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Key Entrance Tests: Your Guide to International University Admissions

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After selecting the college and course that best fit your academic and career goals, the next crucial step is to navigate the key entrance tests. Understanding these tests and their processes is essential for ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to studying abroad.

Curious about Key Entrance tests and related details? We’ve got you covered! This article will walk you through each step. First, let’s explore the types of common Entrance tests for university admissions.


English Language Tests


  1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

  2. Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL)

  3. Pearson Language Test (PTE)      

  4. Cambridge English Advanced (CAE)

  5. Cambridge English Proficiency Exam (CPE)     

  6. Duolingo English Test


Standardised Tests


  1. Graduate Management Focus Addition Admission Test ( GMAT)

  2. Graduate Record Examination ( GRE)

  3. Scholastic Aptitude Test ( SAT)

  4. Law School Admission Test ( LSAT)   


International English Language Testing System (IELTS)


Recognized by over 12,000 organizations worldwide, including educational institutions, employers, professional associations, and governments across more than 140 countries, this renowned English language proficiency test was developed by the British Council.



There are two IELTS tests to choose from:

  1. IELTS Academic - Essential for securing university admissions, student visas, and demonstrating your English proficiency to professional organizations.

  2. IELTS General Training - Evaluates your English proficiency in a professional setting, making it valuable when applying for positions in English-speaking companies or organizations. 

  3. UKVI IELTS - IELTS for UK Visa and Immigration, is specifically tailored for those applying for UK visas and immigration purposes


Test Sections: 4 sections, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Mode: Online / Offline 

Cost: INR 17,000 

Duration: 2 Hrs 25 mins 

Recognized in Countries: US, UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland 

Scale: 1 to 9

Validity: 2 years


Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL)


TOEFL is accepted by more than 11,500 universities and other organizations in over 160 countries and is conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service).


Two Types of TOEFL Exams


  1. TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based)

  2. TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based)


Test sections: 4 sections, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Mode: Online / Offline

Cost: INR 16,900

Duration: Approximately 2 hrs

Recognized in Countries: US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland

Scale: 0 to 120 points

Validity: 2 years


Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Focus Edition


GMAT, conducted by The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), assesses business aptitude by evaluating critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills essential for success in business and management. The new GMAT Focus Edition is shorter than the previous version.


Test Sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA), Integrated Reasoning (IR)

Mode: Online / Offline

Cost: Approx INR 25,000

Duration: Approximately 2 hrs 15 mins

Recognized in Countries: US, Europe, Australia, Asia

Scale: 205 to 805

Validity: 5 years


Graduate Record Examination ( GRE)


The GRE is a standardized test integral to the admissions process for numerous graduate schools. It is a crucial requirement for candidates looking to pursue graduate studies abroad (e.g., MS or MBA). This exam is owned and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Test Sections: Two Types of GRE Tests


a) GRE General Test: Assesses verbal reasoning, critical thinking, analytical writing skills, and quantitative reasoning.

b) GRE Subject Test: Evaluates domain-specific knowledge.


For most general graduate programs, the GRE General Test is typically required. However, if you're applying for a specialized program or have a strong background in a specific field, the GRE Subject Test may be more suitable.



Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) & American College Testing (ACT)


Both tests focus on admissions to undergraduate programs by assessing students' knowledge based on their high school education.


SAT Test Sections: Mathematics, Reading, and Writing

Mode: Online

Cost: Approx INR 10,000

Duration: Approximately 2 hrs 14 mins

Recognized in Countries: United States, India, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, and Australia

Scale: 400 to 1600

Validity: 5 years



ACT Test Sections: Mathematics, Reading, and Science

Mode: Online or Pencil and Paper

Cost: Approx INR 15,000

Duration: Approximately 2 hrs 55 mins

Recognized in Countries: United States, UK, Canada, Germany, Italy

Scale: 1 to 36

Validity: 5 years


Securing Admissions and Scholarships


When applying to universities, it is essential to consult the college admissions office regarding preferred entrance tests. Generally, universities recommend different tests based on the country of study, and some institutions may even have their own bespoke entrance exams. Many programs require a combination of tests; for instance, law programs often combine the LSAT with IELTS/PTE, while MBA programs may prefer a combination of IELTS/CAE/CPE/TOEFL with GRE/GMAT. Scholarships are frequently awarded based on exceptional performance in these entrance exams.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How can I study in the UK without giving IELTS?


If a student scores 70-80% or above in class 12th boards, either in ICSE or CBSE, then the IELTS exam may be waived. The criteria for an IELTS waiver change from university to university.


How can I go abroad without giving GRE/GMAT?


Only a few universities in the UK and Australia require GMAT/GRE, and the majority of programs don't require them. Some universities waive the GRE for candidates with a strong GPA, relevant work experience, or an excellent undergraduate research project.


IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo vs CAE vs CPE


You might be confused by the numerous options for English proficiency entrance tests. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a test:

  1. Relevance in the Country and course you are choosing 

  2.   Cost

  3.   Result Declaration Dates

  4.   Flexibility

  5.   Available Slots

  6.   Assessment Method and Difficulty Level


Top Exams for Studying Abroad with Scholarships


IELTS/GRE: Fulbright Nehru Master's Scholarships

TOEFL: Research Grant for Graduate Students

GMAT: Jacqueline Ross TOEFL Dissertation Award

SAT: Colorado Christian University Honours Scholarship


How to Prepare for the Entrance Test


a) Choose the University and Entrance Test- The Future Makers (TFM) helps you choose relevant universities and guides you on entrance tests best suited for your profile. Have a look at our services https://www.tfmeducationconsultants.in/services

b) Strategize- Plan your tests and schedules, take mock tests, subscribe to online courses, and take breaks, Complete the Application


How to Reschedule or Cancel an IELTS Test


Contact the test centre where you booked your test if you need to postpone or cancel. If you cancel or postpone your test more than 5 weeks before the test date, you will receive a refund minus an administration fee. If you cancel or postpone your test within 5 weeks of your test date, you will be charged the full fee unless you have a serious medical reason for needing to cancel or postpone it. If you provide a medical certificate within 5 days of your test date, you will receive a refund minus the local administrative cost.


How to Reschedule or Cancel a GRE/GMAT Test


You must reschedule your GRE no later than four days before your test date. For example, the deadline to reschedule a Friday appointment is Monday. You will be charged a fee of $50 for rescheduling your test. The test date cannot be rescheduled beyond one year of the original appointment date. If you do not reschedule your test registration as above, your entire test fee will be forfeited.


Navigating the admission process for overseas education can be challenging. Let TFM guide you!









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