Exams to Study Abroad for Indian Students

Feeling overwhelmed by the maze of exams to study abroad? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Indian students find themselves puzzled about which international exams they need to crack for their dream universities.

From language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL to specialized entrance exams to study abroad like GRE and GMAT, the options seem endless. Each exam serves a specific purpose and opens doors to different educational opportunities across the globe.

Whether you’re planning for undergraduate studies, aiming for a master’s degree, or exploring scholarship opportunities, choosing the right exam can make or break your international education journey. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the 15 most important exams you need to know about, complete with details about their patterns, scoring systems, and registration processes.

Why should you take exams to study abroad?

Taking standardized tests is a crucial step in your journey to study abroad. These exams are not just formalities – they’re mandatory requirements set by nearly every college and university in popular study destinations.

Here’s why these exams are essential for your international education goals:

• They provide an objective evaluation of your academic abilities and language skills, regardless of your previous academic background

• They help universities assess your readiness for their programs through a standardized measure that’s fair for students from different countries

• They can open doors to scholarship opportunities, significantly reducing your financial burden

• They serve as proof of your ability to communicate effectively in an English-speaking environment

Your performance in these standardized tests can significantly impact your study abroad journey. Many organizations prioritize test scores when awarding scholarships, and securing a high score can boost your chances of landing well-paying jobs after graduation.

These exams are designed to be democratic, ensuring every student gets a fair chance. Test-conducting bodies implement strict policies and use modern technology to maintain objectivity in assessment. Most testing organizations also offer accommodations to ensure accessibility for all students.

When choosing which exams to take, consider your specific goals. Your choice should align with your desired field of study and target universities. Some universities might waive certain test requirements if you meet specific criteria – for instance, if you graduated from a school where English was the primary teaching language.

Remember, careful planning and preparation are key to success in these exams. Start your preparation well in advance, as these scores will play a vital role in your university applications and potential scholarship opportunities.

How to Choose the Best Exam for Your To Studying Abroad?

Selecting the right exam requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Your choice of exam depends primarily on your academic goals and target destination.

Here are the key factors to consider when selecting your exam:

• Academic Program Requirements: Different courses need different entrance exams
• Country Preference: Each country gives preference to specific language tests
• University Recognition: Check if your target universities accept the exam
• Scholarship Opportunities: Some exams offer better scholarship prospects
• Test Availability: Consider test centers and dates in your region

Start by determining whether you need a language proficiency test, a standardized test, or both. For English-speaking countries, you’ll typically need to take one of the major language proficiency tests. Additionally, depending on your course, you might need to take a standardized entrance exam.

Planning Your Preparation Book your exam slots well in advance, keeping your college application deadlines in mind. Collect study materials from official testing agency websites to ensure reliable preparation resources. Consider taking regular practice tests to track your progress.

Remember that excellent performance in these exams can lead to financial aid opportunities. Some universities might waive certain exam requirements based on your qualifications, so research thoroughly before making your final decision.

Your exam choice should align with both your immediate academic goals and long-term career plans. Consider factors like program duration, university reputation, and employment prospects in your chosen field.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

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The IELTS stands as one of the most widely recognized exams to study abroad, accepted by over 10,000 institutions across 140 countries.

IELTS Exam Pattern and Sections

Your IELTS journey involves four key sections, with a total duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

Section	Duration	Questions
Listening	30 minutes	40 questions
Reading	60 minutes	40 questions
Writing	60 minutes	2 tasks
Speaking	11-14 minutes	3 parts

IELTS Scoring System and Band Requirements

Your performance is evaluated on a 9-band scale, with scores available in both whole and half bands. Each section receives an individual score, and your overall band is calculated as the average of all four sections.

For the Listening and Reading sections, each correct answer earns you one point out of 40. Here’s what you need to achieve common band scores:

• Band 6: 23 correct answers
• Band 7: 30 correct answers
• Band 8: 35 correct answers

IELTS Test Centers and Registration Process

You can register for IELTS through three convenient methods:

1. Online registration with credit card payment
2. In-person registration at any IDP branch
3. Registration by courier with demand draft

The current test fee in India is INR 17,000.

When registering, you’ll need to submit a photocopy of your passport and sign the Terms & Conditions document. Remember to book your test at least three days before your preferred date.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

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As a premier exam for studying abroad, TOEFL is recognized by over 13,000 institutions across 160+ countries. The test measures your academic English skills in a classroom-like environment.

TOEFL iBT Format and Sections

Your TOEFL iBT test takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Here’s the section breakdown:

Section	Time	Questions/Tasks	Description
Reading	35 min	20 questions	Passage comprehension
Listening	36 min	28 questions	Lectures and discussions
Speaking	16 min	4 tasks	Express opinions and discuss materials
Writing	29 min	2 tasks	Academic writing tasks

TOEFL Scoring and University Requirements

Your total score ranges from 0-120, with each section contributing up to 30 points. Top universities have varying requirements:

• MIT and Stanford expect scores of 100 or higher
• UCLA and Yale consider 100+ as a good score
• UC Berkeley accepts 90+ as qualifying score

TOEFL Registration and Test Dates

You can take the TOEFL in two formats:

• TOEFL iBT at test centers
• TOEFL iBT Home Edition (available 24/7)

Plan to register 2-3 months before your earliest admission deadline. Your scores will be available in 4-8 days, and official reports are sent to universities within 8-16 days from your test date. The current registration fee in India is ₹16,900.

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

PTE Academic sets itself apart as a modern entrance exam to study abroad with its innovative computer-based testing and rapid results system.

Unlike traditional language tests, your entire assessment is handled by sophisticated AI technology.

PTE Exam Structure and Duration

Your PTE Academic test consists of three main parts spanning about 2 hours:

Section	Duration	Content
Speaking & Writing	54-67 minutes	7 question types
Reading	29-30 minutes	5 question types
Listening	30-43 minutes	8 question types

PTE Scoring Method and Results Timeline

The scoring system combines two methods to evaluate your performance:

• Correct/Incorrect scoring for straightforward answers
• Partial credit scoring for complex responses

You’ll receive your results within 48 hours of taking the test, making PTE one of the fastest options among exams for abroad studies.

Your scores remain valid for two years.

PTE Test Centers and Booking Process

With more than 400 test centers across 117 countries, you’ll find convenient testing locations worldwide. To book your exam:

1. Create a Pearson VUE account
2. Select your preferred test center
3. Present a valid passport during registration

PTE Academic is recognized by over 3,000 institutions globally, including prestigious universities like Oxford and Harvard Business School.

Your scores can be sent to multiple institutions at no additional cost.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The Graduate Record Examination stands as a crucial entrance exam to study abroad, particularly for those pursuing graduate studies in the United States.
Following significant changes in September 2023, your GRE journey has become more streamlined.

GRE Test Format and Sections

Your test now spans 1 hour and 58 minutes, with five distinct sections:

Section	Questions	Time Allotted
Analytical Writing	1 Issue task	30 minutes
Verbal Reasoning	27 questions	41 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning	27 questions	47 minutes

GRE Scoring System and University Cutoffs

Your performance is measured on three scales:

• Verbal and Quantitative: 130-170 points each
• Analytical Writing: 0-6 points in half-point increments

The test features section-level adaptation – your performance in the first section determines the difficulty of the second section. Generally, scores between 160-165 in both Verbal and Quantitative sections, with 4-5 in Analytical Writing, are considered competitive.

GRE Preparation Resources and Tips

Your preparation strategy should include:

• Taking practice tests to identify weak areas
• Dedicating 4-5 hours daily for 8-12 weeks
• Building vocabulary through analytical non-fiction reading
• Practicing both with and without the on-screen calculator

The ETS offers both free and low-cost preparation tools.

You can access two free PowerPrep tests when you register, providing authentic test experience.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

For aspiring business leaders, the GMAT Focus Edition represents a significant milestone among entrance exams to study abroad. Every year, around 200,000 aspirants in India take this test, making it a cornerstone for global business education.

GMAT Exam Pattern and Sections

Your GMAT journey involves three core sections completed in 2 hours and 15 minutes:

Section	Questions	Time
Quantitative Reasoning	21	45 minutes
Verbal Reasoning	23	45 minutes
Data Insights	20	45 minutes

GMAT Scoring and B-School Requirements

Your performance is measured on a scale of 205-805. The mean GMAT score stands at 546.01, while top business schools have varying expectations:

• US top 50 schools: Average score 703 (range 634-734)
• European top schools: Average score 676 (range 638-709)

GMAT Test Centers and Registration

You’ll find approximately 40 test centers across major Indian cities. The registration process offers flexibility:

• Online testing fee: USD 300
• Test center fee: USD 275
• Optional 10-minute break between sections

For identification, you must provide a valid passport. The palm vein pattern technology ensures security during check-in. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time to complete all pre-test procedures.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The digital transformation has revolutionized the SAT, making it a more accessible entrance exam to study abroad for undergraduate studies.
Your test experience now spans just 2 hours and 14 minutes, offering a streamlined approach to showcase your academic abilities.

SAT Test Structure and Components

Your digital SAT consists of two main sections:

• Reading and Writing (RW): 64 minutes with two 32-minute modules
• Math: 70 minutes with adaptive testing technology

Each section uses adaptive testing – your performance in the first module determines the difficulty of your second module. You’ll get a 10-minute break between sections.

SAT Scoring System and College Requirements

Your total score ranges from 400 to 1600, broken down as:

Section	Score Range
Math	200-800
Reading & Writing	200-800

The average SAT score is around 1050, but competitive universities often expect higher scores. A score of 1350 places you in the top 10% of test takers.

SAT Registration and Important Dates

You can take the SAT seven times annually in India – March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. For 2025, key dates include:

• March 8, 2025 (Registration deadline: February 21)
• May 3, 2025 (Registration deadline: April 18)
• June 7, 2025 (Registration deadline: May 22)

The registration fee is approximately INR 5,700, and you’ll need to complete your registration through the College Board website.

ACT (American College Testing)

Among the various entrance exams to study abroad, the ACT offers a unique approach to testing your college readiness. This standardized test evaluates your abilities across multiple academic areas, making it a preferred choice for many international students.

ACT Exam Format and Sections

Your ACT journey involves four mandatory sections plus an optional writing component, totaling 2 hours and 55 minutes without the essay. Here’s your test breakdown:

Section	Time	Questions
English	45 minutes	75 questions
Mathematics	60 minutes	60 questions
Reading	35 minutes	40 questions
Science	35 minutes	40 questions
Writing (Optional)	30 minutes	1 essay

ACT Scoring Method and University Acceptance

Your performance is evaluated on a scale of 1-36 for each section, with your composite score being the average of all four sections. The scoring process involves:

• No penalty for incorrect answers
• Raw scores converted to scaled scores
• Average national composite score of 19.8 as of 2022

ACT Test Centers and Registration Process

To register for your ACT, you’ll need:

• Valid passport
• Credit card for payment
• Recent headshot photo

The registration process takes approximately 30 minutes. You can choose from multiple test dates throughout the year, with registration deadlines typically falling about five weeks before the test date.

MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

If you’re aspiring to study medicine in the USA or Canada, the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is your gateway to prestigious medical schools. This comprehensive entrance exam to study abroad evaluates your problem-solving and critical thinking abilities across multiple scientific disciplines.

MCAT Test Pattern and Sections

Your MCAT journey spans 6 hours and 15 minutes, with a total seated time of 7 hours and 30 minutes. The exam consists of four major sections:

Section	Questions	Time
Biological & Biochemical Foundations	59 questions	95 minutes
Chemical & Physical Foundations	59 questions	95 minutes [92]
Psychological & Social Foundations	59 questions	95 minutes [92]
Critical Analysis & Reasoning	53 questions	90 minutes

MCAT Scoring and Medical School Requirements

Your MCAT performance is evaluated on a scale of 472-528. Each section receives a score between 118-132. A competitive score typically falls around 511.7, which was the average for accepted students in 2023/2024.

MCAT Registration and Exam Dates

While the MCAT isn’t conducted in India, you can take the test at centers in nearby countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and China. The exam is offered multiple times from January through September. Registration fees include:

• Standard registration: USD 330
• International location fee: Additional USD 120

Remember to book your slot early, as test dates fill up quickly, especially at international centers.

LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

Looking to pursue law at prestigious international universities? The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) serves as a vital entrance exam to study abroad for aspiring legal professionals. This computer-based test evaluates your analytical and logical reasoning skills.

LSAT Exam Structure and Sections

Your LSAT journey involves tackling 92 questions across four sections in 2 hours and 20 minutes. Here’s what you’ll face:

Section	Questions	Focus Area
Logical Reasoning (1)	23	Critical thinking
Logical Reasoning (2)	23	Argument analysis
Analytical Reasoning	23	Problem solving
Reading Comprehension	23	Complex text analysis

LSAT Scoring System and Law School Cutoffs

Your performance is evaluated on a scale of 420-480. The scoring system offers several advantages:

• No negative marking for wrong answers
• Results available through an equating procedure
• Scores accepted by over 18 law schools

LSAT Test Centers and Registration

The exam is conducted twice a year – January and May in an online remote proctored format through Pearson VUE. To register, you’ll need:

• Valid passport
• Credit/debit card for payment
• Stable internet connection
• System compatibility check

The test is available across 24 major cities in India, making it accessible for students nationwide. Remember to schedule your exam at least three days before your preferred date.

Duolingo English Test

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The digital age has brought a convenient alternative among exams to study abroad – the Duolingo English Test. Your path to proving English proficiency just got easier with this innovative online assessment that you can take from home.

Duolingo Test Format and Sections

Your one-hour test journey consists of three distinct parts:

Section	Duration	Purpose
Introduction	5 minutes	Test rules and setup
Adaptive Test	45 minutes	Core language evaluation
Writing & Speaking	10 minutes	Open-ended responses

Duolingo Scoring and University Acceptance

Your performance is evaluated on a scale of 10 to 160, with top universities typically expecting scores between 100-120. The test’s credibility is reinforced by its acceptance at over 5,500 institutions worldwide. Your results arrive within 48 hours, making it one of the fastest options for your study abroad preparations.

Duolingo Registration and Test Process

Before taking your test, ensure you have:

• A stable internet connection
• A working webcam and microphone
• Valid government ID
• Credit/debit card for payment
• Well-lit, quiet room

The registration fee is INR 4,978.45 for a single test, with a discounted rate of INR 4,134.64 each when purchasing two tests. Your test scores remain valid for two years, and you can share them with unlimited institutions at no extra cost.

CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

Planning your studies in Canada? The CELPIP stands out as a vital exam for studying abroad that’s specifically designed for Canadian immigration and academic pursuits. This computer-delivered test evaluates your English language abilities in a single sitting.

CELPIP Test Pattern and Components

Your CELPIP-General test spans approximately 3 hours and includes four key components:

Component	Duration	Format
Listening	47-55 minutes	38 questions
Reading	55-60 minutes	38 questions
Writing	53-60 minutes	2 tasks
Speaking	15-20 minutes	8 tasks

CELPIP Scoring and Canadian Requirements

Your performance is evaluated through a comprehensive scoring system that aligns with Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels. You’ll receive your results within 3-4 business days, making CELPIP one of the fastest options for your study abroad preparations.

CELPIP Test Centers and Dates

The test is currently available in 7 Indian cities, with computer-delivered sessions offered throughout the year. To register, you’ll need:

• Valid government-issued ID
• Test registration fee of INR 24,470.33
• Account creation on the CELPIP platform

Starting August 10, 2023, CELPIP scores are now accepted for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications, opening new pathways for your Canadian education journey.

Cambridge English Tests (CAE/CPE)

Cambridge English Qualifications stand among the most respected exams for abroad studies, with recognition from over 25,000 universities and institutions across 120 countries.

Cambridge Tests Structure and Levels

Your Cambridge journey offers multiple qualification levels aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR):

Level	Qualification	Purpose
C2	Proficiency (CPE)	Near-native proficiency
C1	Advanced (CAE)	High-level academic English
B2	First (FCE)	Upper-intermediate skills
B1	Preliminary (PET)	Intermediate abilities

Cambridge Scoring and University Recognition

Your test evaluates four key skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The scoring system aligns with CEFR levels, providing a standardized way to demonstrate your language abilities. Each exam is specifically designed to assess skills relevant to its CEFR level, becoming more challenging as you progress through the levels.

Cambridge Exam Registration Process

To register for your Cambridge exam, you’ll need:

• Valid identification
• Test fee payment
• Selection of preferred test date and center

The British Council offers special arrangements for candidates with specific requirements, ensuring fair assessment of your English language abilities. Your results demonstrate your capability to understand complex texts and communicate effectively in English-speaking academic environments.

UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)

For aspiring medical and dental students, the University Clinical Aptitude Test represents a crucial entrance exam to study abroad that evaluates your mental abilities through computer-based assessment.

UCAT Exam Format and Sections

Your test spans just under 2 hours and consists of four distinct sections:

Section	Purpose	Time
Verbal Reasoning	Critical evaluation of written information	21 minutes
Decision Making	Sound judgments using complex information	31 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning	Numerical problem solving	25 minutes
Situational Judgment	Real-world scenario analysis	26 minutes

UCAT Scoring and Medical School Requirements

Your performance is evaluated on a scale of 900-2700, with each cognitive section contributing to your total score. While there’s no universal minimum requirement, competitive scores vary by university. For instance, Cardiff’s recent cutoff score was 2690.

UCAT Test Centers and Registration

You’ll find test centers in over 130 countries, with registration fees varying by location:

• UK tests: £70
• International tests: £115

The testing window typically runs between July and September, and you can register through Pearson VUE’s platform. Remember to book early, as preferred slots in major cities like Mumbai fill up quickly.

NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test)

Pursuing global management education? The NMAT serves as a versatile entrance exam to study abroad, accepted by leading B-schools across India, South Africa, Philippines, Nigeria, Hungary, and Morocco.

NMAT Exam Pattern and Sections

Your computer-adaptive test spans 120 minutes, with three distinct sections:

Section	Time	Questions
Language Skills	28 minutes	36
Quantitative Skills	52 minutes	36
Logical Reasoning	40 minutes	36

NMAT Scoring and Business School Acceptance

Your performance is evaluated through scaled scores ranging from 12-120 for each section. The test is recognized by 78 B-schools globally, including 51 institutes in India and 27 institutes abroad.

NMAT Registration and Important Dates

For the 2024-25 testing cycle, your key dates include:

• Registration window: July 10, 2024 – June 15, 2025
• Exam delivery period: July 12, 2024 – June 30, 2025

The registration fee is USINR 5484.73 plus applicable taxes. You can attempt the test up to three times with a mandatory 15-day gap between attempts. Your scores remain valid for admission to prestigious management programs worldwide, and you can send them to five B-schools at no additional cost.

Comparison Table

Exam Name	Duration	Test Format/Sections	Scoring Range	Registration Fee (INR)	Key Features/Recognition
IELTS	2h 45m	Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking	0-9 band scale	17,000	Accepted by 10,000+ institutions in 140 countries
TOEFL	2h	Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing	0-120	16,900	Recognized by 13,000+ institutions in 160+ countries
PTE Academic	2h	Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Results within 48 hours, AI-based evaluation
GRE	1h 58m	Analytical Writing, Verbal, Quantitative	130-170 (V&Q), 0-6 (AW)	Not mentioned	Standard test for graduate studies
GMAT	2h 15m	Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights	205-805	USD 275-300	Focused on business school admissions
SAT	2h 14m	Reading & Writing, Math	400-1600	5,700	Digital format, adaptive testing
ACT	2h 55m	English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing (optional)	1-36	Not mentioned	No penalty for wrong answers
MCAT	6h 15m	Biological, Chemical, Psychological, Critical Analysis	472-528	USD 330 + 120 (International)	Not conducted in India
LSAT	2h 20m	Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension	420-480	Not mentioned	Available in 24 Indian cities
Duolingo	1h	Adaptive Test, Writing & Speaking	10-160	4,978.45	Results within 48 hours
CELPIP	3h	Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking	CLB levels	24,470.33	Specific for Canadian immigration
Cambridge	Not mentioned	Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking	CEFR levels	Not mentioned	Recognized by 25,000+ institutions
UCAT	2h	Verbal, Decision Making, Quantitative, Situational	900-2700	£115 (International)	For medical/dental admissions
NMAT	2h	Language, Quantitative, Logical Reasoning	12-120 per section	5,484.73	Accepted in multiple countries

Conclusion

Your journey through these 15 essential exams reveals the diverse pathways available for international education. Each exam serves as a unique gateway to your academic goals, whether you aim for undergraduate studies, graduate programs, or specialized fields like medicine, law, or business management.

Understanding these exams helps you make informed decisions about your study abroad plans. Language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE demonstrate your readiness for English-medium education. Specialized exams such as GRE, GMAT, and MCAT validate your subject expertise and analytical abilities for specific programs.

Remember that success requires careful planning and preparation. Start by identifying the exams required for your target universities and programs. Give yourself enough time to prepare, typically 3-6 months, depending on your current proficiency level. Consider factors like test validity periods, registration deadlines, and university application timelines while planning your exam schedule.

Most importantly, focus on consistent preparation rather than last-minute cramming. Practice with official study materials, take mock tests regularly, and familiarize yourself with the exam format and scoring system. Your dedicated preparation will not only help you achieve competitive scores but also build the foundational knowledge needed for your international academic journey.

FAQs

Q1. What are the most important exams for studying abroad?

The most crucial exams for international studies include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE for English proficiency, and GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT for academic aptitude. Specialized exams like MCAT for medicine and LSAT for law are also essential for specific fields.

Q2. How long should I prepare for international entrance exams?

Preparation time varies depending on your current proficiency and the exam’s difficulty. Generally, 3-6 months of consistent study is recommended. Focus on familiarizing yourself with the exam format, practicing with official materials, and taking regular mock tests.

Q3. Can I take multiple attempts for these exams?

Most exams allow multiple attempts, but policies vary. For instance, you can take the IELTS and TOEFL multiple times with no restrictions, while the GMAT has a 16-day waiting period between attempts. Always check the specific exam’s rules regarding retakes.

Q4. How long are exam scores valid?

Score validity varies by exam. IELTS and TOEFL scores are typically valid for 2 years, GRE scores for 5 years, and GMAT scores for 5 years. However, some universities may have their own policies regarding score acceptance, so it’s best to check with your target institutions.

Q5. Are there any alternatives to traditional standardized tests for studying abroad?

Yes, some universities are adopting test-optional policies or accepting alternative assessments. For example, the Duolingo English Test is gaining recognition as a quick and accessible alternative to traditional English proficiency exams. Always check with your target universities for their specific requirements and accepted alternatives.