Studying abroad is not just a dream for a lot of people, it is also an opportunity for global exposure and education. For this dream to become a reality, most aspirants need scholarships as they can not comfortably pay the expensive tuition fees and other expenses required for them to complete their program.
Most of these scholarships are highly sought after, with too many people for just a few openings in each university at a time. To qualify for these scholarships sometimes, you are required to take some exams that will stand you out from the crowd and increase your chance of being selected.
In this post, we will examine the best 5 online scholarship exams to study abroad and give you tips to passing these exams which will in turn help increase your chances of getting your dream scholarship.
Best 5 Online Scholarship Exams To Study Abroad
Exam 1: Test of English As A Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL is a test for aspirants mostly from non-English speaking countries, intending to examine their use and understanding of the English language. There are different parts to the test and they include reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
Having high scores in the exam (between 80-100) will go a long way to demonstrate a strong English language skills and academic readiness and also can enhance your scholarship applications and increase your chances of being selected.
This exam has a rich and widely accepted structure that makes it stand out from other scholarship exams.
Tips For Success in TOEFL
- Consider joining a study group, especially group of people also preparing for the same or similar exam so as to also learn from them.
- Go on the TOEFL website and search for resources that will be useful for your test, either a study guide or other preparation materials.
- Regularly practice your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in English language as required by TOEFL.
- Since the test is time bound, also practice writing your test within the time frame stipulated by TOEFL.
Exam 2: International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
The IELTS is also a globally recognized English proficiency test for non-English speakers planning to study, work, or move to English-speaking countries. There is even a controversy that it is more accepted than TOEFL.
The minimum required score for this test depends on the country or school you are applying for. The test has four sections just like TOEFL; listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
It is globally accepted, available in both Academic and General Training formats, and offers a holistic assessment of English proficiency. High IELTS scores can enhance scholarship applications.
Tips For Success in IELTS
- IELTS has preparation courses online so enroll or apply for these preparation courses to get acquainted with the procedures of the test.
- Go on IELTS website to get relevant test materials and study guide to help you prepare adequately.
- Consistently practice for the test using the different materials available to you.
- Work on your public speaking skills and be sure to communicate confidently as a section of this test involves your speaking face-face with the examiner.
Exam 3: Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
GRE is a test used for admission to graduate programs and business school programs especially in the United States and even worldwide.
It measures applicants’ readiness for graduate-level academic work and the ability to think analytically.
The test consists of verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing tasks. It is widely accepted, comprehensive, and offers a scholarship advantage.
Tips For Success in GRE
- Go to the official website of GRE to gain access to relevant materials that can help you prepare for the exams.
- GRE also have preparation courses online that can serve as a guide to help you get the best out of the test.
- Develop a study plan with allocated time for each of the sections in the examination, in other to keep up with the time allotted for the test.
Exam 4: Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
GMAT is a test that is basically required for admission into under-graduate or post-graduate business management programs and it is conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council.
This test is for students interested in pursing MBA or other management programs or courses and is a very important consideration for many business schools.
Tips For Success in GMAT
- Develop a study plan for the test and regularly practice using your study plan to get optimal results.
- Go to GMAT website to get study guides and sample questions to aid your preparation.
- Constantly review your practice test result to know when you are getting better and where you need to improve.
Exam 5: Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
This test majorly looks into your writing, reading and mathematical skills and is mostly considered in the US or Canada and other parts of the world also.
Tips For Success in SAT
- Carefully work on the 3 skills required for this test as none is considered more important than the other.
- Visit SAT official website for preparation and study materials and other necessary information regarding the test.
- SAT also has preparation courses that can serve as a guide toward achieving a great result.
Other Online Scholarship Exams To Study Abroad
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
- Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) – Required in French speaking countries and Universities
- Cambridge English Qualifications (C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency)
- DELF/DALF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française/Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) – Required mostly in French speaking countries and Universities
- Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) – Required in Chinese Universities
Conclusion
Studying abroad can be a transformative educational journey, but it often starts with excelling in exams like TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, and SAT. These exams evaluate academic readiness and language proficiency, and high scores demonstrate commitment, discipline, and readiness for international education.
Students can enhance their performance by using official resources, practicing regularly, and seeking feedback. Having a fair knowledge about these exams is a great start towards your journey of studying abroad.
