Janice Lozano
International students who wish to pursue higher education in a foreign country are often required to take standardised entrance exams. These exams vary depending on the country, university, and course of choice. For instance, students applying to universities in the United States typically need to take exams that assess their English proficiency, general knowledge, and aptitude skills. Similarly, students interested in studying in the UK or pursuing an International Baccalaureate pathway program would usually be required to take the IGCSE exams. Other widely accepted English language proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, which are recognised by universities worldwide. Furthermore, exams like the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, and MCAT are also commonly required for admissions into undergraduate and graduate programs globally. International students should carefully research the specific exam requirements for their desired country and institution to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Admission to universities and colleges |
| Applicant type | International students |
| Exam type | Language, standardised, entrance |
| Language exam examples | IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, C1 Advanced (Cambridge English Qualification), PTE |
| Standardised exam examples | SAT, ACT, GMAT, LSAT |
| Exam components | Reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, mathematics |
| Exam format | Written, multiple-choice, computerised, paper and pencil |
| Exam duration | 3 hours, 3 hours 50 minutes, 4 hours, 2 hours |
| Exam frequency | Held multiple times a year |
| Results | Scores out of 1600, 120, 9, etc. |
| Results duration | Results available in 4 days, scores valid for 2 years |
| Additional requirements | Interviews, essays |
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What You'll Learn
English proficiency exams
International students applying to foreign universities often have to take specific exams to prove their English proficiency. The required exams vary depending on the country, university, and course. Most universities require non-native English speakers to take an English proficiency test as part of their application. These tests usually assess a student's ability to communicate in English in an academic setting, including their ability to speak to their peers, listen to their lecturers, and study for exams.
There are several English proficiency tests that international students can take. One of the most popular is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which is recognised by over 11,000 organisations worldwide. The IELTS tests British English and is widely accepted in the US, Canada, and the UK. It offers three options for testing: online, in-person on paper, or in-person using a computer at a testing centre. The IELTS exam has two types: IELTS Academic, usually taken by international students, and IELTS General Training. It consists of four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, with a total score ranging from one (lowest) to nine (highest). The IELTS scores are valid for two years.
Another widely recognised English proficiency test is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which tests American English. It is the most common requirement for universities in the USA and is also accepted by many other institutions worldwide. The TOEFL exam is worth a total of 120 points, with each section worth 30 points. There is no standard passing mark, as it depends on the university's requirements. However, more competitive universities tend to expect higher scores. The TOEFL offers both internet-based (iBT) and paper-based (pBT) versions, along with practice tests to help students prepare.
Other English proficiency tests include the Cambridge English Qualifications, developed by Cambridge University as a universally accepted standard. These qualifications include KET, PET, FCE, CAE, and CPE, which cater to different levels of English proficiency. The Duolingo English Test is a more affordable and accessible option, gaining increased acceptance by universities after the pandemic. It has a shorter test and an interview component.
Institutions may also consider separate measures within English proficiency exams, such as grammar, listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills. The specific skills assessed can depend on the department and the nature of the program. For example, graduate programs that require teaching assistants may place more emphasis on verbal scores.
International students should research the specific requirements of their desired universities and countries to determine the most suitable English proficiency exam to meet their academic and immigration goals.
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Language exams for visas
International students are often required to take language exams as part of their visa application process. The purpose of these exams is to assess the student's proficiency in the language of their chosen country of study and ensure they have sufficient language skills to succeed academically. The specific exams and requirements can vary depending on the country, university, and course of choice.
In the United States, for instance, many universities require international students whose native language is not English to submit English proficiency examination results. Universities such as USC have their own approved exams and minimum score requirements, including TOEFL, IELTS, C1 Advanced (Cambridge English Qualification), and PTE. These exams evaluate the student's skills in grammar, listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Similarly, students applying to study in the United Kingdom may need to prove their English language proficiency by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT). The specific test and minimum scores required depend on the type of visa being applied for, as outlined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels. For example, the IELTS for UKVI test is accepted by United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and the required scores range from a pass in Listening and Speaking for visas requiring CEFR level A1 to a minimum score of 7.0 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) for visas requiring CEFR level C1.
It is important to note that some universities may place more weight on certain test scores than others, and the interpretation of standardised test scores for international students can be complicated by factors such as cultural and educational background. Therefore, it is essential for students to carefully review the specific language exam requirements for their chosen country, university, and course to ensure they meet the necessary standards.
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Country-specific standardised tests
International students are often required to take country-specific standardised tests as part of their application process to overseas educational institutions. These tests are designed to provide a baseline for comparing applicants from a variety of educational backgrounds. The tests can be used to assess academic knowledge, language proficiency, or both.
In the United States, undergraduate and graduate students applying for admission are typically required to take one or more standardised admission tests. These include the SAT and ACT, which are used for college entrance, as well as the GMAT for business schools, the LSAT for law schools, the MCAT for medical schools, and the DAT for dental schools. Additionally, most US colleges and universities require international students to take an English proficiency test, such as the TOEFL exam, to ensure they have adequate proficiency in English.
In the United Kingdom, students typically take a large number of standardised tests, with 15-20 substantial examinations being common at the age of 16. These exams are required for students to continue their education. In the final two years of school, students can also take A-levels if they wish to pursue a university education.
Other countries have their own standardised tests as well. For example, China is known for the gaokao, a 12-hour high-pressure college entrance exam that covers Chinese, English, maths, and either the sciences or humanities. India also has a standardised high school completion exam, and students must also take separate college entrance exams, which are considered extremely high stakes. Canada, while varying by province, also has standardised tests that are mostly multiple-choice and cover reading, writing, and maths.
Internationally, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is a standardised test that is jointly developed by participating countries and administered to 15-year-old students. PISA has influenced national education policies and practices and is used to compare achievement data across countries.
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Subject-based exams
International students are required to take certain exams to be eligible to study in foreign countries. The specific exams required vary depending on the country, university, and course. For example, international students applying to the University of South Wales or USC need to submit an English language test if English is not their first language. USC requires a USC-approved English proficiency examination, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test, while the University of South Wales lists the required scores on their website.
In the United States, SAT Subject Tests were a set of multiple-choice standardized tests given by The College Board on individual topics, typically taken to improve a student's credentials for college admissions. The tests were scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with 200 being the lowest and 800 the highest. The SAT Subject Tests were discontinued on January 19, 2021, for U.S. students and in June 2021 for international students.
Other standardized tests that international students can take include the ACT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS. The choice of exam depends on the course, college, and country. For example, students applying to business schools or MBA programs may need to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), while those applying to law schools would take the Law School Admission Testing Program (LSAT).
NBME Subject Exams are another example of subject-based exams. These are used to measure medical students' knowledge across a broad range of topics and are often used as final assessments at the end of a course or clerkship. The Basic Science Subject Exams assess student knowledge at the end of a discipline-based, pre-clinical course, while the Clinical Science Subject Exams are typically used to assess third-year student knowledge.
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Portfolio-based programs
A portfolio is a valuable tool for international students to showcase their skills, experiences, and achievements. It is often used when applying to university programs or jobs, especially in creative fields. Portfolios can be presented in various formats, such as printed collections, PDFs, or websites.
Art Portfolio Programme by MPW:
MPW offers an Art Portfolio programme for international students aiming to study art, design, fashion, or photography at the foundation level in the UK. This one-year programme is taken alongside two creative arts courses at the A-level and focuses on portfolio development. Students develop their skills through weekly workshops, building a body of work that showcases their creativity and ability to develop ideas into finished pieces. The programme is based in South Kensington, London, providing easy access to numerous galleries and exhibitions.
Portfolio Plus Program - Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts:
The Portfolio Plus Program at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, Washington University in St. Louis, offers international students a chance to pursue art and design while experiencing American culture and college life. The program includes Studio Art, which explores techniques and strategies for working across visual art disciplines. Field trips to museums, galleries, and historic sites in St. Louis are also part of the curriculum. International students must obtain an F-1 student visa to participate in the program. Scholarships are available based on financial need and academic merit.
Birmingham City University's Art Courses:
Birmingham City University (BCU), located in the UK's second-largest city, offers Art courses with a focus on portfolio development. BCU's School of Art, the UK's first public art school, is situated next to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Students have access to specialist workshops and studios and can participate in monthly Night School events, featuring exhibitions, open studios, live performances, and creative workshops. BCU provides a diverse and welcoming environment, with students and staff from over 100 countries.
Tips for International Students Creating a Portfolio:
- Share your story, personality, and passions: Convey a sense of who you are and why you are passionate about your field or hobby.
- Demonstrate English language skills: Use your portfolio to showcase your writing and communication abilities.
- Seek feedback: Utilize career services, advisors, student organizations, instructors, and professors to get experienced critiques of your portfolio.
- Update regularly: Remember to update your portfolio as your career objectives evolve. Remove student achievements as you gain more professional accomplishments.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students need to take exams to gain admission to their chosen university or college. These exams are used to assess language skills and technical skills.
The exams international students need to take vary depending on the country, university, and course. English language proficiency exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo are commonly required for international students whose first language is not English. Other standardised tests such as SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, and LSAT are also required for admission to certain courses.
It is important to give yourself ample time to prepare for the exams. Working with professional tutors or taking practice tests can be helpful. Additionally, international students should carefully research the testing and score requirements for each college they plan to apply to.
Universities use the exam scores to determine the ability of international students and whether they have the necessary skills to succeed in their chosen academic program. Exam scores are also used by universities to award scholarships to international students.
