If you are considering studying abroad, you need to prepare for competitive exams that are essential for getting admission to the world's top universities and colleges. Beyond the academic aspect, studying abroad offers students better job prospects. Your chances of getting scholarships and financial aid will be higher if you perform well on these exams.
Essential entrance examinations:
TOEFL and IELTS
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are among the most widely taken exams worldwide to demonstrate proficiency in English. TOEFL scores are accepted by a broad range of universities and colleges, including the top 100 institutions in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. IELTS is a mandatory exam for individuals from India and other non-native English-speaking countries, particularly in Commonwealth nations, seeking admission to prestigious overseas universities and colleges. It is also occasionally required for immigration purposes. TOEFL exams are available year-round, usually on weekends, while IELTS, administered by the British Council, is offered at 71 centers across the country, with testing available more than four times each month.
GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) stands as a widely recognized examination, particularly favored by Indian students seeking admission to universities in the United States or Canada. The test evaluates candidates' proficiency in verbal, mathematical, and general analytical skills, although its format has experienced notable modifications throughout its history. The GRE is crucial for numerous graduate programs, particularly in fields such as engineering and the sciences, across the United States.
GMAT
Management students are required to qualify the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for getting admission to top business schools like Harvard Business School, Stanford. GMAT scores tend to fall within the 570-580 range. However, for those aspiring to secure spots in renowned institutions, achieving a minimum score of 700 is often considered essential.
The GMAT offers admission opportunities for over 7,000 programs available at 2,300+ business schools across 110 plus countries.
SAT
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is a crucial requirement for admission to certain universities in the United States. It comprises two primary components: the Reasoning Test, which assesses a candidate's general writing skills and grammar proficiency, and the Subject Test, which evaluates a candidate's knowledge in their chosen subject area. The administration, development, and ownership of the SAT are overseen by the College Board, an organization based in the United States.
Within the United States, the SAT is taken seven times each year, falling on the first Saturdays of October, November, December, January, March, May, and June. These testing dates are generally followed by most other countries as well.
MCAT
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is significant for aspiring medical students seeking admission in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean Islands. Administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), this computer-based test is an essential step for individuals aspiring to pursue an MD degree in these countries. The MCAT scores remain valid for a period of up to three years.
LSAT
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is mandatory for individuals aspiring to pursue a legal career in the United States, Australia, or Canada. The LSAT is conducted twice a year in the months of January and June.