Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Exam
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Who needs to take it?
Anyone planning on applying to medical school.
Where do you take it?
At one of the various computerized testing centers. To find a
testing center near you, consult www.aamc.org/mcat
How much does it cost?
$225
What does the test contain?
The test contains sections for each of the following: Physical
Sciences (52 questions), Verbal Reasoning (40 questions),
Biological Sciences (52 questions), and Writing (2 short essays).
When should you take it?
You should try to take the MCAT about one year before you plan
to begin medical school. There are certain classes you must take
before taking the MCAT to be adequately prepared (Biology,
Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics).
When is it offered?
It is offered 28 times throughout the year as a computerized exam.
Registration opens approximately 12 weeks before each test.
Individuals are allowed to take the MCAT three times per year;
however, schools can view all of your scores upon application, so
make sure you are adequately prepared before you take it.
How long does it take?
Approximately 5 ½ hours.
How can I practice?
The best way to practice for the MCAT is by taking multiple
practice tests. The official MCAT website has resources to help
you create a study plan, order practice exams, and more. The
Lincoln Park and Loop Libraries also have books available to help
students prepare for the MCAT.
More Information
For this information and more, consult www.aamc.org/mcat/
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Graduate Record Examination (GRE), General Exam
Exam
Graduate Record Examination (GRE), General Exam
Who needs to take it?
GRE scores are accepted by a wide variety of graduate programs, from
humanities programs to some science programs. Check with the
individual universities to which you are applying to ensure you are
taking the correct exam.
Where do you take it?
At one of the various computerized testing centers. To find a testing
center near you consult www.ets.org/gre
How much does it cost?
$160
What does the test contain?
The test contains the following three sections: Verbal Reasoning (30
questions), Quantitative Reasoning (28 questions), and Analytical
Writing (2 essays).
When should you take it?
Many students take the GRE a year before they plan to start graduate
school. However, many suggest taking it earlier so you have extra time
to re-take the exam if you are not satisfied with your scores.
When is it offered?
The GRE is offered year round. You are permitted to take the GRE up
to one time per month; however, it is recommended you do not take it
too frequently because universities often access all of your scores
when making a decision on admission.
How long does it take?
Approximately 3 hours.
How can I practice?
There are several free resources provided on the official GRE website
for preparation. One of these resources—software known as
Powerprep—provides you with possible questions, study materials, and
tips, and is free for anyone taking the GRE. DePaul’s Lincoln Park
Campus Library also has several GRE test prep books located in the
reference section, as well as some review guides as e-books available
for DePaul students to access.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.ets.org/gre
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
GRE Subject Tests
Exam
GRE Subject Tests
Who needs to take it?
Some graduate programs require a GRE Subject test, which assesses
your knowledge in your particular field. The subject tests offered
include: Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, Biology, Chemistry,
Computer Science, Literature in English, Mathematics, Physics, and
Psychology. Check with the individual programs you are applying to in
order to determine if you need to take a subject test.
Where do you take it?
At one of the various paper-based testing centers. To find a testing
center near you, consult www.ets.org/gre
How much does it cost?
$140
What does the test contain?
Each subject test contains different sections. To find out more about
the specifics of the test you would like to take, consult
www.ets.org/gre/subject/about/
When should you take it?
You should take the exam about a year before you plan to enter
graduate school. This will ensure you have taken as many classes as
possible to prepare you for the information included on the test.
However, some students prefer to take the test slightly earlier to allow
time for them to take it again if they are dissatisfied with their score.
When is it offered?
The subject tests are offered three times a year in April, October, and
November.
How long does it take?
Approximately 3 ½ hours.
How can I practice?
There are free practice booklets offered on the GRE website. In
addition, when you register for a test, you will be sent a free Subject
Test Practice Book.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.ets.org/gre
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Exam
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Who needs to take it?
Anyone planning on applying to law school.
Where do you take it?
Upon registering, you will select your top test centers and they will try
to accommodate your request if that center is hosting that particular
test. The LSAT is not computerized.
How much does it cost?
$132
What does the test contain?
Five separate 35 minute sessions of multiple choice questions,
concluding with a 35 minute writing sample. The types of multiple
choice questions are Reading Comprehension, Analytical, and Logical
Reasoning. The writing sample is not scored, but is sent to the
schools to which you apply.
When should you take it?
It is recommended you take the LSAT approximately a year prior to
the time you plan to enter law school. If you are planning on leaving
time to take the LSAT twice, consider registering for an exam a few
months prior to this.
When is the test offered?
The LSAT is offered in February, June, October, and December of
each year. You cannot take the exam more than three times in a two
year period.
How long does it take?
Approximately half of a day.
How can you practice?
The LSAC website offers a complete sample test with responses, as
well as sample questions with explanations. Additional sample tests
can be purchased from the website. DePaul’s Loop Campus Library
also has several test prep books located in the reference section,
some LSAT review guides available to be checked out, and some ebook review guides accessible via the internet.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.lsac.org
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
Exam
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
Who needs to take it?
The GMAT is needed for admission to almost any MBA program, as
well as for some PhD programs, such as Finance and Management.
Where do you take it?
You can take the GMAT at one of many computerized testing centers
throughout the country listed at www.mba.com/mba/thegmat.
How much does it cost?
$250
What does the test contain?
The test contains three sections: Verbal (41 Questions), Math (37
Questions), and Essay (one “Issue” and one “Argument”).
When should you take it?
It is recommended you take the GMAT when you are still in school so
the information is fresh in your mind. Many recommend you take it
before you start filling out applications so you can apply to schools
whose score requirements you meet. This information is typically
available through the individual programs to which you are applying.
When is it offered?
The GMAT is offered every weekday and on some Saturdays. You
cannot take the GMAT more than once a month. Your three most
recent scores for the GMAT will be sent to programs when applying
for Grad School.
How long is it?
Approximately 4 hours
How can I practice?
The Graduate Management Admission Council provides free test
preparation software and materials to purchase, as well as
suggestions about how to prepare for the exam. DePaul’s Loop
Campus Library also has several test prep books located in the
reference section, some GMAT review guides available to be checked
out, and some e-book review guides are accessible via the internet.
More Information
This information and more can be found at
www.mba.com/mba/thegmat
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)
Exam
Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)
Who needs to take it?
Most pharmacy schools require the PCAT.
Where do you take it?
The testing centers rotate for each exam. To locate a testing center for
a specific exam, go to www.pcatweb.info
How much does it cost?
$150
What does the test contain?
The test has six sections: Verbal Ability (48 questions), Quantitative
(48 questions), Biology (48 questions), Chemistry (48 questions),
Reading (48 questions), and Writing (2 Essays).
When should you take it?
It is recommended students take the exam after their second year of
undergraduate study. Most schools require this amount of
undergraduate study while others require a completed Bachelors
degree, followed by 3-4 years of pharmaceutical studies.
When is it offered?
The PCAT is offered four times a year in June, August, October and
January. You cannot take the PCAT exam more than five times.
How long does it take?
About 4 ½ hours.
How can I practice?
There is an official practice PCAT exam that is available for download
on Pearson’s website.
More Information
For this information and more, go to www.pcatweb.info
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Optometry Admission Testing Program (OAT)
Exam
Optometry Admission Testing Program (OAT)
Who needs to take it?
Individuals looking to receive admission to an optometry doctorate
program.
Where do you take it?
To find a computerized testing center near you, go to
www.ada.org/oat/
How much does it cost?
$213
What does the test contain?
The test contains four sections which include: Survey of Natural
Sciences (100 Questions), Physics (40 Questions), Quantitative
Reasoning (40 Questions), Reading Comprehension (40 Questions).
When should you take it?
It is recommended that you take at least one year of undergraduate
work in Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics prior to
taking the exam. Therefore, many students opt to take the exam after
2-3 years of undergraduate work.
When is it offered?
Tests are administered year round. The OAT cannot be taken more
than once every 90 days. The four most recent scores are reported to
schools; however, the schools to which you are applying will also be
informed of how many times you have taken the exam.
How long does it take?
Up to 5 hours.
How can I practice?
The ADA’s website offers a free practice exam with explanations of
answers.
More Information
For this information and more, go to www.ada.org/oat or
www.opted.org
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Exam
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Who needs to take it?
Most graduate schools require this exam for international students
whose native language is not English.
Where do you take it?
The exam is offered in paper-based and internet-based formats
throughout the world. For more information on your nearest testing
center, consult www.ets.org
How much does it cost?
$170; however, fees vary by state and country.
What does the test contain?
The test contains the following sections: Reading (36-70 questions),
Listening (34-51 questions), Speaking (6 tasks) and Writing (2 tasks).
When should you take it?
The TOEFL should be taken no later than 6-8 weeks prior to the
application deadline for your graduate school.
When is it offered?
The test is offered most Saturdays and approximately one Friday
each month.
How long does it take?
Approximately 4 ½ hours.
How can I practice?
The TOEFL website offers a practice exam, as well as helpful tips for
succeeding on the exam. DePaul’s Lincoln Park Library also has a
guide complete with audio scripts available to be checked out, as well
as two review guides accessible as e-books on the internet.
More Information
For this information and more, go to www.ets.org and click on
“TOEFL”
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Dental Admissions Test (DAT)
Exam
Dental Admissions Test (DAT)
Who needs to take it?
Individuals looking to enter dental school.
Where do you take it?
The test is offered at various computerized testing centers throughout
the country. To find a testing center near you, consult
www.ada.org/prof/ed/testing/dat
How much does it cost?
$170
What does the test contain?
The test contains four sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences (100
questions), Perceptual Ability (90 questions), Reading
Comprehension (50 questions), and Quantitative Reasoning (40
questions).
When should you take it?
Your application will not be reviewed by dental schools until you have
submitted your scores. Because of this, it is recommended you take
your exam in early summer before your senior year so you can take
the exam again in the fall if you are unsatisfied with your scores.
When is it offered?
Testing appointments are available year round. Once you have taken
the test, you cannot take it again for 90 days. Those who have taken
the test three or more times must get special permission before taking
the test again.
How long does it take?
Approximately 4 ½ hours.
How can I practice?
There is an Examinee Guide available on the American Dental
Association’s website—www.ada.org—that contains sample test
items.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.studytips.org/dat or
www.ada.org/prof/ed/testing/dat
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Miller Analogies Test (MAT)
Exam
Miller Analogies Test (MAT)
Who needs to take it?
Miller Analogies Test scores are accepted by a wide variety of
graduate programs in place of the GRE. Check with the individual
universities for which you are applying to ensure you are taking the
correct exam.
Where do you take it?
There are several paper and computer based testing centers in each
state where you can take the MAT. To find out where your nearest
testing center is, consult www.milleranalogies.com and click on “Find
a MAT Testing Center.”
How much does it cost?
Because you pay the testing center directly, the fee for the MAT
varies between each testing center. Consult your individual testing
center to find out how much the test costs in your area. The average
cost for taking the MAT is usually between $65-$85.
What does the test contain?
The Miller Analogies test contains 120 analogy questions. The
analogies fall into six separate content areas: General, Humanities,
Mathematics, Language, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences.
When should you take it?
Many students take the MAT a year before they plan to start graduate
school. However, many suggest taking it earlier so you have time to
re-take the exam if you are not satisfied with your scores. The
transcripts sent with your scores will contain all MAT scores from the
past five years, so make sure you are prepared before taking the test.
When is it offered?
The schedule for the offering of the MAT varies between testing
centers. Consult your individual testing center to find out when they
offer the MAT.
How long does it take?
60 minutes
How can I practice?
The MAT is used to assess the knowledge you have gained
throughout your academic career. Because of this, the best
preparation is simply familiarizing yourself with the structure of the
test. The official Miller Analogies Test website has several practice
tests available for studying. In addition, DePaul’s Loop Library has a
review guide available to be checked out.
More Information
This information and more can be found at milleranalogies.com
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Test
Exam
Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Test
Who needs to take it?
The Praxis I tests are required by many universities for entry into a
teacher education program. In addition, most states request these
scores during the teacher licensing process. Consult your individual
state for testing requirements.
Where do you take it?
The test is offered at various computerized and paper-based testing
centers throughout the country. To find a testing center near you,
consult www.ets.org/praxis
How much does it cost?
For computerized testing the costs are as follows: one exam, $80; two
exams, $120; three exams, $160. However, taking the three
computerized tests combined is $130. If choosing to take the test in a
paper-based format, the cost is $40 per test.
What does the test contain?
Three separate tests are offered under the Praxis I tests: reading,
writing and mathematics. The three separate tests can be taken
separately or together. The reading and mathematics tests each
contain 40 multiple choice questions that assess basic skills in these
areas, while the writing test contains 38 multiple choice questions and
one essay question.
When should you take it?
The Praxis I tests are usually taken sometime within your first year in
college. You may retake the Praxis I as many times as you need to
pass it.
When is it offered?
Computer-based Praxis I tests are given year round by appointment.
Contact your individual testing center to set up your appointment.
Paper based exams occur five times throughout the year usually in
January, March, April, July, and November.
How long does it take?
The exam takes approximately one hour per test you take. For
example, if you choose to take all three tests, the exam will last
approximately three hours.
How can I practice?
The Praxis website offers a practice exam, as well as helpful tips for
succeeding on the exam.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.ets.org/praxis
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu
Guide to Graduate School Admissions Exams:
Praxis II Subject Tests
Exam
Praxis II Subject Tests
Who needs to take it?
A Praxis II exam should be taken by an individual looking to enter the
teaching profession. Each exam focuses on a specific subject ranging
from U.S. History to Agriculture. The Praxis II exams are required in
the teaching licensing and certification process.
Where do you take it?
The test is offered at various paper-based testing centers throughout
the country. To find a testing center near you, consult
www.ets.org/praxis
How much does it cost?
The cost of the Praxis II depends on the individual subject you are
testing in. The prices range from $65-$115; however, most exams
cost around $80. To find out the price of your specific test, consult
www.ets.org/praxis.
What does the test contain?
Each Praxis II test asks questions that pertain to one of 120 different
subjects. The individual tests you take depend on what the teaching
requirements are for your state and which grade and subject you plan
to teach.
When should you take it?
It is recommended you have been in college for at least a few years
prior to taking the exam to ensure you have the specific subject
knowledge necessary to succeed on the test. The specific
requirements for taking the exam depend on your state’s licensing
requirements. You may retake the Praxis II as many times as you
need to pass it.
When is it offered?
Tests are offered seven times throughout the year usually in January,
March, April, June, July, September and November.
How long does it take?
The tests are 1, 2 or 4 hours long. You may take up to three tests on
a given day depending on the length of each test.
How can I practice?
The Praxis website offers a practice exam, as well as helpful tips for
succeeding on the exam.
More Information
This information and more can be found at www.ets.org/praxis
Lincoln Park: SAC 192, (773) 325-7431
Loop: DPC 9500, (312) 362-8437
careercenter.depaul.edu