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Your Guide to Foreign Entrance Tests
Preparing to study abroad can be exciting—but understanding the various entrance tests can feel overwhelming. At The Fern Education Consultancy, we simplify the process for you. Below is a comprehensive guide to the most popular international entrance exams and step-by-step instructions on how to register for each.
IELTS
The IELTS is a globally recognized exam that evaluates the English language proficiency of individuals looking to study or work in English-speaking environments. Accepted by the majority of academic institutions in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA, it serves as a key requirement for admission and visa applications.
Test Format:
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Listening: 30 minutes
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Reading: 60 minutes
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Writing: 60 minutes
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Speaking: 11–14 minute
Scoring: Candidates receive a band score ranging from 1 (Non-User) to 9 (Expert User), reflecting their proficiency in English across all four sections.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL exam evaluates the ability of non-native English speakers to understand and use English in academic settings. It measures how well you can read, listen, speak, and write in English as it is used in colleges and universities—making it a key requirement for admissions in institutions across the USA, Canada, and other English-speaking countries.
Test Format:
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Reading: 60–80 minutes
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Listening: 60–90 minutes
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Speaking: 20 minutes
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Writing: 50 minutes
Scoring: The TOEFL is scored out of a total of 120 points, with each section contributing to the overall score.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE is a standardized test required by many graduate and business schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries. It assesses key academic skills, including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, helping institutions evaluate a candidate’s readiness for advanced study.
Test Format:
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Analytical Writing: 60 minutes
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Verbal Reasoning: 60 minutes
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Quantitative Reasoning: 70 minutes
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Scoring:
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Verbal Reasoning: 130–170 (in 1-point increments)
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Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170 (in 1-point increments)
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Analytical Writing: 0–6 (in half-point increments)
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
​The GMAT is a globally recognized entrance exam used by leading business schools to evaluate candidates applying for MBA and other management programs. It assesses analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal skills, and data interpretation—measuring the skills essential for success in business and management studies.
Test Format:
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Analytical Writing Assessment: 30 minutes
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Integrated Reasoning: 30 minutes
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Quantitative Section: 62 minutes
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Verbal Section: 65 minutes
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Scoring:
The GMAT is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, based on performance in the Quantitative and Verbal sections. Separate scores are also provided for Analytical Writing and Integrated Reasoning.
Popular Countries to Study
The United States hosts a wide array of prestigious and globally respected universities that draw students from every corner of the world. Known for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and diverse learning environments, these institutions are among the most sought-after for international education. Here are some of the top universities in the USA:
Boston
Boston University
New York
New York University
San Francisco
University of San Francisco
Chicago
University of Chicago
Los Angeles
University of California