Exams to Study Abroad 2026: The Complete Guide for Indian Students

Tackling the required entrance and English language exams is often the single biggest source of anxiety for Indian students planning a global education. With competition for top international universities increasing each year, successfully navigating this test landscape is non-negotiable. A critical mistake we observe is students misaligning their exam choice with visa requirements (e.g., a test accepted by the university but not for a UK visa) , which can force a difficult deferral of their intake. Simply put, securing both admission and your student visa absolutely requires clearing the mandated English Language Proficiency Tests (ELPTs) and the relevant Standardized Entrance Exams. 

This ultimate 2026-verified guide, provides a systematic, country-specific roadmap detailing every exam, its cost, validity, and which academic program requires it to ensure your application is seamless.

The Two Types of Exams to Study Abroad

The entrance exams required for foreign studies are categorically divided based on their function. Nearly every international applicant must clear exams from both groups:

1. English Language Proficiency Tests (ELPTs): These are compulsory for non-native English speakers applying to institutions in English-speaking countries like the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Examples include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo.
2. Standardized Entrance Exams: These are program-specific tests used to evaluate your academic and critical thinking abilities, such as quantitative reasoning, verbal ability, and logical analysis. Examples include the SAT, GRE, and GMAT.

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Your required exams depend entirely on your academic level (UG, Master’s, or PhD) and your intended country.

English Language Proficiency Tests (ELPTs)

For an Indian student whose mother tongue is not English, demonstrating proficiency is a universal requirement for admission to major global destinations.

1. IELTS: The Universal Test

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) remains the most universally preferred and accepted English exam, used by over 11,500 organizations worldwide.

• Modules: It has two main modules: IELTS Academic (required for higher education) and IELTS General Training (required for work or immigration purposes).
• Validity: The scores are valid for 2 years post-result declaration.
• Format: It evaluates four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
• Minimum Score: Most top universities require an overall band score above 6.0 to 6.5 to be eligible.
• Cost & Duration: The current cost is approximately ₹16,250 with a duration of 2 hours 45 minutes.
• Key Advantage: IELTS is the globally recognized choice, often covering both university admission and immigration needs across several destinations.

2. TOEFL: Preferred for the USA

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) measures the English language knowledge and proficiency of non-native speakers.

• Acceptance: Colleges and universities from Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States accept TOEFL scores. American educational institutions, however, tend to favor TOEFL over IELTS.
• Format: It is typically taken as the internet-based test (iBT).
• Minimum Score: A minimum score of 90–100 is preferred by most universities.
• Cost & Duration: The cost is approximately ₹16,900 with a duration of about 3 hours.

3. PTE and Duolingo: Alternatives for Quick Results

Note: When choosing between ELPTs, recognize that university admission criteria and visa requirements are not always the same. For instance, while Duolingo is accepted by many universities, the UK only accepts SELT-listed tests like IELTS UKVI or PTE UKVI for immigration.

Standardized Entrance Exams: Your Academic Ability Check

These foreign exams in India are mandatory for students pursuing competitive programs, as they evaluate problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical skills.

1. Undergraduate Exams (After 12th)

If you are applying for an undergraduate (UG) course abroad after your 12th grade, particularly to the US, you will typically need one of the following:

Note: While SAT and ACT remain common, many North American universities have adopted a test-optional admission policy for undergraduate applicants.

2. Postgraduate Exams (Master’s, MBA, & PhD)

These are the most common exams for abroad studies after graduation:

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

• Primary Focus: Essential for students pursuing an MS (Master of Science) or PhD. It is still widely expected for US STEM programs.
• Acceptance: Highly popular in the United States of America, Canada, and thousands of business schools globally.
• GRE Changes: The exam now lasts 1 hour 58 minutes after the 2023 restructuring.
• Validity: 5 Years.
• Cost (INR Approx.): ₹22,550 (approx).

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

• Primary Focus: Specifically designed and mandatory for students who desire to get an MBA degree abroad.
• Acceptance: A mandatory admission test for over 21,000 universities and colleges in over 114 countries.
• The GMAT Focus Edition: This is the current version, replacing the classic GMAT in 2024. It lasts 2 hours 15 minutes.
• Target Score: Aspirants need to score over 570 to secure admission to top international universities.
• Cost (INR Approx.): ₹24,600 (approx).

GRE vs. GMAT: If you are applying for an MBA program and either test is accepted, the GRE is generally considered easier on the quantitative section, and you are allowed to use a calculator. GMAT remains the standard for top-tier business schools globally.

3. Specialized Professional Exams

These are specific international competitive exams for certain fields:

• LSAT (Law School Admission Test): Mandatory for pursuing a Master’s degree in Law from universities in the USA, Canada, and Australia.
• Note: In the UK, the LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law) is generally required.
• MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): Taken to get admission to Medical Courses in the USA, Canada, and 18 other countries.
• Note: In the UK, the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is often substituted.

Comprehensive Exam Mapping: By Country and Level

As a student, you are looking for clarity. The table below outlines the most common exams required to study abroad based on your destination and academic intent:

Note: For students aiming for the UK, you must take an English test from the SELT-listed tests (Secure English Language Tests) to satisfy visa requirements. For Australia, while DET is limited, IELTS/PTE are the safest for immigration.

Leveraging Exam Scores for Scholarships

For Indian students, securing a scholarship is key to managing the financial outlay of studying abroad. High scores on your abroad entrance exam can significantly improve your chances as scores are frequently used as a parameter for scholarship applications.

Entrance Exam Scholarships

Note: Always verify the minimum score requirements and other eligibility criteria directly with the scholarship provider and the university, as they vary widely.

Planning and Preparation: Your Roadmap to Success

As a student, the final, most critical step is timely and effective preparation for your exams to go abroad.

1. Start Early: Plan to take your ELPT (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) at least 6-9 months before your university application deadline, allowing buffer time in case you need to retake the test.
2. Focus on Core Skills: Entrance exams evaluate problem-solving, critical thinking, and writing skills. Regular practice is key.
3. Use Official Resources: Rely on credible, official resources for preparation. You can collect materials from the official websites of the testing agencies.
4. Practice Tests: Attending regular practice and mock tests is highly recommended to build stamina and score confidence.

Conclusion:

Successfully navigating the exams to study abroad is the foundational step to your international application. By internalizing the two-tiered requirement an English proficiency test and a standardized test and identifying the specific needs of your target country, you gain a significant competitive edge. Your timely preparation and correct exam selection are non-negotiable for a smooth 2026 intake.

Ready to start your exam preparation for the GMAT, GRE, or IELTS? LeapScholar team of professional expert counselors offers personalized test prep, visa guidance, and university shortlisting tailored specifically for Indian students. Click here to connect with us, verify your exact exam requirements, and take the first leap toward your international education!

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