Completing Standardized Testing
Preparing for pre-health standardized tests
This page is designed to help you learn more about the various standardized tests you might be required to complete, the format of each exam and how to register.
Types of Standardized Tests
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess your knowledge of natural and social sciences concepts. It also assesses your critical thinking and scientific problem-solving skills to determine your preparedness to begin the study of medicine.
The MCAT is required for admission into medical programs (MD and DO).
Test Format
The MCAT has four sections, completed over a total of six hours and 15 minutes.
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Sciences (95 minutes)
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (95 minutes)
- Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior (95 minutes)
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (90 minutes)
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess applicants' potential for success in dental programs.
The DAT is required for admission into most dental programs.
Test Format
The DAT has four sections, completed over a total of four hours and 30 minutes.
- Survey of Natural Sciences (90 minutes)
- Perceptual Ability (60 minutes)
- Reading Comprehension (60 minutes)
- Quantitative Reasoning (45 minutes)
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized examination designed to assess applicants' potential for success in graduate-level study.
The GRE is required for admission into most of these health profession programs:
- Physician assistant
- Nursing (entry-level master's)
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
The GRE is required for admission into some of these health profession programs:
- Pharmacy
- Speech language pathology
- Veterinary
Test Format
The GRE has three sections, completed over a total of one hour and 58 minutes.
- Analytical Writing (30 minutes)
- Verbal Reasoning (41 minutes)
- Quantitative Reasoning (47 minutes)
The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess applicants' potential for success in nursing programs.
The TEAS is required for admission into most nursing programs.
Test Format
The TEAS has four sections, completed over a total of three hours and 29 minutes.
- Reading (45 minutes)
- Mathematics (38 minutes)
- Science (50 minutes)
- English and Language Usage (37 minutes)