For Nigerian students eyeing international education, preparing travel documents and securing visas is only part of the process.
A critical step is passing standardised exams that assess your academic ability, language skills, or professional readiness, depending on the course, level of study, and country you’re targeting.
Below is a rundown of nine commonly required exams for studying abroad:
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
This globally accepted English proficiency exam is frequently a requirement for schools in the UK, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe. It evaluates speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Most institutions require the Academic version, with a score of 6.5 or above generally being favourable.
IELTS is facilitated in Nigeria by the British Council and IDP and is available in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Although English is widely spoken in Nigeria, IELTS remains a requirement for many universities due to academic and immigration standards. Consistent practice with sample tests and speaking exercises can help you secure a strong result.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
TOEFL is another widely recognised English test, mainly required by American institutions. It covers the same four language skills but is fully digital. American universities often ask for scores between 80 and 100 on the TOEFL iBT.
While both IELTS and TOEFL serve similar functions, it’s important to check individual school preferences. TOEFL is also accepted in Canada and several European nations, making it a versatile choice for international applicants.
3. PTE – Pearson Test of English
PTE is gaining momentum as a preferred English proficiency exam, especially in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. The test is completely computer-based and uses artificial intelligence to mark all components, with results often available within 48 hours.
For Nigerian applicants, the PTE offers an alternative to more traditional tests. It’s now accepted by multiple immigration agencies, including the UK, making it useful for both academic and relocation purposes.
4. SAT – Scholastic Assessment Test
The SAT remains a common requirement for undergraduate admission in the US and is also recognised by some Canadian and European universities. It tests a student’s reading, writing, and mathematics abilities. Scoring above 1200 can significantly boost your admission chances and even make you eligible for scholarships.
Nigerian high school graduates often take the SAT alongside their WAEC or NECO exams. It’s offered several times a year in Nigeria, with plenty of prep tools now available online and through local centres.
5. ACT – American College Testing
As an alternative to the SAT, the ACT is equally accepted by all U.S. institutions and may be better suited for students who are more scientifically inclined or perform well under time pressure. It includes sections on English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing test. A score of 28 or higher is generally considered competitive.
Though it’s not as commonly known as the SAT in Nigeria, the ACT could be the better choice for students who thrive in analytical or fast-paced testing situations. Taking both tests and comparing outcomes can help students decide which one fits them best.
6. LSAT – Law School Admission Test
Students planning to pursue a legal career in the U.S. or Canada need to take the LSAT. Unlike other exams, it measures logic and comprehension skills rather than legal knowledge. Top law schools often look for scores above 160 out of 180.
Since the test is offered only a few times a year, early preparation is crucial. Strong LSAT results, combined with academic excellence and relevant extracurriculars, form the backbone of a competitive law school application.
7. GRE – Graduate Record Examination
The GRE is a requirement for many graduate-level programmes in the U.S. and other countries. It evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and analytical writing. Scores above 320 out of 340 are often expected in competitive fields such as engineering or economics.
Although some universities have made the GRE optional, it is still recommended for scholarships and teaching assistantships. Nigerian students aiming for postgraduate studies abroad should prepare for it well in advance.
8. GMAT – Graduate Management Admission Test
This exam is crucial for business school applicants. It tests quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and verbal skills. A score over 650 is often required by top-tier business schools worldwide.
Prospective Nigerian MBA students should be aware of how demanding the GMAT is. Some schools now offer a streamlined version known as the GMAT Focus Edition, designed to be shorter and more convenient for professionals.
9. MCAT – Medical College Admission Test
Students hoping to enrol in medical schools in the U.S. or Canada must take the MCAT. This test measures knowledge in biology, physics, chemistry, and critical analysis. A competitive score is usually around 510 or higher.
For Nigerians pursuing medicine abroad, the MCAT is rigorous and costly, with limited testing centres. A solid science background and months of preparation are essential. Adding hands-on experience through clinical placements or shadowing programmes can strengthen an applicant’s medical school prospects.
