Study Abroad Eligibility and Documents
Eligibility
Indian youth are more inclined to studying abroad in top-ranking universities in the world, spread across the USA, UK, Australia, Europe, etc.
Aspirants need to succeed at standardized tests for either English language or subject-specific tests to qualify for universities abroad.
These tests include but are not limited to IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE, ACT, VCAT, and MCAT.
As these exams have varying structure, purpose, and difficulty levels, universities prefer one test.
Students need to pass the different test(s) to apply for international universities abroad, depending on the international study destination and chosen field of study.
About Exams
Read on to find out about the specific entrance exams for overseas education in the following sections:
English Language Proficiency Exam
General Exam
Language Test
The objective of these exams is to test the proficiency of spoken or written English and comprehension levels. These are the popular exams:
IELTS/ International English Level Testing systems
It assesses the four basic language skills of the applicants, namely, reading, listening, speaking, and writing of the test-takers. Students can use their IELTS score for scholarships, the other choice being TOEFL.
TOEFL/ Test of English as a Foreign Language
The TOEFL exam pattern is geared to test the English language proficiency of the non-native speakers against North American English as it is spoken and written for the coursework.
PTE/ Pearson Test of English
Non-native speakers can use their PTE scorecard to secure a seat in universities abroad or visa applications in English-speaking countries. The 3-hour test focuses on the everyday use of English, as applicable in daily encounters and classroom instructions.
CAEL/ Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test
CAEL exam pattern is distinct from other language tests because it tests a candidate’s understanding of English for academic pursuits with a topic-based test. Test takers attempt an integrated set of activities such as: read articles, listen to lectures, answer questions, and write a short essay – on a single topic.
General Exams
SAT/ Scholastic Aptitude Test
Aspirants seeking admission abroad after 12th in the UG courses take the SAT. It tests the problem-solving skills, writing skills, and literacy of the aspirants.
GMAT/ Graduate Management Admission test
It comprises three sections: General Reasoning, Verbal Ability, and Mathematical skills. This test is useful for students who want to study MBA abroad or other management degrees.
GRE/ Graduate Record Examination
Foreign universities accept GRE for MS or MA. Some management programs also accept GRE scores for MBA.
ACT/ American College Testing
This test assesses the written, verbal, mathematical, and scientific skills of the students applying to colleges in the USA and Canada.
LSAT/ Law School Admission Test
Aspiring lawyers take the LSAT exam for law studies. The test aims to evaluate the reading and verbal reasoning skills of the candidates.
Admission Documents for Study Abroad
Apart from qualifying for the tests mentioned above, students must submit the following documents to get into university.
Application Form
This is the most important document that includes all your personal and professional details. An application form is to be filled carefully with correct information. Always double check before submitting.
LOR or Letter of Recommendation
The Letter of Recommendation for college admission must come from the faculty of the previous institution or school of the candidate.
SOP or Statement of Purpose
Statement of purpose for college highlights the candidate’s learnings and achievements. For Management aspirants, universities ask for Admission Essays.
Academic transcripts
This is basically your academic record, similar to a consolidated mark sheet like we have in India (easily available from your respective university), which will include all courses you’ve taken with your grades, credits and degree received.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
A CV or a resume will give a comprehensive insight into your academic and professional timeline. Ensure to mention all your degrees, certificates, internships, and relevant work experience, but don’t go overboard.