Miller Analogies Test (MAT) – 2025 Guide

The Miller Analogies Test (MAT) is a standardized test used mainly for graduate school admissions in the USA.

The MAT is published by Harcourt Assessment and consists of 120 questions with a time limit of in 60 minutes.

Only 100 of the questions actually count towards the final score, the remaining 20 are experimental questions which may be used in future tests.

However, you have no way of knowing which questions count and which do not so you need to try to answer all of them.

The MAT aims to measure your logical and analytical reasoning abilities through the use of partial verbal analogies with four answer options.

For example:

note : bar :: word :

a) paper
b) pencil
c) letter
d) sentence

In this example, a (musical) note is a component of a bar (of music). Therefore option d is correct as a word is a component of a sentence. None of the other options complete the analogy satisfactorily.

Unlike analogy questions found in some other tests, notably the GRE and the SAT, the MAT requires more than an extensive vocabulary as the questions will test your knowledge of literature, history, art, science, maths and Western culture generally.

For example:

Mercury : Hermes :: Neptune :

a) Trident
b) Poseidon
c) Mars
d) Aphrodite

In this example, Mercury is the Roman messenger god and Hermes is the Greek messenger god. Neptune is the Roman god of the sea, therefore the answer is b. Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.

You are not allowed a dictionary or any other reference aid and the test can be taken either on a computer or as a paper based test. It can be taken at any time of year at over 500 locations.

You will receive your score report in the mail two to three weeks after you complete the test.

This report will include a scaled and percentile score. The scaled score is placed on a range of 200 to 400, and is derived from the raw score, which is the number of questions answered correctly.

More Example MAT Questions

1. Vocabulary / Language

Generous : Stingy :: Optimistic :

a) Hopeful
b) Cheerful
c) Pessimistic
d) Confident

The correct answer is: c) Pessimistic.

Generous and stingy are opposites. Similarly, optimistic and pessimistic are opposites.

2. Science / Mathematics

Triangle : Three :: Pentagon :

a) Six
b) Five
c) Four
d) Seven

The correct answer is: b) Five.

A triangle has three sides, while a pentagon has five sides.

3. History / Culture

Einstein : Physics :: Darwin :

a) Chemistry
b) Evolution
c) Mathematics
d) Astronomy

The correct answer is: b) Evolution.

Einstein is associated with physics, just as Darwin is associated with the theory of evolution.

4. Literature / Arts

Shakespeare : Hamlet :: Homer :

a) Iliad
b) Odyssey
c) Virgil
d) Aeneid

The correct answer is: a) Iliad.

Shakespeare wrote Hamlet. Homer is credited with writing the Iliad.

5. General Logic

Bird : Wing :: Fish :

a) Ocean
b) Fin
c) Scales
d) Gills

The correct answer is: b) Fin.

A bird uses wings for movement, while a fish uses fins for movement.

How to Prepare for the MAT

Because the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) is unlike most other standardized exams, preparation is as much about broadening your knowledge base as it is about practising test strategies. Here are some practical steps:

1. Understand the Test Format

Get familiar with the analogy structure (A : B :: C : D). The better you understand how analogies work, the quicker you will be at identifying the relationship. Remember, you’ll need to answer 120 questions in 60 minutes, so speed and accuracy matter.

2. Review Core Knowledge Areas

The MAT draws from a wide range of subjects. Spend time revising:

• Literature and the arts – famous works, authors, artistic movements.

• History and culture – key figures, events and historical periods.

• Science and mathematics – basic principles, famous scientists, units and formulae.

• Philosophy and social sciences – major thinkers and schools of thought.

You don’t need specialist knowledge, but a broad general awareness is essential.

3. Build Your Vocabulary

Strong vocabulary is vital. Review common prefixes, suffixes and roots. Flashcards and word lists are useful tools to help expand your word bank quickly.

4. Practise with Sample Questions

Work through as many practice analogies as possible. Time yourself so you get used to working under pressure. Focus on recognising different types of relationships — for example:

• Synonyms and antonyms

• Cause and effect

• Part to whole

• Function or purpose

• Person to field of study

5. Develop Elimination Strategies

When unsure, use process of elimination. Even if you don’t immediately know the correct answer, ruling out one or two options quickly improves your odds.

6. Simulate Real Test Conditions

Do full timed practice tests to get comfortable with the pace. Avoid relying on a dictionary or notes during practice, since these won’t be allowed on the day.

7. Take Care of the Basics

As with any exam, rest, nutrition and stress management play an important role. Being alert and focused will help you process relationships between ideas much more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the MAT?

The MAT is mainly used for graduate school admissions in the US. It measures analytical thinking, problem solving and knowledge across a broad range of subjects, helping schools assess readiness for advanced study.

How many questions are on the MAT and how long do I have?

The MAT contains 120 multiple-choice analogy questions, and you have 60 minutes to complete them. Only 100 of the questions count toward your score; the other 20 are experimental items.

What subjects are covered on the MAT?

The test draws from many fields including literature, history, philosophy, science, mathematics and the arts. You don’t need specialist knowledge, but you do need strong general knowledge and reasoning ability.

How is the MAT scored?

Scores range from 200 to 400, based on how many questions you answer correctly. You’ll also receive a percentile ranking that shows how your score compares with other test takers.

Can I take the MAT more than once?

Yes, you can retake the MAT, but policies vary by graduate school. Some may accept your highest score, while others may consider all of your attempts. Always check the requirements of the specific programs you are applying to.

Final Thoughts

The Miller Analogies Test is very different from most standardized exams because it focuses on how well you can recognise relationships between ideas rather than how much specialist knowledge you’ve memorised. Success on the MAT comes from having a broad general knowledge base, a good command of vocabulary and plenty of practice in spotting analogy patterns quickly.

If you approach the test with an understanding of its structure, make time to practise under timed conditions and refine your elimination strategies, you’ll be well placed to perform with confidence. For many graduate schools, your MAT score is just one part of a wider admissions process, but preparing thoroughly will ensure that your test result reflects your true ability.