What Exams Are Required to Study Abroad? (2025 Guide)

When a student decides to study abroad, the first question that comes to his or her mind is, What exams are required to study abroad? The international universities require a student's credentials regarding academic ability and language ability, which can be categorized into a number of language proficiency tests and standardized entrance exams. Different countries, different courses in fact, different levels of study require different examinations. For example, what exams are required to study psychology abroad, he or she might have to sit for the SAT, GRE, or IELTS as a requirement for admission into such programs.

Latest Facts & News About Study Abroad Exams (2025)

To stay ahead, it's essential to know what exams are required to study abroad. Here are the latest facts and news shaping the 2025 exam landscape.

• It has grown to be widely accepted across 4000 universities all over the world. Thus, it has become a very fast growing alternative for IELTS and TOEFL. 

• With most of all international test centers making only digital versions available, even SATs have become digitalized by 2024.

• The competition is becoming fiercer with a 20% rise in student applications to Canada and Australia by international students. As a result, the top universities have been considered increasingly competitive, with higher test scores being essential for all colleges and universities.

• Multiple English language examinations have now been allowed by the UK to admit both undergraduates and postgraduates internationally; IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English are in this group. 

• GRE and GMAT forms for the year 2025 have been shortened; hence less test fatigue and better efficiency in preparation.

• Psychology now has remained among the top five subjects that foreign students would like to pursue for studies abroad. This has raised the number of specialized entrance examinations due to increased demand and the upper gain of proficiency levels of English.

• A number of universities have opened their doors to accepting online proctored examinations for language and standard tests, thereby widening access to the students in remote areas. 

• Indeed, even with specialized examinations such as MCAT and LSAT, which still must be taken by medical and law aspirants, these tests remain mandatory for many programs across the USA and Canada. 

• More and more students who are pursuing scholarships need to show satisfactory performance with standardized tests, especially for STEM and business programs. 

• Several other countries now prescribe minimum scores in their visa requirements for their recognized English proficiency test.

Also Read: IELTS Score for Germany: Work & Study Requirements

Latest Overview of International Entrance Exams for Studying Abroad

What most students query while planning for an overseas education is what entrance examination is required to study abroad?. Typically, one's destination and the level of study would dictate which international entrance examinations one is likely to undertake. Most of such tests fall into two categories like language proficiency tests and standardized academic examinations. Here is a breakdown that would help in understanding which exams are required to study abroad in 2025:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

• Duolingo English Test

• Cambridge English Qualifications

What Exams Are Required to Study Psychology Abroad? Latest Guide

Before considering the different levels at which psychology could be studied abroad, you should familiarize yourself with what exams are required to study psychology abroad. Based on the education being pursued, whether bachelor's or master's, the following are some of the entrance requirements specific to universities all over the world. There are a whole multitude of what exams are required to study psychology abroad, from standardized tests to subject-specific prerequisites, all of which can allow anyone to strategically plan.

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing): These standard evaluation tests are considered necessary for all undergraduate psychology programs in the USA and are accepted in Canada and Australia.

• IELTS/TOEFL/PTE: These are global English proficiency examinations for non-native speakers which are mandatory for every grade.

• GRE General Test: Mostly taken for a postgraduate program in psychology, especially in the USA.

• TestAS: A subject-related test mostly required to get into undergraduate studies in Germany.

• UCAS Tariff (UK): May or may not include AP scores, A levels, or IB requirements for psychology undergrad programs.

• Biology or Math Prerequisites: Some psychology programs in Europe require prior knowledge of science or statistics.

Also Read: Secure Work Permit in Canada Without IELTS: Expert's Guide

Latest Country-Wise List of Exams Required to Study Abroad

Choosing the right exam depends heavily on your target country. Below is a detailed, country-wise breakdown to help you understand what exams are required to study abroad, based on level, field, and language requirements.

1. United States

The U.S. has some of the most diverse and competitive academic institutions in the world, making it crucial to know what exams are required to study abroad for each level and field of study.

2. United Kingdom

The UK accepts a range of exams, depending on the program and institution.

3. Canada

The universities of Canada are flexible about the entrance examinations but they have stringent standards for English proficiency. Students must ensure that they check the requirements for each university individually to understand exactly what exams are required to study abroad. Here is a checklist for Canada:

• SAT / ACT: Required by some universities for undergrad programs

• TOEFL / IELTS / Duolingo: Accepted for language proficiency

• GRE / GMAT: Needed for postgraduate and MBA programs

• MCAT: Required for medical school

• LSAT: Required for law school

4. Australia 

Australia’s education system follows global standards and universities so understanding what exams are required to study abroad here is key for smooth university entry.

• IELTS, TOEFL, PTE (language proficiency)

• SAT (undergrad), GRE/GMAT (postgrad)

• UMAT (medicine), LSAT (law)

5. Europe

Europe’s exam requirements vary by country, making it crucial to research what exams are required to study abroad in your specific destination.

• IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF (for German programs)

• GRE for master's programs (especially in psychology or business)

• Subject-specific entrance exams like TestAS in Germany

Latest Types of Exams: Language Proficiency vs. Standardized Tests

For students to gain admission into an international university, there are two major types of tests that they must be concerned with: language proficiency tests and standardized academic tests. Each plays a different role depending on the chosen country, program level, and field of choice.

Language Proficiency Exams

If you are one of those wondering what tests are required for the study abroad programs for a non-native English-language speaker, then what exams are required to study abroad. Proof of English proficiency is required for most schools around the world, and hence knowing what exams are required to study abroad is imperative to their admission and visa approval.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

• Duolingo English Test

• Cambridge English Qualifications

Standardized Academic Exams

Standardized academic tests are those for undergraduate/postgraduate programs and professional training abroad. They are additional tests taken along with language proficiency tests and will differ according to courses and countries. Here is a brief comparative account of the standard exams that one would have to take:

Also Read: Australia's Bold Step towards IELTS-Free Enrollment

What Exams Are Required to Study Psychology Abroad? In 2025

It is indeed fulfilling to pursue a psychology course abroad, but the what exams are required to study abroad? From English proficiency tests to entrance examinations required for entry into academia, the requirements differ depending on the country and the degree level one is targeting. Whether a B.A., B.Sc., or program, an awareness of what exams are required to study abroad is helpful in preparing and qualifying confidently.

Undergraduate Psychology Admissions

Before making any applications, one must know what exams are required to study abroad for an undergraduate degree in psychology. Most universities ask for an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL and standardized tests SAT or ACT.

• High school diploma with a strong academic record

• IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test

• SAT ACT (depends on country/university)

• Relevant subject grades (math, biology, psychology)

• Subject-specific entrance tests by country (e.g., UCAT in the UK for neuroscience-related tracks)

Postgraduate Psychology Admissions

Postgraduate psychology programs abroad usually require a firm academic standing, an English language proficiency certificate, and sometimes the GRE. Knowing what exams are required to study abroad, and meeting the academic and country-specific requirements.

1. Bachelor's degree in psychology or any related field

2. IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic for English proficiency

3. GRE General Test (most preferred in the USA)

4. GRE Psychology Subject Test (as required by selected programs)

5. Statement of Purpose, academic references, CV/resume

Latest How to Choose the Right Exam for Your Study Abroad Destination

The right tests to take may rightly be established by determining what exams are required to study abroad, for your desired course and partner foreign university. Given the numerous options, the right one guarantees full preparation for admission, scholarship, and visa eligibility.

Step 1: Identify Your Destination Country

Different countries have different preferred tests. For instance, in the USA, SAT, GRE, or GMAT are mostly required; Germany may require TestAS and language skills. Make investigations into what exams are needed to study abroad in your country of choice, and only then register for them.

Step 2: Check Program Requirements

Tests expected of you could be different for an undergraduate compared to a postgraduate course. For instance, a psychology major may require the GRE Psychology while an MBA applicant might need the GMAT. A good knowledge of what tests to study for abroad in your specific field would greatly help you to avoid unnecessary ones.

Step 3: Do Research on Testing Requirements for Each University

Certain universities may be test-optional, while some may consider a wider variety of testing such as the Duolingo English Test. Therefore, always check the official admission page of each university from which you want to seek admission under which you will be required to study abroad.

Step 4: Choose Exams to Leverage Your Strengths

Choose the exam format according to your strategy of test-taking. For example, if you are more comfortable with a computer-based format, TOEFL and Duolingo will suit you better than IELTS.

Also Read: Everything About IELTS Learning & Exam Is Right Here!

Exam Preparation Expert Tips and Resources in 2025

Here are some useful and important tips as well as resources to get you started, no matter what exams are required to study abroad with your goals.

• Timeline: Start setting timelines, 3 - 6 months before writing those important exams that apply to your going abroad for the program you have in mind.

• Know the Structure: Each test is different whether it is the IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or SAT; learn their shape.

• Practice Under Real Conditions: Use full-length mock tests and simulations to get good and better at managing time.

• Practice on a Weak Point: Spend extra time improving your lowest-scoring sections after the diagnostic test.

Latest Common Mistakes to Avoid When Registering for Study Abroad Exams

These would not only waste your time but also compromise on your opportunities. By being alert and organized, you would be able to avert such mistakes, such as not booking too late, or in the wrong test. What exams are required to study abroad? This test is required in some programs but not in others.  

• Some tests, SATs, GREs, and IELTS, have limited testing slots, and the deadlines set by some organizations are incredibly early. If you miss their deadlines, what exams are required to study abroad?

• The first difference to double-check for your option would be whether it is valid in your own country and whether that exam is taken in a computer-based or paper-based mode.

• Filling in the wrong data or not completing the documentation can create a delay or even cancellation of the exam slot.

• Keep track of which scores the colleges expect. Find out the minimum ones, do not ignore that. What exams are required to study abroad, Setting your score targets is important too.

Also Read: IELTS Band Score Table: New Academic & Listening Guide

Conclusion

Choosing the right test starts with knowing what exams are required to study abroad and preparing early based on your country, course, and university goals. Whether you're applying for a general degree or wondering what exams are required to study psychology abroad, staying informed helps you avoid delays and maximize opportunities. Plan ahead, use official resources, and take the next step toward your global education journey. Contact TerraTern for more information about exams to study abroad.