Career Services Office
Standardized Tests
Understanding which tests matter, how to prepare, and where to begin
Start Your Journey
Discover your strengths, interests, and values with our guided self-assessment tools.
Commonly Required Tests
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
Planning Your Test Journey
Step 1
Identify the test(s) required by your target programs
Step 2
Check registration deadlines and fees
Step 3
Build a study plan and take a diagnostic test
Step 4
Register early to get your preferred test date/location
Step 5
Allow time for a retake, if needed
Prep Resources (Free & Low-Cost)
GRE / TOEFL: ETS Official Site
Official
GMAT: MBA.com
Official
IELTS: ielts.org
Official
Khan Academy – GRE-style math & verbal prep
Free
Shaheen Pakistan – Tips for Test Takers
Local
Duolingo English Test – Practice here
Online
Do You Need a Test Score?
Some universities have adopted test-optional policies — especially after COVID-19. This means:
- You can apply without test scores
- But submitting strong scores can boost your chances (especially for scholarships or competitive programs)
Always check the exact requirements on the program's admissions page.
At a Glance: Which Test Do You Need?
GRE
BEST FOR
STEM, social sciences, humanities
FORMAT
Computer-based
VALIDITY
5 years
GMAT
BEST FOR
Business, MBA, Finance
FORMAT
Computer-based
VALIDITY
5 years
IELTS/TOEFL
BEST FOR
English proficiency
FORMAT
Paper/Computer-based
VALIDITY
2 years
LSAT
BEST FOR
Law (JD in U.S.)
FORMAT
Paper/Computer-based
VALIDITY
5 years
Duolingo
BEST FOR
English proficiency (some unis)
FORMAT
Online
VALIDITY
2 years
Need Help Deciding?
Contact Our Team
Contact cso@lums.edu.pk and we will help you in figuring out timelines and next steps.
Book a Strategy Session
Schedule a personalized consultation to create your test preparation timeline and strategy.