Best Test for USA: Top Exams for Study, Work, and Immigration

When you’re planning to study, work, or move to the USA, the United States of America, a top destination for international students and skilled workers. Also known as the United States, it requires specific standardized tests to prove your language, academic, or professional readiness. There’s no single "best test"—it depends on your goal. If you’re heading to college, you’ll need the SAT or ACT, standardized exams used by U.S. colleges to assess high school students’ readiness for undergraduate programs. If you’re applying for a master’s or PhD, the GRE, a graduate-level exam measuring verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills is often required. For business school, the GMAT, a test designed specifically for MBA and other graduate management programs is the standard. And if English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to prove your fluency with either the TOEFL or IELTS, two widely accepted English proficiency tests used by universities and immigration authorities in the U.S.

The best test for USA isn’t about which one is easiest—it’s about which one your target school or employer accepts. For example, most U.S. universities prefer TOEFL over IELTS, but many employers and visa programs accept both. The GRE and GMAT are both tough, but if you’re applying to engineering or science programs, GRE is usually the way to go. If you’re aiming for finance or consulting, GMAT gives you a stronger edge. And if you’re still in high school and planning to study in the U.S., the SAT is your starting point—many scholarships and admission decisions hinge on it. These tests aren’t just hurdles; they’re gateways. A high score on the right one can open doors to scholarships, visas, and top programs that might otherwise stay closed.

What you’ll find below are real guides and insights from people who’ve taken these tests, cracked them, and gotten into U.S. schools or jobs. You’ll see how much sleep a GRE aspirant actually needs, what online courses help you prep fast, and which test scores matter most when you’re trying to land a job without a degree. We’ve pulled together the most useful posts from students, professionals, and advisors who’ve been there. No fluff. No guesswork. Just what works.