Exams Required to Study Abroad for Indian Students (2025 Guide)
Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree abroad is the dream of many Indian students. However, to make this dream a reality, applicants must clear certain language proficiency tests and standardised subject-based exams as part of the admission process. The choice of exam depends on the country, course, and institution you are applying to.
This guide provides a complete overview of exams required to study abroad after 10th, 12th, or graduation, along with the exams needed for scholarships and MBA admissions.
Types of Exams Required to Study Abroad
International students generally need to appear for two categories of exams:
- Language Proficiency Tests – to prove English communication skills.
- Standardised Subject-Based Tests – to evaluate academic readiness for specific programs.
👉 Note: For university admission, both test scores may be required. However, for student visa applications, proof of language proficiency is typically mandatory.
1. Language Proficiency Exams
English proficiency is essential for admission to universities in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and across Europe. Commonly accepted tests include:
- IELTS: Widely accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe. Validity: 2 years. Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes. Fee: ₹18,000 (India).
- TOEFL: Popular for US and Canadian universities. Validity: 2 years. Duration: 116 minutes. Fee: ₹16,900 (India).
- PTE Academic: Accepted in 3,500+ universities worldwide. Computer-based, single sitting. Validity: 2 years. Fee: ₹18,000.
- Duolingo English Test (DET): Shortest (1 hour), cost-effective option (₹6,000), accepted by many US and Canadian institutions.
2. Standardized Subject-Based Entrance Exams
Your choice of course or program determines which standardized exam you need to take:
| Program / Course | Subject-Based Exams | Preferred Language Tests |
| Undergraduate (UG) | SAT / ACT (US), LNAT (UK law), LSAT (law in US/Canada), UCAT (UK medicine), USMLE (USA medicine), AP exams | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo |
| Postgraduate (PG) | GMAT (MBA, MIM), GRE (MS, humanities, sciences), LSAT (LLM), MCAT / USMLE (medicine), CFA (finance) | TOEFL (US, Canada), IELTS / PTE (UK, Australia, NZ), CELPIP (Canada), CAE/CPE (UK) |
Exams for Scholarships Abroad
Scoring well in competitive international exams not only boosts admission chances but can also qualify students for scholarships and financial aid. Popular exams include:
- GRE
- GMAT
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE
- SAT
- ACT
MBA-Specific Exam Requirements
If you’re targeting an MBA abroad, you may need:
| Exam | Purpose | Preferred Countries |
| GMAT | Primary exam for MBA | USA, Europe, Asia |
| GRE | Alternative to GMAT in many B-Schools | Global |
| IELTS / TOEFL / PTE | English proficiency | Global |
Exams After 12th for Studying Abroad
Students finishing Class 12 can take:
- SAT or ACT for US colleges.
- IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo for language proficiency.
- GRE / GMAT if targeting higher-level direct-entry pathways.
Exams After 10th for Studying Abroad
Though it is generally recommended to apply after completing Class 12, students can pursue foundation or pathway programs abroad after Class 10.
Required exams may include:
- English Proficiency Tests – IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo.
- Academic Tests – SSAT, Pre-ACT, PSAT, or IGCSE (UK-style curriculum).
👉 Many universities also require students below 18 to be accompanied by a guardian.
✅ Key Takeaways
- Most universities require one language exam + one standardised test depending on your course.
- Performance in these exams can unlock scholarships and financial aid.
- Plan early (preferably during Class 11) to allow enough time for preparation.
- Always check specific university and country requirements before registering.
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