Embarking on a study abroad journey in 2025? One of the most critical steps is acing the right. Phoenix GRS, your trusted partner in study abroad counselling, guides students—especially Indian students—to choose, prepare, and conquer essential tests that open doors to top global universities.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the must-take exams by academic level, country, and program, helping you understand which ones to focus on—and how Phoenix GRS can support you at every stage of your study abroad for Indian students journey.
1. The Big Picture: What Are Study Abroad Exams?
abroad exams encompass:
- English language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, which evaluate your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
- Academic entrance exams like SAT (undergraduate), GRE (graduate), GMAT (MBA), MCAT (medicine), and LSAT (law).
Universities and immigration bodies use these exams to ensure applicants can thrive academically and communicate effectively in English.
2. English Language Proficiency Exams
2.1 IELTS – International English Language Testing System
Widely accepted across the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and increasingly in the US. It has two formats: Academic (for study) and General (for immigration/work).
as two formats: Academic (for study) and General (for immigration/work).
- Duration: ~2h 45m
- Scoring: 1–9 bands
- Validity: 2 years
Why it matters: It’s a core part of both university admission and visa applications .
- Duration: ~2h 45m
2.2 TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
Highly preferred in the US and Canada, this internet-based test assesses academic English skills .
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Score Range: 0–120
Validity: 2 years
2.3 PTE Academic – Pearson Test of English
Fully computer-based, quick to score (within 48 hours), and accepted in countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada.
- Duration: ~2h 15m
- Score Range: 10–90
Validity: 2 years
3. Undergraduate Admission Exams
3.1 SAT – Scholastic Assessment Test
Primarily for undergrads entering the US, but also accepted by universities in Canada, Singapore, and the UK.
- Sections: Math, Reading & Writing
- Score Range: 400–1600
Validity: 5 years
3.2 ACT – American College Testing
Alternative to SAT; includes Science reasoning. Accepted across North America along with SAT .
- Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science
- Score Range: 1–36
Validity: 5 years
4. Graduate & Professional Exams
4.1 GRE – Graduate Record Examination
A staple for Master’s and PhD programs, and sometimes MBA admissions. Accepted worldwide .
- Sections: Verbal (130–170), Quant (130–170), Writing (0–6)
- Total Score Range: 260–340
Validity: 5 years
4.2 GMAT – Graduate Management Admission Test
An MBA-specific test accepted by leading business schools worldwide.
- Sections: Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, AWA
- Score Range: 200–800
Validity: 5 years
4.3 MCAT – Medical College Admission Test
Mandatory for medicine in the US and Canada.
4.4 LSAT – Law School Admission Test
Required by law programs in the US, Canada, and some other countries .
5. Specialized & Regional Exams
5.1 UCAT – UK Clinical Aptitude Test
For UK, Australia, and New Zealand medical courses .
5.2 NMAT – NMIMS Management Aptitude Test
Accepted by several global and Indian B-schools.
5.3 Duolingo English Test
A fast, flexible English test accepted by many universities online .
5.4 STEP – Sixth Term Examination Paper
Required for Cambridge, Warwick maths/computing applicants.
6. How to Choose the Right Exams
Choosing the correct set of study abroad exams is crucial. Consider these steps:
- Your Program Level – UG (SAT/ACT), PG (GRE/GMAT).
- Target Country – e.g., US favors TOEFL & GRE; UK/AUS prefer IELTS & GMAT/GRE.
- Your Field – Medicine ⇒ MCAT/UCAT; Law ⇒ LSAT.
- University Requirements – Some accept multiple tests (e.g., GRE or GMAT, IELTS or TOEFL).
Language Comfort – Choose between IELTS, TOEFL, PTE based on your strengths.
- Your Program Level – UG (SAT/ACT), PG (GRE/GMAT).
7. Role of Study Abroad Counselling
Phoenix GRS specializes in study abroad counselling, empowering students to:
- Select the right exams and test dates.
- Build personalized prep plans, combining coaching, mock tests, and time management strategies.
- Submit entrance or English scores timely with their applications.
- Align exam scores with target university requirements.
- Increase chances of scholarships through strong scores.
Our supportive guidance ensures you’re confident and fully prepared on exam day.
8. Why Indian Students Should Plan Exams Strategically
For Indian students, strategic exam planning is key:
- Scheduling Logic: Plan for multiple tests (e.g., IELTS + SAT or GRE + GMAT), ensuring scores arrive before application deadlines.
- Balance Academic Rigor: Choose SAT/ACT if aiming for rigorous UG programs.
- Subject-Specific Prep: GRE quantitative section requires solid math skills—especially for Indian STEM applicants.
- Visa Requirements: English exam scores are vital for visas; ensure high IELTS/TOEFL results.
- Scholarship Impact: Exceptional scores often lead to better scholarships.
Phoenix GRS’s expert study abroad counselling ensures your exam timelines and academic profile are perfectly aligned.
9. Final Thoughts & How to Get Started
To thrive in global education in 2025, mastering the right study abroad exams is essential. Here’s your action plan:
- Pinpoint your academic goals—(e.g., MBA in UK, UG in US?).
- Chart your exam roadmap with Phoenix GRS.
- Begin prep early with expert mentoring.
- Take mock tests and refine strategies.
- Submit strong scores ahead of deadlines.
- Capitalize on scholarships and visa opportunities.
With proven expertise in study abroad counselling and dedicated support for study abroad for Indian students, Phoenix GRS ensures you conquer exams and admissions with confidence.
