Planning to study in the United States? You’ll find world‑class universities, diverse academic options, and countless opportunities—but you’ll also encounter a wide range of admission requirements. For international students, standardized testing remains one of the most important (and most confusing) parts of the process. This updated guide walks you through the SAT, ACT, English‑language proficiency exams, test‑optional policies, waivers, and what to expect if you’re applying outside the US.
The SAT and ACT
The SAT and ACT are the two major standardized tests used by US universities to evaluate academic readiness. Both measure reading comprehension, writing skills, and math ability, while the ACT includes an additional science section.
SAT
The SAT is now fully digital worldwide. It includes two sections:
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Reading & Writing: Comprehension, editing, and reasoning through short passages.
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Math: Algebra, geometry, data analysis, and problem‑solving.
The digital format is shorter, adaptive, and designed to reduce test fatigue—a major benefit for students testing in a second language. You can explore timing, scoring, and sample questions through the SAT Suite on the College Board website.
ACT
The ACT is similar and covers four required sections plus an optional essay. More information can be found online.
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English: Grammar, usage, and editing.
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Reading: Passage comprehension and evidence‑based reasoning.
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Math: Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.
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Science Reasoning: Data interpretation and scientific problem‑solving — a key difference from the SAT.
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Optional Essay: A short analysis comparing perspectives on a given issue.
Which test should you choose?
Your decision should reflect your strengths:
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Test length & pacing: The ACT is longer with more questions; the SAT offers fewer questions and longer time blocks.
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Language comfort: Both rely heavily on English reading skills, but the ACT sometimes includes idioms unfamiliar to non‑native speakers.
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Science background: If you’re strong in natural sciences, the ACT’s Science section may work in your favor.
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Math weighting: Math counts for 50% of your SAT score but only 25% of your ACT score.
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Calculator rules: The SAT restricts calculator use in certain modules; the ACT allows calculators throughout the Math section.
Once you decide which test you’ll take, you should visit the SAT and ACT websites for up-to-date information on test dates and centers near you.
English-language proficiency tests
If English isn’t your first language, or your educational instruction is in a language other than English, most US universities will require you to submit proof of English proficiency. The type of proof accepted varies by institution, but most schools accept two common standardized English tests: the TOEFL and IELTS. Newer options like Duolingo English Test (DET) and PTE Academic are increasingly accepted.
TOEFL iBT
Fully computer‑based, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is primarily taken for academic purposes and scores are accepted by over 11,000 universities worldwide in over 150 countries as a way of proving English proficiency for undergraduate and graduate programs. The TOEFL is scored on a scale of 0–120 and is 1.5 hours in length.
IELTS Academic
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English proficiency test used for study, migration, or employment and is widely accepted by US universities. The IELTS Academic is scored on a scale of 1–9 and takes two hours and 45 minutes to complete. Accepted globally for academic programs, it is offered in paper‑based or computer‑based formats.
Key differences
Both the TOEFL and IELTS Academic are made up of four sections that test basic reading, listening, speaking, and writing in English. Aside from the obvious contrast in length, there are a few differences.
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Format: TOEFL is always digital; IELTS may be paper or digital.
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Speaking: TOEFL uses a microphone; IELTS uses a live examiner.
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Question types: TOEFL is mostly multiple‑choice; IELTS includes fill‑in‑the‑blank, matching, and short responses.
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Dialect: TOEFL uses American English; IELTS uses British English.
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Content: TOEFL leans academic; IELTS blends academic and everyday language.
Your decision should factor in the convenience of test dates and locations in your area, how you learned English, your comfort level with different styles and dialects, and whether you prefer to test in person or on a computer. Once you decide, take your test early in case you need to test more than once—but not too early, as scores are only valid for two years. Both tests are available worldwide; consult the TOEFL and IELTS websites for information about dates and centers near you.
Related: Easy Study Tips for Both Admission and Language Tests
Test‑Optional and Test‑Flexible Policies
The conversation around test-optional policies at colleges and universities is constantly changing. While some schools are moving toward more permanent policies that place less importance on SAT and ACT scores, some schools are moving back to normal testing requirements now that we are further removed from the pandemic. It’s important to always keep abreast of these changing trends. If you are looking at schools with test-optional policies, they will fall into one of these two broad categories:
Important notes for international students
Even at test‑optional schools:
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Many still require SAT/ACT scores from international applicants.
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English‑language proficiency tests are almost always required.
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Some scholarships still rely on standardized test scores.
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Individual programs (engineering, business, nursing) may have separate testing requirements.
It’s important to be aware that even test-optional or test-flexible schools may have different requirements for international students. Always check both the general admissions page and the program‑specific page for international requirements.
Exam waivers
Universities may waive English‑language tests if you can provide:
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Transcripts showing English‑medium instruction
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Completion of an accredited ESL program
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Proof of living or working in an English‑speaking country
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High scores on AP/IB English exams
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Strong SAT/ACT Evidence‑Based Reading & Writing scores
Some schools offer conditional admission, allowing you to enroll after completing an on‑campus English program.
Applying outside the United States
If you’re exploring universities beyond the US, requirements vary widely by country and institution. Start researching at least two years before applying so you have time to:
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Understand required exams
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Complete language tests
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Prepare visa documentation
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Plan finances and travel
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Monitor political or public‑health changes affecting international study
Most universities clearly list required exams on their admissions pages. When in doubt, contact admissions staff directly—they’re used to helping international applicants navigate complex requirements.
Related: The International Student’s University Search: Looking Beyond Rankings and Brand Names
Applying to university as an international student takes preparation, organization, and persistence. Standardized tests are a major part of that journey, and policies continue to evolve. Stay updated, check requirements early, and don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions offices for clarification. The effort pays off when you’re studying in a new country, experiencing new cultures, and building the future you’ve imagined.
Do you want to study outside of your country but don’t know which schools interest you yet? Start looking for your best-fit university on CollegeXpress using our College Search tool!
