What Do Foreign Universities Expect from International Students Applying?

Exploring the world through education: A globe rests atop a stack of books, symbolizing the journey of learning and discovery.

Applying to study abroad is an exciting but highly detail-oriented process. International students targeting higher education in the US, Canada, and Europe need to understand that each region has unique, country-specific expectations. These requirements typically include academic qualifications, language proficiency, standardized tests, and supporting documents—all of which vary depending on your destination and level of study.

Europe

Master’s Programs:

Most European universities do not require GRE or GMAT scores for master’s program applications. Instead, academic performance in your bachelor’s degree carries the most weight.

Bachelor’s degree length: Most European institutions accept 3-year undergraduate degrees. However, Norway is a notable exception—its universities require 16 years of education (e.g., 4-year bachelor’s degree or 3-year bachelor’s with honours).

Undergraduate Programs:

European universities usually do not require SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admissions. Instead, they focus on your 12th-grade board results or equivalent qualifications.

Countries where 12th-grade completion is accepted as direct entry to undergraduate programs include:

Finland, France, Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain.

Exceptions:

Germany and Norway often require 13 years of schooling (e.g., 12th grade plus a preparatory/foundation year) for direct bachelor’s entry.

Language Requirements

If you’re applying to English-taught programs, you’ll need proof of proficiency—IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

United States

Undergraduate Programs:

US universities typically require:

Completion of high school or equivalent secondary education.

Official transcripts and grade reports.

SAT or ACT scores—although many universities are now test-optional or test-free.

English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS).

Supporting documents like personal statements, letters of recommendation, and proof of finances.

Master’s Programs:

Completed bachelor’s degree (preferably in a related field).

GRE or GMAT scores—only if required by the program; many now waive them

TOEFL/IELTS

Transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and sometimes work experience or portfolios.

Proof of financial support for the student visa process.

Canada

Undergraduate Programs:

Completion of secondary education equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma.

Proof of English proficiency IELTS/TOEFL

Academic transcripts and, for certain programs, additional standardised test results.

Proof of finance

Master’s Programs:

Recognized four-year bachelor’s degree (some programs accept three-year degrees).

English language proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL).

Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

GRE only if required by the program.

financial documentation.

Extra Tips:-

Check deadlines early—application, financial documents, and visa processing times vary by country.

Build a well-rounded profile with academics, extracurriculars, and strong recommendation letters (especially for US applications).

Attend virtual tours and info sessions to show interest—US universities often value demonstrated interest.

Explore scholarships and funding opportunities early, as competition is intense—especially for the US.

Suggested Blog post from Jam Campus Abroad

Study in the United States of America - https://www.jamcampusabroad.com/post/study-in-the-united-states-of-ame

Study in Germany; top Universities, top choices - https://www.jamcampusabroad.com/post/study-in-germany-top-universities

Are overseas studies even worth

https://www.jamcampusabroad.com/post/askjam-are-overseas-studies-ev