Which exam should I take?
Students desirous of studying abroad have to clear one of the three examinations given below:
1. SAT- for under graduate studies
2.GRE - for Masters
3.GMAT- for MBA
Is the TOEFL compulsory?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL as it is more popularly referred as, is compulsory at all levels.
Which exam should I take?
Students desirous of studying abroad have to clear one of the three examinations given below:
1. SAT- for under graduate studies
2.GRE - for Masters
3.GMAT- for MBA
Is TOEFL compulsory?
TOEFL is compulsory at all levels.
What is the difference between IELTS and TOEFL?
TOEFL is valid for U.S. and Canadian universities while IELTS is required for British, Australian and new Zealand universities.
What is ETS?
ETS is the Educational Testing Services based in Princeton, New Jersey. It is the equivalent of the Indian CBSE.
Are there any pre-requisites for taking these exams?
Students need to be in possession of a valid passport for identification purposes. Any individual who satisfies this requisite, can appear for these exams. For admission to any University, students need a degree.
For how long are the scores valid?
GRE/GMAT/SAT scores are valid for 5 years; TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for 2 years
Do colleges look at academic record?
Yes they do. They look at the student's high school and college transcripts and co -curricular activities certificates.
Are these exams computerized?
SAT I, SAT II are paper based tests. GRE, GMAT and TOEFL are computerized. IELTS had both paper-based and Computerized options.
Does one have to be computer literate?
No. One can get used to it through practice. The software is very user friendly.
In what ways is the computer based test different from the paper based test?
In a paper based exam, the student can return to a previous question. This is, however, not the case in a Computer-based Test.
In a paper-based test, all questions carry the same marks, while in a CBT (Computer-based Test), the more difficult a question, the more marks one gains. The Computer Based Tests and Computer Adaptive Tests do not have negative marking.
In both Paper-based and Computer-based Tests, the level of difficulty is the same
How does one get examination form?
Forms are available with us. Alternatively they can be collected from Sylvan Testing Centre or USEFI. Forms can also be ordered on www.ipem.org
How many times are these exams held?
Being Computer-Based Tests, GRE/GMAT/TOEFL are held on all working days. Students have to apply 2 - 21 days in advance
SAT I and SAT II are held six times in a year (May, June, October, November, December, January). Students have to apply at least 40 days in advance
The IELTS is held three - four times every month on pre-determined dates
When is a good time to take the exam?
One should preferably take the exam in the 11th grade if in school or in the second last year if in college. However, the tests should be taken no later than 8 months before one intends to join the college there.
Will I be able to pass the exam?
There is no pass/fail. One is only given a score.
What happens if one takes the exam twice?
Most Universities take one's second score (which is usually better). Sometimes they take an average.
Can one send one's score before one applies?
Yes. It doesn't matter what is sent first as long as everything reaches before the deadline.
Admissions
What is the deadline to apply for admission?
There are two sessions-Spring (January session) and Fall (August session). Deadlines vary from college to college, although normally deadlines for fall start in end November and carry on till end February. Deadlines for spring start in June and carry on till December
What is meant by rolling admissions?
Some colleges don't have a deadline. Students can apply all year round.
What is the deadline to apply for admission?
There are two sessions-Spring (January session) and Fall (August session). Deadlines vary from college to college, although normally deadlines for fall start in end November and carry on till end February. Deadlines for spring start in June and carry on till December
What is meant by rolling admissions?
Some colleges don't have a deadline. Students can apply all year round.
How can one find out about the availability of on-campus and off-campus housing?
Students can correspond with the University. The Admission Clerk also help students with any queries they may have.
How much scholarship can one get?
One can get up to 100% scholarship. GRE students find it easiest to avail of scholarships as compared to GMAT and SAT Students. Government Banks also offer easy study loans for up to 60 lakhs.
How does one apply to Universities - online or offline?
One can apply both online and through regular correspondence. Online is preferred.
What budget should one have in order to take admission to Universities?
Most college cost anything between $ 10000 and $ 35000 per year. This includes Tuition, Boarding and Lodging. If one gets a scholarship, then the fees gets reduced by that amount.
Can one work along with one's studies?
Undergraduate students can easily get jobs of up to 20 hours a week on campus. This helps them to meet their personal expenses. Many Graduate Students, because of their busy schedules, do not get time to work- however, they often get TA / RA (Teaching/ Research Assistantships). These pay quite well and are best obtained when students reach their Universities.
What factors are considered while giving admission?
A. |
GMAT/GRE/SAT/SAT II Results |
B. |
High School and College results - transcripts (these have to be Xeroxed and attested by the school and college authorities and sealed and signed across the flap. |
C. |
2-3 recommendations (from teachers if one has just finished one's studies or from one's employer if one has been working for more than 1 year.) (These have to be in original for each college and again sealed and signed across the flap. Sometimes the colleges send their own format else one can get it written like a letter on the College / University letterhead. |
D. |
Essays or SOPs - Most Colleges require students to write 2 - 3 essays. These essays are very crucial for the student's candidature. Students are advised to adhere to the specified word limit. If no word limit is mentioned, students would do well to not write more than 500 words per essay. Some typical essay topics-
why do you want to study this course, give us your strength and weaknesses, describe an ethical dilemma that you encountered, cite an instance where your leadership / team skills came to the fore etc. |
E. |
Extra curricular activities- send attested, Xeroxed certificates. |
F. |
Work experience - particularly helpful for GMAT. |
G. |
16 years schooling - not mandatory, but desirable |
How many Universities are there in the US?
There are over 3500 university in the US. The top 150 are good.
How one can know about University rankings?
Sites like www.usnews.com (paid), www.petersons.com, and www.businessweek.com are particularly helpful.
How can one know about good Universities?
Through books and websites
How one can contact the universities abroad?
Through their official websites or by sending an email
Which is better - paper-based or online applications
Nowadays Universities prefer online applications. One can apply through various websites such as www.embark.com or www.gradadvantage.com. The application form, essays and fees (through credit card) can be sent online while recommendations and transcripts have to be sent by mail.
What is GPA
GPA means Grade Point Average. It is given on a scale of 0-4 where 4 is the highest. It is equivalent to the Indian percentage system (0-100%). It is difficult for us to convert so ideally when one sends the information to the college, one needs to attach one's score, as also the highest in one's class, lowest in one's class and average in one's class. Using this the Admissions Committee deduce one's GPA.
What all is considered work experience?
Generally, work done simultaneously along with one's studies is not considered as work experience. Only full-time work experience is considered. However if one has done some summer jobs for a well known company or one was working while doing one's graduation by correspondence, then the Admissions Committee may consider it as work experience. In such cases, candidates may send relevant certificates to the Colleges.
GMAT
What is the GMAT?
GMAT - the Graduate Management Aptitude Test, is required for admission to US, Canadian, British and Australian colleges for doing an MBA.
What qualification should one have to do a Masters?
One has to be a graduate in any stream.
What is the GMAT?
GMAT, the Graduate Management Aptitude Test, is required for admission to US, Canadian, British and Australian colleges for doing an MBA.
Does one have to be a graduate for appearing for the GMAT?
It is desirable, though not mandatory to be a graduate to appear for the GMAT
What qualification should one have to do a Masters?
One has to be a graduate in any stream.
What is the syllabus?
The course consists of Mathematics and English.
30 min: Analysis of an issue
30 min: Analysis of an argument
5 min: Break
75 min: Mathematics Section- 37 questions (Problem Solving and Data Sufficiency)
5 min: Break
75 min: Verbal Section- 41 questions (Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning and Sentence Correction)
The total exam is nearly 4 hours long
What is the scoring system?
The total marks are 800. A 600 and above score is considered good. Different questions carry different marks depending on the difficulty level. There is no fixed break up for Mathematics and English
What are the rules of the exam?
· One can't leave a question
· One can't go back to a previous question
· The first 5 questions carry more weightage.
· Experimental questions come mixed in the middle
· There is no direct negative marking
· The level of difficulty of the next question will depend on the accuracy of the previous
question.
· The last few questions are the easiest.
How often can one take the exam?
One can take the exam a maximum of 5 times. One can also take it only once a calendar month.
Which score will the college consider?
Most Colleges generally take the most recent score, however this may not be the rule
When is the exam held?
The exam is held in Delhi at Sylvan Prometric (which has been given the worldwide contract) every working day. There are 3 time slots in a day (9am, 2 pm and 6 pm). For details, contact:
Sylvan Prometric,
160-A, Gautam Nagar, Yusuf Sarai
What is the cost of the exam?
The charges are $200 payable to ETS-GMAT in US Dollars.
How much in advance does one have to apply for a date?
Students can apply 21 days in advance. However with a credit card, one can even apply 2 business days in advance (subject to availability). During peak season (September - November), it has been seen that dates are booked months in advance,
How does one register?
One can register by phone or drop off the form physically at the centre. They need to keep their passport and international credit card number ready.
What happens if one postpones the exam date?
If one postpones the exam at least 7 days before the scheduled date, then one can reschedule the exam for an additional fee of $48 to reschedule. in all other cases, the fees are forfeited.
How soon does one get one's score?
A student can see his /her score for the Mathematics and Verbal Section the moment he/she finishes the exam but official scores (with scores for AWA - the Writing Section) will take 21 days to reach him / her.
What happens if one cancels the exam?
After taking the exam, the student is given the choice of canceling his score without seeing it. If one chooses to do so, the score is lost forever. However, it will be reported on all subsequent score charts that he had cancelled an exam.
How should one register for the exams?
One can apply online, or pay through a dollar draft at Sylvan Testing Centre. When paying by credit card, students need to be careful, because sometimes credit cards get declined and one loses one's date
How does one pass on one's score to the college?
The Universities only accept official scores sent directly by ETS. Scores to 5 colleges can be sent free of cost while taking the exam. Subsequently for each score report sent to a college, one would have to pay $ 15. A list of college codes is available with the Office or on the website.
How much does the graduate school cost?
The two years can cost anywhere between 15-20 lacs on an average, if the student has not been awarded a scholarship or fee waiver.
Does one's educational background matter in taking admission in universities?
Yes, colleges stress on a good academic background. However one can compensate by having a higher GMAT Score
Are scholarships available for graduate students?
Yes, though it's not very common. GMAT score and one's past records play a vital part.
What kind of score entitles one to a scholarship?
A score of 600 and above entitles one to a scholarship. Scholarships are at the sole discretion of the Universities.
Is it necessary to have 16 years of education?
If applying to the topmost colleges, then yes. If one is willing to compromise on the top 50 Universities, then 16 years is not that important. However one can compensate by having a higher score on the GMAT. Work experience also helps.
Does it have any effect if a person has done graduation by correspondence?
Yes. Some universities do not recognize correspondence degrees as an equivalent of full time education. It is always advisable to confirm from the university one is applying to.
Is GMAT valid only for going abroad or does it have some scope in India also?
GMAT scores are valid in some of the premier Indian Institutes, like ISB, Narsee Monjee, XLRI, IIFT, S.P.Jain and FMS. It makes sense to appear for the GMAT as on the basis of the score, one can apply to the above Colleges too.
Is work experience necessary to get admission in Universities?
For an MBA program, it is recommended to have 2 years work experience to get into the topmost Universities. However very high GMAT scores, an exceptional college record and extra curricular activities can compensate. For some Universities, work experience is de-rigueur.
What is percentile?
If a student has an 85 percentile, it means 85 % of the students taking the exam in the past 5 years are below him and 15% are equal to or above him.
GRE
What is the GRE?
GRE - the Graduation Record Examination. is required for gaining admission to US, Canadian and Australian countries for any masters or PhD course (except MBA)
Who has to take GRE?
Any student who wants to pursue a Masters (except in management).
What is GRE?
A standardized test, the Graduate Record Examination measures Verbal, Mathematical and Analytical Writing skills. The test intends to primarily aid Graduate Schools (of all fields other than business) to assess the potential of the applicants for advanced study. Most universities in the US, while inviting applications from prospective students, ask for GRE scores.
The examination is entirely a Computer-based Test, and no two students get an identical set of questions. The test is scored on a maximum of 1600. The GRE Score alone cannot guarantee admission into a school - the test is only one of the major factors taken into consideration in the long process of an applicant getting admitted into a graduate school he/she desires.
The US-based "Educational Testing Service"(ETS), which works under the direction of the Graduate Record Examination Board, develops and administers the GRE. ETS is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. The Indian Agency - "Sylvan Testing Services Private Ltd," is appointed by ETS to administer the GRE at the 9 centres in India, namely:- Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Trivandrum.
FAQS on GRE
Who can take GRE?
Anyone who wants to pursue a master's course in a US university in any stream other than management, law or medicine.
Does one have to be a graduate for taking the GRE?
Not necessarily. However, to do a master's course, one has to be a graduate in any stream.
What is the syllabus?
The course consists of Maths, English and Essay Writing with the following pattern:
45 min: Maths section - 25 questions
30 min: verbal section - 30
45 minutes: Analysis of an Issue - 1 topic from the declared list of topics
30 minutes: Analyse an Argument - 1 topic from the declared list of topics
These sections do not appear in any fixed order. In addition, there is an unidentified verbal or a quantitative section that does not count toward the final score. The total exam is nearly three hours long.
What is the scoring system?
The total marks are 1600, out of which 1300 and above is considered good. Different questions carry different marks, depending on its difficulty level. English and maths carry 800 marks each. Essays carry six marks.
How often can I take the exam?
You can take the exam as often as you want to but only once in a calendar month.
Which score will the college consider?
Usually, they accept the most recent score.
When is the exam held?
The exam is held in Delhi at Sylvan Prometric (which has been given the worldwide contract) on all working days. There are three time slots in the day.
How can one register?
You can register by phone or submit the form physically at their centre. When registering through the phone, keep your passport and international credit card number ready, along with the expiry date.
What is the cost of the exam?
The charges are $140 payable to ETS-GRE in US dollars.
What happens if one postpones the exam date?
If you postpone the exam at least seven days before your scheduled date, you would have to pay an additional $48 to reschedule else the entire fees is forfeited.
How soon do I get my score?
You will see your score the moment you finish the exam, but official scores takes 21 days to reach the student.
What happens if I cancel the exam?
After taking the exam you are given the choice of cancelling your score without seeing it. If you do so, the score is lost forever but it gets reported on all subsequent score charts that you had cancelled an exam.
How do I pass on my score to the college?
The universities only accept official scores sent directly by ETS. Scores to five colleges can be sent free of cost while taking the exam. Subsequently, for each score report sent to a college, you would have to pay ETS a token amount.
How important is the GRE score in helping secure scholarships for graduate studies?
The GRE score, your past academic record and your application materials play a vital part towards securing scholarships.
What is percentile?
If you get 85 percentile it would mean 85 % of the students taking the exam in the past five years are below you and 15% are equal to or above you.
What is the GRE subject test?
The GRE subject tests are specialized tests, to be taken only if your university asks for it. Check with them. These are paper-based test held in April, November and December every year.
SAT
What is the full form of SAT?
Scholastic Aptitude Test.
What do we mean by SAT I & SAT II?
The SAT I comprises of a paper-based general test, assessing verbal, quantitative and writing skills. Most US Universities require SAT Scores for admissions. SAT I is a three-hour 45 minute Test, multiple choice test. it has a validity of 5 years. SAT is scored out of 2400: a separate score of 800 each for Mathematics, Writing and Critical Reading.
Each SAT II Subject Test is of one-hour duration, scored out of 800. SAT II is only required by top colleges. SAT II is conducted for the following subjects: Literature, American History and Social Studies, World History, Math IC, Math IIC, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and different languages like Chinese, German, French etc. Check with your college whether they want it
TOFEL
What is the TOEFL?
Test of English as a foreign language. It is a Computer-based compulsory exam at all levels and tests the student's proficiency in English. It is also essential for Visa purposes. TOEFL Scores are valid for two years
What are the total marks on the TOEFL?
The maximum score on the TOEFL is 300. The Test comprises of four sections: Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension, Structure (Grammar - Error Identification and Sentence Completions) and Writing. The first three sections (multiple-choice) are scored out of 240, while the Writing score is 60 (0-6). Colleges ask for 217
What is the toefl?
Test of english as a foreign language. It is a compulsory exam at all levels and tests your proficiency in english. It is also essential for visa purposes.
What are the total marks on the toefl?
Marks are out of 300. Breakup is 240 for the multiple choice and 60 marks for the essay. Colleges ask for 210 +
How it is scored.
When you take test on the computer you will get for example a score of 203-263. That means of the multiple choice question the score was 203 and the gap of 60 marks in the range is the essay score yet to be added. To the lower marks will be added the essay score (0-6) multiplied by 10. That will be your final score. Toefl is totally a pass-fail exam. If you fail you have to repeat it.
What is the break up of the exam
It has 3 sections
A) listening section (25 mins)
B) grammar sections (40 questions 25 minutes)
C) reading comprehension (50 questions 55 minutes)
You also have an essay section -30 min, which you have to type, or write by hand. If you type scores take 3 weeks to reach else 6 weeks.
How often can i take the exam?
You can take the exam as many times as you like till you clear it but only once a calendar month.
How long are the scores valid?
Toefl scores are valid for only 2 years.
What are the fees for the exam?
Fees are $ 130 payable in us dollars.
When is the exam held?
Exam is held every working day-twice/thrice a day at sylvan testing center in delhi.
How do i register?
You can register by phone or you can drop of the form physicaly at their centre. When registering via phone, keep your passport and international credit card number ready along with the expiry date
How do i send my scores to the colleges?
Colleges only accept scores directly sent from ets. Up to 3 colleges is free when you apply for the exam. Subsequently for each college we will have to pay $11.
What is twe?
Test of written english. This is a 30 min essay that has to compulsorily be given along with the teofl. It can be typed in which case you will get the results after 3 weeks else if you hand write it in 6 weeks
What is tse?
Test of spoken english. It is not a common exam, has to be taken only if you are applying for a teaching job out there along with your studies. But this can also be taken when you reach the u.s.
What do the scores mean?
The first 3 sections of toefl are scored on a scale of 0-240 with twe accouinting for the balance 60 marks. So a score range of 213-273 means of the first 3 sections you have scored 213 and depending on what you get on the essay the score would add up. For e.g. 4/6 on essay would mean 213 + 40 = 253
What if one wants to reschedule the toefl dates?
$40 for rescheduling is charged.
What if one wants to cancel the exam?
$65 on request is charged for cancellation.
IELTS
What is the IELTS?
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System - it is a paper-based English proficiency test that is a requisite for non-native students for studying in countries where the medium of instruction is English. IELTS is accepted by universities in U.K., Australia, New Zealand and Canada. It has become a mandatory test for study in Australia. One cannot be granted an Australian Student Visa without an IELTS score, TOEFL is not accepted. All other study destinations either require one to take the TOEFL or IELTS. IELTS is however not accepted by Universities in USA - the TOEFL is required for studying there. There are two Test modules / formats - Academic and General.
What are the total marks (bands)?
There are nine band levels, from one (non-user) to nine (expert user)
What is the IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, as it is popularly called, is an English Language proficiency test that is required to be taken by non-native students so as to study in countries where the medium of instruction is English. IELTS is accepted by Universities in UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. It has become a mandatory test for study in Australia. One cannot be granted an Australian Student Visa without an IELTS Score. All other study destinations require one to appear for either the TOEFL or the IELTS. IELTS is however not accepted by Universities in USA, the TOEFL is required for studying there.
FAQs on GMAT
What are the total marks (bands)?
There are nine band levels, from one (non-user) to nine (expert user).
How many Sections are there on the Test?
The test has two Modules - 1.General Training 2. Academic Training. Candidates are tested in four sections - listening, reading, writing and speaking.
All candidates take the same listening and speaking sections ; reading and writing sections are different for both Modules.
Listening 4 sections 40 items 30 minutes
General training reading / academic reading 3 sections, 40 items 60 minutes
General training writing/academic reading 2 tasks (150 and 250 words) 60 minutes
Speaking 11 to 14 minutes
Total test time 2 hours 45 minutes
What is the scoring system?
Students receive different band scores for all the four Sections. These scores are added and averaged for an overall band score. Each band has a statement giving a summary of the English at that level.
What do the scores mean?
Minimum scores accepted for a course ranges from 5.0 to 7.5, depending upon courses and the Universities that students are applying to. The most common requirement is a band score of 6 to 6.5.
There is no passing or failing Score.
A band of 9 means that the user is an expert, has fully operational command of the language, is accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
A band of 1 indicates that the user is a non user, has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.
How often can one take the exam?
One has to retake the test if one does not achieve the desired score but not before three months of the first test date.
How long are the scores valid?
Test reports are valid for two years.
What are the fees of the exam?
The IELTS Fees are 6500 INR
How does one apply for the test?
One has to contact the test centre to find out the date of the next test and collect a copy of the IELTS handbook and an application form. After filling out the application form and sending it back to the test centre with the test fee, one can expect the test centre to send one the date and time of one's test.
When is the exam held?
Most Centers conduct the IELTS test sessions between thrice and four times in a month. Special testing sessions can also be arranged for particular sponsors or institutions.
How does one send one's score to the college?
IELTS Test results are available to one and one's Institution within two weeks of taking the test. One can also ask for more copies of one's results from the Test Center.
When can one expect the results to be received?
Results are returned to the candidates within two weeks in the form of a test report form
Where can one take the test?
IELTS Administrator, IDP Education Australia, Suites 20/21/22, S1 ground floor, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place
New Delhi 110 019; tel: +91 11 628 4404; fax: +91 11 648 1262; email: info@ieltsindia.com; www: http://www.ieltsindia.com
What happens if a candidate is delayed by circumstances beyond their control for example, a transportation strike?
The test centre offers the candidate an alternative test date as soon as possible.
What happens if a candidate wants to postpone or cancel their entry?
The test centre may retain part of the fee for local administrative costs. This may vary from centre to centre.
What happens if a candidate is absent on the day of the test without giving prior notice?
The candidate will normally lose their full test fee. However, if a medical certificate is provided then the full fee is refunded minus a local administrative deduction.
What can a candidate do if they are not satisfied with their results?
Candidates may apply for an enquiry on results procedure within four weeks of receipt of results. The candidate's test material is re-marked. There is a £40 (or local currency equivalent) additional fee for this which is refunded if the band score increases.
Is there an age limit for IELTS?
IELTS is not recommended for candidates under the age of 16.
What if a candidate becomes ill during the test?
If a candidate is genuinely ill during the test, it should be brought to the attention of the test supervisor. It is not possible to give special consideration to candidates who do not report their illness on the day of the test.
What is GRE?
A standardized test, the Graduate Record Examination measures Verbal, Mathematical and Analytical Writing skills. The test intends to primarily aid Graduate Schools (of all fields other than business) to assess the potential of the applicants for advanced study. Most universities in the US, while inviting applications from prospective students, ask for GRE scores.
The examination is entirely a Computer-based Test, and no two students get an identical set of questions. The test is scored on a maximum of 1600. The GRE Score alone cannot guarantee admission into a school - the test is only one of the major factors taken into consideration in the long process of an applicant getting admitted into a graduate school he/she desires.
The US-based "Educational Testing Service"(ETS), which works under the direction of the Graduate Record Examination Board, develops and administers the GRE. ETS is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. The Indian Agency - "Sylvan Testing Services Private Ltd," is appointed by ETS to administer the GRE at the 9 centres in India, namely:- Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Bangalore,
Calcutta, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Trivandrum.
FAQS on GRE
Who can take GRE?
Anyone who wants to pursue a master's course in a US university in any stream other than management, law or medicine.
Does one have to be a graduate for taking the GRE?
Not necessarily. However, to do a master's course, one has to be a graduate in any stream.
What is the syllabus?
The course consists of Maths, English and Essay Writing with the following pattern:
45 min: Maths section - 25 questions
30 min: verbal section - 30
45 minutes: Analysis of an Issue - 1 topic from the declared list of topics
30 minutes: Analyse an Argument - 1 topic from the declared list of topics
These sections do not appear in any fixed order. In addition, there is an unidentified verbal or a quantitative section that does not count toward the final score. The total exam is nearly three hours long.
What is the scoring system?
The total marks are 1600, out of which 1300 and above is considered good. Different questions carry different marks, depending on its difficulty level. English and maths carry 800 marks each. Essays carry six marks.
How often can I take the exam?
You can take the exam as often as you want to but only once in a calendar month.
Which score will the college consider?
Usually, they accept the most recent score.
When is the exam held?
The exam is held in Delhi at Sylvan Prometric (which has been given the worldwide contract) on all working days. There are three time slots in the day.
How can one register?
You can register by phone or submit the form physically at their centre. When registering through the phone, keep your passport and international credit card number ready, along with the expiry date.
What is the cost of the exam?
The charges are $140 payable to ETS-GRE in US dollars.
What happens if one postpones the exam date?
If you postpone the exam at least seven days before your scheduled date, you would have to pay an additional $48 to reschedule else the entire fees is forfeited.
How soon do I get my score?
You will see your score the moment you finish the exam, but official scores takes 21 days to reach the student.
What happens if I cancel the exam?
After taking the exam you are given the choice of cancelling your score without seeing it. If you do so, the score is lost forever but it gets reported on all subsequent score charts that you had cancelled an exam.
How do I pass on my score to the college?
The universities only accept official scores sent directly by ETS. Scores to five colleges can be sent free of cost while taking the exam. Subsequently, for each score report sent to a college, you would have to pay ETS a token amount.
How important is the GRE score in helping secure scholarships for graduate studies?
The GRE score, your past academic record and your application materials play a vital part towards securing scholarships.
What is percentile?
If you get 85 percentile it would mean 85 % of the students taking the exam in the past five years are below you and 15% are equal to or above you.
What is the GRE subject test?
The GRE subject tests are specialized tests, to be taken only if your university asks for it. Check with them. These are paper-based test held in April, November and December every year.
What is SAT?
The Scholastic Aptitude Test, technically called the SAT-I, comprises of a general test assessing critical reading, quantitative reasoning and writing skills. It is accepted for U.S. College Admissions. Most U.S. Universities ask for the SAT for admissions to their undergraduate programs. Many universities also require students to take SAT-II Tests. it has a validity of five years. The cost of taking the SAT-I Test is approximately $ 82.50.
SAT-I: Reasoning Test
This is a three-hour, forty-five minute primarily multiple-choice test, measuring critical reading, writing and mathematical reasoning abilities that develop over time. Most Colleges require SAT-I scores for admission. the SAT I is scored out of 2400 - a separate score of 800 each for Quantitative Reasoning, Critical Reading and Writing.
SAT-II: Subject Tests
The SAT-II Subject Tests are one hour, primarily multiple-choice tests, intended to measure the candidate's knowledge of particular subjects and his ability to apply that knowledge. Many Universities sometimes require the candidate to take this test along with SAT-I.
Who Administers the SAT?
The US-based "College Entrance Examination Board" develops and administers the SAT, that is, it is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. In India, SAT is conducted at the following cities:
Bangalore, Calcutta, Cochin, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kodaikanal, Mumbai, Mussoorie, New Delhi, and Pune.
When is the SAT held?
SAT is held 6 times in a year : May, June, October, November, December and January.
Content and format of the SAT
SAT-I
The SAT-I is a three-hour forty-five minutes exam, divided into ten sections (one section is the experimental section which is not scored). The following table gives the format of the SAT-I:
SECTION |
FIB |
RC |
GRAMMAR |
UND PARTS |
RC GRAMMAR |
TOTAL |
TIME |
1. CR |
8 |
16 |
|
|
|
24 |
25 |
2. CR |
5 |
19 |
|
|
|
24 |
25 |
3. WRITING |
|
|
11 |
18 |
6 |
35 |
25 |
4. CR |
6 |
13 |
|
|
|
19 |
20 |
5. WRIT |
|
|
14 |
|
|
14 |
10 |
TOTAL |
19 |
48 |
25 |
18 |
6 |
116 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF QUESTIONS – 116 (CR – 67, WRITING – 49)
RAW SCORE = CORRECT – ¼ WRONG (EXCEPT WRITING, WHICH IS SCORED BETWEEN 2-12)
What is SAT?
The Scholastic Aptitude Test, technically called the SAT-I, comprises of a general test assessing critical reading, quantitative reasoning and writing skills. It is accepted for U.S. College Admissions. Most U.S. Universities ask for the SAT for admissions to their undergraduate programs. Many universities also require students to take SAT-II Tests. it has a validity of five years. The cost of taking the SAT-I Test is approximately $ 82.50.
SAT-I: Reasoning Test
This is a three-hour, forty-five minute primarily multiple-choice test, measuring critical reading, writing and mathematical reasoning abilities that develop over time. Most Colleges require SAT-I scores for admission. the SAT I is scored out of 2400 - a separate score of 800 each for Quantitative Reasoning, Critical Reading and Writing.
SAT-II: Subject Tests
The SAT-II Subject Tests are one hour, primarily multiple-choice tests, intended to measure the candidate's knowledge of particular subjects and his ability to apply that knowledge. Many Universities sometimes require the candidate to take this test along with SAT-I.
Who Administers the SAT?
The US-based "College Entrance Examination Board" develops and administers the SAT, that is, it is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. In India, SAT is conducted at the following cities:
Bangalore, Calcutta, Cochin, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kodaikanal, Mumbai, Mussoorie, New Delhi, and Pune.
|

|
When is the SAT held?
SAT is held 6 times in a year : May, June, October, November, December and January.
Content and format of the SAT
SAT-I
The SAT-I is a three-hour forty-five minutes exam, divided into ten sections (one section is the experimental section which is not scored). The following table gives the format of the SAT-I:
SECTION |
FIB |
RC |
GRAMMAR |
UND PARTS |
RC GRAMMAR |
TOTAL |
TIME |
1. CR |
8 |
16 |
|
|
|
24 |
25 |
2. CR |
5 |
19 |
|
|
|
24 |
25 |
3. WRITING |
|
|
11 |
18 |
6 |
35 |
25 |
4. CR |
6 |
13 |
|
|
|
19 |
20 |
5. WRIT |
|
|
14 |
|
|
14 |
10 |
TOTAL |
19 |
48 |
25 |
18 |
6 |
116 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF QUESTIONS – 116 (CR – 67, WRITING – 49)
RAW SCORE = CORRECT – ¼ WRONG (EXCEPT WRITING, WHICH IS SCORED BETWEEN 2-12) |
SAT-II: Subject Tests
Literature, American History and Social Studies, World History, Math IC, Math IIC, Biology, Biology E/M, Chemistry, Physics, Chinese Listening, French Reading, French Listening, German Reading, German Listening, Modern Hebrew, Italian, Japanese Listening, Korean Listening, Latin, Spanish Listening, Spanish Reading, English Language Proficiency.
The SAT II Writing Test has been scrapped
Reporting the Score
The College Board provides reporting the student's SAT Scores to a maximum of 4 Universities of his choice - the cost of this is built into the sat fees already paid. The candidate has to mention the Universities to which he desires sending his scores in the sat Application form. For reporting to each additional university, the College Board charges extra, payable by an international credit card or a dollar denominated draft
The Scoring Pattern on the SAT
The SAT results comprise of three different scores: a total score (600-2400), a separate score for critical Reading section (200-800), Quantitative Reasoning (200-800) and Writing (200-800)
WHAT IS THE GMAT?
A standardized test, the Graduate Management Admissions Test measures the Verbal, Mathematical and Analytical skills. The test primarily intends to aid graduate schools of business assess the potential of the applicants for advanced study in business and management. Nearly 900 management institutes all over the world require GMAT scores from the applicants.
The GMAT is different from most other customary examinations. The examination is entirely computer-based, and no two students get identical sets of questions. Also, students cannot skip questions. The test is scored on a maximum of 800. The GMAT Score alone cannot guarantee admission into a school. The test is only one of the major factors taken into consideration in the long process of an applicant getting admitted into a Business School he/she desires.
The US-based "Educational Testing Service" (ETS), which is under the directions of the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) develops and administers the GMAT. ETS is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. The Indian Agency - "Sylvan Testing Services Private Ltd," is appointed by ETS to administer the GRE at the 9 centres in India, namely:- Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Trivandrum.
FAQs on GMAT
Does one have to be a graduate for taking the GMAT?
Not necessarily. However, to do a master's course, one has to be a graduate in any stream.
What is the syllabus?
The course consists of Maths and English with the following pattern:
30 min: Analysis of an issue
30 min: Analysis of an argument
5 min: break
75 min: Maths section- 37 questions
5 min: break
75 min: Verbal section- 41questions (reading comprehension, critical reasoning and sentence correction)
The total exam is nearly four-hour long.
What is the scoring system?
The total marks are 800, out of which 600 and above is considered good. Different questions carry different marks, depending on its difficulty level. There is no fixed break up for Maths and English.
How often can I take the exam?
You can take the exam a maximum of five times after 1st January 2002. You can also take it only once in a calendar month.
Which score will the college consider?
Usually they accept the most recent score.
What is the cost of the exam?
The charges are $225 payable to ETS-GMAT in US dollars.
How do I register?
You can register by phone or submit the form physically at their centre. When registering through the phone, keep your passport and international credit card number ready along with the expiry date.
What happens if I postpone my exam date?
If you postpone the exam at least seven days before your scheduled date, you would have to pay an additional $48 to reschedule else the entire fees is forfeited.
How soon do I get my score?
You will see your score for the maths and verbal section the moment you finish the exam but official scores (with scores for AWA) will take 21 days to reach you.
What happens if I cancel the exam?
After taking the exam you are given the choice of cancelling your score without seeing it. If you choose to do so the score is lost forever but it gets reported on all subsequent score charts that you had cancelled an exam.
How do I pass on my score to the college?
The universities only accept official scores sent directly by ETS. Scores to five colleges can be sent free of cost while taking the exam. Subsequently, for each score report sent to a college, you would have to pay $25.
Is GMAT valid only for going abroad or it has some relevance in India also?
GMAT is valid in some of the premier Indian institutes, like Narsee Monjee, XLRI, IIFT, S P Jain, FMS and ISB.
Is work experience necessary to get admission in universities?
It is not necessary to have work experience to get admission in MBA colleges abroad. However, it is recommended to have at least two years work experience to get into good MBA programs. However, very high GMAT scores, combined with exceptional college record and extra curricular achievements can compensate. In some universities, work experience is a must.
What is percentile?
If you secure 85 percentile it would mean 85 % of the students taking the exam in the past five years are below you and 15% are equal to or above you.
What is the IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, as it is popularly called, is an English Language proficiency test that is required to be taken by non-native students so as to study in countries where the medium of instruction is English. IELTS is accepted by Universities in UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. It has become a mandatory test for study in Australia. One cannot be granted an Australian Student Visa without an IELTS Score. All other study destinations require one to appear for either the TOEFL or the IELTS. IELTS is however not accepted by Universities in USA, the TOEFL is required for studying there.
FAQs on GMAT
What are the total marks (bands)?
There are nine band levels, from one (non-user) to nine (expert user).
How many Sections are there on the Test?
The test has two Modules - 1.General Training 2. Academic Training. Candidates are tested in four sections - listening, reading, writing and speaking.
All candidates take the same listening and speaking sections ; reading and writing sections are different for both Modules.
Listening 4 sections 40 items 30 minutes
General training reading / academic reading 3 sections, 40 items 60 minutes
General training writing/academic reading 2 tasks (150 and 250 words) 60 minutes
Speaking 11 to 14 minutes
Total test time 2 hours 45 minutes
What is the scoring system?
Students receive different band scores for all the four Sections. These scores are added and averaged for an overall band score. Each band has a statement giving a summary of the English at that level.
What do the scores mean?
Minimum scores accepted for a course ranges from 5.0 to 7.5, depending upon courses and the Universities that students are applying to. The most common requirement is a band score of 6 to 6.5.
There is no passing or failing Score.
A band of 9 means that the user is an expert, has fully operational command of the language, is accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
A band of 1 indicates that the user is a non user, has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.
How often can one take the exam?
One has to retake the test if one does not achieve the desired score but not before three months of the first test date.
How long are the scores valid?
Test reports are valid for two years.
What are the fees of the exam?
The IELTS Fees are 6500 INR
How does one apply for the test?
One has to contact the test centre to find out the date of the next test and collect a copy of the IELTS handbook and an application form. After filling out the application form and sending it back to the test centre with the test fee, one can expect the test centre to send one the date and time of one's test.
When is the exam held?
Most Centers conduct the IELTS test sessions between thrice and four times in a month. Special testing sessions can also be arranged for particular sponsors or institutions.
How does one send one's score to the college?
IELTS Test results are available to one and one's Institution within two weeks of taking the test. One can also ask for more copies of one's results from the Test Center.
When can one expect the results to be received?
Results are returned to the candidates within two weeks in the form of a test report form
Where can one take the test?
IELTS Administrator, IDP Education Australia, Suites 20/21/22, S1 ground floor, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place
New Delhi 110 019; tel: +91 11 628 4404; fax: +91 11 648 1262; email: info@ieltsindia.com; www: http://www.ieltsindia.com
What happens if a candidate is delayed by circumstances beyond their control for example, a transportation strike?
The test centre offers the candidate an alternative test date as soon as possible.
What happens if a candidate wants to postpone or cancel their entry?
The test centre may retain part of the fee for local administrative costs. This may vary from centre to centre.
What happens if a candidate is absent on the day of the test without giving prior notice?
The candidate will normally lose their full test fee. However, if a medical certificate is provided then the full fee is refunded minus a local administrative deduction.
What can a candidate do if they are not satisfied with their results?
Candidates may apply for an enquiry on results procedure within four weeks of receipt of results. The candidate's test material is re-marked. There is a £40 (or local currency equivalent) additional fee for this which is refunded if the band score increases.
Is there an age limit for IELTS?
IELTS is not recommended for candidates under the age of 16.
What if a candidate becomes ill during the test?
If a candidate is genuinely ill during the test, it should be brought to the attention of the test supervisor. It is not possible to give special consideration to candidates who do not report their illness on the day of the test.
What is TOEFL?
A Standardized Test, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) assesses the English Proficiency of people, whose native language does not happen to be English. It tests the ability to understand North American English. Most Educational Institutes in the US and Canada (approximately 2400) ask applicants for their TOEFL Scores. Institutes in other countries, where the mode and language of instruction is English, also use TOEFL. Since October 2000, the TOEFL has been a Computer-based Test in India.
Computer Based TOEFL
The Computer Based TOEFL is disparate from most other customary examinations. The Examination is entirely a Computer-based Test, and no two students get an identical set of questions. Also, students cannot skip-over questions. The test is scored on a maximum of 300. The TOEFL only assesses a candidate's proficiency in the English language, a high score on it alone cannot guarantee admission into a School - the test is only one of the major factors taken into consideration in the long process of an applicant getting admitted into a school he/she desires. However it is mandatory, and we cannot underrate its importance.
Who Administers the TOEFL?
The US-based "Educational Testing Service"(ETS), develops and administers the TOEFL. ETS is responsible for setting questions, conducting the test and sending score reports to each examinee. The Indian Agency - "Sylvan Testing Services Pvt Ltd," is appointed by ETS to administer the TOEFL at the 9 centers named below -
Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Trivandrum.
|

|
Frequency of the TOEFL
The Computer Based TOEFL is held all year round. Applicants can choose their preferred date to appear for the TOEFL, in any of the above-mentioned nine Centers on any weekday (Monday to Friday). Tests are administered twice a day. The peak time being September through December, applicants have to take heed to registering early, in order to get a choice date. The Test is of roughly four hours. Registering three days in advance is mandatory, unless the time is peak-time(September - December), when candidates have to ensure that they register 90 days in advance, in order to get a choice date.
|

|
Eligibility and Fees
Anybody can appear for the TOEFL, as there are no restrictions on applicant age or qualifications. The validity period of TOEFL Scores is two years.
Test Fees for TOEFL in India is US $ 140 , payable at the time of registration. The fees are to be paid through a US Dollar denominated draft, favoring "ETS - GRE" payable in the US. Such drafts are freely available with the Main Branches of most Banks (that have a foreign exchange counter) - the Banks charge a nominal charge of Rs 200. The payment can also be made through a globally accepted credit card, which may not even belong to the applicant.
It is of prime importance that the name on the registration form should be exactly similar to the name mentioned on the candidate's passport, or he/she may not be permitted to take the test. Candidates are advised to attach a photocopy of their Passport along with their form in order to avoid any faulty registration.
|

|
What is a Computer-Adaptive Test?
In the TOEFL Computer-Adaptive Test, one question is displayed at a time. The questions are selected from a large pool of questions, categorized by content and difficulty. The first question is, at all times of medium complexity; each ensuing question is determined by the test-taker's responses to preceding questions. Thus the CAT "adapts" or adjusts itself to the test-taker's aptitude - it is rare for a test-taker to find questions that are too easy or too intricate.
The TOEFL - CAT is a multiple-choice response test. Four answer options are provided for each question, and the test-taker has to click on the one he/she thinks is the best response. Test-takers cannot skip-over any question, as the next question is displayed only after the preceding one is answered. Also, test-takers cannot revert to a previously responded question to change the answer. Hence, if a candidate guesses a correct answer or gives an incorrect response by slip-up, his/her answers to resultant questions would lead to questions that are at the appropriate level of difficulty for the candidate.
However, in one section of the TOEFL, candidates are allowed to go back to the preceding questions.
There are some questions in the TOEFL that have special directions that appear in a box under the question. For instance, there are some questions that have two answers and candidates are required to make more than two selections.
Content and Format of the TOEFL
The test has four sections: Listening, Structure, Reading and Writing.
The number of questions and the time allocated to each question may vary. Therefore, one student may get 35 questions in Listening section while another may get 45. But, the additional questions are for research purposes only and the scores of all test takers are based on the same number of questions.
The following table gives out the format of the TOEFL-CAT :
|
Questions |
Timing |
Computer Tutorial |
NA |
NA |
Listening Section |
30 - 50 questions |
40 - 60 min. |
Structure Section |
20 - 25 questions |
15 - 20 min. |
Reading Section |
44 - 60 questions |
70 - 90 min. |
Writing Section |
1 Essay |
30 min. |
Total |
94 - 135 question + 1 Essay |
4 hrs. (approx.) |
The tutorial is meant to make the candidate feel comfortable with the infrastructure and the environment and does not have a prescribed time limit. The candidate is expected to be through with it in 40 minutes or so: it makes sense for the candidate to acclimatize himself fully with the setting even after he thinks he has understood how the system works.
Reporting the Score
ETS reports candidates' TOEFL scores to a maximum of four Universities of their choice, the cot of which is built into the TOEFL fee. The candidate has to ensure that he selects these four universities that will receive copies of his score report BEFORE he begins to take the Test. Reporting to each additional University costs the candidate an additional charge of $ 13, payable by an international Credit Card or a Dollar Denominated Draft.
The Scoring Pattern in TOEFL - CAT
There are four Scores that constitute the TOEFL results:
A total score (0 - 300)
A Separate Score for the Listening Section (0 - 30)
A Separate Score for the Reading Section (0- 30)
The total Score is reported on a scale from 0 - 300
The Essay Score is individually rated (0 - 6) - However it is incorporated into the Structure/Writing Scaled Score with the rating of essay comprising one half of the Structure/Writing Scaled score. A candidate immediately comes to know his Listening and Reading Section Scores right after taking his exam. A candidate's Structure/Writing Scores are also shown as Score Ranges, since his essay would not have yet been read and appraised. A candidate's final score will be within the range shown on the screen after he completes his Test. The appraisal of essays takes between 2 - 4 weeks - thus a candidate's Official TOEFL Score Reports, including the Writing Scores, are mailed approximately two to four weeks after he takes the test, and it takes around ten days more to reach the candidate's specified address.
|