Standardized Tests

Planning to apply for a Master's, PhD, or professional degree? Many programs abroad — and some in Pakistan — require standardized test scores. This page will help you understand which tests matter, how to prepare, and where to begin.

Quick Tip: Not all programs require test scores. But submitting strong results can make your application stand out.

Commonly Required Tests

Test	Who Is It For?	What Is Tested?	Key Notes
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)	Graduate programs in the U.S. and some European countries (STEM, humanities, social sciences)	Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing	Many programs are now GRE-optional
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)	MBA, Management, Business-related degrees	Quantitative, verbal, integrated reasoning, analytical writing	Some schools accept GRE instead of GMAT
English Proficiency Tests (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo)	Applicants whose prior education was not in English or where proof is required	Listening, reading, writing, speaking	Accepted tests and score cut-offs vary by institution
LSAT (Law School Admission Test)	JD and law programs, especially in the U.S.	Reading comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical thinking	Required primarily for U.S. law schools

GRE – Graduate Record Examination

Who needs it?

Applicants to most U.S. and some European programs (STEM, humanities, social sciences)

What's tested?

Verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills

Tip: Some universities are now GRE-optional, so check each program's website

GMAT – Graduate Management Admission Test

Who needs it?

Applicants to MBA, Master's in Management, and other business-related programs

What's tested?

Quantitative, verbal, integrated reasoning, analytical writing

Tip: Many business schools now accept GRE scores instead

IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo – English Proficiency Tests

Who needs it?

Required if your prior education was not in English or if the university requires proof of English proficiency

What's tested?

Listening, reading, writing, and speaking

Tip: Some schools accept Duolingo as a cheaper and more accessible option

LSAT – Law School Admission Test

Who needs it?

Applicants to JD or law programs, especially in the U.S.

What's tested?

Reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking

Tip: Essential for law school admission in the United States

Strategic Test Planning Timeline

Step 1

Identify Required Tests Early

Research which tests are required or optional for each target programme

Step 2

Understand Timelines & Requirements

Review registration deadlines, fees, and score validity periods

Step 3

Build Your Study Plan

Create a structured preparation plan and begin studying consistently

Step 4

Practise and Track Progress

Take full-length mock tests and monitor your performance over time

Step 5

Refine Strategy and Prepare for Test Day

Focus on weak areas, pacing, and final logistics without last-minute cramming

Do You Need a Test Score?

Some universities now follow test-optional or test-flexible policies.

If You Submit Scores	If You Don’t Submit Scores
Strengthens competitiveness	Application reviewed holistically
Supports scholarship applications	Other components carry more weight
Helps benchmark applicants globally	May be less effective for highly competitive programs

🔍 Always confirm requirements directly on each program’s admissions page.

Need Help Deciding

If you are unsure which test to take or how to plan your timeline, contact cso@lums.edu.pk.

Our team can help you interpret program requirements and plan next steps effectively.