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Study Abroad Entrance Exams List for Indian Students

Study Abroad Entrance Exams List for Indian Students

Edited By Piyush Kohli | Updated on Sep 27, 2024 06:05 PM IST | #IELTS
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Many international students dream of pursuing their bachelor’s or master’s degree abroad due to various reasons. A question that arises commonly among aspirants is “What exams are required to study abroad?”, and the list for the same is subjective for different countries, degrees, and programmes. However, some of the most popular study abroad entrance exams are GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT, and much more. It is also important to know that there is a special requirement for English language proficiency irrespective of the country one is applying for hence, an Indian student will also have to submit proof of IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc. Read the article to learn more about the study abroad entrance exams list for Indian students.

This Story also Contains
  1. What Exams are Required to Study Abroad?
  2. List of Entrance Exams for Abroad Studies
  3. Standardised Exams for Study Abroad
  4. Can I Study Abroad after 12th?
  5. Top Universities Accepting Study Abroad Exams
  6. Documents Required for Study Abroad Entrance Exams
Study Abroad Entrance Exams List for Indian Students
Study Abroad Entrance Exams List for Indian Students

What Exams are Required to Study Abroad?

Entrance exams to go abroad for study in foreign universities vary depending on the country, university, and programme of study one is applying for. These study abroad entrance exams also help students get scholarships and financial aid to ease their study costs. Hence, we have provided an overview of the most popular abroad study entrance exam below:

Study Abroad Exams for International Students

Particulars

Exams

English Language Proficiency

  • IELTS

  • TOEFL

  • PTE

  • DET

Undergraduate

  • SAT

  • ACT

MBA

GMAT

Masters

GRE

Law

MCAT

Medical

LSAT

List of Entrance Exams for Abroad Studies

The dilemma of “Which exam to take for studying abroad?” increases among international students it becomes necessary to be clear about the entrance and English proficiency examinations that one will have to provide to enter their dream university. In fact, they usually evaluate the academic preparation, ability, and willingness of future students with the help of these entrance exams. Here is the list of entrance exams for abroad studies generally preferred by universities abroad.

English Language Exams for Study Abroad

English language proficiency test as a study abroad entrance exam has its own different scoring criteria, exam pattern, requirements, and format. Candidates need to prepare for these exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc. through available practice test materials to learn the strategy of scoring high and be taken into consideration.

IELTS

One of the most popular and commonly opted English language proficiency exam to study abroad is IELTS. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test measures the language ability of a candidate in four different parameters, i.e., listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Indian students prefer to attempt IELTS as it is the most trusted exam by foreign universities and can even be used by the immigration authority to approve a visa application.

IELTS Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 17,000

Sections

Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking

Countries accepting

USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, Germany, etc.

TOEFL

It is the second most popular English language proficiency test after IELTS that many international students take to enroll in top universities abroad. The TOEFL syllabus covers four sections; listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The TOEFL exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The TOEFL is conducted 50 times a year in around 4,500 test centres worldwide.

TOEFL Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 16,900

Sections

Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking

Countries accepting

USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, Germany, etc.

PTE

The Pearson Test of English Academic is another popular English language test after TOEFL and IELTS, widely accepted in many study-abroad countries and popular universities in the United States, UK, Australia, and Canada. The PTE Academics exam is a computer-based English language proficiency test. It is considered to be a significant study abroad entrance test requirement at many universities and colleges for Indian students.

PTE Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 17,000

Sections

Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking

Countries accepting

USA, UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Ireland, Canada, etc.

Duolingo English Test (DET)

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online English proficiency exam that is mostly acceptable at many prestigious universities in the USA or UK. The Duolingo exam pattern consists of four sections; reading, writing, listening, and speaking. One of the most convenient aspects of DET as an abroad studies entrance test is that one can take the exam from anywhere at any time, as it is available seven days a week and 24 hours a day and it is an online exam, which means students can take the exam while sitting at home. Hence, due to its flexibility and availability, DET has become popular in many countries.

DET Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 5,458

Sections

Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking

Countries accepting

USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, Germany, etc.

Standardised Exams for Study Abroad

Exams such as the ACT and SAT majorly work on the reading, listening, and writing skills taken for undergraduate admissions in the United States; whereas the GRE and GMAT are for graduate programmes accepted globally, the MCAT is the medical entrance exam to study abroad and the LSAT is designated as the entrance exam for law schools. A brief overview of all is provided below for a better understanding of “What exams are required to study abroad?”.

GRE

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a post-graduate entrance exam for MS courses abroad, for applicants who want to pursue further studies after completing their graduation courses. The GRE is considered for the study abroad engineering entrance exam, especially in the United States. There are no specific eligibility criteria for the GRE test. Candidates can select a date of exam preference and register for the test. Candidates can take the GRE Test once every 21 days, up to five times within 12 months.

GRE Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 22,500

Sections

Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing

Field of Education

Masters in engineering, and business

GMAT

The GMAT is a graduate management admission test administered by the GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). It is one of the most prominent study entrance exams for Indian students as this test is majorly required for admission to an MBA (Master of Business Administration) and other business-related graduate programmes overseas. The sections include analytical writing assessment, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning.

GMAT Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 24,600

Sections

Math, Verbal, Data Insights

Field of Education

MBA

LSAT

The LSAT is a popular entrance exam for foreign universities that is required globally for admission to law schools and courses. The LSAT exams are widely accepted in the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries abroad. The full form of the LSAT is the Law School Admission Test; it is a standardised test given by students who are willing to apply for law studies. Both LSAT exams are conducted by the different Law School Admission Councils (LSAC). The LSAT syllabus sections include logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, and an unscored writing sample.

LSAT Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 7,998

Sections

Reading Comprehension, Analytical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning

Field of Education

Law

MCAT

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a structured entrance exam for MBBS study abroad programmes. The MCAT exam is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). Aspiring medical students who are seeking to take admission abroad in major countries like Canada and the USA. The MCAT syllabus focuses on scientific concepts, critical thinking skills, and the ability to apply the concepts in a medical context.

Moreover, there are many university entrance exams as well as country-specific exams for the MBBS programmes, such as the UKCAT (United Kingdom Clinical Aptitude Test) and the BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test), which is a university-specific entrance test in the UK.

MCAT Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 27,000

Sections

Biological and Biomedical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundation of Biological Systems, Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behaviour, Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills.

Field of Education

Medical

Can I Study Abroad after 12th?

Studying abroad is a common aspiration among many students, resulting in a significant rise in the number of applicants seeking academic opportunities abroad. With the desire to study in foreign countries, there is an increasing trend of students taking study abroad entrance exams. Therefore, we have provided below information regarding the top study abroad entrance exams for Indian students after the 12th.

SAT

The SAT ( Scholastic Assessment Test) is an internationally recognised test that evaluates a candidate for college-level admission in the United States. The SAT exam pattern consists of two sections: the reasoning test and the subject test. This test is administered by the College Board and is popularly required for undergraduate admissions in countries like United States. The candidates can also have a completely optional essay section. The score requirements of the SAT vary by institution, with many colleges considering SAT scores as entrance exams for foreign universities.

SAT Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

RS. 9,320

Sections

Reading, Writing, and Maths

Field of Education

Undergraduate

ACT

The ACT, known as the American College Testing, is another standardised test for undergraduate admission accepted for the abroad studies entrance exam, especially for students who want to study in the USA. Applicants can take the ACT multiple times throughout the year at designated test centres across the United States and internationally. Some students opt for self-study using ACT preparation tips, books, online resources, and practice tests. Overall, the ACT scores are used to measure the academic ability and skills of the candidate in multiple subjects.

ACT Overview

Particulars

Details

Fees

Rs. 7,894

Sections

English, Maths, Reading, and Science

Field of Education

Undergraduate

Top Universities Accepting Study Abroad Exams

All international students want to know is the study abroad exam names that will get them enrolled into prestigious universities abroad. Hence, we have provided the top-ranking universities accepting the list of entrance exams for abroad studies as per the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Top Colleges for Abroad Study Entrance Exam

Documents Required for Study Abroad Entrance Exams

The document requirement varies as per the level of the exam, the institution or programme, and the country in which the candidate is applying. However, the general requirements for exams to write to study abroad are as follows:

  • Identification Document: any government-issued ID or passport is used for identification purposes during the exam registration process and on the exam day.

  • Exam Registration Form: test-takers have to fill out an exam registration form, providing general information such as your name, address, contact details, and sometimes academic background.

  • A passport-size Photo: Recent passport-sized photographs are required for identification purposes in the major entrance exams. These photos are often affixed to your exam registration form and admit cards.

  • Exam fee receipt: students need proof of their registration by providing the exam fee receipt; it will be shared through email or can be downloaded from the exam portal.

  • Special Accommodation Request: If the candidate requires special accommodations due to a disability or any other special circumstances, they need to provide documentation for the same.

  • Educational Qualification Documents: candidates need to submit academic and transcript records, diplomas, and certificates from their previous institutes, depending on the level of the exam (e.g., undergraduate or graduate).

  • Admit Card: After completing the registration for the study abroad entrance exams, test takers should download or receive the admit card. The admit card holds all the details required, such as your exam date, time, and test centre location.

  • Other required documents: Depending on the specific requirements of the exam or the institution, there may be additional documents needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which exams are required to study abroad for Indian students?

There are plenty of exams required to study abroad for Indian students. It includes English language proficiency like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc. Moreover, some standardised tests like GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT, and much more.

2. Which test is eligible for abroad?

All the international students need to fulfil some eligibility criterias before applying abroad for higher education. These eligibility tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT, and much more.

3. Can I study abroad with 40% marks?
  1. TOEFL

  2. IELTS

  3. GRE

  4. SAT

  5. ACT

 


4. Can I study abroad with 40% marks?

Usually foreign universities have a standardised acceptance criteria for international students that includes higher GPA, and submission of other entrance exams. However, there are some universities abroad that may accept students with lower percentages, hence, one needs to research about their eligibility criteria properly.

5. Is JEE required to study abroad?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are undoubtedly at the top of the list when it comes to the sheer volume of students who need to take one or the other to prove their English language ability.

 

6. Is JEE required to study abroad?

Choosing the best exam for studying abroad depends on your destination country, field of study, and academic level. For studying in the USA, the most common exams are the TOEFL or IELTS, which assess English language proficiency, and the GRE or GMAT for graduate programs. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are widely accepted by universities worldwide, but the TOEFL is particularly popular in the USA. For graduate studies, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is preferred for most programs, while the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is geared towards business and management programs. Each of these exams tests different skills and has its own format, so it's essential to choose the one that aligns best with your academic goals and the requirements of the institutions you are applying to. Hence comes the importance of the career consultancy services - they guide in the matters of selecting the right college, training for the exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or GMAT, etc. and also guide the students with good paperwork so that the visa is accepted and the college gives a good scholarship. Out of the many career consultancy services companies in India, ICC or Invicta is very good and so is IDP. But Invicta has a complete 360-degree services and truly guides the students. All the best!

7. Is JEE required to study abroad?

The best exam for studying abroad depends on the country and program you are targeting. Generally, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are widely accepted for English proficiency. For graduate programs, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is commonly required for a variety of fields, while the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is specific to business and management programs. If you aim to study in the USA, these tests are typically necessary. For undergraduate studies, the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing) may be required. Researching the specific requirements of your desired institutions and programs is essential. A good education consulting company actually helps in this entire process. Among the many consulting companies, Invicta Career Consulting, IDP, IFS, etc are there. Among them Invicta is one of the best and offers a complete 360-degree services facilitating the process. you should check on your own and then only decide. All the best!

8. Is JEE required to study abroad?

JEE exam is not an applicable or mandatory entrance exam criteria for Indian students while applying to foreign universities.

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Questions related to IELTS

Have a question related to IELTS ?

Hello,

It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.

You should check the specific admission requirements of the universities you are interested in. Generally, having IELTS (or TOEFL) and a German language proficiency certificate (if the course is in German) is enough.

Hope it helps !

Hello,

One the most general tips for the preparation of both tests would be to go for a structured approach and understand the format of the tests respectively and work on improving grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation along with it take regular tests and reviews them. Both have 4 section, Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking, so all four must be kept in focus, and thus you must plan your time according to your needs and areas of improvement.

Now, for TOEFL, it's recommended to use resources from ETS, that is, official materials and tests.

For IELTS, it's recommended to use resources from IDP, British Council and Cambridge, that give you sample tests and questions.

Wishing an all the very best for the test.

Hello Student,

For the AMC (Australian Medical Council) exam , which assesses international medical graduates for practice in Australia, the IELTS requirement is generally a minimum overall score of 7.0 , with no individual band score below 7.0 (in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).

Alternatively, the AMC also accepts equivalent scores from OET, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic :

  • OET : A grade of B in all four components.
  • TOEFL iBT : A minimum overall score of 94, with minimum scores of 24 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 in Writing, and 23 in Speaking.
  • PTE Academic : A minimum overall score of 65, with a minimum score of 65 in each communicative skill.

Meeting these requirements is essential to proceed with the AMC’s application and registration processes.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello

To be eligible for the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams , candidates must demonstrate English .

AMC assessment process :

1. Accepted English Language Tests and Scores

IELTS ( International English Language Testing System ) :

Overall band score : 7.0 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .

PTE Academic ( Pearson Test of English Academic ) :

Overall score of 65 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .

2. Validity of Test Scores

The test results must be no older than two years at the time of submitting your AMC application .

3. Preparation Tips for IELTS

Practice regularly : Build your language skills across all four components .

Take practice exams : practice can help improve speed and accuracy .

professional coaching if needed , specially for writing and speaking , which are often the most challenging part .

Use official IELTS resources : Cambridge IELTS books , online mock tests and other reliable materials can give you an accurate rating  .

4. Application Tips

Ensure that your English test scores are valid and meet the minimum requirements before applying .

Keep a copy of your scores as they may need to be provided to both the AMC and registration authority in Australia .

Hope this helps you .

All the best

If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.

For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.

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