Study Abroad — Exams, Dates & Prep Guide

Key Exams

Always confirm exact dates on the official site before applying — schedules shift.

Any level, most widely accepted

British Council / IDP Multiple dates monthly

The most widely accepted English proficiency test globally — required by most UK, Australia and Canada universities.

Official site

Any level

ETS Multiple dates monthly

Especially popular for US and Canada applications; fully computer-based, four-hour format.

Official site

Any level

Pearson Multiple dates, fast results

Fully computer-based with the fastest turnaround of the major English tests — widely accepted in Australia and the UK.

Official site

Undergraduate applicants

College Board Several dates yearly

Standard academic test for undergraduate admission to US (and some European) universities.

Official site

MS / graduate applicants

ETS Year-round, on-demand

Required by many MS and research-based graduate programmes worldwide, though a growing number now waive it.

Official site

MBA applicants

GMAC Year-round, on-demand

The standard test for MBA and management graduate admissions at business schools globally.

Official site

What actually helps, and what quietly wastes your time.

Start preparation 6-8 months before your intended intake — visa and application timelines add up fast.
Take a diagnostic test before committing to IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE — your natural strengths differ across formats.
Practice speaking out loud daily, not just silently reading — it's the section most people under-prepare for.
Keep a running vocabulary and phrase journal specifically for the writing task.
Check each target university's specific score requirement before booking your test — requirements vary a lot.

Don't wait until the last month to book your test slot — popular centres and dates fill up early.
Don't over-prepare reading while neglecting writing and speaking, which many students under-practice.
Don't submit scores without checking their validity window — most English tests expire after 2 years.
Don't assume every programme still requires GRE/GMAT — many universities have moved to profile-based, test-optional admissions.
Don't skip visa-interview English practice if your destination country requires one — it's a different skill from the test itself.

Official sources only — no third-party "sample paper" sites.