Questions and Answers on Testing
Start with our page on U.S. Admissions: Testing, which covers the most frequently asked questions on this subject.
Below are additional questions we’ve answered about U.S. study-related testing requirements and options. Each month, we add any new questions that we’ve responded to on this subject, so check back for more.
If you have questions not currently answered on our site, please write us.
How can I prepare for exams?
Most U.S. entrance examinations assess fundamental skills in language, critical thinking, and mathematics that provide a base for building academic knowledge. Strong knowledge of English is probably the most essential prerequisite for international students. English language training involving integrated exposure to the different skill areas (listening, speaking, reading, writing) and exposure to “real life” English, whether through conversations with native speakers or even watching television and movies, will help prepare you not only for tests but also for U.S. academic campus life. Be sure to brush on college-preparatory level mathematical skills as well.
Some other examinations, such as the SAT Subject examinations at the undergraduate level and GRE Subject examinations at the graduate level, require more specific subject area knowledge. Check what content areas any such exams you are taking cover and be sure you have a solid background of knowledge in those areas.
In addition to the content, become familiar with the format of the different examinations that you will be taking. The Web sites and test bulletins for specific exams will provide information as well as sample questions. Additional practice tests (print and/or online) can be ordered from the exam developers as well as from commercial publishers.
What if I have a disability and need help or extra time to take an exam?
Please check the Web sites for the particular tests that you are planning to take. All U.S. admissions test sites should include information on procedures to request “special accommodations.” Typically, you will need to document a long-term disability as well as describe what changes would allow you to take the test. You should start the process as soon as possible to ensure that you can be accommodated.
Test takers with temporary disabilities, for instance a broken leg, should generally plan to register for or transfer to a later test date when the disability will not be an issue.
How long is my test score valid?
The TOEFL score has a two year validity period; GRE and GMAT five years. There is no time limit on SAT scores. However, any SAT scores requested more than five years after the test date will be accompanied by a message from the Educational Testing Service explaining that the scores may no longer be an accurate reflection of your academic performance.
Are there any examinations I can take that will help me complete my studies more quickly?
There are several tests for which students may be able to earn as much as a year of undergraduate credit before actually entering a U.S. college or university (such credit is not usually available for graduate programs, except occasionally in relation to undergraduate-level prerequisites). These tests can save you significant time and money if you have the background to complete them successfully.
Besides tests based on particular secondary school curricula, such as the Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate examinations, the most commonly accepted of these examinations for credit are the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST).
The CLEP tests, developed by the College Board, are currently accepted by over 2,900 U.S. colleges and universities. Thirty four examinations are offered covering different academic subjects.
The DSST is a very similar examination-for-credit program developed by Thomson Prometric that expands and complements the range of tests offered by CLEP. DSST currently offers over forty tests, accepted by over 1,900 colleges and universities.
Both tests are administered at most AMIDEAST offices by appointment. Many U.S. colleges and universities also have centers that administer the tests and will grant credit for these tests, not only at the time of admission but also later in the student’s academic career.
Check with universities in which you are interested to get the most current details on their policies regarding awarding undergraduate credit for these tests.
Also check our list of subjects for which these tests are available.
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