Studying abroad is a bold move. You will be putting yourself in an entirely new environment while trying to handle the pressures of higher education. But it's also a bold move that tends to pay off. Studying abroad can open doors to new professional opportunities, enrich you culturally and socially, and even help you learn a new language.
If you are considering getting a higher education in a foreign country, you will first need to look into the exams you need to take. We hope to get this off your to-do list: here are some of the most "popular" exams you may need to take to study abroad.
Standard tests for undergraduate admissions
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
You have probably heard of the dreaded SATs. These tests evaluate a high school student's readiness for college in the United States. You may be required to take SATs or their equivalent if you plan to apply to an American university.
The SAT consists of three main sections:
The Math section is made up of two parts. In part one, you will be able to use a calculator; in part two, you will need to do without it. The section includes questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) section includes a reading test (passages from literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences) and a writing test (which assesses grammar, vocabulary in context, and editing skills).
Then there is the Optional Essay. Here, students are required to read a passage and write an analysis of the author's argument.
How are SAT scores measured? Each section of the test is scored on a scale from 200 to 800. SAT total score ranges from 400 to 1600.
How to prepare for the SATs
There are several essential things you can do to prepare for the test.
First, use official SAT study guides and online resources from the College Board.
Second, taking full-length practice tests under the same conditions as the official SAT is always a good idea. You can find such practice tests on the College Board website.
If time and budget allow, consider taking SAT prep courses or hiring a tutor. Khan Academy can also be helpful, as it offers free practice programs in association with the College Board.
ACT (American College Testing)
Similarly to the SAT, the ACT is used to assess readiness for college in the United States. The two tests differ mainly when it comes to structure and content.
The ACT includes four sections:
The English section will test your English grammar and usage, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
The Math section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
The Reading section evaluates reading comprehension with passages from prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science.
Finally, the Science section tests interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in the natural sciences.
There is also an optional Writing test where you will need to write an essay in English on the given topic.
The ACT score ranges from 1 to 36.
How to prepare for the ACTs
Just like with the SATs, the first step is to familiarize yourself with the text structure, timing, and test-taking conditions.
Go on to use the official study guides and take practice tests. You can find lots of information and helpful resources here:
If you are looking for a more structured approach, you may find it best to enroll in anan ACT prep course or hire a tutor.
Tests for graduate admissions
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
The GRE is a standardized test required for many graduate programs in the US and other countries. It evaluates the applicant's readiness for advanced study, and many graduate institutions use it as part of their standard admissions process.
The GRE is made up of three sections:
Verbal reasoning measures the ability to analyze and evaluate written material. It includes tasks on reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence, etc.
Quantitative reasoning tests the ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information and solve problems using math. Here, you will find arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis tasks.
Finally, analytical writing measures critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It consists of two tasks: "Analyze an Issue" and "Analyze an Argument" – you will need to demonstrate that you can articulate complex ideas clearly.
The total GRE score ranges from 260 to 340 for the combined Verbal and Quantitative sections, while Analytical Writing is scored separately.
How to prepare for the GRE?
The first step in getting ready for the test is looking into the test structure, types of questions, and timing for each section. The fewer surprises you have during the actual exam, the more effectively you will be able to manage your time.
The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which offers official preparation materials. These will give you a realistic sense of what to expect.
Look into strategies for tackling different question types and managing knowledge gaps. You can find practical tips for how to guess intelligently, eliminate incorrect answers, and budgeting time.
If you need help to study for the test independently, the next step would be to enroll in an official prep course or hire a tutor.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The GMAT is the exam you will need to take if you plan to apply to a business school, particularly an MBA program. The test assesses analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in standard written English. Many international business schools use GMAT scores as a significant factor in their admissions process.
The GMAT consists of four main sections:
Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) measures your ability to think critically and communicate ideas. You are required to write an essay analyzing an argument.
Integrated Reasoning (IR) tests your ability to evaluate information that was presented in multiple formats and taken from multiple sources. Here, you will find questions on graphics interpretation, two-part analysis, table analysis, etc.
Quantitative Reasoning measures your ability to analyze data and draw conclusions using reasoning skills. It features problem-solving and data-sufficiency questions.
Verbal Reasoning evaluates the ability to read, understand, and correct written material to conform to standard written English. It includes reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction questions.
The total GMAT score ranges from 200 to 800
How to prepare for GMAT
As with most tests, the first step would be getting to know the test structure, question types, and timing for each section. This helps reduce surprises on test day and allows you to allocate your time effectively during the exam.
GMAT is administered by The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), which offers official preparation materials. Here, you will find study guides, practice tests, and more.
The most sure way to get good results on GMAT is consistent practice. As GMAT is a more specific and skill-based test, it's best to give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions – this will help you build stamina and get used to the pacing of the actual test.
Practice tests are a great way to identify your weak spots. You can then concentrate on the sections and question types you find the most difficult.
English proficiency tests
To study abroad in most countries and international institutions, you will need to present proof that you have sufficient knowledge of the English language. Different countries and universities may require different tests and certificates. But in most cases, you will need to take one of these tests:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL measures English language proficiency for non-native speakers. It is used in many countries to evaluate language ability in academic settings.
The TOEFL has four sections:
Reading includes three to four texts with questions to test your comprehension.
Listening features four to six lectures and two to three conversations with questions to evaluate your listening comprehension.
Speaking consists of six tasks where you will need to respond to various prompts.
Writing features two tasks: an integrated essay and an independent essay.
Total scores range from 0 to 120.
How to prepare for TOEFL
The best place to start would be ETS.org, the official TOEFL website. Here, you will find prep materials, information on taking the test, upcoming available dates, links to resources, and more.
You can also find the official TOEFL app in the Google Play Store and App Store. The app makes it easy to sign up for the test at the nearest location and features test tips and preparation materials.
To prepare for TOEFL, you will need to improve your skills in reading, speaking, listening, and writing in the English language. There are lots of different ways to do this: from taking an official TOEFL prep course and hiring a tutor to reading academic texts and listening to news and similar programs in English.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is another widely accepted English proficiency test. IELTS is recognized by over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including most universities.
IELTS comes in two versions:
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Academic (you will need to take this test if you are applying to higher educational establishments)
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And General Training (you will be taking this test if you are considering relocating to an English-speaking country or applying for secondary education or training program)
The test includes four sections:
The Listening section consists of four recordings of native English speakers and a series of questions based on these recordings.
The Reading section includes 40 questions. It will test your ability to understand the main idea and read for detail.
The Writing section includes two tasks: writing a short essay and responding to a situation or visual data.
The Speaking section is a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. Your ability to hold up a structured conversation in English will be evaluated here.
How to prepare for IELTS
As with the other tests we've described above, the first step is to get acquainted with the test's structure and evaluate the best timing for each section.
Next, use the official study guide available on the websites of The British Council, IDP, and Cambridge.
The more time you have to prepare and the more practice tests you take, the better results you'll likely score in IELTS.
In addition to taking the practice tests, you can focus on improving your skills in the four key skills that IELTS tests: listening, reading, writing, and speaking in English.
Once again, if you're looking for a more structured approach and have the resources, you can sign up for Eyelids or Prophetess or hire a tutor.
Other specialized tests
Parents wanting their children to be doctors and lawyers may be a running joke. But if you are exploring a career in law or medicine, you will be looking at taking additional specialized tests.
LSAT (Law School Admission Test)
If you want to work in law, you will need to take the LSAT. The test evaluates the skills you need for law school and beyond.
The LSAT is the primary test for law school admissions in the United States, Canada, and many other countries.
The LSAT is divided into several sections:
Reading Comprehension will test your ability to read complex texts. You will need to answer questions on the text, interpret, analyze, and draw inferences.
Analytical Reasoning will assess your ability to understand a structure of relationships and draw logical conclusions about that structure. You'll need to organize information and make deductions based on given rules and conditions.
Logical Reasoning is split into two sections. You'll be presented with short passages and asked to identify assumptions, strengthen or weaken arguments, and recognize logical flaws.
The scoring for the LSAT ranges from 120 to 180.
How to prepare for the LSAT
The LSAT is a complicated test, and preparation is key.
Invest in comprehensive study guides that cover all sections of the LSAT. Books by reputable authors and test prep companies come with strategies, practice questions, and detailed explanations. Guides from Kaplan, The Princeton Review, and PowerScore are the most popular.
Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions similar to the actual test. The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) offers official LSAT prep tests.
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)
If you are eyeing a career in medicine, you will need to get ready for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The test will evaluate your knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social sciences and problem-solving.
The MCAT is divided into four main sections:
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems assesses your understanding of biological and biochemical concepts. You will need to apply your knowledge of biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, and basic biochemistry.
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems will test your grasp of chemical and physical principles. You'll need knowledge of general chemistry, organic chemistry, introductory physics, and basic biochemistry.
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior evaluate your understanding of the psychological, social, and biological factors.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) - unlike the other sections, CARS tests your ability to analyze, evaluate, and apply information covering various topics. Here, you will not need specific knowledge in biology or chemistry – rather, you will need to use of critical thinking and reasoning skills.
The total possible score ranges from 472 to 528.
How to prepare for the MCAT
Start with review books and online resources covering all four MCAT sections. These trusted resources will help:
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and take practice tests. The AAMC offers official practice tests with the same format, difficulty, and timing as the actual exam.
MCAT is a test that requires extensive knowledge. Create a detailed study plan that spans several months and spend ample time preparing for each section of the test.
Other language tests required for international students
Up to this point, we've mostly been talking about studying in an English-speaking country or taking international university courses taught primarily in English. But if you are looking to study in a European country like France or Germany, you will be looking at a different set of exams.
For instance, if you plan to study in France, you will most likely need to take one of these language tests:
- TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français) evaluates your French language skills. This exam is accepted by most universities in most French-speaking countries. It is also useful for immigration and professional purposes.
- DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is an intermediate-level French proficiency test. It is not always needed for university admission. However, having a DELF certificate can definitely strengthen your application.
- DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) is an advanced diploma in French language proficiency. You will most likely need it if you plan to apply for post-graduate university programs. But, even if not, having a DALF up your sleeve is a great way to better your chances.
If you are considering studying in Germany, these are the exams to look into:
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) is widely accepted by universities across Germany. The test assesses your knowledge of academic German and is very suitable for students looking to study in Germany.
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) is another key test for those looking to study in Germany. It evaluates the applicant's ability to use German in a higher education context. This test is often administered by the universities themselves.
- Goethe-Zertifikat is not typically necessary for university admissions. However, it is a well-recognized German language proficiency test that can add points to your application.
The best practices for taking any test
Starting to prepare for an exam can seem overwhelming. Break your study materials into manageable chunks and go through them one at a time.
As you take practice tests, simulate exam conditions. Place yourself in a room without distractions, set the timer, and don't seek help online.
Make sure you know the exact structure, types of questions, and scoring of the test. This will help you focus on the most important sections (score-wise) if you run out of time.
When taking the test, read the instructions very carefully. Make sure you understand each question before answering.
Don't get stuck on complicated questions. Answer what you can first to secure quick points, then return to more challenging tasks.
If you start to feel like you are getting too stressed, take deep breaths, have a sip of water, and give yourself a few moments to calm down before returning to the test.
If time allows, review your answers to catch any mistakes or incomplete responses.
