Exams for Studying Abroad: Your Exam Roadmap to International Success

If you're planning to study abroad, preparing for the required exams is a crucial step. Countries around the world require different types of exams depending on the level of study, the program, and often the specific university. These exams can range from language proficiency tests to standardized tests assessing academic skills or specific knowledge required for fields like business or engineering. This article covers exams for studying abroad at all levels, including exams for higher studies, graduate and post-graduate studies, and exams tailored for specific fields such as business.

This article covers the following in detail:

Language Proficiency Tests

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

• Duolingo English Test

Standardized Tests for Undergraduate StudiesSAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

• ACT (American College Testing)

Exams for Graduate and Postgraduate Studies

• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

• LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

• MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

Types of Exams for Studying Abroad

1. Language Proficiency Tests:

Language tests are often necessary for international students who need to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction, typically English. Here are the most common language exams:

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Overview:

IELTS is one of the most widely recognized English language exams globally. Jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS is primarily accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and increasingly in the US. It’s suitable for students, workers, and migrants.

Structure and Format:

IELTS has four main sections:

• Listening: Comprising 40 questions based on audio recordings (conversations, monologues, etc.) to assess comprehension skills.
• Reading: Involves 40 questions based on various reading passages. Academic IELTS focuses on topics relevant to higher education, while General IELTS covers everyday topics.
• Writing: Two tasks are required: an essay and a description of visual information, such as charts and graphs.
• Speaking: A face-to-face interview with an examiner to evaluate spoken English.

Scoring:

Each section is scored from 0 to 9, and the average of these scores is calculated for an overall band score, with 9 being the highest. Most universities require a minimum score of 6.5 or 7.

Exam Versions:

• Academic IELTS: For students pursuing higher education or professional registration.
• General IELTS: For those looking to migrate or apply for work opportunities in English-speaking countries.

Validity and Retake Policy:

IELTS scores are valid for two years. Candidates can retake the exam as often as they like, but it’s recommended to prepare before retesting to improve scores.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Widely accepted, particularly in the UK, Australia, and Canada; choice of paper-based or computer-based formats.
• Cons: Expensive; the speaking test requires an in-person or video interview, which some may find intimidating.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Overview:

Managed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL is widely accepted in the US and Canada, although it’s also accepted in universities worldwide. TOEFL assesses an individual’s ability to use and understand English in an academic context.

Structure and Format:

TOEFL is primarily an internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) with four sections:

• Reading: Involves reading passages and answering comprehension questions.
• Listening: Based on audio clips from academic settings, such as classroom discussions and lectures.
• Speaking: Requires candidates to respond to prompts about familiar topics, campus situations, or academic content.
• Writing: Consists of two tasks, including writing an opinion essay and summarizing information from reading and listening.

Scoring:

The TOEFL iBT is scored out of 120, with each section contributing up to 30 points. A score of around 90-100 is typically required for competitive programs.

Exam Versions:

• TOEFL iBT: The internet-based version, the most commonly administered.
• TOEFL Paper-based Test (PBT): Available in areas with limited internet access, though it does not include a speaking section.

Validity and Retake Policy:

Scores are valid for two years, and candidates can retake the test after a 3-day waiting period.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Preferred by US and Canadian universities; entirely computer-based.
• Cons: Listening and speaking sections can be challenging due to fast-paced and academic-focused content.

PTE (Pearson Test of English)

Overview:

PTE Academic, managed by Pearson, is a computer-based English test widely accepted in Australia, New Zealand, and some US universities. It is especially popular among students applying for visas or university admissions in these countries.

Structure and Format:

PTE Academic is known for its AI scoring system and has three main parts:

• Speaking & Writing: Candidates are required to read aloud, describe images, and respond to questions, followed by essay writing and summarizing passages.
• Reading: Comprises various tasks, such as multiple-choice questions, reordering paragraphs, and filling in blanks.
• Listening: Based on audio clips, students answer questions by identifying details or summarizing spoken texts.

Scoring:

PTE is scored on a scale from 10 to 90, with each section contributing to an overall score. Scores of around 58-73 are often required by universities, depending on the institution and program.

Exam Versions:

• PTE Academic: The most popular test for students and visa applicants.
• PTE General: Intended for those who want to assess general English language ability, not typically accepted for university admissions.

Validity and Retake Policy:

Scores are valid for two years, and candidates can retake the exam after five days.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Fast score reporting, typically available within 48 hours; entirely computer-based with automated scoring.
• Cons: Limited availability compared to IELTS and TOEFL; PTE General is not as widely accepted for academic purposes.

Duolingo English Test (DET)

Overview:

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a newer, flexible online test that allows students to take the exam from home. Accepted by many US universities, it’s popular for its affordability and convenience, though it may not be as widely accepted as IELTS or TOEFL.

Structure and Format:

The DET is adaptive, meaning that questions get easier or harder based on performance, and includes two parts:

• Adaptive Test: This section consists of reading, speaking, listening, and writing exercises designed to gauge the candidate's language proficiency.
• Video Interview and Writing Sample: This ungraded portion includes a video recording of the candidate speaking on a specific topic and a written sample to showcase speaking and writing skills.

Scoring:

Scores range from 10 to 160, with most universities requiring a score between 105 and 125. The adaptive nature of the test means it adjusts to the test taker's skill level for a personalized assessment.

Exam Versions:

• DET Academic: The main version for university admissions.

Validity and Retake Policy:

Scores are valid for two years. The DET can be retaken multiple times, but only twice in a 30-day period.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Affordable, flexible, quick results within 48 hours; can be taken online.
• Cons: Not as widely accepted as IELTS or TOEFL, though acceptance is growing.

2. Standardized Tests for Undergraduate Studies:

For students who wish to pursue undergraduate programs abroad, especially in the US, certain exams can enhance the application or are sometimes required:

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test): Primarily accepted in the US, the SAT assesses critical reading, writing, and math skills.

Structure and Format:
The SAT focuses on testing critical reading, mathematical, and writing skills over two main sections:

• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): Divided into two subsections:
  • Reading: Comprises passages with questions that assess comprehension, vocabulary in context, and analytical skills.
  • Writing and Language: Includes questions that test grammar, usage, and editing skills.
• Math: Also divided into two parts:
  • Calculator: Questions where calculator use is permitted, covering advanced math concepts.
  • No-Calculator: Designed to assess basic math skills without a calculator.

Scoring:

The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, with each section (EBRW and Math) contributing between 200 and 800 points. The combined score represents overall academic performance. A score of 1200-1400 is typically competitive, though top-tier schools may expect higher.

Test Availability and Frequency:

The SAT is offered multiple times per year, and students can register for either the digital or paper-based version, depending on availability in their location.

Validity and Retake Policy:

SAT scores are valid for five years. Students can retake the SAT as many times as they want, though it is advisable to focus on preparation before attempting multiple tests.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Widely accepted, especially for US universities; suited to students strong in verbal and mathematical reasoning.
• Cons: Lengthy test with challenging time management; may not fully reflect subject-specific knowledge.

ACT (American College Testing): The ACT also focuses on English, Math, Reading, and Science and is an alternative to the SAT for undergraduate admissions in the US.

For students interested in applying to foreign universities after 10th grade, entrance exams might not be required since most programs outside the US focus on the last years of high school.

3. Exams for Graduate and Postgraduate Studies:

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

Overview:

The GRE is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is widely accepted for admissions to graduate programs in fields like social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and even some business programs worldwide. The GRE’s versatility makes it popular among students applying to both MBA programs and other graduate studies.

Structure and Format:

The GRE tests analytical and reasoning skills across three main sections:

• Analytical Writing: Involves two tasks—Issue Task and Argument Task—where students write essays assessing their ability to present complex ideas clearly and logically.
• Verbal Reasoning: Measures skills in reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence, focusing on vocabulary and the ability to analyze written material.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Tests problem-solving skills in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, with an emphasis on quantitative comparison, numeric entry, and data interpretation.

Scoring:

The GRE is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 for both the Verbal and Quantitative sections (total possible score of 340), with the Analytical Writing section scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6 in half-point increments. A competitive GRE score generally ranges from 310 to 330, depending on the program and institution.

Test Availability and Frequency:

The GRE is offered in a computer-based format year-round at designated test centers and as an at-home version in some locations. Paper-based GRE tests are available in certain regions where computer access may be limited.

Validity and Retake Policy:

GRE scores are valid for five years, and students can retake the test up to five times per year, with a minimum gap of 21 days between attempts.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Accepted for a wide range of graduate programs, including some business schools; flexible test structure and question types.
• Cons: Challenging vocabulary in Verbal Reasoning; time-intensive Analytical Writing section.

Recommended Preparation Time:

Typically, 2-3 months of preparation focused on vocabulary building, math fundamentals, and practice essays is recommended for optimal performance.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

Overview:

Administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the GMAT is specifically designed for admission to business and management programs, especially MBA programs. Recognized by thousands of business schools globally, it’s regarded as a benchmark for assessing analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills in a business context.

Structure and Format:

The GMAT consists of four sections designed to evaluate skills necessary for business management:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): Tests the ability to critically analyze an argument and articulate a well-structured critique.
• Integrated Reasoning: Involves multi-source reasoning, graphics interpretation, table analysis, and two-part analysis to assess data interpretation skills.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Measures problem-solving and data sufficiency skills in topics like arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. No calculator is allowed.
• Verbal Reasoning: Tests reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction to assess the ability to understand and evaluate written material.

Scoring:

The GMAT has a total score range of 200 to 800, derived from the Quantitative and Verbal sections. The AWA and Integrated Reasoning sections are scored separately, with AWA scored on a scale of 0-6 and Integrated Reasoning on a scale of 1-8. A competitive GMAT score is typically between 650 and 750 for top business schools.

Test Availability and Frequency:

The GMAT is available year-round at testing centers worldwide, and an online version is also available for at-home testing.

Validity and Retake Policy:

GMAT scores are valid for five years, and candidates can take the test up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of eight attempts.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Tailored specifically for business school admissions, so it demonstrates dedication to an MBA; shorter and more straightforward than GRE in some sections.
• Cons: Challenging time constraints in Integrated Reasoning and Quantitative sections; not accepted outside business programs.

Recommended Preparation Time:

A focused 2-3 months of preparation with practice tests and problem-solving exercises is generally recommended for the GMAT.

For MBA aspirants wondering "which exam is required for MBA in foreign institutions," the GMAT is generally the go-to option, though some universities may accept GRE as well.

Specialized Exams by Country and Region

Different countries have varying requirements for study abroad exams. Here is an overview:

If you're planning to study in Europe and wondering "which exam is required for study in Europe," IELTS and TOEFL are the most commonly accepted language exams, with the GRE or GMAT accepted for specialized programs.

Exams Based on Field of Study

• Engineering and Science Fields: For technical and scientific fields, exams such as the GRE Subject Tests in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics may be required for postgraduate applications.
  
  
• Medical Studies: Medical students looking to study abroad may need to take exams specific to the country, such as the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) for the US.
  
  
• Business Programs (MBA): If you're applying for an MBA abroad, particularly in the US or Europe, the GMAT is widely preferred, although the GRE is increasingly accepted by many business schools.

Understanding Which Exam is Best for Abroad Study

Selecting the right exam depends on several factors such as the country, university, and field of study. If you're uncertain about "which exam to give for studying abroad," the best approach is to check with the university’s requirements. In many cases, consulting with a study abroad advisor can help identify the specific exams that will strengthen your application.

Conclusion

From undergraduate to postgraduate programs, study abroad exams open doors to global education. By understanding what exams are required to study abroad and selecting the right ones, you can enhance your chances of gaining admission to your dream institution. Whether preparing for exams for higher studies in abroad or deciding on which exam is required for an MBA in foreign universities, being well-prepared can lead to new opportunities across countries and continents.

Frequently Asked Questions:

A. The most common exams include the TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, and PTE, depending on the level and field of study.

A. Research the specific requirements of your program and country, as each may accept different exams and have unique score criteria.

A. Standardized tests (like the SAT or GRE) measure general academic skills, while language proficiency tests (like TOEFL or IELTS) assess your English language ability.

A. Ideally, you should start preparing 6–12 months before your test date, giving you enough time to master the content and practice effectively.

A. Yes, exams like the SAT and ACT are typically for undergraduate programs, while the GRE and GMAT are for graduate and business school programs.

A. No, exam requirements vary by country, university, and program, so it’s essential to verify which exams are accepted at your target institutions.

A. Some exams, like the TOEFL and IELTS, offer multiple versions (e.g., Academic vs. General), and certain tests have both paper-based and online options, depending on the location.