a total score range of 200-600.
It assesses areas such as:
Natural Sciences
Perceptual Ability
Reading Comprehension
Quantitative Reasoning
It assesses areas relevant to dental education and can include scientific knowledge, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning.
Other Program-Specific Tests
Depending on the program , applicants may encounter additional examinations or assessments such as OAT (Optometry Admission Test), VMCAT (Veterinary Medical College Admission Test).
It is important to distinguish between:
Admission tests: Used to assess applicants for entry into a program.
English proficiency tests: Used to demonstrate language ability.
Licensing exams: Usually taken to qualify for professional practice after or during education.
Not every exam associated with a profession is an admission requirement.
Choosing the right exam depends on your degree level, field of study, university requirements, and English-language requirements. Start by identifying the program you want to pursue, then check whether your shortlisted universities require, recommend, or waive specific tests.
The following are steps that may help you in identifying which exam is suitable for you:
1. Choose the Exam Based on Your Degree
Bachelors: Check whether your university requires the SAT or ACT.
Masters/PhD: Check the program requirements for the GRE.
MBA/Business: Business schools may accept the GMAT or GRE.
Medicine: Medical school applicants generally take the MCAT.
Law: Law school applicants typically take the LSAT.
Dentistry: Dental school applicants generally take the DAT.
2. Check English Proficiency Requirements
If your university requires proof of English proficiency, you may need to take one of these tests:
TOEFL
IELTS
Duolingo English Test (DET)
PTE Academic
Check which tests your university accepts and whether you qualify for an exemption.
3. Check Your University Requirements
Before booking any exam, visit the official website of your shortlisted universities and check the requirements for your specific course. Find out whether the exam is mandatory, optional, or not required.
This simple approach can help you avoid taking an exam that your chosen university does not require.
Tip: Do not choose an exam simply because it is commonly taken by other students. The right test is the one that matches your program requirements and university policies.
Students should plan their exams around university application deadlines. Starting early provides enough time to prepare, take the examination, receive scores, and retake the test if necessary.
Below is the table showing estimated timeline for taking exams in USA
Task
Recommended Timeline
Research university requirements
12-18 months before intake
Select exams
10-12 months before
Start preparation
6-12 months before
First test attempt
6-9 months before
Retake if required
3-6 months before
Send scores
Before university deadline
The exact timeline will depend on the intake, application deadline, examination availability, preparation level, and whether you intend to retake a test.
For competitive programs, taking the examination earlier can give you additional time to improve your score if your first attempt does not meet your target.
Cost of Exams Required to Study in USA
The total cost of taking entrance and English proficiency tests depends on the exam, location, registration method, and additional services such as score reporting or late registration.
Since these charges can change, always verify the latest fees on the official testing organisation’s website before registering.
Following table includes exam Fees required to study in USA:
Test Name
Approximate Standard Fee (USD/INR)
TOEFL iBT
USD 195-255 (INR 19K-24K)
IELTS Academic
USD 200-250 (INR 19K-24K)
SAT
USD 103 (INR 10K)
ACT
USD 234-259 (INR 22K-25K)
GRE General
USD 220 (INR 21K)
GMAT
USD 275-300 + 18% GST (INR 26K-29K +18% GST)
MCAT
USD 335 (INR 32K+)
LSAT
USD 222 (INR 21K+)
Note: Fees may change based on location, taxes, registration method, and test-centre charges. Always verify the latest fee on the official exam provider's website before registering.
Other Requirements to Study in USA Besides Exams
Getting admission to a US university involves more than taking the required exams. Students also need to prepare academic documents, application materials, financial proof, and student visa documents.
Below are the key documents and requirements students should prepare before starting their studies in USA.
1. University Application Documents
Academic Transcripts: Certified school or university mark sheets and certificates.
SOP/Personal Statement: A 1-2 page essay (you may refer to this statement of purpose format for detailed guidance).
The answer to what exams are required to study in USA depends primarily on your degree level, program, university, and applicant profile. Undergraduate applicants may encounter SAT or ACT requirements, while Masters applicants may need the GRE depending on their program. MBA applicants may be asked for GMAT or GRE scores, and PhD applicants should check their department's specific requirements.
International students may also need an English proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Professional programs such as medicine, law, and dentistry can have their own admission examinations.
If you are wondering what exams are required to study in USA after 12th, start by checking the testing policy of your shortlisted undergraduate universities. Similarly, students applying for MS or other postgraduate programs should check individual program requirements before registering for the GRE or another test.
How much time does it take to prepare for English proficiency tests for studying in USA?
The preparation time for English proficiency tests depends on your current English level, target score, and familiarity with the test format. Generally, students may need 4-8 weeks of focused preparation, while those with weaker English skills may need 3-4 months or longer to reach their desired score.
Can I get USA study visa without IELTS?
Yes, you can get USA study visa without IELTS if your university accepts another English proficiency test or grants you an exemption. Visa eligibility is separate from IELTS, but you must satisfy your university's admission and English-language requirements.
Does the US prefer IELTS or TOEFL?
US universities generally do not have a universal preference between IELTS and TOEFL. Both are widely accepted, but acceptance and minimum scores vary by institution and program. Always check your university's official English-language requirements before selecting a test.
Which is tougher, TOEFL or IELTS?
Neither TOEFL nor IELTS is universally tougher. The difficulty depends on your strengths and preferred test format. IELTS includes a speaking assessment with an examiner, while TOEFL is primarily computer-based. Reviewing both formats can help you choose the better option.
What are the cheapest universities in USA for international students without IELTS?
Some US universities may offer lower tuition and accept alternatives to IELTS, such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. However, costs and English-test policies vary, so compare tuition, living expenses, scholarships, and program-specific requirements before applying.
Which university in USA is easiest to get into?
There is no single easiest US university to enter because admission rates and requirements vary by program and applicant profile. Some institutions have higher acceptance rates, but students should also consider academic requirements, costs, location, and program quality.
Which university accepts low CGPA in USA?
Some US universities may consider applicants with lower CGPAs, particularly when they have strong test scores, relevant experience, or other compelling application components. There is no universal minimum, so check each university's program-specific academic requirements.
Is USA expensive for Indian students?
USA can be expensive for Indian students because tuition and living costs vary significantly by university, program, and location. However, scholarships, assistantships, affordable public universities, and careful budgeting can help reduce overall education expenses.
Which US college accepts most international students?
Several US universities and colleges enrol large international student populations, including New York University, Northeastern University, and Columbia University. The exact ranking changes by year, so students should check the latest official international-enrolment data.
Which country has the most international students in USA?
China and India have historically been among the largest sources of international students in USA. Their positions can change by academic year, so students should refer to the latest Open Doors international student data for current figures.
Which country will accept without IELTS?
Many countries and universities may accept international students without IELTS if they accept alternatives such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo, or provide English-language exemptions. Requirements differ by university, program, nationality, and previous education.
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