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Planning to study abroad in 2025? The exams to study abroad might seem overwhelming at first glance. More than 3 million people take the IELTS exam annually, making it the most popular English proficiency test for international education.

However, IELTS is just one piece of the puzzle. The landscape of entrance exams for foreign universities continues to expand, with options like TOEFL (accepted by over 11,000 universities across 150 nations) and the convenient Duolingo test that takes only 60 minutes to complete. Furthermore, specialized tests like the GMAT (essential for admission into over 5,400 MBA programs worldwide) and GRE (accepted by more than 1,200 business universities globally) serve as gateways to specific academic paths.

The trend of studying abroad has been steadily increasing, with students actively seeking international degrees for the diverse opportunities they provide. Consequently, understanding what exams are required to study abroad has become crucial for your academic journey. Whether you're exploring exams to study abroad after 12th or researching exams for abroad studies after engineering, this comprehensive guide covers the seven most important tests you'll need to conquer to make your international education dreams a reality in 2025.
 

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS stands as a cornerstone entrance exam to study abroad, recognized by over 11,500 institutions worldwide. Unlike other exams for abroad studies, IELTS assesses all four language skills crucial for academic success and global mobility.
 

IELTS exam structure and format

The IELTS offers two primary test versions tailored to your specific needs. The Academic module suits those planning to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, while the General Training module is designed for migration to English-speaking countries or training below degree level.

Both test formats examine four key language components:

1. Listening (30 minutes): Contains 40 questions divided into four sections. The first two sections focus on everyday social contexts, while sections 3 and 4 cover educational and academic situations.

2. Reading (60 minutes): Features 40 questions across three sections with approximately 2,150-2,750 words total. Reading passages and question types differ between Academic and General Training versions.

3. Writing (60 minutes): Includes two tasks requiring at least 150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2. The Academic module requires analyzing visual information like graphs in Task 1, while General Training focuses on letter writing.

4. Speaking (11-14 minutes): A face-to-face interview with three parts: introduction and interview (4-5 minutes), individual long turn (3-4 minutes), and two-way discussion (4-5 minutes).

Additionally, specialized versions exist for UK visa applications, including IELTS for UKVI and IELTS Life Skills tests that assess specific language competencies based on visa requirements.
 

» Take IELTS Coaching
 

IELTS scoring and minimum requirements

IELTS uses a 9-band scoring system where each language skill receives an individual score, then averaged for your overall band score. Here's what these scores represent:

• Band 9: Expert user with complete command of English
• Band 8: Very good user with occasional minor inaccuracies
• Band 7: Good user who handles complex language despite occasional errors
• Band 6: Competent user with effective command despite some inaccuracies
• Band 5: Modest user with partial command and many mistakes

For the Listening and Reading sections, each correct answer earns 1 mark out of 40, later converted to the band scale. Meanwhile, Writing and Speaking assessments use specific criteria including task achievement, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation.

Most universities require minimum overall scores between 6.0 and 7.0 for undergraduate programs, and 6.5 to 7.5 for postgraduate studies. Notably, for UK visa applications, the requirements vary by visa type—from CEFR level A1 (IELTS Life Skills) for some visas to C1 (IELTS 7.0 in all components) for others.

 

IELTS exam fees and validity

As of 2025, the IELTS exam fee in India is INR 18,000 for both Academic and General Training modules. This standardized fee applies consistently across all test centers in India, regardless of city location. The cost remains the same whether you choose the paper-based or computer-delivered format.

For the UKVI version, there's a slight premium—INR 18,250 for both computer and paper-based formats. Moreover, if you're dissatisfied with a particular skill score, the One Skill Retake option costs INR 12,000.

Regarding validity, IELTS scores remain officially valid for two years from the test date. After this period, your scores expire since language proficiency may change over time.
 

IELTS for scholarships and visa applications

Beyond university admissions, your IELTS score can unlock scholarship opportunities and facilitate visa applications. Several notable IELTS-related scholarships exist for Indian students:

• British Council IELTS Award offers £3,000 to £10,000 for tuition fees abroad to eight Indian students annually
• IDP Education scholarships totaling INR 30 lakh for students with high IELTS scores planning to study in Canada, UK, Australia or New Zealand
• IELTS Great Scholarship provides up to £10,000 for one-year postgraduate courses at top UK universities

For visa purposes, IELTS serves as an essential requirement. The UK immigration system, for instance, specifies minimum IELTS scores based on visa type. For student visas below degree level, you need IELTS for UKVI with at least 4.0 in all four components (B1 level). Degree-level studies require minimum 5.5 in all components (B2 level).

Similarly, Australia accepts IELTS results for immigration, including the One Skill Retake option for most visa subclasses except 476, 482, and 485, which require scores from a single sitting.
 

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

As another major entrance exam to study abroad, the TOEFL measures academic English proficiency and is accepted by more than 11,000 universities across 150 countries. This standardized test evaluates your readiness to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment through a comprehensive assessment system.
 

TOEFL test types and delivery modes

The TOEFL is primarily available in two formats. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is the most widely used version, accessible both at official test centers and as a home edition monitored by a human proctor. Specifically, the test center option provides a traditional testing environment with all equipment provided, while the TOEFL iBT Home Edition offers the same test from your residence, provided you meet certain environment and equipment requirements.

Though previously available, the TOEFL Paper-Based Test (PBT) is becoming obsolete. Indeed, as of January 20, 2024, the Paper Edition is no longer offered, although existing scores remain valid for two years after the test date.

Regardless of delivery mode, the TOEFL measures all four academic skills—reading, listening, speaking, and writing—through content that closely reflects how English is used in everyday academic settings. The test contains 100% academic content with integrated tasks, though the total duration has decreased from three hours to approximately two hours (116 minutes) as of July 2023.

 

» Take TOELF Coaching
 

TOEFL score range and top university cutoffs

The TOEFL iBT scoring system ranges from 0–120 points total, with each section (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) scored from 0–30. Your responses in Speaking and Writing sections are evaluated by a combination of AI scoring and ETS-certified human raters to ensure accuracy and minimize bias.

Although there's no official passing score, top universities worldwide set their own cutoffs:

• United States: Prestigious institutions like MIT require 90+, Stanford demands 100-110+, and Harvard doesn't specify minimums but recommends strong English proficiency
• United Kingdom: Oxford and Cambridge expect 100-110+, while LSE sets a higher bar at 107+
• Canada: University of Toronto requires 100+, McGill University accepts 86+, and UBC looks for 90-100+
• Australia: Melbourne University requires 79+, UNSW Sydney expects 90+, and ANU ranges from 80-100+
• Germany: Requirements vary widely, with TU Munich setting no minimum while Free University of Berlin requires 100+

TOEFL scores remain valid for two years from your test date, after which they expire since language proficiency can change significantly over time.
 

TOEFL exam fees and retake policy

In 2025, the standard TOEFL iBT exam fee in India is INR 16,900 for all major formats, including the iBT, paper-based, and TOEFL at Home tests. The shorter TOEFL Essentials Test costs approximately INR 9,996.78.

Beyond the registration fee, you may encounter additional charges:

• Late registration fee: INR 3,900 (for registrations within 7 days of the exam)
• Rescheduling fee: INR 5,900
• Additional score reports: INR 1,950 per recipient
• Speaking or Writing section score review: INR 7,900

Concerning retakes, you can take the TOEFL repeatedly, but must wait at least 3 days between attempts. Initially, ETS had a 12-day waiting period policy, but this has been modified.

If you need to cancel your exam, you must do so at least four days before your test date to receive a partial refund. Subsequently, you'll be eligible for 50% of your test fee, with no cash refunds available. The refund amount is credited back to your original payment method in US Dollars.

The scoring delivery timeline varies by test format—typically available in your ETS account within 11–13 business days for the Paper Edition, with similar timeframes for score delivery to universities.
 

PTE (Pearson Test of English)

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) represents a modern alternative among entrance exams for foreign universities, gaining recognition from over 3,000 institutions worldwide. This computer-based English proficiency assessment uses cutting-edge AI technology to minimize human biases while delivering fast, accurate results—a key feature that distinguishes it from other exams for abroad studies.

 

» Take PTE Coaching
 

PTE exam format and sections

The PTE Academic evaluates your English proficiency through three main parts, completed in a single two-hour session:

Part 1: Speaking & Writing (54-67 minutes) This longest section combines speaking and writing assessments through seven distinct question types. The speaking component evaluates your pronunciation, fluency, and oral communication abilities in academic contexts.

Part 2: Reading (29-30 minutes) This section contains five different question formats that assess your comprehension abilities. You'll encounter multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, and paragraph reordering tasks that measure your ability to understand academic texts.

Part 3: Listening (30-43 minutes) The final component evaluates your ability to understand spoken English through eight question types. You'll listen to various audio clips and respond to questions that test your comprehension of lectures, conversations, and academic discussions.

Particularly noteworthy is that the PTE exam is administered entirely on computer with a headset provided by the test center. Alternatively, some candidates may opt for the Home Edition, allowing them to take the test remotely.
 

PTE scoring system and interpretation

The PTE Academic uses a scoring scale of 10-90 points, where 90 represents the highest possible achievement. Your score report includes two essential components:

1. Overall Score: This comprehensive score (10-90) reflects your general English proficiency across all tested skills.

2. Communicative Skills Scores: These individual scores evaluate your performance in four key areas:

   • Speaking: Assesses fluency, pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary
   • Writing: Evaluates grammar, accuracy, vocabulary, and coherence
   • Reading: Measures comprehension of various text types
   • Listening: Tests understanding of spoken English in different contexts

The PTE scoring mechanism utilizes different evaluation methods depending on the task type:

• Correct/Incorrect: Objective tasks with definitive answers receive full credit for correct responses
• Partial Credit: More complex tasks involving subjective evaluation earn partial credit based on various factors
• Automated Scoring: Most tasks are initially scored by sophisticated algorithms

Essentially, the PTE provides detailed feedback on your performance in each skill area, offering valuable guidance for future preparation.
 

PTE exam cost and result turnaround time

In 2025, the standard fee for the PTE Academic Test in India is ₹17,000. This may vary slightly, as another source indicates the cost is ₹15,900. When booking within 48 hours of the test date, you must pay an additional late booking fee of approximately ₹695.

Regarding payment methods, candidates can pay for the PTE exam using credit or debit cards. If you decide to cancel your test, you may receive:

• 100% refund if cancelation occurs 14+ days before the test date
• 50% refund if cancelation occurs 7-14 days before the test date
• No refund if cancelation occurs less than 7 days before the test date

One of the most appealing aspects of the PTE Academic is its rapid result delivery. Whereas other exams for studying abroad may take weeks, PTE results are typically available within five business days following the test date. Often, candidates receive their scores even faster—sometimes within just two business days.

Your PTE scores remain valid for two years from the test date[51]. After this period, you'll need to retake the exam if still required for your abroad entrance exam needs. Conveniently, there's no limit to how many times you can take the PTE, though you must maintain a gap of 5-14 days between attempts.
 

Duolingo English Test

Among the newer exams for studying abroad, the Duolingo English Test (DET) has emerged as a revolutionary option, accepted by over 5,500 institutions worldwide, including top US universities. Its computer-based format offers unparalleled convenience for international students seeking quick, accessible language certification.
 

Duolingo test structure and adaptive format

The DET features a unique computer-adaptive design that adjusts question difficulty based on your performance—making easier questions follow incorrect answers and harder ones follow correct responses. This dynamic testing method ensures precise assessment in substantially less time than traditional exams for abroad studies.

The entire test process takes just 60 minutes, divided into three distinct segments:

• A 5-minute introduction explaining test rules and requirements
• A 45-minute adaptive assessment evaluating reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills
• A 10-minute video interview with open-ended writing and speaking samples shared with institutions

During the adaptive section, you'll encounter various challenge types including Read and Select, Fill in the Blanks, Read and Complete, Read Aloud, and Listen and Type questions. Regarding logistics, the test now requires two cameras for security—one for monitoring you and another recording your computer screen and keyboard.
 

Duolingo score range and university acceptance

The DET uses a holistic scoring scale from 10 to 160, with scores typically categorized into four proficiency levels:

• Basic (10-55): Understanding simple English in familiar contexts
• Intermediate (60-85): Managing routine communication with some hesitation
• Upper-Intermediate (90-115): Handling unfamiliar topics and abstract concepts
• Advanced (125-160): Comprehending complex language and communicating effectively

For university admissions, score requirements vary by institution and program. Generally, top universities accept scores between 100-120. Programs with higher academic demands typically require 110 or higher, yet certain institutions accept scores as low as 90. Professional courses like MBA and MS in Data Science often expect scores exceeding 120 for competitive consideration.
 

Duolingo test fees and result speed

A standout feature of this entrance exam to study abroad is its affordability. The standard DET fee is ₹5,906.63, making it significantly cheaper than traditional alternatives. For candidates needing faster processing, an additional ₹3,290.84 purchases the "Faster Results" upgrade.

Furthermore, the DET delivers results remarkably quickly—within 48 hours of test completion. With the Faster Results option, you can receive your scores in just 12 hours—dramatically faster than TOEFL (4-8 days) or IELTS (3-5 days).

Duolingo scores remain valid for two years from the test date. The test also offers exceptional flexibility, allowing up to three attempts within any 30-day period and unlimited lifetime retakes.
 

Duolingo vs other English proficiency exams

Comparatively, the DET stands out among exams to study abroad in several key aspects. First, its 60-minute duration is substantially shorter than IELTS (165 minutes) and TOEFL (180 minutes). Likewise, its cost is approximately one-third that of traditional alternatives.

In terms of structure, Duolingo uniquely combines language skills rather than testing them separately. For instance, reading and writing are assessed together, as are speaking and listening—reflecting how language is actually used in academic settings.

Regarding difficulty, many consider the DET easier than IELTS due to its adaptive format and shorter duration. Yet comparisons remain challenging since equivalency charts suggest a score of 115-120 on Duolingo roughly equals an IELTS 7.0 band or TOEFL score around 95.
 

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

For graduate program aspirants, the GRE represents a critical entrance exam for foreign universities, accepted by more than 1,300 business schools and numerous specialized master's programs worldwide. This comprehensive assessment evaluates skills developed over time that predict academic success in demanding graduate environments.

» Take GRE Coaching
 

GRE exam sections and question types

The GRE General Test features three main sections that assess different intellectual capabilities:

1. Analytical Writing (30 minutes): Consists of one "Analyze an Issue" task requiring articulation of complex ideas, supporting arguments with reasons and examples, and demonstrating standard written English proficiency.

2. Verbal Reasoning (two sections, 18-23 minutes each): Evaluates your ability to analyze written material, synthesize information, recognize relationships among words, and understand multiple levels of meaning. The first section contains 12 questions while the second has 15 questions.

3. Quantitative Reasoning (two sections, 21-26 minutes each): Tests basic mathematical skills, understanding of elementary concepts, and problem-solving ability through various question formats. Like the verbal section, it includes 12 questions in the first section and 15 in the second.

Uniquely, the GRE employs a section-level adaptive format—your performance on the first section determines the difficulty level of the second section for both Verbal and Quantitative measures.
 

GRE scoring and percentile benchmarks

The GRE uses a scoring scale of 130-170 for both Verbal and Quantitative sections (in one-point increments) and 0-6 for Analytical Writing (in half-point increments).

To interpret these scores meaningfully, consider these percentile benchmarks based on test-takers between 2020-2023:

• Verbal Reasoning: Score of 160 represents the 84th percentile
• Quantitative Reasoning: Score of 160 represents the 53rd percentile
• Analytical Writing: Score of 4.0 represents the 59th percentile

A total score between 320-340 is typically considered excellent, while 300+ is generally good for many programs.
 

GRE exam fees and validity

The standard GRE General Test fee is INR 18,563.70 for most global locations, with slight variations for China (INR 19,517.20). Indian test-takers specifically pay INR 22,550 as of 2025.

Additional costs include:

• Rescheduling: Approximately INR 4,640.92
• Changing test center: INR 4,640.92
• Additional score reports: INR 3,375.22 per recipient

Your GRE scores remain valid for five years from the test date, offering flexibility for future applications.
 

GRE for MS and MBA programs abroad

Beyond MBA programs, the GRE serves as a gateway to numerous MS programs globally. For international students, GRE score requirements vary by institution and program competitiveness:

• A score above 320 is typically preferred for elite universities
• 300+ is considered solid for most quality programs
• Scores below 260 may limit your options significantly

Interestingly, the GRE has become increasingly popular for MBA admissions as an alternative to the GMAT. Its more versatile nature includes less math focus and provides a calculator for quantitative problems, which many test-takers find advantageous.
 

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT stands as the premier entrance exam for foreign universities offering business programs, trusted by more than 7,700 programs across 2,400 business schools worldwide. With its business-specific focus, this exam serves as a critical gateway for MBA aspirants internationally.
 

GMAT exam structure and duration

The GMAT Focus Edition released in 2023 features a streamlined format lasting 2 hours and 15 minutes with an optional 10-minute break between sections. This computer-adaptive test comprises three equally timed sections of 45 minutes each:

• Quantitative Reasoning: 21 questions assessing mathematical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Verbal Reasoning: 23 questions evaluating reading and critical thinking abilities
• Data Insights: 20 questions testing data interpretation skills with tables and graphs

A key advantage of the GMAT is its flexible section ordering—you can tackle the three sections in any sequence and place your optional break wherever preferred. Furthermore, the exam allows bookmarking questions with the option to revisit up to three questions per section if time permits.
 

GMAT scoring and top B-school requirements

The GMAT Focus Edition uses a scoring scale ranging from 205 to 805 points. For competitive MBA programs, score requirements vary significantly:

• Elite programs: Top-16 U.S. business schools typically expect scores of 700+
• European programs: Leading European schools accept average scores ranging from 638-709
• Global benchmarks: The worldwide mean GMAT score is approximately 546

In fact, Harvard Business School reported a median score of 740 in 2023, illustrating the high standards at premier institutions.
 

GMAT cost and retake options

The standard GMAT registration fee in India is ₹23,204.62 as of 2025. Additional costs may include:

• Rescheduling: ₹4,640.92 (60+ days before), escalating to ₹13,922.77 (2-14 days before)
• Cancelation: Partial refunds available depending on timing

Regarding retakes, you can attempt the GMAT up to five times within any 12-month period with a mandatory 16-day waiting period between attempts. Throughout your lifetime, you're permitted eight total attempts.
 

GMAT vs GRE for MBA abroad

Though both exams serve as entrance exams for foreign universities, they differ substantially:

• Design purpose: The GMAT is specifically created for business school admissions, whereas the GRE serves broader graduate programs
• Question emphasis: GMAT verbal focuses heavily on grammar and logic, while GRE emphasizes vocabulary
• Mathematical rigor: GMAT quantitative sections are generally considered more challenging
• Test approach: The GMAT requires analysis of others' arguments; the GRE expects you to construct your own

Hence, for traditional MBA applicants from finance or consulting backgrounds, experts often recommend the GMAT first.
 

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

For high school students aspiring to undergraduate education internationally, the SAT remains one of the most significant exams to study abroad after 12th grade. This standardized test evaluates written, verbal, and mathematical skills essential for college readiness.
 

SAT exam format and sections

The SAT has transitioned to a fully digital, computer-adaptive format lasting 2 hours and 14 minutes with a 10-minute break. This shorter duration gives students 68% more time per question than the competing ACT exam.

The test comprises two main sections:

• Reading and Writing (64 minutes): Consists of two 32-minute modules with 54 questions total, covering literature, history, humanities, and science
• Math (70 minutes): Features two 35-minute modules with 44 questions total, assessing algebra, problem-solving, advanced math, geometry, and trigonometry[110]

Uniquely, the SAT employs adaptive testing—your performance on the first module determines the difficulty level of the second module in each section.
 

SAT score range and competitive benchmarks

The SAT uses a 400-1600 point scale, with each section scored 200-800. According to College Board data, competitive scores fall into these percentile ranges:

• 1350-1400: Approximately 90th percentile
• 1200-1300: Around 75th-85th percentile
• 1000-1100: Approximately 40th-60th percentile

SAT exam fees and frequency

The standard registration fee as of 2025 is INR 5,737.87. Additional costs include:

• Late registration: INR 2,868.94
• Test center change: INR 2,447.03
• Cancelation: INR 2,447.03 (before deadline) or INR 3,290.84 (late cancelation)

The exam is offered seven times annually—March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
 

SAT for undergraduate admissions abroad

More than 3,000 institutions globally accept SAT scores across various academic disciplines. While many US universities recently reinstated SAT requirements after making them optional during COVID-19, others remain test-optional. Besides the US, countries including Canada, UK, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand recognize SAT scores for undergraduate admissions.
 

Comparison of Exams You Can Take to Study Abroad
 

Exam Name	Test Duration	Score Range/Scale	Basic Cost (INR)	Score Validity	Number of Sections	Key Features/Format
IELTS	2 hours 45 mins	0-9 band scale	18,000	2 years	4 (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)	Available in Academic and General Training modules; Paper-based and computer-delivered options
TOEFL	2 hours (116 mins)	0-120 points	16,900	2 years	4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing)	Internet-based test (iBT); Available as home edition
PTE	2 hours	10-90 points	17,000	2 years	3 (Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening)	Computer-based with AI scoring; Results within 5 business days
Duolingo	60 minutes	10-160 points	5,906.63	2 years	3 (Adaptive assessment, Video interview, Writing samples)	Computer-adaptive format; Results within 48 hours
GRE	Not specified	130-170 (V&Q), 0-6 (AW)	22,550	5 years	3 (Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning)	Section-level adaptive format
GMAT	2 hours 15 mins	205-805 points	23,204.62	Not mentioned	3 (Quantitative, Verbal, Data Insights)	Computer-adaptive; Flexible section ordering
SAT	2 hours 14 mins	400-1600 points	5,737.87	Not mentioned	2 (Reading & Writing, Math)	Digital computer-adaptive format; 68% more time per question than ACT

Conclusion

Navigating the complex landscape of international education requires thorough preparation, especially when it comes to these crucial entrance exams. Each test serves a distinct purpose in your academic journey abroad. IELTS and TOEFL stand as traditional English proficiency benchmarks, while PTE offers technological advancement with AI scoring. Duolingo, despite being newer, provides an affordable, time-efficient alternative that many prestigious institutions now accept.

Additionally, specialized exams like the GRE and GMAT open doors to specific graduate programs—the former for various disciplines with a generous five-year validity period, the latter designed specifically for business school applicants with its unique focus on quantitative and data analysis skills. SAT scores, undoubtedly essential for undergraduate aspirants, continue to influence admissions decisions at thousands of institutions worldwide.

Your exam selection should align with your academic goals and target institutions. Though these tests might seem challenging, understanding their structures, scoring systems, and requirements significantly increases your chances of success. The cost comparison reveals substantial differences—from Duolingo's affordable ₹5,906 to GMAT's premium ₹23,204—allowing you to budget accordingly.

Above all, remember that these exams measure readiness rather than intelligence. Therefore, strategic preparation trumps last-minute cramming. Careful consideration of your strengths, weaknesses, and desired destinations will help you choose the most appropriate exams from this comprehensive guide. With dedicated preparation and clear goals, these standardized tests become stepping stones rather than obstacles on your path to international education in 2025.
 

FAQs

Q1. Which English proficiency test is most widely accepted for studying abroad? 

While IELTS and TOEFL are the most widely accepted, many universities now also recognize PTE and Duolingo. IELTS is accepted by over 11,500 institutions worldwide, making it the most popular choice for international education.

Q2. How long are test scores valid for most exams to study abroad? 

Most English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo) are valid for 2 years from the test date. The GRE stands out with a longer validity period of 5 years, giving students more flexibility in their application timeline.

Q3. What is the most affordable exam option for studying abroad? 

The Duolingo English Test is significantly more affordable than traditional options, costing around ₹5,900 compared to ₹16,000-₹18,000 for IELTS or TOEFL. It also offers the fastest result turnaround, typically within 48 hours.

Q4. How do the GMAT and GRE differ for MBA applications? 

The GMAT is specifically designed for business school admissions with a focus on quantitative skills and data analysis. The GRE is more versatile, accepted by both business schools and other graduate programs. Some students find the GMAT more challenging, especially in its quantitative sections.

Q5. Are there any advantages to taking the digital SAT for undergraduate admissions? 

The digital SAT offers several advantages, including a shorter test duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes, adaptive testing that adjusts difficulty based on performance, and 68% more time per question compared to the ACT. It's also offered more frequently throughout the year, providing greater flexibility for test-takers.

The average salary in Portugal is estimated at around 1,151 euros per month after taxes in 2025. However, the gross pay is around 1,707 euros per month, and the monthly average wage for full-time workers in Portugal is 1091 euros.
 

Recently, Portugal witnessed a positive job market trend in July, with an unemployment rate dropping from 6.7% to 6.2%.
 

Portugal has progressive personal income tax rates ranging from 13% to 47% from January 2025. The average annual salary is 24,878 euros, and the tax ruling is 25%. So, the average net wage after the tax is 18,658.50 euros.
 

*Want to work in Portugal? Talk to Y-Axis for complete guidance.
 

What is the median wage in Portugal?

In 2025, the minimum wage in Portugal was 870 Euros per month, whereas it was 820 Euros. In 2024, as it increased this year, the minimum wage in Portugal now amounts to a total salary of 12,180 euros (14 installments of 870 euros). Any foreign national working part-time or being paid hourly can expect to earn about 4.40 euros per hour.
 

In 2024, the median salary in Portugal is around 1,777 Euros per month or 24,878 Euros per year. The figure serves to split the population into two equal segments:
 

• Those who are earning above this amount
• Those who are earning below this amount
   

Highest paying jobs in Portugal

Portugal has a thriving job market that offers opportunities across various industries. Below are the lists of highest paying jobs in Portugal:

Job title	Average Annual Salary
Medical director	€ 69,960
Finance director	€ 61,320
Big data specialist	€ 59,820
Advertising director	€ 55,800
Managing director	€ 54,840
Software engineer	€ 50,136
Chief information officer	€ 43,440
Digital marketing manager	€ 41,760
Machine learning specialist	€ 38,520
E-commerce manager	€ 36,120

 

Average Salaries in Portugal according to Cities

The provincial salary varies in Portugal, such as:

City	Average monthly salary after tax
Lisbon	€ 1,123
Porto	€ 1,314
Vila Nova de Gaia	€ 1,012
Braga	€ 965

 

What can be considered a good salary in Portugal?

A good salary in Portugal is 45,000 euros a year, the gross salary of a single person. This allows foreign nationals to reside comfortably across the country, including in major cities like Lisbon.
 

The cost of living in Lisbon, the most expensive Portuguese city by many measures, is 781 Euro per month for a single person, including rent. If a foreign national earns around 45,000 euros a year, it would be enough for the applicant to cover rent, bills, and the occasional splurge.
 

Factors that are affecting salary in Portugal

Below are the factors that are affecting salaries in Portugal:
 

• Salary by education level and experience
• Economic factors affecting salaries
• Choice of industry
• Location
• Occupation
• Size of the company
   

 *Want assistance with Portugal Immigration? Talk to Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy for end-to-end support.