What is a Standardized Test?

By Brianna Burrows

Studying in the USA presents many opportunities to international students to learn about American culture. U.S. education is a unique facet of American culture. There are many things that are distinct to American education, such as standardized testing. For some international students, they may be unfamiliar with what is a standardized test.

A standardized test is a test that is given to students in a very consistent manner; meaning that the questions on the test are all the same, the time given to each student is the same, and the way in which the test is scored is the same for all students.

In the USA, American students begin taking standardized tests in elementary school, also known as primary school. Once students are in high school and considering attending college or university, they will have to determine if they will have to take the SAT or ACT, which are standardized tests that are used to determine students academic readiness for higher education.

Students that graduate with a bachelor’s degree and considering a graduate degree will most likely have to take other standardized tests for graduate school. The most common standardized tests for graduate school are the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT.

It is important to research which tests may be required for admission as each school has their own requirements. Also, make sure to prepare for the test by studying months in advance.


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