TAT Educational Services, a division of The Acclivial Travellers Escapade Limited, extends our legacy of travel excellence into the education sector.
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TAT Educational Services, a division of The Acclivial Travellers Escapade Limited, extends our legacy of travel excellence into the education sector.
As global university admissions become increasingly competitive, entrance exams play a defining role in shaping your study-abroad journey. Universities across countries rely on standardized tests to evaluate academic readiness, program fit, and, for non-native English speakers, language proficiency. Many of the widely accepted English tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo are specifically designed to assess how well non-native speakers understand and use English in academic settings.
Candidates must complete these exams and provide their scores, which form a crucial component of the application process.
Here’s your one-stop guide to the major exams that pave your path to international education.
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
The SAT evaluates college readiness through Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Mathematics. It is primarily required for undergraduate admissions in the USA, and is also accepted by institutions in Canada, the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe.
The SAT is conducted seven times a year and administered by the US College Board at authorized centers in over 80 countries worldwide. Scores are valid for five years. To remain competitive at top universities, aim for a score between 1300 and 1600.
IELTS (The Global English Proficiency Standard)
IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams globally, recognized by 11,500+ institutions in over 140 countries. It assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills using both academic and real-life contexts.
IELTS is required for English-taught programs in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many other destinations. The exam is conducted about four times a month by the British Council and partner organizations. The scores are valid for two years, and a band score of 6.0 or higher significantly expands your study options.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL measures academic English proficiency with a strong focus on university-level content. It is especially popular among universities in the United States, though it is accepted worldwide.
Most top institutions require a TOEFL score between 70 and 110. Scores remain valid for two years, and the test can be retaken every three days, offering flexibility for applicants aiming to improve their results.
GRE: (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE is a key requirement for master’s and PhD programs, particularly in engineering, sciences, humanities, and research-based fields. It evaluates Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing skills.
While many universities do not have fixed cutoffs, competitive programs typically expect scores between 310 and 330. GRE scores are valid for five years and can significantly strengthen scholarship and funding applications because it signals your analytical and academic preparedness.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The GMAT is THE test for MBA programs. It assesses analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills specifically designed for business school readiness. With the introduction of the GMAT Focus Edition, scores now range from 205 to 805, and the test duration has been reduced to about two hours. Top business schools generally look for scores between 700 and 730. GMAT scores are valid for five years.
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
PTE is a fully computer-based, AI-scored English proficiency test known for its fast results, often available within 48 hours. It evaluates Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening skills.
Accepted by 3,500+ institutions worldwide, including top universities in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, PTE is especially popular among students on tight timelines. A score between 59 and 75 is generally considered acceptable, and results are valid for two years.
Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is a modern, adaptive online exam that can be taken from home. It assesses Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking skills in a shorter, more flexible format.
Over 5,400 institutions worldwide, including 1,500+ in the USA, accept Duolingo scores. In 2025, a strong score typically falls between 115 and 130. Like other English tests, results are valid for two years.
The Nigerian Student's Action Plan
1. Identify Your Path Early: Decide on your program well in advance and channel your efforts toward it.
2. Budget Smartly: Each test comes at a cost. Ensure to budget for the test you intend to take.
3. Timeline Your Tests: Take English tests 6-12 months before starting your school applications. Take SAT/GRE/GMAT earlier since they're valid longer.
4. Verify Requirements: Always check your specific university's website. Requirements change, and what worked last year might not work this year.
5. Prepare Properly: These exams aren’t the kind you can ace with last-minute cramming. Dedicate at least 2–3 months to focused, consistent preparation.
These exams aren't obstacles, they are opportunities to strengthen your application. Identify which exam you need, set a target score based on your dream universities, and begin preparation today.
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