A Guide to Standardized Tests for USA College Admissions: A Guide for International Students

Navigating the U.S. college admissions process can feel overwhelming, especially for international students. Among the most important aspects of this journey are standardized tests. If you plan to study in the United States, you will likely need to take one or more standardized tests as part of the admissions process. These exams are designed to evaluate your academic skills, English proficiency, and readiness for your chosen field of study. While requirements vary by school and program, preparing for the right tests early is key to a successful application. This guide breaks down standardized tests, offering vital tips for international students eager to study in the U.S.

What Are Standardized Tests?

Standardized tests are structured assessments designed to evaluate students' academic capabilities and readiness for college. These tests are administered and scored uniformly, allowing for fair comparisons among students from various educational systems. In the U.S. college admissions process, standardized tests are critical for evaluating applicants.

These tests gauge skills in essential areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking. The most commonly required standardized tests for U.S. college undergraduate (Bachelor's) admissions include the SAT® and ACT®, and for U.S. college graduate (Master's and MBA) admissions include the GRE® and GMAT®. The above tests are required alongside English proficiency tests like the TOEFL® and IELTS®, which are necessary for non-native speakers.

A. 4-year Undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree) Admission Tests

Two exams dominate undergraduate (Bachelor's Degree) admissions.

The SAT®: Scholastic Assessment Test

The SAT® is one of the most recognized standardized tests in the U.S. It's primarily used for college admissions, assessing a student's readiness for college-level coursework. The SAT® includes three main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math, and an optional Essay. Key Features of the SAT® are as follows.

• Measures math, grammar, and analytical writing skills.

  
  

• Sections:

  • Reading & Writing: Comprehension, rhetoric, and grammar

  • Math: Algebra, problem-solving, advanced math, and trigonometry

  
  

• Scoring: The SAT® is scored from 400 to 1600, combining scores from the two main sections (Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing). Top colleges generally seem to have a preference for scores above 1,400, and some elite colleges seem to have a preference for scores above 1,500. However, the score cut-off varies by regions and countries of applicants, therefore, a lower score on SAT® doesn't automatically disqualifies someone from admissions to elite schools.

• Test Duration: The total duration is around 3 hours, with an extra 50 minutes allocated for the optional Essay.

  
  

• Frequency: The SAT® is offered multiple times a year, usually in the fall, winter, and spring.

  
  

• Considerations: Best suited for students with strong math and reasoning skills.

The ACT®: American College Testing

The ACT® is another widely accepted standardized test for college admissions in the U.S. Like the SAT®, it assesses a student's academic readiness through multiple-choice questions in four areas: English, Math, Reading, and Science. It also includes an optional Writing section. Key Features of the ACT® are as follows:

• Sections:

  • English (grammar and editing)

  • Reading (comprehension and synthesis)

  • Math (algebra, geometry, statistics; calculator allowed)

  • Science (reasoning in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences)

  • Optional essay

  
  

• Scoring: The ACT® is scored on a scale from 1 to 36, with the composite score reflecting the average of the four subject scores.

  
  

• Test Duration: The ACT® lasts about 3 hours, plus an additional 40 minutes for the optional Writing section.

  
  

• Frequency: The ACT® is administered multiple times throughout the year, offering flexibility in scheduling.

  
  

• Considerations: Questions are more straightforward than SAT®, and all math allows a calculator. However, the amount of time available per question is less than SAT®.

Choosing the Right Test

Deciding between the SAT® and ACT® can be challenging. Consider these factors:

1. Test Format: Students may prefer the ACT's® science section or the SAT's® focus on evidence-based reading. Explore sample questions from both tests to see which resonates more.

   
   

2. College Requirements: Research the specific admissions requirements of target colleges, as preferences may vary. For instance, some schools in the U.S. accept SAT® or ACT® scores interchangeably.

   
   

3. Personal Strengths: Reflect on your strengths in subject areas. If math is your strong suit, you might favor the SAT®, whereas students excelling in reading and science might prefer the ACT®.

B. English Proficiency Tests

For international students whose native language is not English, showcasing English proficiency is crucial for admissions. The two most frequently accepted tests are the TOEFL® (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and the IELTS® (International English Language Testing System).

TOEFL® Overview

The TOEFL® assesses students' ability to understand and communicate in English within an academic context, covering reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.

• Internet-based test available at testing centers or online:

  • Reading: 2 passages (~700 words each, ~10 questions per passage)

  • Listening: 3 lectures and 2 conversations with related questions

  • Speaking: 4 tasks requiring listening and response

  • Writing: 2 essay tasks based on reading and listening passages

    
    

• Scoring: The TOEFL® score ranges from 0 to 120, with each section contributing to the total score. Many universities set a minimum score requirement around 80 or higher for admission.

  
  

• Test Duration: The TOEFL® takes about 3 hours to complete.

  
  

IELTS® Overview

The IELTS® is another respected English proficiency assessment that evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

• Final score is the average of four sections:

  • Reading: 3 passages with 40 questions

  • Listening: 4 recordings with 40 questions

  • Speaking: 3-part oral interview evaluating fluency, vocabulary, and pronunciation

  • Writing: 2 tasks including chart/graph analysis and a formal essay

    
    

• Scoring: The IELTS® is scored on a scale from 1 to 9, with a score of 6.5 or higher typically accepted by most universities.

  
  

• Test Duration: The IELTS® test lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

  
  

C. Masters and MBA programs Admissions Tests

Masters (Graduate) programs may require field-specific standardized tests.

GRE® (Graduate Record Examination)

GRE® is a computer-based general graduate school admissions test (master’s, PhD, some MBA programs) focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

• Common for liberal arts, engineering, and some business programs.

  
  

• Sections and Scoring:

  • Analytical Writing (0–6)

  • Verbal Reasoning (130–170)

  • Quantitative Reasoning (130–170)

GMAT® (Graduate Management Admission Test)

GMAT® is designed specifically for business school admissions (MBA, some business master’s programs). GMAT® is a computer-based adaptive test focusing on quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing.

• Required by most MBA programs.

  
  

• Scoring: 200–800 (main score), plus separate section scores.

  
  

• Sections:

  • Data Insights: Business data analysis and interpretation

  • Verbal Reasoning: Logic and comprehension

  • Quantitative Reasoning: Problem-solving with algebra and geometry

Final Thoughts

Standardized tests are essential for international students aiming to enter U.S. colleges. Understanding the various tests, their formats, and preparation strategies can boost your chances of success.

Research specific college requirements and choose tests that align with your strengths and goals. With thorough preparation and strategic planning, you can confidently approach standardized testing and take a significant step towards achieving your academic dreams in the United States.