5 Entrance Exams You Have to Take to Study in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the top-ranked universities and one of the favourite study destinations of Indian students. It is known for providing outstanding education and excellent research programs. Also, universities can provide innumerable study options. From social sciences to fashion and arts, students can access globally recognised degrees that can aid them in shaping a promising career. However, the application process starts with multiple entrance exams that can confuse any international student

On that note, this blog talks about important entrance exams needed to studyin the UK for Indian students after the 12th. 

1. Language Proficiency Exams

This is one of the first tests prospective students must undertake to gain admission to UK universities. As English is the country’s official language, the administrators evaluate four main parameters of the language skill. The parameters are reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Some of the primary English Language tests accepted in the UK, Canada or Australia are –

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)– This exam is conducted both on paper and offline. The exam is measured on a score range of 120. However, the cutoff varies from different universities. So, the UK University considers the TOEFL score well when a candidate scores higher than their target score. For instance, Cambridge University has a cutoff of 110. So, it will be better if an applied student scores more than the cutoff.The TOEFL examination fee is 13555 INR. You can check the list of dates and choose from 10-45 days before the application date.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English) – This is another popular English language test accepted by most universities in England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and other countries in the UK. This test applies to candidates who could not take IELTS or didn’t qualify for any reason.

The PTE scores are calculated using the Global Scale of English. The exams take 2.5 hours to complete. Usually, the questions on the PTE exam are integrated. Thus, the questions based on the parameters could be intertwined. The exam is conducted online only. The majority of prestigious universities accept a band score of 7 or above.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – The IELTS exam is accepted in many countries like New Zealand, the USA, Australia and Canada apart from the UK. The test is conducted to ensure your eligibility to migrate to an English-speaking country. The test takes 3 hours, and the score validates for two years. However, the eligibility may vary from one university to another. A score of 7.5 is considered a good IELTS score for Indian students. The examination fee is 14000 INR.Once you’ve taken the test, you can get the results available for 28 days. You can also retake the test within 90 days of the first attempt. For more information, visit comand apply today.

2. GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

British universities typically require you to show proof of your knowledge related to the field or course you want to pursue. Thus, GRE is a multiple-choice test that an applicant can take online in specified centres. It is developed and administered by the Educational; Testing Service (ETS) to facilitate a common platform for all applicants.

Such standardised test allows admission committees to check your GRE score, academic record and other performance-related information. Hence, a good GRE score can positively impact your chances of admission.

You can also get a GRE scholarship that helps to reduce the cost of studying abroad in the UK. Such a test evaluates your knowledge of basic arithmetic along with vocabulary knowledge. It also measures the ability of an applicant to analyse evaluation and critical thinking to solve different problems.

3. Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

This is one of the standardised tests for graduate admissions in management programs. The test evaluates the applicant’s skills and knowledge of business aspects. Though the programs are focused on MBA or MIM programs, students can now undertake this test to pursue undergraduate courses from top B-schools in the UK. The colleges require 50-55% academic scores under a Commerce background. The computer-based test is divided into four sections –

• Analytical Writing Assessment
• Integrated Reasoning
• Quantitative
• Verbal

4. Entrance exams for Pursuing Laws

UK universities mainly consider two types of entrance exams – LNAT and Cambridge Law Test. These exams are designed to test the candidates’ skills in verbal reasoning, information interpretation and analysis and problem conclusion. Such tests also do not require the candidates to have any prior knowledge of the law. The application requires academic results, English proficiency results, identification background and residential address.

5. TSA Oxford – Thinking Skills Assessment

This is a two-hour test conducted before an interview for students who want to pursue a course in geography, experimental psychology, human science, philosophy and others. It is a computer-based exam conducted by the University of Oxford. Usually, the entrance test takes place in November.

Final Thoughts,

The entrance exam in the UK is specific for each course and university. Apart from such particular exams, multiple exams cover all fields. However, certain universities do not accept some entrance exams. So, it is vital to research and then finalise with the admissions. With these mentioned entrance exams, you can easily apply to your desired universities and enjoy the perks of the UK education system. Good luck!