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Top Exams to Study Abroad in 2025: GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, and More

Top Exams to Study Abroad in 2025 GRE IELTS TOEFL and More

Every year, thousands of students from India take the leap to pursue their dreams of international education. But before boarding that flight to the UK, USA, Canada or any other global education hub, there’s one big hurdle standardized exams. Whether you’re aiming for a university seat or a scholarship, these tests often shape your entire admission journey.

So, what exams are required to study abroad? And how do you choose the right one? This blog offers an easy-to-understand, in-depth guide on the top exams to study abroad in 2025. We’ll walk through every test — from English proficiency to field-specific aptitude — and help you find the perfect fit.

By the end of this article you will have an idea of which foreign university entrance examination will be suitable to your objectives, financial resources and profession.

Why Are These Exams Important?

Exams to study abroad help colleges check if a student is ready for international education. These tests show how well a student knows English, math, reasoning, or subject-specific knowledge. Each university has its own rules. But most ask for one or more common exams. That’s why students must prepare early.

Most universities use these test scores to shortlist applicants. Scores also affect scholarships and visa approvals. So, understanding each test and choosing the right one helps you plan better.

Some exams, like IELTS or TOEFL, focus on English. Others like GRE or GMAT test analytical or logical skills. Students must meet the score range to get into good schools or be eligible for scholarships. Many scholarships are available only if the student has scored above a certain number.

Also, exam scores help immigration departments see if students can adjust in a new academic setting. This is why exams for foreign studies are not just about entrance—they’re also about survival in a different country.

Key Categories of Exams

There are different types of exams for foreign universities. These are grouped based on their purpose. Here’s a quick view:

Category Purpose Popular Exams
English Proficiency Test language skills IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo
Graduate Admission Test logic, reasoning, and math GRE, GMAT
Undergraduate Admission Test general ability SAT, ACT
Program-Specific For specific careers MCAT (Medicine), LSAT (Law), BMAT
Country-Specific Needed in certain countries CAEL (Canada), UCAT (UK), OET (Healthcare)

Let’s now understand each of these in detail.

Top English Language Proficiency Exams

English language exams are the most common entrance exam to study abroad. They show if a student can study and live in an English-speaking country. Every student must take one, no matter the course.

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Accepted in: UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and more
  • Score Range: 1 to 9 band
  • Minimum Required: 6.0 – 7.5 (varies by course and university)
  • Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
  • Test Format: Paper-based or Computer-based
  • Test Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Validity: 2 years

IELTS is one of the most popular exams to study abroad for Indian students. Most universities in English-speaking countries accept it. IELTS Academic is for study, and IELTS General is for immigration or jobs.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Accepted in: USA, Canada, and parts of Europe
  • Score Range: 0 to 120
  • Minimum Required: 80 – 110 (varies by program)
  • Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
  • Test Format: Online (iBT) or Paper-based
  • Test Duration: Around 2 hours
  • Validity: 2 years

TOEFL is ideal for students aiming for the US. It is a widely accepted English test for admission in foreign universities.

3. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

  • Accepted in: Australia, UK, New Zealand, Canada
  • Score Range: 10 to 90
  • Minimum Required: 50 – 75
  • Sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening
  • Test Format: Fully computer-based
  • Test Duration: 2 hours
  • Validity: 2 years

PTE uses AI for scoring. It is popular for fast results and ease of scheduling.

4. Duolingo English Test

  • Accepted in: Over 4000 universities including top US and UK colleges
  • Score Range: 10 to 160
  • Minimum Required: 90 – 120
  • Test Format: At-home online test
  • Test Duration: 1 hour
  • Validity: 2 years

Duolingo is cheaper and more flexible. It is gaining popularity as an English test for foreign studies, especially for students applying on a tight schedule.

Standardized Admission Tests

These tests check a student’s academic readiness. They are required by top foreign universities—especially for graduate and undergraduate programs. They test reasoning, math, verbal, and writing skills.

These exams to study abroad help universities compare students from different education boards and backgrounds. Each test focuses on a different goal. Let’s explore the most important ones.

1. GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

  • Best for: MS, MBA, MA, and PhD programs
  • Accepted in: USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Singapore
  • Score Range: 260 to 340
  • Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing
  • Test Format: Online or at test centers
  • Test Duration: About 2 hours
  • Validity: 5 years

GRE is one of the most common entrance exams to study abroad for master’s programs. Many STEM and management universities ask for it. The test judges reasoning, not just memory. A strong GRE score improves chances of admission and scholarships.

2. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

  • Best for: MBA, Master in Finance, or Management
  • Accepted in: USA, UK, Canada, Australia
  • Score Range: 200 to 800
  • Sections: Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing
  • Test Format: Online or test center
  • Test Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  • Validity: 5 years

GMAT is used by top B-schools. A high score opens doors to top business schools and MBA scholarships. For management students, it is one of the most important tests for admission in foreign universities.

3. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

  • Best for: Undergraduate courses
  • Accepted in: USA, Canada, UK, Australia
  • Score Range: 400 to 1600
  • Sections: Reading, Writing & Language, Math
  • Test Format: Digital format
  • Test Duration: Around 2 hours
  • Validity: 5 years

SAT is a major abroad study entrance exam for undergrad admissions. A good SAT score helps students win scholarships and stand out during applications.

4. ACT (American College Testing)

  • Best for: Undergraduate programs
  • Accepted in: USA, Canada, some UK universities
  • Score Range: 1 to 36
  • Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing (optional)
  • Test Format: Computer-based or paper-based
  • Test Duration: 2 hours 55 minutes (plus optional writing)
  • Validity: 5 years

ACT is a good alternative to SAT. Some colleges accept both. It is also one of the top exams for foreign universities that assess general readiness for a bachelor’s degree.

5. LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

  • Best for: Law programs
  • Accepted in: USA, Canada, Australia
  • Score Range: 120 to 180
  • Sections: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension
  • Test Format: Digital
  • Test Duration: Around 3 hours
  • Validity: 5 years

If you want to pursue law abroad, LSAT is the main entrance exam for foreign universities offering law courses.

6. MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

  • Best for: MBBS or MD abroad
  • Accepted in: USA, Canada
  • Score Range: 472 to 528
  • Sections: Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning
  • Test Format: Online
  • Test Duration: Over 7 hours
  • Validity: 3 years

MCAT is a must for students planning to study medicine abroad. It’s one of the toughest exams for foreign studies but also very rewarding.

Country-Specific or Program-Specific Tests

These entrance exams for foreign universities are required based on either your destination country or chosen course of study. While many international programs accept general exams like GRE or IELTS, some specialized or competitive fields have their own unique requirements.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular country-specific or program-specific exams for 2025:

Exam Purpose Applicable Countries Typical Requirement
LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) Required for undergraduate law programs UK For LLB applicants to top UK universities like Oxford, King’s College
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) Required for medical school admissions USA, Canada For MD programs, tests biology, chemistry, psychology
UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) Required for medicine/dentistry undergraduate programs UK, Australia, New Zealand Tests aptitude and logical reasoning, not academic knowledge
LSAT (Law School Admission Test) Required for law school admissions USA, Canada, Australia Accepted by JD programs
BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) Medicine and biomedical science programs UK, Netherlands, Thailand Combines scientific knowledge and critical thinking

These foreign universities entrance exams are typically required in addition to English tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

How to Choose the Right Exam for You?

Choosing the best abroad study entrance exam depends on a few important things. Let’s simplify the process by breaking it into five questions:

1. Where Are You Going?

Different countries accept different exams.

Country Accepted Language Tests Aptitude Tests
USA TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT
UK IELTS, PTE, TOEFL LNAT, UCAT, BMAT
Canada IELTS, TOEFL, PTE GRE, GMAT
Australia IELTS, TOEFL, PTE UCAT, GMAT
Germany IELTS, TOEFL TestAS, GRE

Use this chart to know what test for admission in foreign universities matches your country.

2. Which Program Are You Applying To?

Some degrees need specific subject knowledge:

  • Engineering/Science → GRE
  • Management/Finance → GMAT
  • Law → LSAT or LNAT
  • Medicine → MCAT, UCAT, BMAT

If you’re unsure, check your university’s website under “Admission Requirements.”

3. What Are the Score Requirements?

Exam Minimum Score for Top Universities
IELTS 6.5 – 7.5
TOEFL 90 – 110
GRE 310 – 330
GMAT 650 – 720
SAT 1300 – 1500
ACT 27 – 33
PTE 58 – 75

Always aim higher than the minimum to stay competitive.

4. What’s Your Budget?

Here’s what exams for foreign studies cost in 2025 (approximate):

Exam Fee (INR) Valid For
IELTS ₹16,500 2 years
TOEFL ₹16,900 2 years
GRE ₹22,550 5 years
GMAT ₹22,000 5 years
SAT ₹9,500 5 years
ACT ₹12,500 5 years
LSAT ₹14,000 5 years

Tip: Choose tests wisely — prep time and retake fees add up fast!

5. When Should You Take the Exam?

Timing matters. Here’s a quick timeline:

Exam Best Time to Take It Why
IELTS/TOEFL 10–12 months before intake Allows for retakes
GRE/GMAT 12–14 months before application Takes longer to prepare
SAT/ACT During Class 11 or early 12th College-ready timeline
MCAT/LSAT/UCAT Depends on application season Check medical/law school dates

Exam Preparation Tips for 2025 Aspirants

When it comes to passing the exams of foreign universities you need strategy, practice and consistency. The best way to do it is to prepare in the following way:

Create a Study Plan

  • Give 3–6 months for GRE/GMAT/SAT
  • 1–3 months for IELTS/TOEFL
  • Allocate 2 hours daily with weekly mock tests

Choose the Right Resources

  • IELTS: British Council, Cambridge books
  • TOEFL: ETS official guide
  • GRE/GMAT: Manhattan Prep, Magoosh, ETS, GMAC
  • SAT: Khan Academy, CollegeBoard

Enroll in Coaching (If Needed)

For students struggling with self-study, joining a coaching center or online platform can boost scores.

  • Practice Mock Tests
  • Understand format
  • Build confidence
  • Manage time better

Don’t Skip the Essays and Speaking Sections

Many students ignore these and lose marks. They matter as much as other sections!

Conclusion

It is not only about eligibility to choose the right exams to go and study abroad- it is about opportunity to unlock what you want, where you want, and what career path in your life.

For Indian students planning to explore global education in 2025, knowing what exams are required to study abroad helps avoid last-minute panic and sets the foundation for a successful application.

Transglobal Overseas has helped thousands of students navigate entrance exams, applications, scholarships, and visa processes. From shortlisting the best universities to building a personalized exam roadmap, our team ensures you take the right steps at the right time.

Every country and university has their preferences. Being prepared with the right scores at the right time can make you stand out from thousand applicants across the world. When you are preparing for your leap in 2025 remember this: you start your journey with the right exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is GRE mandatory for all master’s programs abroad?

No, GRE is not mandatory for all master’s programs. Many universities in the USA and other countries have made it optional. Always check the course requirements on the university website.

2. Which English proficiency test is easier: IELTS or TOEFL?

IELTS feels easier for many because it has a face-to-face speaking test. TOEFL is fully computer-based. Choose the one that suits your style better.

3. Can exams like PTE and Duolingo be accepted by universities in 2025?

Yes, many universities accept PTE and Duolingo in 2025. But always check the accepted tests on each university’s official site.

4. When is the best time to take exams like GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL for Fall 2025 intake?

Take these exams between August 2024 and March 2025. This gives you enough time to apply, get results, and plan your visa.

5. Are there any study abroad destinations that don’t require entrance exams?

Yes, countries like Germany, Norway, and some in Europe offer programs without entrance exams. But they may still ask for language tests like IELTS.

6. How many times can GRE or IELTS be attempted in a year?

You can take the GRE up to 5 times a year, with 21 days between attempts. You can take IELTS as many times as you want.

7. Which exam should be taken for studying in the USA vs. Canada or UK?

For the USA, GRE and TOEFL are common. For the UK and Canada, IELTS or PTE is preferred. Always check the course requirements.

8. How long does it take to prepare for the IELTS or GRE exam?

IELTS prep takes 1 to 2 months with daily practice. GRE needs 2 to 4 months as it has more math and reasoning parts.

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