Which Exam to Give for Which Course to Study Abroad?

GRE

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Priya
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Dec 11, 2024 14:06 IST

Pursuing a bachelor’s or a master’s degree abroad is a dream for many students who work diligently to make their dreams come true. If you are planning to study abroad, the admission process will require you to take one language exam and one standardised exam. One may have to appear for different entrance exams depending on the country, course or college. This article lists all the exams required to study abroad after 12th.

Exams Required to Study Abroad

Universities abroad require aspiring students to take several subject-based or language-based tests in order to be eligible for their esteemed courses. The specific exams required for studying abroad can vary depending on the country, university, and course you choose. This article contains the complete list of exams required to study abroad. 

Related Reads:

Exams Required to Study Abroad After 12th 

International students applying to foreign universities will have to take certain exams in order to be eligible to study in these foreign countries. Read on the types of abroad exams that are mandatory for submission to study abroad.

Language exams

The language exams show your English proficiency skills. You need to take either one of the language exams to get admission to any university in an English-speaking country. These are required for pursuing almost all courses; Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate courses, Certificates or Diplomas (unless mentioned).

Different countries give preference to one language exam over others. A few of the top English language exams that are used by prominent study-abroad destinations:

  • IELTS: IELTS exam is the preferred exam for getting admission to universities in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. IELTS Score is valid for two years.
  • TOEFL: TOEFL exam is the preferred exam for universities in the US and Canada, while it is not accepted at many colleges in the UK. Your TOEFL scores are valid until two years post the declaration of your result.
  • PTE: PTE exam is accepted at a few colleges in the US and most colleges in the UK. CAE and CPE are given preference by British universities. Further, PTE Academic scores are valid for up to two years from the date of the exam.

Check:

Standardised Entrance Exams for Foreign Universities

The entrance exams for foreign universities for each course can be different, varying in the area of study or at the level of study as well. The exams required for studying various courses are different. Depending on the courses of your choice, you will be required to take only one standardised entrance exam for abroad education. So, if you are going to pursue MS then you have to take exams for MS abroad. Similarly, if you are going to pursue an MBA abroad you have to take exams for an MBA abroad. Also, there are different countries' standardised tests for different countries.

Here is a table describing exam requirements according to the course of your choice:

Courses/Programs

Standardized Tests Accepted

Preferred English Language Tests on the Country basis

Undergraduate

SAT or ACT

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

MBA

GMAT or GRE

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

MS

GRE

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

Certificate and Diploma

-

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

Medical

MCAT

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

Law

LSAT

  • TOEFL for US, Canada
  • IELTS or PTE for the UK, Australia, and New Zealand
  • CELPIP for Canada
  • CAE or CPE for the UK

Apart from the above-goven degree programs, there are also Associate's Degrees. Check out in detail about what is Associate Degree?

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Exams for Studying Abroad with Scholarship

The most popular and important entrance exam to study abroad is GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, and ACT. Excellent performance in these international competitive exams can also get students financial aid in the form of scholarships. Many colleges and universities consider the performance of the aspirant in these international entrance exams for giving scholarships to aspirants at the time of admission.








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Exams to Study Abroad after 12th

Those students who have cleared their higher secondary have the option to take various entrance exams for studying abroad. SAT, ACT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS are some of the important standardised tests that students can take for going to study abroad. The choice of exam always depends on the course, college, and country where you want to go.







Exams to Study Abroad after 10th

There are various exams that students can take after class 10th, however, it is always a better idea to go for abroad studies after completion of your school education. It is better to go study abroad after completing your higher secondary or choosing a particular stream. Students can go to study in Singapore after pursuing their class tenth. Apart from this, many colleges and universities demand that the aspirant must have completed 18 years of age and a guardian should accompany the student to take his/her care.

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Exams Required to Study Abroad After 12th FAQs

Q. Can I study abroad without exams?

A. In most cases, no, you cannot study abroad without exams. Exams are typically a requirement for admission to international universities. They serve as a way to assess your academic abilities and ensure that you are prepared for the rigours of higher education.However, there are a few exceptions, such as:

  • Language Programs: If you are enrolling in a language program, you may not need to take academic subject tests. However, you will likely still need to demonstrate proficiency in the language you intend to study.
  • Portfolio-Based Programs: For certain programs like art, design, or architecture, you may be able to submit a portfolio of your work instead of taking exams.
  • Work-Based Programs: Some programs, like internships or work-exchange programs, may not require formal exams.

It's important to research the specific requirements of the universities and programs you're interested in.

Q. How many exams are required to study abroad?

A. The number of exams required to study abroad can vary depending on the country, university, and course you choose. Typically, you will need to take at least one of the following exams:

  • Language Proficiency Exam: This is almost always required to demonstrate your ability to communicate in the language of instruction. Examples include TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo or PTE for English.
  • Academic Subject Test: Depending on the country and program, you may also need to take an academic subject test such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT.

However, some programs may require additional exams or qualifications. For example, some medical schools may require specific entrance exams, while some art or design programs may require a portfolio submission.

Q. Which exams should I give to study abroad?

A. Studying abroad generally requires one to take a definite set of exams. These exams include:

  1. Language proficiency tests determine whether a student will be able to understand academic instructions, interact among his/her peers and survive in the local culture of the host country. Based on these language exams, students have a good chance to secure a seat at some of the good colleges and scholarships abroad. Some of such language-based exams include English tests - IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo and OET, and other language tests like DELF and DALF for assessing French language proficiency and more. 
  2. Subject-based tests that determine conceptual knowledge attained by the student. These tests help universities abroad determine whether the student has the knowledge required as a foundation for the higher course that they are applying to study. Examples of several such exams include SAT, ACT, SMAT, GRE, etc. It is worth noting that several universities abroad also conduct their own subject-based tests to assess students based on their competencies in the same subject that they have applied for. 

Q. How do I choose a course to study abroad?

A. When choosing a course to study abroad, consider factors like:

  • your academic interests,
  • program duration and structure
  • career goals,
  • the reputation of the university in your desired destination,
  • the cost of education,
  • language requirements,
  • potential scholarship opportunities,
  • and the employment prospects in that field within that country.

Q. Which exam is the best to study abroad?

A. There isn't one single best exam to study abroad. Universities often require language tests and subject-based tests to check your readiness and competency to take one of their reputed programs.

However, the requirement of any of these exams may be waived depending on your qualifications and the university. However, it is still noteworthy that even though your university waives off the language test requirement, you will still need to take the exam to apply for a student visa in the country. Hence, check the university and visa requirements before picking the exam that best suits your requirements.   

The most common exams taken by Indian students to study abroad are IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, SAT, GMAT, GRE, MCAT, LSAT and ACT.

Q:   How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?

A:

The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses: 

The Undergraduate Application Process:  

Step 1:  You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.

Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.

Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.

Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements. 

Check out:  tips to improve your SOP

Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS. 

Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.

Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.

The Postgraduate application process: 

Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\

Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.

Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.

Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course. 

To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application. 

Step 5:  If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester. 

Q:   Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?

A:

The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.

Q:   What is University of Wales, Trinity Saint famous for?

A:

University of Wales, Trinity Saint (UWTSD) was founded in 2010, is a public institution for higher education and research at multiple locations. It was set up under the 1828 royal charter of Lampeter, the institution was the result of the merger between Trinity University College and the University of Wales. The institution merged with the Swansea Metropolitan University in 2013.

  • Top Ranked University: The UWTSD is not ranked by any major ranking body, however as per the university ranking given on the official website of the university, it is ranked among:
  1. #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Film Production and Photography
  2. #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Fashion and Textiles
  3. #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Graphic Design
  4. #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Education
  5. #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Sports Science
  6. #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Mechanical Engineering
  7. #1st in Wales for Fine Arts
  • Variety of Courses: UWTSD offers more than 300 programs at various levels including undergraduate, postgraduate degrees as well as multiple online courses.
  • Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at UWTSD    is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
  • High Placements: According to Graduate Outcome data 2019-2020 quoted by the UWTSD, more than 95% of its graduates were found to be employed within 15 Months of graduation. The average salary of a graduate is not explicitly released by UWTSD, however, as per some unofficial sources the average salary of the graduates of UWTSD is approximately INR 30-35L. with the highest salary being reported as high as INR 66.5L for jobs in Financial Services.

Q:   Does the University of Essex require IELTS?

A:

International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:

English Language Test

 Score

IELTS

Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section

The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:

English Language Test

 Score

TOEFL iBT

Overall score of 72 to 114

PTE

Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section

Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities

Q:   Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?

A:

Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students

Q:   How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?

A:

Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.

  • Know the exam pattern
  • Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
  • Solve previous year question papers
  • Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
  • Revise regularly
  • Figure out weaker areas and learn them well

With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.

Q:   How to download PDF of GRE Prep books?

A:

There are multiple GRE coaching institutes or publishers who offer PDF of study materials to students. You can easily purchase digital versions of their GRE prep books, which you can download to your device using a reader app like Kindle or Adobe Reader. Also, you can explore the nearest public library. You can certainly find some books for preparation.

Q:   How to download UK Board 12th date sheet 2024?

A:

Following are the steps to download the UK 12th date sheet 2024. 

  • Open the Uttarakhand Board's official website at ubse.uk.gov.in
  • Click on 'Examination Scheme' available on the homepage
  • A new window will appear on the screen containing a link of the UK Board 12th date sheet 2024
  • Click the link and download the Uttarakhand 12th date sheet 2024
About the Author
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Written by
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert

Priya Garg is a seasoned content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-date. H... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(998)

Can you study Masters with 3 years BBA degree from B School which is AICTE approved?

Reply to JyotsnaJyJyotsna Sharma

70826827
sriram jaganathan

6 months ago

is IELTS accepted for a master's in biochemistry in Canada?

Reply to sriram jaganathan

N

Nnenna

a year ago

I studied English language and Literary studies and I still want to study linguistics and Literary studies in Belgium University. Do I still need IELTS?

Reply to Nnenna

T

Tasmiya Basher

a year ago

Please suggest a good prep center in Delhi/NCR for GMAT. Currently, I am deciding between Collzy & Princeton Review. I heard they are both good.

Reply to Tasmiya Basher

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Tasmiya. You can check past student reviews and make a conscious call about the GMAT prep centre you wish yo enrol in.

L

Lucky Chinna

a year ago

wanna study a mtech , ms in abroad can anyone give me advice please.....i need some infrmation regarding this .

Reply to Lucky Chinna

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Lucky. I would request that you get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors for assistance with university admissions, here: https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/apply