Which Exams Are Required to Study Abroad?

Have You Finished Your Exams and Are Unsure of What’s Next?

You’ve worked hard, completed your exams, and now you’re wondering, what’s the next step? Which country should you apply to? What exams are required for your dream university? The possibilities are very much exciting, but the choices can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with the right guidance, you can walk through this journey smoothly.

Understanding the Requirements for Studying Abroad

The idea of studying abroad is great, but the process can seem overwhelming, especially when it comes to standardised exams. Many prospective international students find themselves asking:

• Where do I start?
• Which exams do I need to take?
• Are these tests available online, or do I need to travel?
• How much will it cost in exam fees and tuition?

While admission requirements vary by country and institution, certain exams are widely accepted across universities worldwide. These tests evaluate students’ critical thinking, language skills, and subject-specific knowledge to make sure they are ready for the challenging coursework of their selected programs.

This guide will assist you in understanding the most frequently needed tests, classified according to their function and the areas in which they are most necessary.

Proving Your English Proficiency

Many universities require proof of English language proficiency for non-native speakers. Here are the most widely accepted exams:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• Accepted by over 13,000 universities across 160+ countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia.
• Measures English skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing within an academic setting.
• Scores remain valid for two years.
• Recommended for students applying to US universities.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Recognised by 10,000+ organisations, including universities, employers, and immigration agencies.
• Accepted in Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
• Two versions: Academic (for higher education) and General Training (for work and migration purposes).

Key Difference: While both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted, TOEFL is more commonly required by US institutions, whereas IELTS is preferred by UK, Australian, and Canadian universities.

Exams for Undergraduate Admissions

If you plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you may need to take one of the following aptitude tests:

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

• A standardised test widely accepted by US universities.
• Evaluates skills in math, reading comprehension, and writing.
• Many universities use SAT scores for merit-based scholarships.

ACT (American College Testing)

• Another widely accepted test for US universities, similar to the SAT.
• Covers English, math, reading, and science reasoning.
• Includes an optional writing section.
• ACT is more curriculum-based, while the SAT focuses more on critical thinking.

Which One Should You Take?

• SAT: If you’re stronger in problem-solving and reasoning.
• ACT: If you prefer a more subject-based approach and want a science section.

TestAS (for German Universities)

• Required by certain universities in Germany.
• Measures cognitive and problem-solving skills relevant to undergraduate studies.
• Conducted four times a year at various international test centers as well.

Exams for Graduate Programs

If you’re applying for master’s or MBA programs, you may need to take one of the following exams:

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

• Required for admission to graduate programs (except for law, medicine, and business in some cases).
• Assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
• Accepted by universities worldwide, particularly in the US, Canada, and some European institutions.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

• Essential for MBA and business school applications.
• Computer-adaptive test that evaluates quantitative, verbal, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning skills.
• Preferred by top business schools in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

GMAT vs. GRE: Which One Should You Take?

• GMAT: If you’re specifically applying for an MBA or business-related programs.
• GRE: If you want more flexibility in applying to different graduate programs.

What’s Next? Preparing for Your Exam

Studying for these exams requires time and effort, but with the right strategy, you can maximise your performance. Here are a few preparation tips:

• You can start early.
• Take practice tests from official websites that offer free or paid practice tests to familiarise yourself with the format.
• Use online resources from platforms that offer valuable study materials.
• Some students find professional coaching beneficial for structured learning.

Many universities also waive standardised tests in certain situations. Some may accept proof of previous education in English-medium institutions instead of TOEFL or IELTS, or may not require GRE/GMAT if you meet alternative eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

Understanding and preparing for the right exams is a crucial step toward your study abroad journey. By knowing which tests to take and how to prepare, you can increase your chances of securing admission to your dream university. Whether it’s proving your language proficiency, showcasing academic aptitude, or meeting specific program requirements, these exams open doors to new educational opportunities worldwide.

Need Help? Get Personalised Guidance

It can be difficult for you to understand the study abroad process, but you don’t have to do it alone! We at iae Global India provide professional IELTS and TOEFL tutoring to assist students get the scores they need to get into the colleges of their dreams. Our experienced educators offer individualised study schedules, practice exams, and performance-enhancing techniques.

Book a free consultation with our study abroad experts to get customised advice on which exams to take, how to prepare effectively, and maximise your chances of admission.

FAQs About Study Abroad Exams

1. Which English proficiency test should I take IELTS or TOEFL?

Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted, but the choice depends on your target country and university:

• TOEFL: Preferred by universities in the US and Canada.
• IELTS: Commonly accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Note: Check your university’s requirements before choosing.

2. Do all universities require the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admissions?

No, not all universities require the SAT or ACT. Many institutions have test-optional policies, meaning students can apply without these scores. Always verify the admission requirements of your preferred university.

3. Can I take the GRE or GMAT online?

Yes, both the GRE and GMAT offer online testing options:

• GRE: Available online with the same format as the test center version.
• GMAT: Offers an online version with some structural differences (e.g., no Analytical Writing section in the online format).

4. What are the costs of these exams?

Exam fees vary depending on the test and location. Following table shows scores validity in years:

5. Are there exemptions for language proficiency tests?

Yes, some universities waive TOEFL/IELTS if:

• Students who have studied in an English-medium institution for a certain number of years.
• Students who are from a country where English is the primary language.