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Exams & Language Tests: Complete Beginner's Guide for Nepali Students

Most universities and visa offices require proof of English ability or academic readiness. This guide explains the major tests — IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, SAT, GRE and GMAT — with what they measure, who needs them, accepted countries, and fee ranges in Nepal.

Category: Exams & Tests Updated: November 29, 2025

Overview: Which Test Do You Need?

Undergraduate applicants to the US typically need SAT + English test (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE). Postgraduate applicants often need GRE plus English. MBA applicants typically take GMAT plus English. UK, Canada, Australia and NZ primarily use IELTS or PTE.

USA

Undergrad: SAT + IELTS/TOEFL. Graduate: GRE, MBA: GMAT.

UK

IELTS or PTE; GMAT for MBAs.

Canada

IELTS or PTE or TOEFL; some need SAT/GRE/GMAT.

Australia/NZ

IELTS or PTE; TOEFL accepted.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS Academic evaluates Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Scores range from 0-9 bands; most universities expect 6.0-7.5 overall.

Quick facts: Duration ~2h 45m. Fee: NPR 25k-28k. Accepted in UK, CA, AU, NZ, many US/EU.

Format

Listening 30m, Reading 60m, Writing 60m, Speaking 11-14m.

Results

3-5 days (computer) or ~13 days (paper).

IELTS Guide

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

TOEFL iBT measures academic English. Scores range 0-120. Popular for USA and accepted widely elsewhere.

Duration

~2-3h

Fees

NPR 20k-24k

TOEFL Guide

PTE (Pearson Test of English)

Fully computer-based with fast results. Scores range 10-90. Widely accepted in Australia, UK, and growing in Canada.

Duration

~2h

Fees

NPR 22k-27k

PTE Guide

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

For undergraduate admissions, primarily in the United States. Assesses Reading/Writing and Math.

Duration

~2-3h

Fees

USD 60 + intl fee

SAT Guide

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

For STEM and research postgraduate programs. Evaluates Quantitative, Verbal and Analytical Writing.

Duration

~2-3h

Fees

NPR 22k-30k

GRE Guide

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

For business schools and MBA programs. Assesses reasoning, data insights and quantitative ability.

Duration

~2-3.5h

Fees

NPR 30k-35k

GMAT Guide

Quick Comparison

Exam Purpose Duration Fee (NPR)
IELTSEnglish~2h 45m25k-28k
TOEFLEnglish~2-3h20k-24k
PTEEnglish~2h22k-27k
SATUndergrad~2-3hUSD 60+
GREGraduate~2-3h22k-30k
GMATMBA~2-3.5h30k-35k

Preparation Roadmap

1) Choose the right exam
Match your target country and program requirements.
2) Plan your timeline
8-16 weeks for language tests; 10-16 weeks for GRE/GMAT.
3) Use official materials
Practice with official guides and full-length mocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need both an English test and SAT/GRE/GMAT?
Often yes. English tests prove language ability; others demonstrate academic readiness.
Is PTE accepted for Canada?
Many Canadian institutions accept PTE; confirm current policy.
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