Blog » Study Abroad » List Of Popular Exams For Studying Abroad In 2025

List Of Popular Exams For Studying Abroad In 2025

December 13, 2024 •

Pursuing higher education abroad is a dream for many students around the world. However, one major hurdle to clear for achieving this objective is to appear for international entrance exams. These standardised tests serve as gatekeepers to evaluate your academic prowess for securing admission to esteemed abroad universities. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most widely recognised international entrance exams for studying abroad. Language Exams For Studying Abroad As the medium of instruction in foreign countries is mainly English, international students need to appear for English proficiency tests. 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 by individuals aiming to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. To provide a comprehensive overview, here are the key 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- the Paper-Based Test and the Internet-Based Test. 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 very different from the IELTS and TOEFL. The scoring patterns of PTE are very different due to the complete dependency on computerised technologies. Generally, the scores of this test are attained easily as compared to other 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. It is accepted by over 4,500 institutions across the world. 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, there are certain universities and programmes which require students to fulfil an additional set of criteria with the requirement of standardised exam scores. The entrance exams that are required to be cleared to join an undergraduate programme are SAT, MCAT, and ACT. To join a postgraduate programme, international students need to appear for an LSAT, GRE, or GMAT. Problem-solving, critical thinking, and writing skills of the aspirants are evaluated in these tests. However, the standardised entrance test that you need to clear depends upon your course. Let us get to know each of these exams in detail. SAT SAT( Scholastic Assessment Test) is a globally recognised college admission test that is conducted to evaluate the written, verbal, and analytical skills of international candidates. It is one of the exams for studying abroad that students are required to take after the 12th to enrol in 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 garner admission to US universities for UG programmes. It is also accepted by several colleges outside the USA. This test analyses the written, mathematical, verbal, and scientific skills of candidates. 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 a mandatory requirement for pursuing a Master’s degree in Law from US universities. This test is conducted by the Law School Admission Council, and it is accepted by the USA, Canada, and Australia. 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 aspiring Indian students appear for. This is mainly to study in the United States of America, Canada, and leading business schools across the world. This examination evaluated the aspirants’ verbal, mathematical, and general analytical skills. It is important for students aiming 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 opted for by students who want to pursue an MBA abroad. It is a highly regarded test for leading business schools and management institutions. GMAT evaluates the students’ problem-solving, critical, logical, reasoning, and analytical skills. 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 that you choose to go for. Exams To Study Abroad With Scholarships Managing finances as an international student becomes a major challenge to study abroad. However, there are many scholarships available for students to fund their education. The scholarships vary basis the country, university, and the course that you are applying for. Some of the common 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 clear about the course, university and country that you want to study in is highly important at first This will help you determine which test to prepare and apply for securing 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. We hope you liked reading this blog post. For more such interesting reads, here are some suggestions: How Do Backlogs Affect Your Study Abroad Plan? Explained! List Of Important Documents Required For Study Abroad In 2024! Top 10 UK Scholarships For PhD Students In 2024! exams for studying abroad

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.