Get your Dubai Entrance Exam easier than you imagine!
Get comprehensive guidance from experts
and turn your dream of studying in Dubai into reality.
Get your Dubai Entrance Exam easier than you imagine!
Get comprehensive guidance from experts and turn your dream of studying in Dubai into reality.
Entrance Exam For Study in Dubai
Did you know that Dubai has rapidly risen into the top ten global student cities with its world-class education, modern infrastructure, and cosmopolitan lifestyle? Known for sophistication, ultramodern architecture, and a dynamic business environment, Dubai recently added excellent colleges attracting students from around the globe, notably from India.
If you want to study in Dubai, you should first grasp what tests you will need. Different colleges have different entry criteria, and you may need to take a range of English examinations, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to study in Dubai, particularly if you are from a non-English-speaking country.
In this article, we will go over the important entrance examinations for study in Dubai, offering detailed guidance so you may prepare successfully.
What Exams Are Required to Study in Dubai?
The entrance examinations for study in Dubai tests measure your English language skills and aptitude in various academic fields, both of which play an important role in the admissions process.
Most universities require IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE to demonstrate your English proficiency. The SAT and ACT are commonly used for undergraduate applications. The advanced degree programs require the GRE and GMAT, primarily in business, management, and engineering.
The following is a list of the most important examinations that are needed to study in Dubai:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English)
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
- SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
- ACT (American College Testing)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally acknowledged test. It is designed to assess the English language skills of students who wish to study in Dubai. The test evaluates applicants in four categories: reading, writing, hearing and speaking. It is generally acknowledged by Dubai's institutions and required for entrance to most undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
To register for the IELTS, applicants must first create an account on the official website. Following registration, customers can select a test day and place depending on their preferences. Test fees vary by area, and payment is due at enrollment. Students can select either computer-delivered or paper-based responses according to their choices and availability.
Once enrolled, applicants will get confirmation information, including the exam venue, date, and special instructions. The results for computer-based tests are available in 5-7 days, and 13 days for paper-based testing.
Exam Duration |
2 hours 45 minutes |
Exam Fees |
INR 17,000 |
Number of Sections |
4 (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) |
Required Score |
6.0 - 6.5 or higher depending on the university |
Who Should Apply |
Non-native English speakers applying to universities in Dubai for undergraduate or postgraduate programs |
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL is an English language test that is standardised and widely accepted by colleges in Dubai. It assesses the ability of non-native speakers of English to understand and use the language at the university level. It is divided into four parts: reading, listening, speaking, and writing—providing a complete evaluation of the English language proficiency of the candidate.
Applicants can enrol for the TOEFL by creating an account on the official TOEFL website. After registering, individuals may choose their test day and place. Examination fees are paid during the registration procedure. Both paper-based and internet-based (iBT) examinations are offered, with the latter being the more popular choice.
After completing the registration procedure, candidates will get an email confirmation including exam details. Scores are typically available online within 6 days, with official score reports given to chosen universities.
Exam Duration |
3 hours |
Exam Fees |
INR 16,900 |
Number of Sections |
4 (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) |
Required Score |
80 or higher depending on the university |
Who Should Apply |
Non-native English speakers applying for undergraduate or postgraduate courses in Dubai |
Pearson English Test (PTE)
The Pearson English Test (PTE) is an English language proficiency test. It is generally recognised for student entrance to Dubai's universities. It assesses speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills with a focus on the use of real-life practical English. PTE is a computer-based examination that gives rapid results and has variable test dates.
Registration for the PTE begins with the applicant creating an account on the official Pearson website. After that, one can schedule a test and pay test fees. The process of registration is done via the Internet and is short; additionally, examinees can choose to take their tests at a centre or take up online testing.
On enrollment, examinees will receive confirmation emails regarding the test date venue, and instructions. Scores are available within 48 hours, making PTE one of the fastest English language tests in terms of result delivery.
Exam Duration |
3 hours |
Exam Fees |
INR 17,000 |
Number of Sections |
4 (Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening) |
Required Score |
51 or higher depending on the university |
Who Should Apply |
Non-native English speakers applying for higher education programs in Dubai |
GRE (Graduate Record Exam)
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardised test that is generally accepted in Dubai's postgraduate programs. It evaluates candidates in the following areas: analytical writing, verbal, and quantitative reasoning skills. The GRE is important for students who want to pursue their Masters and PhDs. Most of the Dubai colleges use these scores while granting admissions.
Individuals who wish to register for this exam must do so through the official website of the Educational Testing Service (ETS). After registration, students can choose a suitable exam day and venue. The exam fee varies by nation, and payment is due throughout the registration procedure. Candidates have the choice of taking computer-based or paper-based tests, depending on their interests and availability.
After registering, applicants will get a confirmation email. The email will consist of information on the exam date, location, and other pertinent facts. GRE scores are normally available 10-15 days following the test, allowing students to submit their scores on time for applications.
Exam Duration |
3 hours 45 minutes |
Exam Fees |
INR 22,550 |
Number of Sections |
3 (Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Writing) |
Required Score |
300 or higher depending on the program |
Who Should Apply |
Postgraduate applicants in fields like engineering, science, and humanities |
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is an important exam for candidates looking to enter MBA programs in Dubai. The GMAT evaluates a candidate's analytical writing, integrated thinking, mathematical reasoning, and verbal reasoning abilities, offering a holistic assessment of their preparation for graduate-level business courses.
Students can sign up for the GMAT by making an account on the official Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) website. After registration, applicants can choose their chosen exam day and venue. Candidates must pay an exam fee throughout the enrollment procedure, and they can choose between computer-based or online testing alternatives.
Candidates get confirmation emails after completing the registration process, which includes their exam date, place, and instructions. GMAT results are often available within 7 days, allowing applicants to effectively manage their application deadlines.
Exam Duration |
2 hours, 15 minutes |
Exam Fees |
INR 22,000 |
Number of Sections |
4 (Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal) |
Required Score |
600-700 or higher |
Who Should Apply |
MBA and business school applicants |
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
The SAT is a standardised test that is commonly used for college admissions in the United States but by several colleges in Dubai. The SAT assesses students' maths critical reading and writing, therefore equally important for university entrance scores.
Students can register for the SAT by going to the College Board website and creating an account. They will then be able to choose the date and place of their test after registration and pay charges at that time. Since the SAT is given several times a year, students have many choices.
Once you register, you're likely to get an email acknowledgement with the information related to your test time as well as campus. SAT scores are typically released two or three weeks after the test date; this gives students a chance to send them together with their college applications.
Exam Duration |
2 hours, 14 minutes |
Exam Fees |
INR 10,102 |
Number of Sections |
2 (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing, Math) |
Required Score |
1050 or higher |
Who Should Apply |
International undergraduate applicants |
American College Testing (ACT)
The American College Testing or ACT is another standardised test that many Dubai institutions consider for undergraduate admission. This examination is designed to assess the student’s capability in English, mathematics, reading and science thinking and provide a composite estimate of academic performance.
ACT registration can be done by students after creating an account on the ACT website. During registration, students shall choose their preferred examination date and centre. You will also have to make a payment as part of the registration process. The ACT is held several times a year, so students can select the most convenient day for them.
After registering, test takers will be sent a confirmation email with details of the test date, location, and directions. ACT scores are usually reported within 2-8 weeks from the day of the test, so students have more than enough time to finalise their college applications.
Exam Duration |
3 hours 35 minutes (with Writing) |
Exam Fees |
INR 15,603.51 |
Number of Sections |
5 (English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing) |
Required Score |
22-28 or higher |
Who Should Apply |
International undergraduate applicants planning to study in Dubai |
Takeaway
International students planning to study in Dubai should be aware of the entrance exams to study in Dubai that will help them choose the right university and program. From English proficiency examinations like IELTS and TOEFL to standardised assessments such as GRE and GMAT, each of these tests has a remarkable role in demonstrating your academic eligibility.
Are you considering studying in Dubai? AECC is here to guide you through the exams to study in Dubai, ensuring you meet all requirements for your academic journey. Don’t miss your chance to experience world-class education in a vibrant city! Contact us today to learn more and start your exciting adventure in Dubai!