Standardized Test Information

Standardized test scores on the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT are a major component of the graduate school application process. Results may play a significant role in determining the future of your education. Standardized tests in some graduate programs help determine your admission status and are often used in awarding merit-based scholarships, grants, fellowships, and assistantships.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) 

The GRE General Test is a standardized test created and administered by the Educational Testing Service, commonly known as ETS, that is designed to measure overall academic readiness for graduate school. Some grad programs require that applicants take not only the general test, but also a GRE Subject Test that assesses technical knowledge in a specific discipline like physics, psychology, or mathematics.

For-Profit Review Courses

CSULB does not endorse any specific for-profit review course. Although many students take such courses, others prepare without them. Some applicants prepare for the standardized tests using test preparation materials and practice exams.

• Kaplan Test Prep
• Princeton Review
• SwartwoodPrep

When to Start Studying

For those taking the GRE, about three to six months of studying prior to exam date is recommended. In general, although study time can vary depending on the student, the earlier students study, the better the result. In addition to learning and practicing test-taking abilities and reviewing content, students should take a full-length practice exam every two weeks prior to exam date.

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Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) 

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination administered by the AAMC. It is designed to assess your problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science content required for the study of medicine.

 At CSULB, the Health Professions Advising Office (HPAO) provides a wide range of advising and support services designed to meet the needs of CSULB students as they navigate through the often-complex process  of preparation and application to a health professional program.

For-Profit Review Courses

CSULB does not endorse any specific for-profit review course. Although many students take such courses, others prepare without them. Some applicants prepare for the standardized tests using test preparation materials and practice exams.

• AAMC e-MCAT Practice
• Berkeley Review
• Exam Crackers
• Gold Standard MCAT
• Next Steps Test Prep

When to Start Studying

For those taking the MCAT, DAT, OAT, & PCAT, about one year of studying prior to the exam date is recommended. Depending on how much material you may need to go over, recommended study time is at least one hour per day, and those who need more time should study at least two hours per day. Students should take a full-length practice exam every two weeks prior to exam date.

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Law School Admission Test (LSAT) 

The LSAT or the Law School Admission Test is an entrance exam required for admission to most law schools. It is a multiple-choice paper-and-pencil test that is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). 

Through the College of Liberal Arts Advising Center (ATLAS), students can review resources for those exploring a legal career including a Prelaw Preparation Course, advising, events, and educational materials designed to support students and alumni preparing for law school.

For-Profit Review Courses

CSULB does not endorse any specific for-profit review course. Although many students take such courses, others prepare without them. Some applicants prepare for the standardized tests using test preparation materials and practice exams.

• LSAC Prep
• Khan Academy
• LSAC LawHub

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Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) 

The Graduate Management Admission Test is a computer adaptive test intended to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in written English for use in admission to a graduate management program, such as a Master of Business Administration program.