The number of Indian students choosing to study overseas has risen over the past few decades. Studying abroad is an enriching experience that can lead to a rewarding career, as students get exposure to new cultures and customs and build global networks.
Indian students need to take certain qualifying exams to study abroad at a university for undergraduate and postgraduate level studies. The exams may vary depending on the course of study and country. Still, suppose you plan to study overseas in the UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. In that case, you may need to take certain standardised entrance exams and English language tests to meet their entry conditions and secure admissions.
Below, learn more about the most popular qualifying exams for studying abroad as an Indian student. If you wish to apply to study at a university in the UK or Ireland, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Six Qualifying Exams to Study Abroad
English Language Exams for Studying Overseas
English language exams indicate a candidate’s skills and proficiency in English, which is required to study abroad in an English-speaking country, including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. These exams are required for all types of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, although the eligibility scores may vary depending on the course, study level, and university.
1. IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the world’s most popular English language proficiency testing exams. It is accepted by over 8,000 universities worldwide. The test is intended for non-native English speakers going abroad to study or work, and the test score is valid for two years.
- Preferred in: UK, Australia and New Zealand
- Study Level/Course: Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Certificate/Diploma, MBA, MS and Medical
2. TOEFL
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the oldest and most reliable tests. It is widely accepted by universities in over 130 countries. TOEFL scores are valid for two years, and some immigration authorities accept it for residential and work visa permits. The test, which is an MCQ-based objective test, can be taken over the internet or at a test centre. Results are available online after 10 days of taking the test.
- Preferred in: US, Canada
- Study Level/Course: Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Certificate/Diploma, MBA, MS and Medical
3. PTE
PTE—Pearson Test of English Language is a computer-based academic test for measuring a candidate's abilities to read, write, listen, and speak in English. The test originated in Australia, and proficiency levels range from 10 to 90. The test format includes MCQs, graphs, and essay writing. PTE is widely accepted in the UK, Australia, and a few colleges in the US.
- Preferred in: UK, Australia, US
- Study Level/Course: Undergraduate, Postgraduate
Learn more about PTE exams for Indian students and register for PTE Preparation Courses with SI-UK India.
Standardised Entrance Exams
Standardised entrance exams are required for studying particular courses, such as medicine, business, and law. Some standardised tests, such as the GRE and GMAT, are required for studying postgraduate courses like MS or MBA abroad.
4. GRE
GRE, or the Graduate Record Exam, is taken by students who wish to study at a graduate school in the US, the UK, or Australia, amongst other places. The tests measure a student’s ability in Math, essay writing, and reading.
5. GMAT
The Graduate Management Admission Test is mostly taken by students applying to business schools. The test shows a candidate’s aptitude and ability to study business courses at foreign universities in Canada, Australia, the UK, and the US.
6. MCAT/UKCAT
MCAT is the Medical College Admission Test for studying medicine courses at the undergraduate level in many countries, including the United States and Canada. The UKCAT is a strict and exacting clinical aptitude test required for admission to medical and dental schools in the UK. These tests include multiple-choice questions and show the candidate’s cognitive abilities, attitudes, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
Apply to Study Abroad
If you want to study overseas at top-ranked universities, contact our study abroad consultants for detailed information on the application process, entry requirements, English language exams, and student visas.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
