Before globally-acclaimed universities review your application, they look at the exams to study abroad that you’ve attempted. With 2 million SAT takers annually and more than 4 million taking English proficiency tests such as IELTS, these exams have become the global benchmark for admissions, funding, and immigration. But every country and course follows its own rules, leaving students unsure of what to prioritise.
This blog offers a clear, structured breakdown of all key exams, their purpose, scoring patterns, global recognition, and how to choose the right one for your 2026 plans.
Exams Required to Study Abroad: At a Glance
| Exam | Primary Purpose | Key Sections / Skills Tested | Test Duration |
| IELTS (Academic & General) | University admission (Academic) / Immigration & work (General) | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | 2 hrs 45 mins |
| TOEFL iBT | University admission & academic readiness | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | 2 hrs |
| TOEFL Essentials | General English proficiency | Adaptive Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking | 90 mins |
| PTE Academic | University admission, professional registration, migration | Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening | 2 hrs 15 mins |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | University admission, scholarships, some visas | Adaptive English skills + video interview | 60 mins |
| Cambridge English Exams | Academic, professional & general English certification | Varies by exam (A1–C2 levels) | 2–4 hrs |
| SAT | Undergraduate admissions (US, Canada, global) | Reading & Writing, Math (adaptive) | 2 hrs 14 mins |
| ACT | Undergraduate admissions (US, Canada) | English, Math, Reading, Science (+ optional Writing) | 2 hrs 55 mins (no Writing) / 3 hrs 35 mins (with Writing) |
| GRE General Test | Postgraduate admissions (MA, MS, PhD, MBA in many countries) | Analytical Writing, Verbal, Quantitative | 1 hr 58 mins |
| GMAT (Focus Edition) | MBA & management programme admission | Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights | 2 hrs 15 mins |
| LSAT | Law school admission (US & selected countries) | Analytical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension + Writing | 2 hrs 20 mins |
| MCAT | Medical school admission (US & Canada) | Science foundations + reasoning, psychology, CARS | 7 hrs 30 mins |
Why Are Entrance Exams Important for Studying Abroad?
Entrance exams to study abroad decide who’s academically ready, who qualifies for scholarships, and who meets visa requirements. With universities receiving thousands of applications from students educated under completely different systems, these tests bring everyone onto the same playing field.
Whether you’re aiming for a top U.S. undergrad programme or a master’s in the UK, the exams you choose can directly influence your admission chances, funding options, and even your post-study prospects.
1. Academic Benchmarking Across Countries
Universities can’t compare CBSE marks with AP grades or IB scores with state-board percentages. Standardised exams like the SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT solve this problem by providing a common scale. They show how well you perform under uniform testing conditions, something admissions committees rely on when evaluating global applicants. High scores also help you stand out when your school curriculum isn’t widely recognised abroad.
2. Mandatory Language Proficiency for Admissions
Nearly all universities in the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada require proof of English proficiency. Tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo measure whether you can handle lectures, academic reading, group discussions, and written assignments. Over 140 countries accept IELTS alone, making it non-negotiable for most international students. Without them, your application simply doesn’t move forward.
3. Scholarships and Funding Advantages
Universities use entrance exam scores to identify academically strong candidates for merit-based scholarships. A 320+ GRE score or a 1500+ SAT score can significantly strengthen your chances of receiving partial or full funding. This matters, especially when tuition and living costs in the U.S., UK, and Australia seem exorbitant.
4. Global Recognition and Standardised Assessment
Exams like the GRE (accepted in 160+ countries) and GMAT (used by 7,000+ business programmes worldwide) allow universities to assess skills like reasoning, analysis, and quantitative ability using a single, universal framework. Because employers also value performance on such tests, strong results can support internships, assistantships, and job applications abroad.
5. Visa Approvals and Immigration Requirements
English test scores are essential for student visa applications in countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia. Immigration authorities clearly outline minimum score thresholds. For example, many Canadian SDS visa applicants need an IELTS 6.0 in each band. Meeting these benchmarks speeds up visa processing and can influence future work or migration pathways after graduation.
6. Skill Development and Personal Growth
Preparing for exams to study abroad builds transferable skills like time management, critical thinking, reading speed, data interpretation, and structured problem-solving. With over 8.5 million students preparing for global entrance exams every year, you join a competitive, motivated pool where disciplined preparation becomes a genuine advantage for university life.
Explore the best student accommodations near your university and book the one that fits your lifestyle.
Explore Student Accommodation in UKTypes of Exams Required to Study Abroad
1. Language Proficiency Tests
Language proficiency tests are one of the biggest admission filters for international students, affecting university eligibility, scholarship chances, and even visa approval. With multiple accepted options, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, and Cambridge English, choosing the right test based on format, cost, scoring, and university preference can meaningfully strengthen your application.
1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a global English proficiency test and one of the most important exams to study abroad if you plan to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. It is accepted by more than 11,500 organisations across 140 countries, including leading universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and beyond.
This exam has two formats:
- IELTS Academic: For students applying to universities or professional bodies. It tests readiness for academic study.
- IELTS General Training: For immigration, work, and everyday communication in social or workplace settings.
Both versions assess Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Listening and Speaking are the same across both tests, while Reading and Writing differ based on the test type. The total test duration is 2 hours 45 minutes, with the Speaking test sometimes conducted up to a week before or after the other sections.
Also Read: Best IELTS Practice Test For International Students
| Aspect | IELTS Academic | IELTS General Training |
| Purpose | University admission, higher education, professional registration | Immigration, work, secondary education, vocational training |
| Test Structure | Listening (40 Q, 30 mins), Reading (3 long academic passages), Writing (Task 1: visual data summary; Task 2: essay), Speaking (3-part interview) | Listening (40 Q, 30 mins), Reading (texts from notices, ads, workplace), Writing (Task 1: letter; Task 2: essay), Speaking (3-part interview) |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 45 mins (LRW same day; Speaking separately) | 2 hours 45 mins (LRW same day; Speaking separately) |
| Question Format | Academic texts + data-based writing tasks | Everyday texts + practical writing tasks |
| Validity | Typically 2 years | Typically 2 years |
| Fee | UK: £162–£180 (depending on test centre)India: ₹18,000 USA: $215–$250 | UK: £162–£180 (depending on test centre)India: ₹18,000 USA: $215–$250 |
| Minimum Score | Usually 6.0–7.5 for universities (varies by institution) | Usually 5.0–7.0 for immigration/work (varies by country) |
| Test Frequency | Available multiple times a month (centre-based) | Available multiple times a month (centre-based) |
| Additional Details | Includes academic vocabulary, formal texts, and data-based writing tasks | Focuses on everyday English, practical writing, and real-life reading materials |
Here’s a Quora thread where students share their experiences and strategies for preparing for the IELTS exam.
2. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a globally recognised English proficiency exam accepted by 13,000+ institutions across 160+ countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Ireland. Designed for non-native English speakers, the test evaluates your ability to use English in real academic settings.
TOEFL has two formats:
- TOEFL iBT: It is the primary, most widely accepted format for university admissions worldwide and is available at test centres and as a Home Edition.
- TOEFL Essentials: It is a shorter and more flexible version suitable for general English evaluation, but accepted by fewer institutions.
| Aspect | TOEFL IBT | TOEFL Essentials |
| Purpose | University admission, higher education, academic proficiency evaluation | General English proficiency for broader use; shorter, quicker assessment |
| Test Structure | Reading (20 Q, 35 mins), Listening (28 Q, 36 mins), Speaking (4 tasks, 16 mins), Writing (2 tasks, 29 mins) | Short adaptive tasks across Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking |
| Test Duration | Around 2 hours (single sitting) | Around 90 minutes (single sitting) |
| Question Format | Academic passages, lectures, integrated speaking & writing tasks | Shorter, mixed-format questions with adaptive testing |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Fee | USD $ 205–250 (Globally) | USD $199 (Globally) |
| Minimum Score | Usually 80–100 for university admissions (varies by institution) | Varies; fewer universities accept it |
| Test Frequency | Multiple times a month + Home Edition available 4 days/week | Offered frequently as an online, home-based test |
Also Read: TOEFL iBT Test – Tips For Every Section
Here is a YouTube video explaining the two English language Proficiency exams
3. Pearson Test of English
The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is a fully computer-based English proficiency test accepted for study, work, and migration in major destinations, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. It assesses speaking, writing, reading, and listening through real-life communication tasks.
The test lasts around 2 hours and 15 minutes and is divided into three sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. Scores range from 10 to 90, mapped to CEFR levels, and results are typically available within 48 hours through AI-powered scoring.
| Aspect | Details |
| Purpose | University admissions, professional registrations, and migration pathways. |
| Test Structure | Speaking & Writing (54–67 mins), Reading (29–30 mins), Listening (30–43 mins). |
| Test Duration | Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. |
| Validity | Valid for 2 years from the date of the test. |
| Fee | UK: £190 India: ₹18,000 (inclusive of 18% GST)USA: $235 |
| Minimum Score | Varies by institution or visa category. Scores range from 10–90 on the Global Scale of English (aligned with CEFR). |
| Test Frequency | Conducted multiple times a year with flexible scheduling options. |
Also Read: PTE Exam – Dates, Registration, Fees, Preparation
4. Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a fully online, AI-adaptive English proficiency exam accepted by thousands of universities across the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Europe, and over 100 countries worldwide. This exam is known for its accessibility, quick 48-hour results, and affordable pricing.
DET allows students to test from home with secure remote proctoring. With scores valid for two years and recognised for admissions, scholarships, and in some cases visa processes, it offers a fast, flexible alternative to traditional English tests.
| Aspect | Details |
| Purpose | University/college admission, scholarship, visa, and employment applications |
| Test Structure | Introduction: 5 minutesAdaptive test (Graded): 45 minutes Writing and speaking sample (Ungraded): 10 minutes |
| Test Duration | 60 minutes |
| Validity | 2 years |
| Fee | $70 (Globally) |
| Minimum Score | Varies by institution; overall score range: 10-160 (typically universities require 105-120+) |
| Test Frequency | The Duolingo English Test can be taken anytime throughout the year, with up to two attempts allowed within any 30-day period. |
Also Read: Top 10 Duolingo Accepted Universities In The UK: The 2026 Guide
5. Cambridge English Exams
Cambridge English exams are a globally recognised suite of English language tests created by Cambridge Assessment English. They cover all levels from beginner (A1) to proficient (C2) and align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
These tests are accepted by more than 25,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, employers, and governments. They are designed to assess practical skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and English use, and to provide recognised proof of language ability for study, work, and migration.
| Aspect | Details |
| Purpose | Academic admission, professional certification, immigration, and general English language proficiency |
| Test Structure | Example: C1 Advanced (CAE) Reading and use of english: 56 questions (1 hour, 30 minutes) Writing: 2 tasks (1 hour, 30 minutes) Listening: 30 questions (40 minutes) Speaking: 4 parts (15 minutes) (Structure varies by exam level.) |
| Test Duration | Typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the specific Cambridge exam. |
| Validity | Certificates have lifetime validity. |
| Fee | The cost of taking a Cambridge English exam varies depending on the specific test and the test centre location. Check the official website for fee details. |
| Minimum Score | Scores mapped to CEFR levels (A1 to C2) with specific pass thresholds per exam |
| Test Frequency | Multiple test dates available throughout the year; schedules vary by location and exam |
Start your housing journey with UniAcco today and compare top-rated properties in just a few clicks.
Compare Top-Rated Properties2. Standardised Admission Tests
Standardised admission tests help universities assess whether students are academically ready for competitive undergraduate or postgraduate programmes. Exams like the SAT, ACT, GRE and GMAT measure analytical, quantitative, and reasoning skills that grades alone may not capture. Since many universities also use these scores for scholarships and programme placement, choosing the proper test based on your study destination and goals can meaningfully strengthen your application.
1. Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
This is a recognised, computer-based, standardised exam used for undergraduate admissions at universities in countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and many others. For many students exploring exams for abroad studies after 12th, the SAT is a primary requirement.
SAT, conducted by the College Board, evaluates a student’s reading, writing, and mathematical abilities through multiple-choice questions. The exam is fully digital, with no negative marking, and allows calculator use for all Math questions. Registration is done online through the College Board portal. Understanding the exam pattern, timeline, and preparation strategy is essential for achieving a strong score.
| Aspect | SAT (Digital SAT) |
| Purpose | Undergraduate admissions for universities in the USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, and global institutions |
| Test Structure | Reading & Writing: MCQs on craft & structure, information & ideas, standard English conventions, expression of ideas. Math: Algebra, advanced math, data analysis, geometry & trigonometry (calculator allowed throughout). |
| Test Duration | Approx. 2 hours 14 minutes |
| Question Format | Computer-based, multiple-choice questions with adaptive testing (section-wise). |
| Validity | SAT scores are generally valid for 2 – 5 years (depends on university policy) |
| Fee | USA: $68International test-takers outside the U.S: $68 + $43 international fee |
| Minimum Score | Varies by university, competitive programs often require 1200–1500+ |
| Test Frequency | Conducted 7 times a year internationally |
| Eligibility | No minimum age, education level, or nationality restrictions; typically taken by high-school/undergraduate aspirants |
| Number of Attempts | Unlimited attempts; students may retake the test as many times as desired |
2. American College Testing (ACT)
The ACT is a global standardised exam for undergraduate admissions, typically used by universities in the United States and Canada. It evaluates a student’s resilience for college-level academics through four core sections: English, Mathematics, and Reading, along with an optional Science and Writing test.
The exam is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats and is taken by thousands of students from both domestic and international backgrounds each year. ACT is one of the most flexible yet comprehensive ways for students seeking admission to top global universities.
| Aspect | ACT (Without Writing) | ACT (With Writing) |
| Purpose | Undergraduate admissions, academic readiness assessment | Undergraduate admissions for universities requiring a writing assessment |
| Test Structure | English (75 Q, 45 min), Math (60 Q, 60 min), Reading (40 Q, 35 min), Science (40 Q, 40 min) | All sections in left column + Optional Writing essay (1 task, 40 min) |
| Test Duration | 2 hours 55 minutes | 3 hours 35 minutes (incl. Writing) |
| Question Format | Multiple-choice across all sections | Multiple-choice + 1 written essay |
| Validity | Accepted for 2–5 years, depending on university policy. | Accepted for 2–5 years, depending on university policy. |
| Fee | USD $68 | USD $68 + $25 add-on for Writing section |
| Minimum Score | Composite 1–36 based on English, Math, Reading, and Science | Composite 1–36 + separate Writing score (2–12) |
| Test Frequency | 7–8 times annually (international & national dates) | 7–8 times annually (international & national dates) |
| Additional Details | No negative marking; Science section optional from 2025; superscoring available | Writing required by selected universities; essay evaluates analysis, structure, and language clarity. |
Also Read: ACT vs SAT: What are the Key Differences?
3. Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)
The GRE is a standardised test used for admission to graduate, business, and select law programmes worldwide. Accepted in major study destinations like the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia, and Singapore, it is one of the most popular exams to study abroad.
The GRE evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking. The computer-based test lasts approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes and includes sections for Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. Scores follow a fixed scale and remain valid for five years, with section-level adaptability allowing more accurate evaluation of a student’s ability.
| Aspect | Detail |
| Purpose | To assess verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills for postgraduate admissions. |
| Test Structure | Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning. |
| Test Duration | Approximately 1 hour 58 minutes (about 2 hours) |
| Question Format | – Analytical Writing: Two separately timed tasks (Issue and Argument essays) |
| – Verbal Reasoning: Multiple choice, reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence | |
| – Quantitative Reasoning: Multiple choice, numeric entry, quantitative comparison problems | |
| Validity | Scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. |
| Fee | UK: £168 India: ₹ 22,000 USA: $220 |
| Minimum Score | No official minimum, but scores range from 260 to 340 (combined Verbal and Quantitative) |
| Test Frequency | Test is offered year-round worldwide, multiple times per month in a computer-based format. |
4.Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
Leading business schools globally recognise the GMAT as a measure of readiness for MBA and other management programmes. Among all MBA exam options abroad, the GMAT remains one of the most widely accepted and preferred tests among top business schools.
The latest GMAT Focus Edition tests quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data insights in about 2 hours 15 minutes, with flexible features like section order selection and answer review. Accepted widely across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Singapore, and Australia, a strong GMAT score helps increase admission chances and may support scholarship opportunities.
| Aspect | Detail |
| Purpose | To assess critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical, quantitative, verbal, and data literacy skills for admission to graduate management programmes. |
| Test Structure | Three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Data Insights; all multiple-choice, computer-adaptive format. |
| Test Duration | Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes (135 minutes total) |
| Question Format | Quantitative: Problem-solving tasks (no calculator allowed)Verbal: reading comprehension, critical reasoningData Insights: table analysis, graphics interpretation, multi-source reasoning, etc. |
| Validity | Scores are valid for 5 years |
| Fee | United Kingdom: £250 for test-centre; £275 for the online version. India: ₹23,500 for test centre, ₹25,600 for the online version. USA:$ 275 for test-centre; US$ 300 for online version. |
| Minimum Score | No minimum; score range is 205 to 805 in 10-point increments |
| Test Frequency | Offered year-round; up to 5 times per year with a minimum of 16 days between attempts; max 8 attempts total lifetime |
5. Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The LSAT is the only standardised test designed for law-school admission and is accepted by all American Bar Association-accredited U.S. law schools. It is delivered either at a digital test centre or via live remote proctoring.
It consists of multiple-choice sections on logical reasoning and reading comprehension, plus a separate on-demand writing sample (LSAT Argumentative Writing). Scores are reported on a scale from 120 to 180 and provide law schools with strong predictive validity for first-year law-school performance when combined with undergraduate GPA.
| Aspect | Detail |
| Purpose | To evaluate reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning skills for law school admission. |
| Test Structure | Four 35-minute multiple-choice sections 1 Analytical Reasoning: 23 questions 1 Logical Reasoning: 22 questions 1 Logical Reasoning: 23 questions 1 Reading Comprehension: 24 questions (plus one unscored experimental section & one writing sample section online.) |
| Test Duration | About 2 hours and 20 minutes total, including breaks. |
| Question Format | Multiple-choice questions in the main testWritten essay for the writing sample (Argumentative Writing) taken separately online. |
| Validity | Scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. |
| Fee | USD $248 (Globally) |
| Minimum Score | No minimum score; scaled score range from 120 (lowest) to 180 (highest). |
| Test Frequency | Offered multiple times per year (about 7-9 times annually), in-person and online. |
Also Read: Difference Between LNAT Vs LSAT To Study Law Abroad
6. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The MCAT is a computer-based exam required by most U.S. and many Canadian medical schools. It measures the scientific knowledge and reasoning skills needed for medical training through four sections: Chemical & Physical Foundations, Biological & Biochemical Foundations, Psychological & Social Foundations, and Critical Analysis & Reasoning Skills.
The exam lasts about 7 hours and 30 minutes including breaks, and official scores are typically released within 30–35 days.
| Aspect | Detail |
| Purpose | To evaluate knowledge and critical thinking skills in sciences, social sciences, and reasoning for medical school admission. |
| Test Structure | There are four sectionsChemical and Physical Foundations of Biological SystemsCritical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems PsychologicalSocial, and Biological Foundations of Behavior. |
| Test Duration | Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, including breaks |
| Question Format | Multiple-choice questions, some passage-based and some discrete questions |
| Validity | Scores are valid for 3 years |
| Fee | USA, Canada and U.S. territories: $355 Outside the above-mentioned locations: An additional $130 fee |
| Minimum Score | No official minimum; each section scored 118-132; total score 472-528 |
| Test Frequency | Offered multiple times a year, year-round schedule |
Find a safe, verified student home abroad and secure your room with a hassle-free booking process.
Secure Your Room Hassle-FreeCountry-Wise Breakdown of Exam Requirements
Different study-abroad destinations recognise different English-language tests and program-specific admission exams. Knowing what each country expects helps you plan your applications more efficiently and avoid last-minute surprises.
| Country | Accepted English Tests | Standardised Admission Tests |
| United States of America | IELTSTOEFL iBTPTE AcademicDuolingo | SAT / ACT (UG)GRE / GMAT (PG)LSAT (Law)MCAT (Medicine) |
| United Kingdom | IELTS AcademicIELTS UKVITOEFL iBTPTE AcademicDuolingoCambridge C1/C2 | GMAT (MBA)LNAT (Law)GRE for selected PG courses |
| Canada | IELTS AcademicTOEFL iBTPTE AcademicDuolingo | GRE / GMAT for select postgraduate programs |
| Australia | IELTSTOEFL iBTPTE AcademicOETCambridge C1 Advanced | GRE / GMAT for competitive PG and MBA programs |
| Germany | IELTSTOEFL iBT (varies by program/language) | GRE / GMAT for specific engineering, science, and business schools |
How to Prepare for Exams To Study Abroad?
- Create a timeline: Begin preparing at least 3-6 months before your exams. This leaves appropriate time for revision, mock tests and doubt sessions. Early planning prevents last-minute cramming and stress, instead bringing confidence.
- Use official resources: Rely on official guides and websites (such as ETS for GRE, British Council for IELTS) for accurate syllabus details and practice tests. Refer to reputable prep books and online courses for additional support.
- Take mock tests regularly: Schedule timed mock tests every few weeks to simulate real exam conditions and help you adapt. This helps improve time management and identify areas for improvement.
- Strengthen your weakest areas: After every mock test, identify your weaknesses and focus on improving them. For example, you find the writing section in IELTS more challenging, so concentrate on more writing practice.
- Familiarise yourself with test day logistics: Learn about registration, ID requirements, and test centre rules. This will prevent last-minute stress and ensure a smooth exam day experience.
- Maintain consistency in revision: Practice regularly, not just before the exam. Consistent revision will build confidence and help retain knowledge better than last-minute cramming. It will also help with exam day anxiety as you will feel confident and prepared.
Wrapping Up!
The right exams to study abroad are strategic tools that shape where you study, how much you pay, and the opportunities waiting for you afterwards. Strong scores help you stand out in a crowded applicant pool, speed up visa processes, and position you for long-term global opportunities.
The smart approach is to identify which tests align well with your degree, destination, and post-study goals before you apply. Then build a preparation plan that’s realistic, consistent, and grounded in trusted resources. With millions of students attempting these exams each year, your edge comes from clarity, early action, and preparation that’s aligned with your ambitions.
Your exam scores open the door to a new country. UniAcco helps you walk through it with confidence. Browse student rooms near your campus, compare prices, and secure your stay in minutes.
0 Comments