Exams for Studying Abroad

Countries have been giving importance to inviting international students to pursue their higher studies. Most sought countries, among others, are the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Russia, Australia, Norway, New Zealand, Singapore, France and Netherlands. Students looking for admission abroad must clear specific standardized tests.

Making a standard language examination is compulsory and depending on the country that the student is seeking to study in, there might be a different exam that he or she might have to clear. Here is a list of most common examinations that are required by universities abroad:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 

The IELTS is the most popular English language proficiency test that is taken not only by students seeking admission in a foreign university but also by people looking to work or migrate.

It is recognized in 140 countries by over 10,000 educational institutes, employers and government organizations. IELTS tests the individual for reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. The tests are conducted on the same day without any breaks. 

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) 

TOEFL is for all non-native speakers that seek admission to an English speaking university. TOEFL, along with IELTS, are considered the two major English language proficiency tests in the world. TOEFL is also recognized in over 130 countries by thousands of well-known institutes.

There are 4,500 test centres for TOEFL in 165 countries, and the numbers are increasing by the day. Individuals are tested for reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. 

Pearson Language Test (PTE)

PTE is a computer-based examination which like the other language proficiency tests checks the individual for reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. The test is considered to be more difficult than both IELTS and TOEFL, but the results are more accurate.

Also, the applicants of the test do not have to wait long for the results as they are announced in just five days. The test lasts for 3 hours and is conducted in a secure environment. PTE is meant for non-native English speakers. The PTE Academic assesses the non-native English speakers for their efficiency in their participation in English Universities.

The PTE General is designed for learners to know how well they can communicate in realistic situations. The PTE Young Learner is for children of ages between 7 and 12 that have taken English as a foreign language. 

Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)

GRE is a standardized test which is required by many graduate schools mostly for MBA admissions and regular admissions in college. The students appearing for GRE test are assessed for their quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, critical thinking skills and analytical writing.

GRE examination paper comprises of arithmetic, algebra, geometry and vocabulary. It is a computer-based exam that is conducted at Prometric testing centres. The exam lasts for 3 hours and 45 minutes. More than 160 countries have about 1000 test centres for GRE. Several states, along with the USA, accept GRE for admissions. 

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) 

GMAT assesses analytical, quantitative, verbal, writing and reading skills. Those attempting GMAT can take the test for up to 5 times in a year and eight times in all. More than 2300 business schools and about 7000 programs accept GMAT as a part of their selection standards.

One hundred fourteen countries use it as a standardized test. Students seeking admission in MBA colleges are usually required to clear GMAT. Other colleges and programs may also require the students to take the GMAT test. 

These are the five main examinations that are taken by international students to get admission abroad.