It is common misconception that achieving an outstanding Fiji Year 12 Certificate Examination mark would be enough to be admitted internationally, to neighbouring nations like New Zealand or Australia.

The fact is that the standard by overseas countries are becoming higher and official tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and SAT are indispensable.

Each nation asks for such scores from the tests of its own standard and taste. For instance, IELTS is required in a majority of the universities and workplaces in Australia, whereas SAT-which is, in fact, accepted globally- is required for America.

The reason for the requests are simple. IELTS/ TOEFL scores certify one’s proficiency in English, and SAT, which is of a higher level, also qualifies one’s capability of critique and ability to get admission to a   university.

Without these scores, it is difficult for universities or workplaces in several countries of which are not familiar with Fiji’s education system, to judge if an applicant is adequate to be admitted.

Fiji currently provides exam opportunities for SAT, IELTS, and TOEFL-PBT.

However, the problem is that such exams are only available at International School Suva (ISS). The limitation holds back the students from other divisions to attempt the exam.

“I have TOEFL (PBT) exam on this Saturday. I have to leave for Suva at 4am from Nadi as the paper starts at 7:45am,” said Year-12 student of Swami Vivekanada College, Yoonhoo Cho.

“Because of the tough road to Suva, I fail to maintain the best condition for taking the exam.

“As most of the universities abroad require either TOEFL or IELTS or SAT marks; there is no other option for the students, but to fulfill their requirement.

“But it is hard to grab opportunities here in Nadi; I always have to travel all the way to Suva for SAT and TOEFL,” Yoonhoo said.

“I wish there is an equal chance for students in other divisions as well.”

Moreover, TOEFL that Fiji offers is a Paper-Based-Test, but it came to a generation where recognition of TOEFL-Paper-Base-Test score dwindled and Internet-Based-paper preferred.

In order to appear for IBT, test-takers should go to near countries like Australia.

Fiji is a main Pacific hub for both trade and education. As a major nation of education in the South Pacific, commensurate provisions to meet the requirement of global-standard should be offered for students to reach out to the wider world.