Globalization and the growing aspiration for international exposure have significantly boosted the trend of pursuing higher education abroad. As students aim for top universities in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe, clearing a recognized study abroad entrance exam becomes crucial. Whether it's proving English language proficiency or demonstrating analytical skills for postgraduate programs, several standardized tests open the doors to international education. In this blog, we break down the top 5 entrance exams for studying abroad in 2025, covering updated fees, formats, conducting bodies, and key tips.
The IELTS exam is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests across the globe. Whether you’re applying to study, work, or migrate, countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand prefer IELTS scores for admissions and visa processing.
The exam tests your English skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section evaluates different competencies relevant for academic and everyday communication.
Section |
Key Skills Tested |
Listening |
Comprehension of main ideas, factual information, speaker intent |
Reading |
Identifying main ideas, inferences, details, understanding tone |
Writing |
Organizing ideas, grammar & vocabulary usage, presenting arguments |
Speaking |
Expressing opinions, fluency, coherence, pronunciation |
Test Type |
Fee (INR) |
IELTS Academic/General (Computer or Paper) |
₹16,250 |
IELTS UKVI |
₹16,500 |
IELTS Life Skills (A1/B1) |
₹15,350 |
The PTE Academic is a fully computer-based English proficiency test recognized by governments and academic institutions worldwide. It is known for its quick results and AI-based scoring system.
Section |
Duration |
Content Type |
Speaking & Writing |
54–67 mins |
Personal intro, describe image, essay writing |
Reading |
29–30 mins |
Multiple choice, re-order paragraphs, fill blanks |
Listening |
30–43 mins |
Summarize spoken text, multiple choice, dictation |
Test Type |
Fee (INR) |
PTE Academic |
₹15,900 |
PTE Academic UKVI |
₹16,500 |
PTE Home (A1/B1) |
₹13,200 |
The TOEFL Exam is another top-tier English language test that evaluates your readiness for academic life in English-speaking universities. The test is internet-based (TOEFL iBT) and accepted by over 11,000 institutions in 150+ countries.
Section |
No. of Questions |
Time Allotted |
Reading |
20 |
35 mins |
Listening |
28 |
36 mins |
Speaking |
4 Tasks |
16 mins |
Writing |
2 Tasks |
29 mins |
The GRE is a widely accepted entrance exam for postgraduate and doctoral programs, especially in the USA, Canada, and European countries. It is essential for admission into MS, MBA, JD, and PhD programs.
Section |
Questions |
Duration |
Verbal Reasoning |
27 |
41 mins |
Quantitative Reasoning |
27 |
47 mins |
Analytical Writing |
1 Essay |
30 mins |
Total Test Time |
— |
~1 hour 58 mins |
The GMAT is the preferred exam for MBA, business, and management programs. In 2023, the GMAT introduced the GMAT Focus Edition, a shorter, more targeted version with revamped sections and an optional AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment) removed.
Section |
Questions |
Time (mins) |
Quantitative Reasoning |
21 |
45 |
Verbal Reasoning |
23 |
45 |
Data Insights (New) |
20 |
45 |
Total Duration |
— |
2 hours 15 mins |
Q1. Are there any eligibility criteria for these exams?
Most exams like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL do not have specific age or qualification restrictions. However, GRE and GMAT require candidates to be at least a graduate or in the final year of their undergraduate course.
Q2. Can students under 18 years appear for these exams?
Yes, with parental consent and valid ID proof, students under 18 can take exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE.
Q3. What are the deadlines for applying in 2025?
Each exam has multiple test dates throughout the year. It is advisable to register at least 1–2 months in advance via the official website.
Q4. Can I take these exams from home?
Yes, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, GRE at Home, and some PTE variants offer remote testing options.
Q5. Where can I find preparation material for these exams?
Official websites of each test provider (ETS, IDP, Pearson, GMAC) offer free and paid study resources. Additionally, platforms like Magoosh, Kaplan, and Manhattan Prep are popular for GRE/GMAT.
Q6. Which countries accept these test scores?
Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland, and many EU nations accept these test scores as part of their university admission requirements.
Cracking a study abroad entrance exam in 2025 is the first major step toward fulfilling your global academic dreams. Each exam has a distinct structure and purpose, while IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE focus on language skills, GRE and GMAT test your analytical, quantitative, and reasoning capabilities. Research your target universities, identify their required exams, and prepare well in advance. The right test score can be your golden ticket to the world’s top institutions!