Exams to Study Abroad After 12th

"Your dreams take flight when preparation meets determination."

When considering higher education opportunities abroad after 12th, preparing for the right exams to study abroad after 12th can set the foundation for academic and professional success. 

These study abroad exams after 12th are the key to unlocking doors to prestigious foreign universities, competitive scholarships, and smooth visa approvals.

Importance of Entrance Exams for Studying Abroad

• Showcased Academic Readiness: Exams like the SAT and ACT evaluate a student’s ability to handle rigorous academic programs, which is a key factor for university admissions.
• Fulfilled Language Requirements: Tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE demonstrate English language proficiency, an essential requirement for admissions and visa approvals in most countries.
• Strengthened Application Profiles: High scores in entrance exams can make a student’s application stand out among thousands of international applicants.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Exceptional performance in these exams can open doors to merit-based scholarships, easing financial burdens for students and their families.
• Simplified Visa Processes: Meeting the exam score requirements of a country often streamlines the visa application process, ensuring a smoother journey for the student.

These points highlight why entrance exams play a critical role in shaping a student’s study abroad journey. In this blog, we explore the essential study abroad exams for class 12th, their significance, and how they pave the way for international education success.

Types of Entrance Exams for Studying Abroad

To begin your journey of international education, selecting the right exams to study abroad after 12th is crucial. These study abroad exams after 12th are categorized into three main types, each serving a unique purpose to meet the requirements for studying abroad:

1. English Language Proficiency Exams

These language proficiency tests for studying abroad assess your English communication skills, a critical requirement for admissions and visa approvals. The best exams to study abroad in this category include:

• IELTS: A widely accepted test for studying abroad, recognized for its academic and general modules.
• TOEFL: Preferred by international students applying to English-speaking countries for higher education.
• PTE: An AI-based test offering faster results and is accepted by universities globally.
• Duolingo English Test: A flexible and budget-friendly option for assessing English proficiency.

Read: TOEFL vs. IELTS: Which is Better for You?

2. Standardized Exams 

These tests evaluate your academic readiness, problem-solving skills, and aptitude for higher education. Popular entrance exams for studying abroad in this category include:

• SAT: Designed for international undergraduate students; measures math, reading, and writing skills.
• ACT: An alternative to the SAT, focusing on English, math, reading, science, and optional writing.
• GRE: Required for graduate programs, covering verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
• GMAT: Essential for MBA aspirants; tests integrated reasoning, verbal, and quantitative skills.

3. Subject-Specific Exams

For specialized fields, subject-specific exams for foreign universities assess your knowledge in areas like law or medicine. Key exams include:

• LSAT: Required for admission to law schools worldwide.
• MCAT: A mandatory test for medical school abroad, focusing on biological, chemical, and physical sciences.

These exams for foreign universities after 12th help you secure admission to top institutions, and scholarships, and meet education abroad eligibility criteria. Choosing the right test is critical for achieving your academic and career goals.

English Language Proficiency Exams for Study Abroad

To secure admission to top international institutions, demonstrating English proficiency is often mandatory. The best exams to study abroad after 12th in this category include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. 

These language proficiency tests for studying abroad assess your ability to communicate effectively in English, a critical requirement for admissions and visas. Below is a list of these study abroad exams after 12th to help you choose the right one.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is a globally accepted language proficiency test for studying abroad that assesses your English skills for academic and general purposes. Widely regarded as one of the best exams to study abroad after 12th, it is essential for university admissions and visa requirements in English-speaking countries. The test is conducted by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.

Key Highlights:

• Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
• Accepted Countries: UK, Canada, Australia, USA, and more.
• Exam Validity: 2 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
0-9 band scale	2 hours 45 minutes	INR 17,000

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

TOEFL is a globally recognized language proficiency test for studying abroad, specifically designed for non-native speakers applying to foreign universities. This test is widely popular among international students, especially for admissions to universities in English-speaking countries. The test is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Key Highlights:

• Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, UK, and more.
• Validity: 2 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
0-120 points	Under 2 hours (116 minutes)	INR 17,435.77

PTE (Pearson Test of English)

The PTE is a fast and reliable language proficiency test for studying abroad, designed for students aiming for quick results. It is a preferred choice for admissions to foreign universities in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. The test is conducted by Pearson PLC Group.

Key Highlights:

• Sections: Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening.
• Accepted Countries: Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA, and more.
• Validity: 2 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
10-90 scale	2 hours	INR 17000

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is an affordable and flexible alternative to traditional language proficiency tests for studying abroad. It is increasingly accepted by institutions worldwide, making it a cost-effective choice for students applying to foreign universities. The test is conducted by Duolingo.

Key Highlights:

• Sections: Adaptive: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, and more.
• Validity: 2 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
10-160 points	1 hour	INR 4,984.19

Also Read our comprehensive guide on Duolingo Exam: Syllabus, Eligibility & Requirements for  English proficiency test preparation.

Essential Standardized Exams for Studying Abroad

Securing admission to international universities often requires taking standardized tests that evaluate your academic readiness and critical thinking skills. The best exams to study abroad after 12th in this category include the SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. These exams are essential for undergraduate, graduate, and MBA programs abroad, helping you meet the eligibility criteria for your dream institution.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The SAT is a widely recognized standardized test designed for undergraduate admissions, conducted by the College Board. It is a popular choice for students seeking to demonstrate academic readiness for foreign universities. The SAT exam for studying abroad evaluates critical skills like math, reading, and writing.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Measures college readiness and critical thinking skills.
• Sections: Evidence-Based Reading, Writing & Language, Math (with and without calculator).
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, UK, and more.
• Validity: 5 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
400-1600 points	3 hours	INR 9,495 (approx.) $68 + $43

ACT (American College Testing)

The ACT The ACT, conducted by the ACT, Inc. It is a standardized test for undergraduate admissions, emphasizing analytical and critical thinking skills. It is ideal for students applying to undergraduate programs abroad, especially in the USA.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Assesses academic readiness for college.
• Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing section.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, UK, and more.
• Validity: 5 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
1-36 points	2 hours 55 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes with Writing)	INR 5528.41, with optional add-ons for Writing at INR 2,126 and Science at INR 340.

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

The GRE, conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), is a globally recognized standardized test for admissions to graduate programs. It is a key requirement for students pursuing master's or PhD programs, particularly in STEM and business fields. The GRE for graduate studies abroad assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Evaluate readiness for graduate-level education.
• Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Analytical Writing.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, and more.
• Validity: 5 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
260-340 points	3 hours 45 minutes	INR 18711.54 (approx.)

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT, conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), is a specialized test designed for admissions to MBA and business school programs. Known for its focus on business-specific skills, the GMAT for MBA abroad tests integrated reasoning, quantitative skills, and analytical writing.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Measures aptitude for business and management studies.
• Sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal.
• Accepted Countries: USA, UK, Canada, Europe, Australia, and more.
• Validity: 5 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
205-805 points	2 hours and 15 minutes	INR 22000 ( approx.)

Get tips on how to ace the GRE analytical writing section with GRE Exam Resources.

Specialized Exams for International Study Programs

For students pursuing specialized fields like law or medicine, taking subject-specific exams is a crucial step. The best exams to study abroad after 12th in this category include LSAT for law, MCAT for medical school, and AP Exams for advanced placement. These exams are designed to test your expertise in specific areas and strengthen your application for competitive programs worldwide.

LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

The LSAT is a standardized test administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) for students aspiring to join law schools. It is one of the most critical entrance exams for studying abroad, assessing critical thinking, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension skills.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Measures aptitude for law programs and legal studies.
• Sections: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and a Writing Sample.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, and some European countries.
• Validity: 5 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
120-180 points	2 hours and 20 minutes	INR 20242.48 ( approx.)

MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

The MCAT, conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), is a standardized test for students applying to medical schools. It evaluates problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural sciences, making it essential for medical school admissions abroad.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Tests readiness for medical school and healthcare programs.
• Sections: Biological and Biochemical Foundations, Chemical and Physical Foundations, Psychological and Social Foundations, Critical Analysis and Reasoning.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, and Caribbean medical schools.
• Validity: 3 years.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
118 (lowest) to 132 ( highest) with 125 as a midpoint	7 hours 30 minutes	INR 28492.57 (approx.)

AP Exams (Advanced Placement Exams)

AP Exams, conducted by the College Board, allow high school students to earn college credits by demonstrating advanced knowledge in specific subjects. These subject-specific exams for foreign universities help students enhance their applications for competitive international programs.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Tests advanced knowledge in specific subjects for college credits.
• Sections: Subject-specific questions, including multiple-choice and free-response.
• Accepted Countries: USA, Canada, UK, and some Asian countries.
• Validity: Valid indefinitely but primarily used for recent admissions.

Additional Details:

Scoring System	Duration	Cost
1-5 points	2–3 hours per exam	INR 8420.19 ( approx.)

Check out our detailed guide on how to register for the LSAT to ensure you don’t miss important deadlines.

Comparison of Exams

Choosing the right standardized test is crucial for students planning to study abroad. The below table provides a detailed comparison of the best exams to study abroad after 12th, including English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL, standardized tests like SAT and ACT, and subject-specific exams like LSAT and MCAT. 

Exam Name	Accepted For	Scoring System	Duration	Difficulty Level	Top Countries
IELTS	Academic and general purposes for English proficiency	0-9 band scale	2 hours 45 minutes	Moderate	UK, Canada, Australia, USA, and more
TOEFL	English proficiency for higher education	0-120 points	Under 2 hours	Moderate	USA, Canada, Australia, UK, and more
PTE	English proficiency for academic and migration	10-90 scale	2 hours	Moderate	Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA, and more
Duolingo English Test	English proficiency for admissions	10-160 points	1 hour	Easy to Moderate	USA, Canada, Australia, Europe
SAT	Undergraduate admissions for international students	400-1600 points	3 hours	Moderate to Difficult	USA, Canada, Australia, and more
ACT	Undergraduate programs; alternative to SAT	1-36 points	2 hours 55 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes with writing)	Moderate to Difficult	USA, Canada, Australia, and more
GRE	Graduate programs (STEM, business, etc.)	260-340 points	3 hours 45 minutes	Difficult	USA, Canada, Europe, and more
GMAT	MBA and business school programs	200-800 points	3 hours 30 minutes	Difficult	USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Europe
LSAT	Law school admissions	120-180 points	3 hours 30 minutes	Difficult	USA, Canada, Australia, and more
MCAT	Medical school admissions	472-528 points	7 hours 30 minutes	Very Difficult	USA, Canada, Australia, and Caribbean medical schools

Our Readers Also Read: GRE vs GMAT: Which One to Choose?

Exams to Study Abroad That Offer Scholarship Opportunities

The following table categorizes exams for studying abroad with scholarships, providing details on award amounts and eligibility criteria, making it easier for students to plan their international education. 

Exam	Scholarship Name	Eligibility
IELTS	Great Scholarship India	Students applying to postgraduate programs at specific UK universities
IELTS	British Council IELTS Award	High IELTS scores; enrollment in affiliated institutions
IELTS	Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Program	Students from Commonwealth nations pursuing postgraduate studies
GRE	Fulbright-Nehru Masters Scholarship	Indian students pursuing master’s programs in the USA
GRE	Inlaks Scholarship	Students applying to top universities for master’s or doctoral programs
GRE	J.N. Tata Endowment Scholarship	Indian students pursuing higher studies abroad
TOEFL	Research Grant for Graduate Students	TOEFL scores and research potential in English language education
TOEFL	Samuel J. Messick Memorial Lecture Award	Graduate students excelling in TOEFL research
TOEFL	Jacqueline Ross TOEFL Dissertation Award	PhD candidates presenting dissertations in English language learning
GMAT	Horace W. Gildan Fellowship	MBA applicants with high GMAT scores
GMAT	ESMT Diversity Scholarship	MBA candidates applying to ESMT Berlin
GMAT	GMAT Scholarship for the Amsterdam MBA	MBA applicants enrolling in the Amsterdam MBA
SAT	Actuarial Diversity Scholarship	SAT scores and academic excellence in actuarial studies
SAT	Gill Elliot Scholarship	High SAT scores and merit-based selection
SAT	Colorado Christian University Honours Scholarship	Outstanding SAT scores and enrollment at Colorado Christian University

Further, explore the upGrad blog on top merit-based scholarships for studying abroad.

Country-Wise Recommended Exams for Studying Abroad After 12th

Different countries have specific exams you need to take based on their academic requirements. The following table gives a clear country-wise list of the recommended exams for studying abroad after 12th, making it easier for you to prepare for your dream university.

Country	Recommended Exams	Purpose	Key Requirements
USA	SAT, ACT, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, MCAT	Undergraduate (SAT/ACT), Graduate (GRE/GMAT), English Language Proficiency (TOEFL), Specialized (MCAT for medical)	High scores in respective exams; English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
UK	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT	Undergraduate and Graduate Programs; English Language Proficiency	Minimum IELTS band of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 90+; GRE/GMAT for postgraduate
Canada	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, SAT, ACT, GRE	Undergraduate (SAT/ACT), Graduate (GRE), English  Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)	IELTS band of 6.5 or above; SAT/ACT for undergraduate programs
Australia	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT	Undergraduate and Postgraduate; English  Language Proficiency	IELTS band of 6.0 or higher; GRE/GMAT for postgraduate studies
Germany	TestAS, IELTS, TOEFL, GRE	Undergraduate (TestAS), Graduate (GRE), English Language Proficiency	High TestAS scores for UG; GRE for master’s; IELTS band 6.0+
France	TCF, TEF, IELTS, TOEFL, GRE	English Language Proficiency (TCF/TEF for French; IELTS/TOEFL for English), Graduate (GRE)	TCF/TEF for French programs; IELTS band 6.5 or above for English programs
New Zealand	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE	Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs; English Language Proficiency	Minimum IELTS band of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 80+

Explore the top courses to study abroad after 12th and kickstart your journey toward global education.

Tips for Preparing for Study Abroad Exams

Preparing for study abroad exams can be a smooth process if you follow these practical tips:

• Start Early: Begin your preparation at least six months before the exam date to give yourself enough time to cover all topics thoroughly.
• Take Practice Tests: Regular full-length practice tests help you understand the test format and timing, making you more comfortable on exam day.
• Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Use practice tests to pinpoint areas you excel in and those that need more attention. This ensures focused preparation.
• Work on Reading and Writing Skills: Strong reading and writing skills are essential for exams like SAT, ACT, TOEFL, and IELTS. Dedicate time to improving these areas.
• Manage Time Effectively: Learn time management strategies through practice tests to complete each section within the given time limit.
• Get Feedback: Use feedback from practice tests to refine your strategies and improve performance.

 For more detailed planning, explore our comprehensive study abroad guide.

Wrap Up!

Preparing for study abroad exams after 12th is a crucial step in achieving your dream of studying at top international universities. From mastering language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL to acing standardized exams like SAT, GRE, or GMAT, proper planning and consistent effort can make all the difference.

If you’re aspiring to pursue an MBA abroad, take the next step with upGrad’s Study Abroad Programs. Explore more about the Master of Business Administration program at the University of Sunderland with a duration of 14.5 months, this program is ideal for professionals looking to enhance their skills and gain international exposure.

Why Choose This Program?

• Flexibility: Combine the flexibility of 7.5 months of online learning at Golden Gate University, USA (Tuition: INR 4,50,000) with the invaluable global exposure of 7 months on-campus at the University of Sunderland, UK (Tuition: GBP 12,000)..
• Global Exposure: Complete the final phase on-campus in the UK, gaining valuable international experience.
• Career Advancement: Acquire skills and credentials to enhance your career prospects in global markets.

Start your global MBA journey today with upGrad – enroll now!