Are you applying to graduate schools in the near future? If so, you’ll likely know that the application process has a lot of steps, including possibly taking a few major tests to show your academic level and preparation. Here are a few different types of major tests that graduate degrees require.

The GRE

First, your graduate degree might require you to take the GRE test. The GRE test, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized academic test that measures whether or not you’re prepared for graduate-level research and schoolwork. This examination is used by most graduate schools and business schools to help them determine which candidates they’d like to accept in the admissions process. There are two different GRE tests that you might be asked to take.

The General GRE helps to test skills like analytical writing and quantitative reasoning. The GRE Subject test helps to evaluate your knowledge about a particular subject or field of study such as physics or psychology. While there is a paper version of the GRE, it is most commonly taken electronically. Some graduate schools have started to waive GRE requirements in recent years, especially since COVID-19.

The LSAT

Next, you also might need to take the LSAT as you’re applying for graduate school. The LSAT, or Law School Admission Test, is a standardized test designed to examine prospective law students. If you’re interested in becoming a lawyer or studying law, this will likely be a requirement for continuing your education. Before you apply for law school, you’ll need to graduate with your undergraduate degree.

You should take the LSAT after completing your undergraduate degree. The LSAT will test your reading comprehension, knowledge, and reasoning skills verbally and in writing. The LSAT is generally offered four times a year, so make sure that you’re aware of when it is being offered near you so you can take it before you start your law school application.

The MCAT

Finally, another common major test that graduate degrees require is the MCAT. The MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test, is a standardized test that examines principles that will be necessary to know for a medical degree and profession. For example, it tests on subjects such as biochemistry, psychology, biology, and critical analysis. Many medical schools are looking for high MCAT scores in the students they admit. You should usually plan on taking the MCAT six months before you apply to medical school, especially if you want to have time to retake it in case your score isn’t as high as you’d like. Most graduate schools still require the MCAT, despite other admission test requirements being waived.

So, if you’re planning on continuing your education in graduate school, remember that you might need to take one of these major tests as part of the admissions process. Make sure that you check your graduate school’s requirements to see if you need to take the GRE, LSAT, or MCAT, among other major tests. Taking these tests successfully and submitting your scores could boost your chances of being admitted to graduate school.