Quick Overview
The exams to study abroad depend on your destination country, course, degree level, and university admission requirements. Indian students may need an English proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test, while undergraduate applicants may need the SAT or ACT and some postgraduate applicants may need the GRE or GMAT. This guide explains which entrance exams are relevant after Class 12 and for MS, MBA, and other postgraduate programs, how to choose the right test, and how to prepare for university applications.
Introduction
Planning to study abroad involves more than selecting a country and university. You also need to understand which entrance examinations you must take, the scores your preferred institutions accept, and when to complete each test before the application deadline.
For Indian students, the biggest confusion is that there is no single entrance exam required for every foreign university. Some institutions require an English language proficiency test, some undergraduate programs consider standardized admission tests, and some postgraduate courses require specialized examinations. Other universities may waive certain tests or offer test-optional admission routes.
Understanding the exams to study abroad before you begin applying can help you avoid unnecessary examination fees, prepare for the right tests, and build a realistic application timeline.
What exams are required to study abroad?
The first step is to understand the main categories of exams. Most study-abroad examinations fall into language proficiency tests, standardized admission tests, and course-specific entrance exams. You may need one or more of these, depending on your university and program.
The following table summarizes the major exams to study abroad and the students who are most likely to need them.
| Exam | Main purpose | Common applicants |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | English proficiency | Undergraduate and postgraduate students |
| TOEFL iBT | English proficiency | Undergraduate and postgraduate students |
| PTE Academic | English proficiency | Undergraduate and postgraduate students |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | English proficiency | Students applying to institutions that accept DET |
| SAT | Undergraduate admission assessment | Students applying to selected bachelor’s programs |
| ACT | Undergraduate admission assessment | Students applying to selected bachelor’s programs |
| GRE General Test | Graduate admission assessment | Applicants to selected master’s and doctoral programs |
| GMAT | Business-school admission assessment | MBA and selected business master’s applicants |
| LSAT | Law-school admission assessment | Applicants to law programs that require or accept it |
| MCAT | Medical-school admission assessment | Applicants to medical programs that require it |
| UCAT | Medical and dental admissions | Applicants to participating universities, particularly in the UK and Australia |
The list is not exhaustive, and an exam appearing here does not mean it is compulsory for every university or country. For example, Princeton’s graduate admissions guidance shows that GRE requirements can differ by department, while universities may have their own English proficiency policies.
English exams to study abroad
English language proficiency tests are designed to assess whether you can understand and communicate effectively in an English-medium academic environment. If English is not your first language, your university may ask you to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted test or an approved alternative.
Before registering for an English exam for abroad studies, check which tests your shortlisted universities accept and whether they specify minimum overall or individual section scores.
IELTS Academic
IELTS Academic assesses English proficiency for higher education. It evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The score required depends on the institution and course.
Official information: IELTS Academic.
TOEFL iBT
TOEFL iBT assesses academic English skills and is accepted by many universities. Its current scoring and test format should be checked before registration because the test changed in January 2026.
Official information: TOEFL iBT.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test that some universities accept for admissions. Check whether your institution accepts the specific PTE test version you plan to take.
Official information: PTE Academic.
Duolingo English Test (DET)
DET is another English proficiency option accepted by participating institutions. Acceptance varies by university, program, and sometimes application pathway.
Official information: Duolingo English Test.
These tests serve a similar broad purpose, but their formats, scores, availability, and institutional acceptance differ. The University of Michigan, for instance, publishes specific accepted English tests and score requirements for international applicants.
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo
Students often compare English exams based on acceptance, test format, preparation needs, and cost. Use this comparison to narrow down your choices, but verify acceptance with each university before paying a registration fee.
| Factor | IELTS Academic | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Academic English | Academic English | Academic English | English proficiency |
| Test format | Computer or paper options, depending on availability | Computer-based | Computer-based | Online format |
| Skills assessed | Listening, reading, writing, speaking | Reading, listening, speaking, writing | Listening, reading, speaking, writing | Reading, writing, listening, speaking |
| Acceptance | Many international institutions | Many international institutions | Participating institutions | Participating institutions |
| Best next step | Check the university’s required IELTS version and bands | Check the current TOEFL scoring scale and minimum score | Confirm the accepted test version and score | Confirm DET acceptance and score requirements |
The table is intended as a practical comparison, not a claim that the tests are interchangeable. The minimum score and test format accepted by a particular institution take priority over general popularity.
Can you study abroad without IELTS?
Yes, it is possible at some universities, but studying abroad without IELTS does not mean that every English language requirement is waived.
Depending on the university and program, alternatives may include:
- TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test.
- An approved English-medium qualification or previous education.
- A university-specific language assessment.
- An English language preparation or pathway program.
The exact alternatives depend on institutional policy. For example, the University of Notre Dame describes accepted alternatives and conditions for English proficiency testing for international applicants.
Students should also distinguish university admission requirements from visa requirements. A university’s exemption does not automatically establish that a government will waive a separate language requirement.
Exams to study abroad after 12th
Students planning to study abroad after Class 12 generally apply for undergraduate degrees, foundation courses, or other postsecondary pathways. Their examination requirements depend on the country, university, course, and previous education.
For many applicants, English proficiency is the first consideration. An additional admission test may be required, recommended, optional, or unnecessary.
The following table explains which exams to investigate based on your intended study pathway.
| Study pathway | Exams to investigate | Important consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree in the USA | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DET; SAT or ACT where applicable | Standardized testing policies differ by institution and entry year. |
| Bachelor’s degree in the UK | Accepted English tests; course-specific admissions tests where applicable | Many programs assess school qualifications, subject prerequisites, and other application materials. |
| Bachelor’s degree in Canada | Accepted English tests; SAT or ACT if required by the institution | Requirements vary across universities and programs. |
| Bachelor’s degree in Australia | Accepted English tests; course-specific tests where applicable | Some degrees have additional selection or professional-entry requirements. |
| Foundation or pathway program | Accepted English test or institutional assessment | Requirements may differ from direct bachelor’s admission. |
| Medicine or dentistry | English test plus the relevant entrance assessment, where required | The assessment depends on the country and university. |
For example, the University of South Dakota lists academic qualifications, English proficiency, and its own SAT/ACT policy for international undergraduate applicants. The University of Notre Dame has also published a transition in its standardized-testing policy for the 2027–28 admission cycle. These examples demonstrate why students should check the specific entry year rather than rely on a general country-wide rule.
SAT: Scholastic Assessment Test
The SAT is a standardized test used by participating institutions to assess skills relevant to undergraduate study. It is particularly relevant to students applying to universities in the United States, although some institutions outside the USA also consider it.
The test covers Reading and Writing and Mathematics. Before preparing for the SAT, students should check:
- Whether the university requires, recommends, or accepts SAT scores.
- Whether the intended program has additional requirements.
- The application deadline and the time needed to send scores.
- Whether SAT scores are considered for scholarships or other admission decisions.
Official information: College Board SAT.
ACT: American College Testing
The ACT is another standardized admission test considered by some undergraduate institutions. It may be an alternative to the SAT where a university accepts both.
Students should compare the current test structure, available dates, score-reporting arrangements, and university policies before deciding between the two.
Official information: ACT.
What if you are applying to study medicine abroad?
Medicine has additional considerations beyond general undergraduate admission. Certain countries and institutions require a specific aptitude test, science prerequisites, interviews, or other assessments.
For Indian students, it is especially important to check the current National Medical Commission rules if the objective is to obtain a foreign medical qualification and subsequently practise in India. Do not assume that an overseas university’s admission decision alone establishes eligibility for medical practice in India.
Official starting points include the National Medical Commission and the admissions website of the intended medical school.
Entrance exams for MS abroad
Students applying for a Master of Science (MS) degree should distinguish between English language proficiency tests and graduate admission tests.
An English test may be required to establish language ability, while the GRE or another assessment may be required for a specific graduate program. Some universities or departments do not require GRE scores, so taking the exam before identifying the target programs can create unnecessary expense.
GRE: Graduate Record Examination
The GRE General Test assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. It is used by many graduate programs, although individual departments determine whether scores are required, optional, or not accepted.
GRE may be relevant to applicants targeting selected programs in fields such as engineering, sciences, analytics, public policy, and other graduate disciplines.
Before registering, confirm:
- Whether your specific MS program requires or accepts GRE scores.
- Whether your undergraduate academic background meets the prerequisites.
- Whether a subject-specific test is relevant to your chosen discipline.
- The university’s score-submission deadline.
Official information: ETS GRE.
GMAT: Graduate Management Admission Test
The GMAT is primarily associated with business-school admissions, including MBA programs and certain business-related master’s degrees.
If you are applying for an MBA or a management-focused master’s program, compare the GMAT with the GRE only after checking which tests your target schools accept. The test required by the university should guide your decision.
Official information: GMAT.
GRE vs GMAT: Which should you take?
The following comparison is useful for students deciding between a general graduate admissions test and a business-school-oriented test.
| Factor | GRE | GMAT |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Graduate admissions across participating disciplines | Business-school admissions |
| Common applicants | Selected MS, doctoral, and other graduate applicants | MBA and selected business master’s applicants |
| Assessment focus | Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing | Quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, data insights |
| Key decision | Does your target graduate program require or accept it? | Does your target business school require or accept it? |
The two exams are not universally interchangeable. ETS publishes information about GRE acceptance at business schools, but students should confirm the current policy of each school and program.
Other course-specific exams to study abroad
Beyond general admission and English language tests, some courses require additional assessments. Identifying these early is particularly important because they may have different preparation schedules, registration deadlines, or eligibility requirements.
Here are some examples of course-specific exams to investigate.
- Law: The LSAT is relevant to certain law-school admissions pathways. Other jurisdictions and programs may use different tests or admissions criteria.
- Medicine: The MCAT is used by many medical schools in the United States and Canada. Other countries and institutions may use different assessments.
- Medicine and dentistry in the UK and Australia: The UCAT is used by participating universities. Check the official test and university requirements for your intended intake.
- Specialized programs: Some architecture, engineering, design, and other courses may have subject tests, portfolios, interviews, or institutional assessments.
These examples are starting points rather than universal requirements. Always use the official admissions page of your chosen course to determine which examination applies.
Which exam should you give to study abroad based on your destination?
Choosing an exam based only on the country can be misleading because two universities in the same country may have different admissions policies. Use the table below as a starting point, then verify the requirements for your course and intended intake.
| Destination | English proficiency | Additional exams to investigate |
|---|---|---|
| USA | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or DET, as accepted | SAT/ACT for selected undergraduate programs; GRE/GMAT for selected graduate programs |
| UK | An accepted English test where required | Course-specific admissions tests; GRE/GMAT for selected programs |
| Canada | An accepted English test where required | SAT/ACT for selected undergraduate programs; GRE/GMAT for selected graduate programs |
| Australia | An accepted English test where required | Course-specific or professional-entry assessments where applicable |
| Germany | English or German proficiency, depending on the program | Subject-specific requirements or assessments where applicable |
| Ireland | An accepted English test where required | Additional tests for selected courses |
| New Zealand | An accepted English test where required | Course-specific requirements where applicable |
For students applying to German-taught programs, German language proficiency may be required instead of English proficiency. Similarly, universities in other countries may require the language in which the course is taught.
Do not interpret this table as a list of compulsory exams for every destination. The appropriate language test and any additional entrance examination must be confirmed with the institution and, separately, the relevant visa authority where applicable.
How to apply to foreign universities after taking the required exams
Knowing which exams to study abroad is only one part of the application process. Students must also coordinate test dates, academic documents, application deadlines, and any additional requirements.
A practical application sequence is outlined below.
- Choose your course and destinationDecide which degree, subject, and countries fit your academic background and goals. Shortlist universities that offer the program you want.
- Check official admission requirementsReview the admissions page for every shortlisted course. Record required exams, accepted alternatives, minimum scores, academic prerequisites, and application deadlines.
- Register for the relevant examinationsSelect the tests that your universities actually require or accept. Allow time for preparation, score reporting, and a possible retake.
- Prepare your application documentsDepending on the program, you may need school or university transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, a CV, a portfolio, or proof of finances.
- Submit applications and test scoresApply through the university’s official application portal or the relevant centralized admissions system. Follow its instructions for sending official results.
- Complete visa and enrolment requirementsAfter receiving an offer, follow the institution’s enrolment instructions and the relevant government’s student visa process. Check whether separate language or other conditions apply.
When should you take exams to study abroad?
Your examination schedule should be based on the intake, university deadlines, and the time needed to prepare. The following is an illustrative planning timeline, not a universal deadline for all countries or courses.
| Approximate stage | Recommended action |
|---|---|
| 12–18 months before enrolment | Research courses, destinations, eligibility, and admission requirements. |
| 9–12 months before enrolment | Begin preparation for required standardized tests and English proficiency exams. |
| 6–9 months before enrolment | Take the relevant tests, allowing time for retakes if needed. |
| 4–8 months before enrolment | Submit applications according to individual university deadlines. |
| After receiving an offer | Complete outstanding admission conditions, financial arrangements, and visa requirements. |
Some courses have earlier deadlines, while other institutions accept applications later. Scholarship deadlines may also differ from admission deadlines, so check each official calendar rather than relying exclusively on this example.
Common mistakes students make when choosing foreign entrance exams
Selecting the wrong test can waste time and money. Before registering, review the mistakes below to make sure your preparation is aligned with your target universities.
- Taking IELTS without checking alternatives: Your university may accept another English test or offer an exemption, subject to its rules.
- Assuming every US university requires the SAT: Standardized testing policies vary by institution and admission cycle.
- Taking the GRE for every MS program: Some graduate departments do not require or accept GRE scores.
- Confusing admission and visa requirements: A university’s admission decision does not automatically satisfy every visa condition.
- Ignoring score validity: Check the test administrator’s current score-validity policy and the university’s requirements for your intended start date.
- Preparing too late: Test availability, score reporting, retakes, and application deadlines can affect your timeline.
- Trusting outdated score requirements: Always confirm the latest information through the official university and test-provider websites.
Frequently asked questions about exams to study abroad
1. What exams are required to study abroad?
The exams required to study abroad depend on your course, destination, and university. Common options include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test for English proficiency; SAT or ACT for selected undergraduate programs; and GRE or GMAT for selected graduate and business programs.
2. Which exam should I give to study abroad after 12th?
Start by checking whether your shortlisted universities require an English proficiency test. If you plan to apply for undergraduate programs, check whether SAT or ACT scores are required, optional, or accepted. Some universities admit students based primarily on academic qualifications and other application materials.
3. What are the exams to be written to study abroad?
Common examinations include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. Course-specific exams such as LSAT, MCAT, or UCAT may apply to selected law, medical, or dental programs.
4. Which exam should I give to study MS abroad?
For an MS abroad, you may need an English proficiency test and, for certain programs, the GRE General Test. Requirements vary by university and discipline. Check your target program before registering for either test.
5. Can I study abroad without taking an entrance exam?
Yes, some universities and programs do not require a separate standardized entrance exam. However, you must still meet academic, language, and other admission conditions. Course-specific assessments may apply.
6. Is IELTS compulsory for studying abroad?
No. IELTS is not compulsory at every foreign university. Some institutions accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, or other approved evidence of language proficiency. Some also provide exemptions under specified conditions.
7. Is the SAT compulsory for studying in the USA?
No, not at every US university. Some institutions require SAT or ACT scores, while others have test-optional or other admission policies. Requirements may change between admission cycles, so check the official policy for your intended intake.
8. Which exam is required for MBA abroad?
The GMAT and GRE are common exams to investigate for MBA admissions. Some business schools require one, accept either, or do not require a standardized test. English proficiency requirements may apply separately.
9. How many exams do I need to take to study abroad?
There is no fixed number. Depending on your university and course, you may need only one examination, an English test plus an admission test, or additional course-specific assessments. Some students qualify for exemptions.
10. How do I apply for foreign universities?
First, shortlist suitable courses and verify their admission requirements. Then prepare for any required examinations, gather academic documents, submit your application, send official scores where necessary, and complete enrolment and visa procedures.
11. Which English exam is best for studying abroad?
There is no universally best test. IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test are accepted by different sets of institutions. Choose the test that your target universities accept and that fits your preparation needs, test availability, and budget.
12. Are foreign entrance exams and student visa requirements the same?
No. University entrance exams are used for admission or selection, while visa requirements are established by the relevant government. Meeting one set of requirements does not automatically satisfy the other.
Conclusion
Choosing the right exams to study abroad starts with understanding your intended course, destination, and university requirements. English proficiency tests, undergraduate admission tests, graduate assessments, and specialized entrance exams serve different purposes, so students should avoid registering for examinations simply because they are popular.
For Indian students applying after Class 12 or planning an MS, MBA, or another postgraduate degree, the most effective approach is to shortlist universities first, verify the official requirements, and build an examination schedule around application deadlines. This helps reduce unnecessary costs and keeps your preparation focused on the tests that actually matter for your application.
Official sources and further reading
Use these official resources to confirm current examination formats, admissions policies, and requirements before applying.