Why should you apply to a school that requires the GRE/MAT/GMAT instead of a school where graduate school admissions testing is not required? This is definitely a good question and one we hear a lot.
Truth is, there is no good answer to this question. These tests have been in place for a very long time and some schools require a bit more data to confirm your academic abilities than others. With regards to Fitchburg State University, we have highly competitive MBA, Forensic Nursing and Counseling programs which hold outside accreditation. Not all schools hold these accreditations, and these exams are very helpful to keep these programs competitive in nature.
And when you're considering the pros and cons of schools with or without the test requirement for admission, be sure to keep in mind the more important aspects of program quality and program cost.We like to look at your current academic ability.
Maybe your undergraduate GPA was below or even right at the 2.8 mark, but you earned it 10-15 years ago. Use this exam to show what type of student you are now and what you can accomplish now as an adult learner. Also, test scores are good for 5 years. If something doesn’t work out with applying now, you can apply later using your same test scores.
In some programs you have choices. Take whichever test that best suits your learning style (visit the Graduate Testing FAQs to learn more and to take practice exams.) Applying to more than one school? Take the test that’s more universal.
The most common reason for not wanting to take these tests is test anxiety. Graduate Admissions Counselor, Shelby Cota, shares some thoughts to help ease that test anxiety: 
“We do look for your scores to be in the 50th percentile; however, we do take a holistic approach to application review, meaning we look at your entire file when making a decision."
Testing options on campus
The MAT exam is offered on campus seven months of the year, which means that it is very convenient! We also have information about prep tests, tutors and additional information.
Not sure what test you need to take, or ready to get started? Click the button below and find out which test you need to take for your program of interest.
