Studying abroad is a dream for many Indian students who seek world-class education, cultural exposure and global career opportunities.
However, before you begin this journey, it’s important to understand the entrance exams required to study abroad. These tests assess your academic ability, language proficiency and readiness to succeed in international programs.
This guide covers the most important entrance exams for studying abroad after the 12th or graduation including eligibility, duration and purpose – to help you plan your study abroad journey in 2025–26.
Why Are Entrance Exams Important for Studying Abroad?
Entrance exams are a key part of university admissions abroad.
They help universities assess:
- Academic skills (quantitative, verbal, analytical)
- English language proficiency
- Readiness for graduate or undergraduate studies
A strong score increases your chances of getting into top universities in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany and New Zealand; and may even make you eligible for scholarships.
List of Major Entrance Exams to Study Abroad (2024–25)
Below are the most common international entrance exams that Indian students take to apply for undergraduate or postgraduate programs abroad.
| Exam Name | Full Form | Duration | Purpose / Level |
| GRE | Graduate Record Examination | 3 hrs 45 mins | For Master’s & PhD programs (esp. in USA, Canada, Europe) |
| GMAT | Graduate Management Admission Test | 3 hrs 7 mins | For MBA and management programs |
| SAT | Scholastic Aptitude Test | 3 hrs (+ optional essay) | For undergraduate admission abroad |
| ACT | American College Testing | 2 hrs 55 mins | Alternative to SAT for undergraduate admission |
| LSAT | Law School Admission Test | 3 hrs 30 mins | Required for admission to law programs abroad |
| MCAT | Medical College Admission Test | 7 hrs 30 mins | For medical school admission (mainly in USA, Canada) |
| IELTS | International English Language Testing System | 2 hrs 45 mins | Tests English proficiency for study/work abroad |
| TOEFL | Test of English as a Foreign Language | 3 hrs | English proficiency for academic programs |
| PTE | Pearson Test of English | 2 hrs | English language assessment for study abroad |
Most universities require both an academic exam (like GRE or GMAT) and an *English proficiency test (like IELTS or TOEFL).
Entrance Exams to Study Abroad After 12th
For Indian students planning to go abroad after completing Class 12, here are the key exams to consider:
- SAT – For undergraduate admissions in USA, Canada, and some European universities.
- ACT – Alternative to SAT, accepted widely in North America.
- IELTS / TOEFL / PTE – Required for English proficiency.
- Subject-Specific Tests – Depending on your chosen course (eg- Engineering, Design, Law, Medicine).
Example: Students applying to medical or law programs abroad may also need to take UCAT (UK) or LSAT (USA/Canada).
Entrance Exams After Engineering (for Master’s Abroad)
Many Indian engineers aspire to study abroad for their master’s or PhD. Here are the most relevant exams:
| Exam | Purpose |
| GRE | Required for MS, MEng, and PhD programs in technical and scientific fields |
| GMAT | For MBA or management programs after engineering |
| TOEFL / IELTS | Mandatory English proficiency tests |
| Subject-Specific GRE | For specialized programs in Physics, Math, or Computer Science |
Example: If you want to pursue an MS in the USA, you’ll typically need to take GRE + IELTS/TOEFL.
Entrance Exams for MS Abroad (for Indian Students)
If you are applying for a Master of Science (MS) program abroad, universities will evaluate your technical and language proficiency through:
- GRE (General and Subject Tests)
- TOEFL or IELTS
- GMAT (for business-related MS programs)
- Departmental tests or interviews (if required by specific universities)
GRE and TOEFL scores are accepted by most top universities in the USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.
Entrance Exams by Country
| Country | Common Exams Required |
| USA | GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, MCAT, LSAT |
| UK | IELTS, UCAT, LNAT, GMAT |
| Canada | IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT |
| Australia | IELTS, PTE, GMAT |
| Germany | IELTS, TestDaF, GRE |
| New Zealand | IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT |
Tips for Preparing for Study Abroad Entrance Exams
- Start early preparation, which begins 6–9 months before the test.
- Practice with mock tests and sample papers.
- Improve English reading, writing and listening skills daily.
- Take coaching or online prep classes if needed.
- Review university-specific score requirements before applying.
Conclusion
Entrance exams are the first milestone in your study abroad journey. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree after 12th or a postgraduate program after engineering, these tests open doors to top universities worldwide.
Scoring well in exams like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, or TOEFL not only boosts your admission chances but also helps you qualify for international scholarships.
So start early, plan strategically and take your first step toward studying abroad with confidence!
FAQs
1. Which exam is required to study abroad for Indian students?
The most common exams are GRE, GMAT, SAT, IELTS, and TOEFL, depending on your level of study and country.
2. Which exam should I take after 12th to study abroad?
After 12th, students usually take SAT or ACT along with an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL.
3. Which exam is needed for MS abroad?
For MS programs abroad, you’ll need to take GRE + IELTS/TOEFL. Some universities may also ask for subject-specific GRE tests.
4. What exam is required for MBA abroad?
Most global business schools require GMAT or GRE scores for MBA admission, along with English language tests.
5. Which English test is best for studying abroad?
IELTS is the most widely accepted English proficiency test, though TOEFL and PTE are also recognized globally.
6. Can I study abroad without IELTS?
Yes, some universities in countries like Germany, the UK, and Canada accept students without IELTS if they completed prior education in English or provide a medium-of-instruction certificate.
7. What is the minimum IELTS score required to study abroad?
Most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band less than 6.0.
8. Is GRE mandatory for MS in the USA?
Not always — while many top universities prefer GRE scores, some have made it optional post-2023 due to holistic admissions.
9. How long are entrance exam scores valid?
Typically:
GRE/GMAT: 5 years
IELTS/TOEFL: 2 years
SAT/ACT: 5 years10. Which exam is needed for studying medicine abroad?
For medical studies abroad, exams like MCAT (USA) or UCAT (UK) are required.
11. How can I prepare for study abroad entrance exams?
Start with online practice tests, join coaching centers, follow prep books, and improve English vocabulary and reasoning skills.
12. Which is the easiest exam to study abroad?
It depends on your goals — PTE is often considered easier for English testing, while SAT is manageable for undergraduates with good logical skills.