How to Choose the Right Entrance Exam for Study Abroad ?

Studying abroad is a dream for many Indian students, but it often requires a critical step: passing the right entrance exams. Just like you need a ticket to board a flight, these exams are your entry pass into foreign universities. Whether it’s to prove your English language skills or to showcase your academic excellence, entrance exams play a big role in your journey overseas. 

Studying abroad has become more than just a trend for Indian students—it’s a dream backed by ambition, effort, and careful planning. One of the most important steps in this journey is clearing the required entrance exams. Think of them as the gatekeepers to global education. Whether you’re eyeing the USA, Canada, Australia, or Germany, universities want to make sure you’re prepared academically and linguistically. These exams, which are required for Indian students to study abroad, assess your English skills, reasoning ability, or subject knowledge, depending on your chosen country and course. 

Do not panic, though; this book will explain all of the important tests for Indian students studying abroad, how to get ready for them, and what each test means for your path to an international education. Let’s dive in! 

Why Entrance Exams Matter to Study Abroad

Entrance exams are your academic passport. Universities abroad use these scores to judge whether you can handle the language, curriculum, and pressure of studying in a foreign country. Good scores can even get you scholarships or better visa prospects. So yes, they matter—a lot! Language exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo help institutions judge whether you’ll be able to study and communicate effectively in English. On the other hand, academic exams such as the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT assess your aptitude for university-level education. 

Types of Exams You May Need to Take 

Generally, entrance exams fall into two main categories: 

English Language Proficiency Tests: To prove you can study in English-speaking countries. 

Standardized Academic Tests: To assess your subject knowledge, reasoning, or aptitude (depending on the course). 

Let’s break these down. 

1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System

One of the most widely accepted English tests is IELTS (International English Language Testing System). It is preferred by universities in countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada. IELTS tests you on four areas—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and scores you on a 9-band scale. What makes IELTS Exam particularly popular is its structured format and in-person speaking section, which many students find closer to real-life interactions. 

The most common English language exam taken by Indian students traveling to nations like the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand is the IELTS. 

• Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking 

• Score Range: 0–9 band 

• Validity: 2 years 

• Best For: UK, Australia, Canada 

Why choose IELTS? It’s accepted by over 11,000 institutions and is widely trusted. The speaking test is done face-to-face, which mimics real-world situations better. 

2. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

The CELPIP(Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is an English language test designed specifically for people looking to live, work, or study in Canada. Accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency, citizenship applications, and some professional designations, CELPIP is a solid alternative to IELTS for those targeting Canadian institutions or immigration pathways. 

What makes CELPIP unique is that it’s entirely computer-delivered, including the speaking section, which is recorded rather than conducted face-to-face. This often feels less stressful for test-takers who get nervous during in-person interviews.  

Currently, CELPIP is available in two versions: CELPIP-General (used for PR and employment purposes) and CELPIP-General LS (used for Canadian citizenship applications, focusing only on Listening and Speaking). While CELPIP centers are still limited in India compared to IELTS, it’s increasingly gaining traction due to its Canada-specific focus, faster results (typically within 4–5 business days), and user-friendly format. 

• Sections Covered: Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening 

• Score System: 1 to 12 

• Validity: 2 Years 
• Best For: Canada PR and Citizenship 

3. PTE – Pearson Test of English

Another solid option is PTE (Pearson Test of English). This exam is becoming increasingly popular, especially for students applying to Australia, New Zealand, and some UK universities. It is fast, fully computer-based, and frequently yields findings in as little as 48 hours. If you’re short on time or prefer quick feedback, PTE could be your go-to. 

PTE is another English language test that’s gaining popularity for its fast results. 

• Sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening 

• Score Range: 10–90 

• Validity: 2 years 

• Best For: Australia, New Zealand, UK 

Why do students like PTE? It’s computer-based, and results come in within 48 hours—perfect if you’re running short on time. 

4. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language

If you are planning to study in the USA or Canada, the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) might be a better choice. It is accepted by more than 11,000 institutions and is entirely computer-based. It also evaluates your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, but all via a computer, which can be a more comfortable option for introverted students. 

TOEFL is popular among students planning to study in the USA and Canada. 

• Format: Internet-based (TOEFL iBT) 

• Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing 

• Score Range: 0–120 

• Validity: 2 years 

• Best For: USA, Canada 

Pro tip: TOEFL is entirely computer-based, including speaking, so if you’re camera-shy, this might suit you better than IELTS. 

5. GRE – Graduate Record Examination

Beyond English proficiency, you may also need to prove your academic ability. GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is one such test. It’s primarily required for master’s or Ph.D. programs, especially in science, engineering, or business fields. The GRE tests your analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills. If you’re applying for a master’s in the US or Germany, GRE is often mandatory. 

GRE is essential for master’s and Ph.D. programs, especially in STEM and business fields. 

• Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing 

• Score Range: 260–340 

• Validity: 5 years 

• Best For: USA, Germany 

Analogy time: Think of the GRE as your academic “fitness test” for graduate school—it tests your stamina in logic and reasoning. 

6. GMAT – Graduate Management Admission Test

For those targeting MBA programs, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is the standard entrance exam. It assesses verbal reasoning, integrative reasoning, quantitative abilities, and analytical writing. A good GMAT score can significantly improve your chances of getting into top business schools across the globe. 

The GMAT is required for MBA and business programs. 

• Sections: Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, Analytical Writing 

• Score Range: 200–800 

• Validity: 5 years 

• Best For: USA, UK, Canada (for MBA) 

Why take GMAT? It’s the golden standard for business schools. A high score boosts your chances of getting into top B-schools. 

7. SAT – Scholastic Assessment Test

Planning to study for an undergraduate degree in the USA? You’ll likely need to take the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing). Both are designed to evaluate a student’s readiness for college-level education. SAT focuses on math, reading, and writing, while ACT includes a science section as well. Depending on the university, you may choose one over the other. 

SAT is mostly for undergraduate programs in the US and some parts of Canada and Europe. 

• Sections: Reading, Writing & Language, Math 

• Score Range: 400–1600 

• Best For: USA (Undergraduate Studies) 

• Pro tip: SAT is often paired with scholarships. A strong score can ease your tuition burden! 

8. ACT – American College Testing

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized exam primarily used for undergraduate admissions in the United States and is also accepted by some universities in Canada and other countries. It is designed to assess a student’s academic readiness for college and evaluates four core areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional Writing (Essay) section, which some universities may require. The test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with each of the four mandatory sections receiving individual scores that are then averaged to generate a composite score. 

An alternative to the SAT, the ACT is also for undergrad admissions in the US. 

• Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and optional Writing 

• Score Range: 1–36 

• Best For: USA 

What’s the difference from SAT? ACT includes a science section and moves at a slightly faster pace. 

Language Proficiency vs. Academic Proficiency Exams

language proficiency exams and academic proficiency exams—each designed to assess very different skill sets. Language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo English Test are all about proving that you can understand, speak, read, and write in English well enough to thrive in an English-speaking classroom. Think of them as your “passport” to communication in a foreign country. On the other hand, academic proficiency exams like the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT go deeper—they measure your ability to handle university-level coursework, reason critically, and apply logic, math, or verbal skills to solve complex problems. These are more like a “fitness test” for your brain, showing universities you’re ready for the academic challenge ahead. Some universities may require one, both, or neither, depending on the course and country.  

To clarify: 

• Language Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo 

• Academic Exams: GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT 

Tip: Some universities may require both—so always check the course-specific guidelines. 

Country-Wise Exam Requirements 

Here’s a snapshot: 

• USA: TOEFL/IELTS + SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT 

• UK: IELTS/PTE + sometimes GMAT (for MBA) 

• Canada: IELTS/TOEFL + SAT/GRE/GMAT (as per course) 

• Australia: IELTS/PTE + GMAT (for MBA) 

• Germany: IELTS + GRE (for STEM) 

• New Zealand: IELTS/PTE 

Research Tip: University websites always list the accepted exams and score requirements. 

Tips to Prepare for Entrance Exams 

Preparing for these exams can seem overwhelming, but with a strategic approach, it becomes manageable. First, start early. Give yourself at least 3-6 months for test prep, especially for GRE or GMAT. Use mock tests and online resources to understand the exam format. Focus on weak areas rather than only polishing your strengths. For language tests, practice speaking and listening through daily activities like watching English movies or podcasts. If needed, consider joining a coaching institute for expert guidance, especially for the more complex exams like GRE or GMAT. 

• Start Early – Preparation takes time, especially for GRE and GMAT. 

• Mock Tests – Practice under timed conditions to simulate the real exam. 

• Use Free Resources – Many platforms offer free practice papers and tutorials. 

• Join Prep Classes – Especially helpful for GRE/GMAT. 

• Focus on Weak Areas – Work on your low-scoring sections, not just your strengths.

Conclusion, 

Exams may seem like roadblocks, but they’re stepping stones to your global dreams. Once you understand which exams to take and how to prepare, the process becomes less intimidating. Once you’re aware of which exam is needed for your course and country, the path becomes much clearer. Remember, thousands of Indian students successfully clear these exams each year. With the right preparation and mindset, you can too. Remember, you’re not alone—lakhs of Indian students clear these tests every year and go on to succeed globally.