Many universities require international students to take standardised tests as part of their application process. Here’s a breakdown of the most common tests, their purposes, and tips to help you prepare.
1. GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
- Purpose: Required for admission to graduate programmes in many countries.
- Sections: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning.
- Score Range: 130-170 per section for Verbal and Quantitative; 0-6 for Analytical Writing.
- Preparation Tips:
- Familiarise yourself with the test format and practice using official GRE prep materials.
- Improve vocabulary and reading comprehension for the Verbal section.
- Review basic maths concepts and practice data interpretation for Quantitative.
- Practice writing concise essays for Analytical Writing.
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Purpose: Assesses English proficiency for non-native speakers applying to English-speaking universities.
- Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
- Score Range: 0-30 per section (total score up to 120).
- Preparation Tips:
- Take practice tests to familiarise yourself with the test format and timing.
- Improve your listening skills by watching English videos and listening to podcasts.
- Practice speaking English with native speakers or through language exchange platforms.
- Write essays on various topics to improve structure and coherence.
3. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Purpose: Assesses English proficiency for study, work, and migration to English-speaking countries.
- Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Score Range: 1-9 band score for each section (average overall score).
- Preparation Tips:
- Take practice tests to understand the format and timing of each section.
- Read academic articles and practise summarising them for the Reading and Writing sections.
- Record yourself speaking on various topics to improve fluency and pronunciation.
- Practice listening to different English accents and summarise what you hear.
4. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
- Purpose: Required for admission to business schools and MBA programmes.
- Sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal.
- Score Range: 200-800 (total score), 0-6 (Analytical Writing), 1-8 (Integrated Reasoning).
- Preparation Tips:
- Practice analysing data and arguments for Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing.
- Improve maths skills with a focus on data analysis and word problems for Quantitative.
- Read articles on business and economics to improve comprehension for the Verbal section.
5. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
- Purpose: Required for undergraduate admission to many universities, mainly in the U.S.
- Sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math.
- Score Range: 400-1600 (total score).
- Preparation Tips:
- Focus on reading comprehension and grammar rules for the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section.
- Review algebra, geometry, and basic arithmetic for the Math section.
- Take full-length practice tests to build stamina and understand timing.
Conclusion
Standardised tests play a crucial role in international university applications. It’s essential to understand the requirements of your target universities and prepare well in advance. With the right strategies and dedicated preparation, you can achieve the scores needed to boost your application.