Table of Contents
Pursuing higher education abroad is a dream for many students around the world. However, standardised entrance tests are gatekeepers to evaluate your academic prowess for securing admission to esteemed universities abroad. This guide will explore some of the most widely recognised international entrance exams for studying abroad.
| Test Name | Accepted Countries | Score Range |
| IELTS | Global | 0-9 |
| TOEFL | Global | 0-120 |
| PTE | Global | 10-90 |
| Duolingo | Global | 10 and above |
| SAT | USA, Canada | 400-1600 |
| ACT | USA, International | 1-36 |
| LSAT | USA, Canada, Australia | 120-180 |
| GRE | USA, Canada, Global | 130-170 (Verbal and Quantitative), 0-6 (Analytical Writing) |
| GMAT | Global | 200-800 |
| MCAT | USA, Canada, 18 other countries | 472-528 |
Language Exams For Studying Abroad
International students must appear for English proficiency tests as the medium of instruction is mainly English. Exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are the three major English language tests that students from Asian and other non-native English-speaking countries are required to take. Let us get to know each of these in detail.
IELTS
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely known exams for studying abroad. It is an English proficiency exam taken for individuals to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. To provide a comprehensive overview, here are the critical details about the IELTS in the table below:
| Key Parameters | IELTS Academic | IELTS General Training |
| Purpose | Higher education, research positions, academic careers | Work, immigration, social settings |
| Test Structure | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Minimum Score | Varies by institution, typically 6.0 or above | Varies by requirement, typically 5.5 or above |
| Test Frequency | Paper-based: 48 times a year, Computer-delivered: 7 days a week, 3 times a day | Paper-based: 48 times a year, Computer-delivered: 7 days a week, 3 times a day |
TOEFL
TOEFL( Test of English as a Foreign Language), is conducted to analyse the English language knowledge and proficiency of non-native English speakers. Universities in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and many other countries require TOEFL scores for international applicants. There are two modes of attempting this exam- Paper-Based and Internet-Based tests. The table below outlines the key highlights of the exam:
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Test Structure | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing |
| Test Duration | 3 hours |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 90-100 (No strict passing score, but most universities prefer a score in this range) |
| Test Frequency | 50 times a year (4-5 times a month) |
| Acceptance | Widely accepted in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. American institutions tend to favour TOEFL over IELTS. |
PTE
PTE (Pearson Test of English) is different from the IELTS and TOEFL. The scoring patterns of PTE are very different due to the complete dependency on computerised technologies. Generally, this test’s scores are attained easily compared to similar tests, with results being declared within five days of the exam.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Test Focus | Daily use of English language rather than university-level English. |
| Test Structure | Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 51-60 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score in this range) |
| Test Frequency | Conducted throughout the year. Availability depends on the test centre and test type. |
Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the latest English language proficiency exams for studying abroad. Over 4,500 institutions across the world accept it. The general emphasis of the test remains on your ability to use English in real-world situations.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Test Modules | Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking |
| Test Formats | Online and Offline modes are available |
| Popularity | More popular in the USA and Canada |
| Test Duration | 45 minutes |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 10 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score of 10 or above) |
| Result Declaration | Results available within 2 days after taking the test |
| Recommended For | Candidates who need to take a test urgently and require faster results |
Standardised Entrance Exams To Study Abroad
English language proficiency tests are highly preferred for international students. However, certain universities and programmes require students to fulfil an additional set of criteria with the requirement of standardised exam scores. The entrance exams required to join an undergraduate programme are the SAT, MCAT, and ACT.
International students must appear for an LSAT, GRE, or GMAT to join a postgraduate programme. The aspirants’ problem-solving, critical thinking, and writing skills are evaluated in these tests. However, the standardised entrance test you need to clear depends on your course. Let us get to know each of these exams in detail.
SAT
SAT( Scholastic Assessment Test) is an admission test to evaluate international candidates’ written, verbal, and analytical skills. It is one of the exams for studying abroad that students must take after the 12th for undergraduate courses in Canada and the USA.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Test Structure | Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math (with and without calculator sections) |
| Test Duration | 3 hours |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 400 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score of 400 or above) |
| Additional Tests | SAT Subject Tests (subject-specific, but not widely required by universities nowadays) |
ACT
ACT (American College Testing) is a standardised test to get admission in US universities for UG programmes. Several colleges outside the USA also accept it.
| Aspect | Details |
| Purpose | Standardised test for admission to colleges and universities in the United States and other countries. |
| Test Structure | English, Maths, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing section |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing) |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 16-17 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score in this range) |
| Scoring Scale | 1-36 (composite score) |
LSAT
LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is mandatory for pursuing a Master’s degree in Law from US universities. This test is conducted by the Law School Admission Council, and the USA, Canada, and Australia accept it.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Purpose | Admission to law schools in the United States and other countries |
| Test Structure | Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Writing Sample |
| Test Duration | 3 hours 15 minutes |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 151 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score of 151 or above) |
| Scoring Scale | 120-180 |
| Alternative Test | LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law) is valid for law colleges in the UK |
GRE
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is one of the most popular exams for studying abroad that majorly Indian students appear for. This is mainly to study in the United States of America, Canada, and leading business schools worldwide. It is essential for students wanting to pursue a postgraduate degree in science (MS), or business administration (MBA) in the USA.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Purpose | Popular exam for Indian students aspiring to pursue postgraduate degrees (MS, MBA) in the United States, Canada, and various business schools globally. Evaluates verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills. |
| Test Structure | Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing |
| Test Duration | 3 hours 45 minutes |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 130 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score of 130 or above) |
| Scoring Scale | 130-170 (for Verbal and Quantitative sections), 0-6 (for Analytical Writing) |
GMAT
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is primarily chosen by students who want to pursue an MBA abroad. It is a highly regarded test for leading business schools and management institutions. It is a mandatory examination for over 21,000 universities and colleges in over 114 countries.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Purpose | Mandatory admission test for MBA programmes at top business schools and management colleges globally |
| Test Focus | Evaluates problem-solving, critical thinking, logical reasoning, and analytical skills. |
| Test Structure | Analytical Writing Assessment, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal |
| Test Duration | 3 hours 7 minutes |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 570-700 (No strict passing score, but most top institutions prefer a score in this range) |
| Scoring Scale | 200-800 |
MCAT
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is required to secure admission for medical courses Courses in the United States of America, Canada, and 18 other countries. The Association of American Medical Colleges provides this test with multiple-choice examination patterns. The main idea behind this exam is to test the student’s knowledge of medicine and science.
| Key Parameters | Details |
| Purpose | Admission to medical courses in the United States, Canada, and 18 other countries. |
| Test Authority | Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) |
| Test Format | Multiple-choice examination |
| Test Focus | Assesses knowledge related to science and medicine. |
| Test Duration | 7 hours 30 minutes |
| Validity | 3 years |
| Minimum Preferred Score | 118 (No strict passing score, but most institutions prefer a score of 118 or above) |
| Scoring Scale | 472-528 |
| Alternative Test | UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is accepted by medical institutions in the UK. |
List Of Preferred Exams For Studying Abroad: Country-Wise
The preferred entrance exams to study abroad can greatly vary depending on factors like your chosen country, programme and university. The respective country-wise requirements of these tests for studying abroad are highlighted in the table below:
| Name of the Country | Name of Programme | Preferred English Proficiency Test | Standardised Entrance Test |
| USA | Undergraduate | TOEFL, Duolingo | SAT, ACT |
| Postgraduate | TOEFL, Duolingo | GMAT or GRE for MBA, GRE for MS, MCAT for Medical, LSAT for Law | |
| Diploma | TOEFL, Duolingo | – | |
| UK | Undergraduate | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE | SAT |
| Postgraduate | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE | GMAT or GRE for MBA, GRE for MS, UCAT for Medical, LNAT for Law | |
| Diploma | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE | – | |
| Canada | Undergraduate | TOEFL, CELPIP, Duolingo | SAT, ACT |
| Postgraduate | TOEFL, CELPIP, Duolingo | GMAT or GRE for MBA, GRE for MS, MCAT for Medical, LSAT for Law | |
| Diploma | TOEFL, CELPIP, Duolingo | – |
The table represents the course-wise exam requirements for the US, UK and Canada. However, the test requirements can also vary depending on the university and the course you choose.
Entrance Exam To Study Abroad After 10th Grade
It is generally advisable to pursue higher education abroad after completing your secondary education. However, students wanting to study abroad after the 10th grade can go only to Singapore. This is because many colleges and universities abroad often have a general admission requirement for the student to be at least 18 years old. A guardian is also preferred to accompany the student.
Entrance Exam To Study Abroad After 12th Grade
Students wanting to study abroad after 12th are required to start preparing for tests such as the Digital SAT, ACT, LSAT, IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE right from the beginning. This will help you secure admission to your dream country, university and the course that you want to study.
Exams To Study Abroad With Scholarships
Managing finances as an international student becomes a significant challenge when studying abroad. However, there are many scholarships available for students to fund their education. The scholarships vary based on the country, university, and course you are applying for.
Some of the standard entrance exams to study abroad, along with the popular scholarships under them, are showcased below:
| Entrance Exam | Scholarships |
| IELTS | -The British Council IELTS Award-Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Programme-Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships-Great Scholarship India |
| TOEFL | -ETS scholarships-Grants and awards by ETS and TOEFL Board-Young Student Series (YSS) Research Grants-TOEFL Awards (by application)-TOEFL Awards (by nomination) |
| GMAT | -GMAT Scholarship for Amsterdam MBA-Manchester Merit Scholarships-ESMT Diversity Scholarship-Young Potential Leader (MBA) |
| GRE | -INSEAD MBA Scholarships-Chicago Booth MBA Scholarships-Wharton MBA Scholarships-Stanford MBA Scholarships-Kellogg MBA Scholarships |
Thus, being transparent about the course, university, and country in which you want to study is important. This will help you determine which test to prepare and apply for secure admission in your dream country and institution.
FAQs
Which English proficiency exams are needed to study abroad?
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo are the most popularly known English proficiency tests to study abroad.
Which standardised exams are needed to study abroad?
SAT, ACT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT are widely known for students to pursue education in international universities.
Is IELTS better than TOEFL?
If you wish to study in the USA, most universities in the USA prefer the TOEFL over IELTS.
Is GRE easier than GMAT?
If you are applying for an MBA programme abroad, the GRE or a GMAT are preferred exams. However, the vocabulary section is easier for GMAT.
Is Duolingo accepted in the United Kingdom?
Yes, Duolingo is accepted in the UK. However, it is more popular to study in the USA and Canada.
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