Is a standardized test like the SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, or LSAT required for admissions?
Most schools are test optional, so in short for most schools a standardized test is not required. But there are still some situations where a test will be required or is heavily recommended:
- Required if the school says its required (check the admissions office)
- Recommended if you’re a test rock star and have a good score
- Required to take an English test for international students
If you are one of those students who performs well on a test, then we recommend investing in a test-prep course, taking the test, and getting a good score. This will be helpful with admissions because even though the test might not be required, the school still cares about average test scores. An MBA program still cares about having a high average GMAT score, so if you have a high GMAT score the school will be interested in you.
International students not from an English-speaking country will still need to take an English test in accordance to the requirements on the school’s website. Common tests are IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and Gateway.
There is a push for admission offices to require a standardized test score again beginning Fall 2027, so now is the best time to apply if you don’t like taking tests. But if you have a solid score, shop it around for admissions and scholarships. – Jessie Layton, Admissions Counselor