Each year, thousands of students leave their home countries to seek higher education overseas. There are now many more options for students who want to pursue an education overseas, and as a result, some requirements must be met in order to be admitted to a top university or institution abroad. Students must perform well on the aptitude and language proficiency exams to be eligible. Contact us to know more about study abroad exams.
Students can also get scholarships and other types of financial help for continuing their studies by taking competitive “study abroad” tests. To be considered for admission, candidates must submit scores from exams like the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and IELTS in a number of nations. Let’s examine and comprehend the test preparation for the SAT, GMAT, GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL in order to assist you fully comprehend the details of these examinations.
Types of tests for international studies
Exams required for admission to higher education programs overseas often fall into one of two categories: aptitude tests or tests of language skills. To provide you more information on the required tests you must take in order to apply for study abroad, the following sections include a full explanation of each one:
Language proficiency exams:
Most institutions use language competency tests to assess applicants’ ability to understand a foreign language, often English. The language used in the country in which you choose to study might have an impact on the language competency test. Because English is the medium of instruction at the best colleges, English proficiency exams like the IELTS and TOEFL are the most often used.
- IELTS
The test is still valid for roughly 24 months after the findings are announced. Therefore, if you were to take the test on June 1, 2023, you may utilize the results for both visa applications and other purposes up to May 31, 2025. The majority of student visas, however, require that you have a score that will be good while you are traveling, so keep that in mind. So, if you’re considering taking the IELTS and need academic direction, consider getting IELTS tutoring to guide you through the curriculum modules.
One of the most well-liked tests for language competency is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). A person’s competency in reading, writing, and speaking English is evaluated using the widely used standardised English proficiency test. The British Council and IDP have created a banding system for IELTS evaluation. Most nations want a band of 6 to 6.5 for student visas, while esteemed colleges may demand a band of 7 or above to admit students.
- TOEFL
The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, is a well-known assessment of language proficiency. The exam is commonly accepted in the US, however it may not be required for admission in several European countries, Canada, or Australia. The TOEFL assesses candidates’ skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English, much like the IELTS test does. Universities often set the bar by requiring an 80 or 90 minimum on a 120 point scale.
The TOEFL score is valid for two years from the date of application, similar to IELTS. Since TOEFL exams are frequently challenging, you might want assistance. You can choose between offline or online TOEFL instruction to help prepare for the exam.
You should also be aware that you might need to take extra language competence exams. A student wanting to study in Germany may need to take a German language exam for enrollment. Most European countries offer English-taught courses and accept IELTS for admission and student visas.
Aptitude Tests
The main goal of aptitude tests is to gauge a candidate’s level of mental preparedness for the selected field. The SAT is for undergraduate admissions, while the GRE and GMAT are for postgraduate admissions at international institutions.
- SAT
At US and Canadian universities, taking the Scholastic Assessment Test is a requirement for admission to undergraduate programs. SAT scores are preferred by many top colleges abroad even if universities in the United Kingdom do not require them.
Three components make up the test: a basic aptitude test, math, and evidence-based reading and writing. The SAT now includes an essay section as well. Occasionally, though, foreign colleges do not take the essay portion’s score into account. For admission to the top colleges, a minimum SAT score of 1200 out of a possible 1600 points is needed. Therefore, before taking the SAT exams, make sure you have adequate test preparation.
- GRE
One of the most common aptitude exams is called the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). It is a graduate-level qualifying examination, and many institutions utilize the results to determine who gets into certain courses. This computerized multiple-choice exam is acceptable for enrollment in courses in business, engineering, and even social science.
- GMAT
The Graduate Management Admission Test is widely accepted by international universities for admission. Top institutions in the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and more accept the recommended score for management courses. Similar to CAT, GMAT is an online exam assessing analytical writing, verbal, integrated, and mathematical reasoning abilities. Many reputable B-schools overseas have a minimum GMAT score requirement of roughly 650 out of a possible 800 points.
Specialized tests like USMLE, LSAT, GRE, and GMAT are required for specific professional examinations. Additionally, several nations have distinct aptitude tests that are administered in the national tongue for admittance to different professional degrees.