Study Abroad Exams for Indian Students

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a global English proficiency test for non-native speakers. It is widely accepted by schools, universities, employers, and immigration authorities. 
 

Whether you are planning to study abroad, pursue a career overseas, or migrate to an English-speaking country, the IELTS exam can be your gateway to new opportunities.

What is IELTS?
 

IELTS is a standardised test that measures your English skills in everyday and academic contexts. It has four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each section has a band score of 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest. Your overall IELTS band score is calculated by averaging the scores from all four sections.
 

Purpose of Taking IELTS
 

There are many reasons why you can choose to take the IELTS exam. Some of the most common reasons include:

Studying abroad: IELTS is the most widely accepted English proficiency test for international students. If you plan to look at a university or college in an English-speaking country, you will likely need to take the IELTS to meet the admissions requirements.

Pursuing a career overseas: Many employers in English-speaking countries require their employees to have a certain level of English proficiency. IELTS can help you demonstrate your English language skills and increase your chances of getting hired.
 

Migrating to an English-speaking country: Many immigration programs require applicants to have a certain level of English proficiency. IELTS can help you meet the English language requirements for immigration purposes.
 

The table below gives an overview of the IELTS exam.

Many resources are available to help you prepare for the IELTS exam. You can prepare for IELTS with practice tests, study guides, and online courses.

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers seeking to enrol in English-speaking universities. It is recognized by numerous academic and professional institutions that use English. 

The test evaluates four key skills:

• Reading: Understanding academic texts.
• Listening: Comprehending spoken English in academic contexts.
• Speaking: Expressing oneself orally in English.
• Writing: Writing in English for academic purposes.

The primary format of the TOEFL:

• TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test): The most common version, administered online at designated test centres.

The TOEFL is widely accepted globally and is often a requirement for admission to universities and colleges in English-speaking countries.

Why Take the TOEFL Exam?

• Over 40 million people worldwide have taken the TOEFL.
• The TOEFL iBT is accepted by institutions in over 200 countries for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
• TOEFL scores clearly indicate your English proficiency, aiding universities and institutions in assessing your ability to sustain your education.
• A good score can enhance your application and help it stand out.

The table below gives an overview of the TOEFL exam.

PTE stands for Pearson Test of English. It's an English language proficiency test designed to assess the English skills of non-native speakers. PTE is often used for academic purposes, such as university admissions and for immigration or work visa applications in English-speaking countries. There are different types of PTE tests, including:

• PTE Academic: This is commonly used for academic purposes and university admissions.
• PTE General: This test assesses general English language ability and is often used for work purposes or other non-academic contexts.

PTE tests are computer-based and assess listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills. They are known for their quick results turnaround, often within a few days.

Why take the PTE?

• Most universities require English proficiency scores for admissions.
• A high PTE score can help you gain admission to a top university.
• PTE is popular due to the convenience it offers test takers.
• The fully proctored PTE Academic test can be taken from home and is available year-round.
• Additionally, PTE results are released in under 48 hours.

The table below gives an overview of the PTE exam.

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate business programs, such as MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs. The test is designed to assess analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills.

The GMAT consists of four main sections:

• Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section involves writing an essay that critiques an argument. It tests your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas.
• Integrated Reasoning (IR): This section measures your ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats from multiple sources. It includes questions on data interpretation, graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, and table analysis.
• Quantitative Reasoning (Quant): This section tests your mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. It has two types of questions: problem-solving and data sufficiency.
• Verbal Reasoning (Verbal): This section evaluates your ability to read and understand written material, evaluate arguments, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It includes reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction questions.

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), meaning the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on your performance as you progress through the test. The total score ranges from 200 to 800, with separate scores for each section. The GMAT is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).

Why take the GMAT Exam?

• The GMAT is a widely recognized entrance exam for management-related courses, including MBA programs.
• A strong GMAT score can enhance your chances of admission to prestigious business schools globally.
• Taking the GMAT will help assess your readiness for university-level education.

The table below gives an overview of the GMAT exam.

The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test used for admissions to graduate schools, particularly in the United States and Canada. It assesses skills in three main areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Measures the ability to understand and analyze written material, including reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary.
• Quantitative Reasoning: This test measures mathematical skills and understanding of basic concepts in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
• Analytical Writing: Evaluates the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively through writing. This section typically includes tasks such as analyzing an issue and analyzing an argument.

The GRE is commonly required for admissions to various graduate programs, including master's and doctoral programs, and is often used in conjunction with other application materials like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

Why take the GRE?

• GRE scores reflect your preparedness for university education.
• Many universities abroad require GRE scores for business and law programs.
• High GRE scores can significantly enhance your application for university admissions and job opportunities abroad.

The table below gives an overview of the GRE exam.

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test designed to assess your language skills. It's used by schools, universities, and other institutions to evaluate your ability to understand and use English. The test is known for its convenience because you can take it from home, and it typically takes about an hour to complete. It includes a mix of reading, writing, listening, and speaking tasks, and results are usually available within 48 hours. It’s often used as an alternative to more traditional tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.

• Duolingo English Test is widely accepted by over 5,000 universities.
• Accepted in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada.
• Assesses Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking skills.
• Similar format to IELTS and TOEFL.
• The test is completed in one hour.

Why take the Duolingo Exam?

• The test is popular for its convenience.
• Duolingo English Test is available remotely.
• DET costs USD 65 or INR 5454, making it very affordable.

The table below gives an overview of the Duolingo exam.

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It assesses a student's readiness for college and is used by colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The test evaluates skills in reading, writing, and math. It consists of:

• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: This section includes Reading and Writing & Language tests.
• Math: This section includes questions on algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis.
• Essay (optional): This section requires students to write an essay analyzing a given argument (though many colleges do not require the essay).

The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, combining the scores from the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section and the Math section. The test is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors.

Why take the SAT?

• A strong SAT score improves your application profile for prestigious universities and international scholarships.
• SAT scores indicate readiness for college-level education and are crucial for university admissions, especially abroad.
• Many global institutions, particularly for undergraduate programs, require SAT scores.
• SAT scores benchmark academic proficiency and can impact higher education and career opportunities.

The table below gives an overview of the SAT exam.