What Are the Competitive Exams in USA?

When people think about competitive exams, they often picture high-stakes tests in countries like India or China. But the United States has its own set of rigorous, widely recognized exams that shape college admissions, graduate school placements, and even career paths. These aren’t just one-off tests-they’re gateways. And if you’re planning to study in the U.S. or pursue a professional degree, knowing which exams matter and why is critical.

Standardized Tests for Undergraduate Admissions

The two biggest exams for high school students aiming for U.S. colleges are the SAT and the ACT. Both are used by nearly all four-year universities, though preferences vary by school. The SAT, administered by the College Board, focuses on reading, writing, and math. It’s scored from 400 to 1600. The ACT, run by ACT, Inc., includes science reasoning as a separate section and is scored from 1 to 36. While the SAT gives more time per question, the ACT moves faster. Students often take both and submit the higher score.

Since 2020, many schools have gone test-optional due to pandemic disruptions. But that doesn’t mean these exams are irrelevant. At top-tier universities, applicants with SAT scores above 1450 or ACT scores above 32 still have a measurable edge. A 2023 study by the National Association for College Admission Counseling found that 68% of selective institutions still consider test scores when evaluating applicants, even if they’re optional.

Graduate School Entrance Exams

If you’re heading to grad school, the exam you take depends on your field. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is the most common. It’s required for most master’s and PhD programs in fields like engineering, biology, psychology, and social sciences. The GRE has three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Scores range from 130-170 for the first two, and 0-6 for the essay. A score above 320 (combined) is competitive for mid-tier programs; 330+ opens doors to elite schools.

For business school, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is the gold standard. It’s designed specifically for MBA applicants and includes sections on quantitative, verbal, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing. The total score ranges from 200 to 800. The average score for top 10 MBA programs in 2025 is 725. While some schools now accept the GRE for MBA admissions, the GMAT still carries more weight in admissions committees focused on business analytics and leadership.

If you’re aiming for law school, the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is non-negotiable. It tests reading comprehension, analytical reasoning (logic games), and logical reasoning. There’s no math section. The LSAT is scored from 120 to 180. A score of 170+ puts you in the top 2% of test-takers and is typical for applicants to Harvard, Yale, or Stanford Law. The LSAT-Flex, introduced during the pandemic, is still offered in some cases, but most schools now require the full, in-person version.

Professional Licensing and Certification Exams

Beyond academic pathways, many U.S. careers require passing a standardized licensing exam. For example:

• Doctors take the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) in three steps to become licensed physicians.
• Nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination) to practice as registered nurses.
• Engineers in most states must pass the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) and later the PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering) exams to earn licensure.
• Teachers seeking certification must pass state-specific exams like the Praxis series, which assess subject knowledge and teaching skills.

These aren’t optional. Failing the NCLEX means you can’t work as a nurse. Failing the USMLE Step 1 can delay residency matching by a year. The stakes are real, and preparation is intense.

Specialized and Niche Exams

There are also exams for specific fields. The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is required for medical school applicants. It covers biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and critical analysis. Scores range from 472 to 528. The average score for matriculants in 2025 is 511.4.

The DAT (Dental Admission Test) is used by dental schools. It includes natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. The PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test) serves pharmacy schools, though some are phasing it out in favor of GPA and interviews.

For international students, the TOEFL iBT and IELTS are mandatory to prove English proficiency. Most universities require a TOEFL score of at least 80, with top schools demanding 100+. IELTS scores are reported on a 0-9 scale, with 7.0+ being the typical minimum.

Why These Exams Matter

These exams aren’t just about memorizing facts. They test how well you think under pressure, manage time, and apply knowledge in unfamiliar contexts. That’s why employers and graduate schools trust them. A high GRE score doesn’t just mean you studied-it means you can handle graduate-level work. A 34 on the ACT signals you’re ready for college rigor.

But here’s the truth: these exams are expensive. The SAT costs $68, the GRE $205, and the LSAT $228. Retakes add up fast. And prep materials? They can cost hundreds more. That’s why access to quality resources remains unequal. Public school students in low-income districts often don’t get the same coaching as those in private schools or affluent suburbs.

Still, these exams are the currency of opportunity in the U.S. education system. Whether you’re applying to Harvard, MIT, or a state university, your performance on one of these tests can open doors-or close them.

How to Prepare Effectively

Don’t wait until the last minute. Most students start preparing 3-6 months ahead. Use official materials: College Board for SAT, ETS for GRE, LSAC for LSAT. Free practice tests are available online. Take at least two full-length timed tests before the real thing. Analyze your mistakes-don’t just re-take the test.

For standardized tests, time management is everything. Learn pacing strategies. Skip hard questions early and come back. For the GRE, focus on the quantitative section if you’re applying to STEM programs. For the LSAT, drill logic games-they’re the easiest to improve on with practice.

And remember: test scores aren’t everything. But in a system with thousands of applicants, they’re often the first filter. A strong score can get your application read. A weak one might mean it never gets past the first screen.

Final Thoughts

Competitive exams in the U.S. aren’t just hurdles-they’re tools. They help universities sort through millions of applications. They help employers screen candidates. They help students prove they’re ready for the next level. Whether you’re a high school senior, a grad school applicant, or a professional seeking licensure, knowing which exams matter and how to prepare can make all the difference.