Douglas Olsen
The SAT and ACT are standardized tests used by colleges and universities in the United States as a key component of the college application process. The tests are designed to assess a student's readiness for college-level work and provide colleges with an indication of the student's potential for success. While policies regarding standardized testing requirements vary across institutions, with some universities adopting test-optional policies, it is still recommended that international students take the SAT or ACT to increase their chances of admission to U.S. colleges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to decide which test to take | Take a practice test for both exams and compare results |
| When to take the test | 12 to 14 months before the start of your college program |
| Registration | Register at least one month before the exam date to avoid late fees. Register through the College Board for SAT and through ACT, Inc. for ACT |
| Test fee | Digital SAT international testing fee is $60 plus a $43 regional fee |
| Test dates | For international students, ACT test dates are generally in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July |
| Test format | SAT is scored out of 1600 points: 800 for the Math section and 800 for the Reading and Writing sections combined. ACT is a 2-hour and 55-minute test with English, Reading, Math, Science, and optional essay sections |
| Test requirements | Some universities may require SAT or ACT scores, while others may have a test-optional policy. Check the requirements for your preferred colleges |
| Test preparation | Take sample practice tests to get a sense of how the questions work |
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What You'll Learn
SAT vs ACT: pros and cons
The SAT and ACT are standardized tests used by colleges and universities in the United States as a key component of their admissions processes. While some institutions have adopted a test-optional policy, others require or recommend the submission of SAT or ACT scores. As such, it is important for international students to understand the differences between the two tests and decide which one to take.
SAT
The SAT is more popular with international college applicants. It is scored out of 1600 points: 800 for the Math section and 800 for the Reading and Writing sections combined. The SAT is offered digitally and internationally, with registration taking place through the College Board's official website. The international testing fee is $60 plus a $43 regional fee, with potential late registration fees. Foreign-born and international students residing in the US may receive fee waivers if they meet certain eligibility requirements. The SAT has strict testing policies, and any violation may result in the cancellation of scores and dismissal from the test center.
ACT
The ACT is a 2-hour and 55-minute test that measures a student's academic knowledge and skills in English, Reading, Math, and Science, with an optional Essay section. While the ACT was traditionally more US-focused, it is becoming increasingly popular with international students. The ACT is known for its straightforward wording. Registration for the ACT takes place through ACT, Inc., and test dates are generally in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July.
Pros and Cons
When deciding between the SAT and ACT, international students should consider the following:
- The SAT is more popular among international applicants, but the ACT is gaining traction and may offer a chance to stand out.
- The SAT and ACT are both widely accepted by US colleges and universities, but some schools may prefer one test over the other. It is important to research the standardized test requirements of your preferred institutions.
- The SAT and ACT serve as a universal metric for college admission boards to compare students from different backgrounds and academic grading systems.
- The SAT and ACT can help confirm a student's grades and demonstrate strengths beyond what high school grades may show.
- The SAT has strict testing policies, including rules against the use of phones, textbooks, and electronic devices, as well as prohibitions on discussing questions and answers during and after the test.
- The ACT includes a Science section, which may be advantageous or preferable for students with a strong science background.
- The SAT and ACT can be taken multiple times, allowing students to retake the test if they are unsatisfied with their initial scores.
- The SAT and ACT may not be offered in certain countries, and there may be additional requirements for students from specific countries.
- The SAT and ACT can contribute to receiving a full scholarship, but each college or scholarship program will have its own requirements.
In conclusion, there is no inherently better test between the SAT and ACT for international students. The best approach is to take sample practice tests for both exams and choose the one that helps you achieve a higher score. Additionally, it is recommended to take the SAT or ACT as early as possible, ideally during your high school junior year, to leave ample time for retakes if needed.
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SAT registration
If you're an international student planning to take the SAT, you should be aware that the SAT may not be offered in your country. You can find a list of countries where the SAT is not administered on the College Board website.
To register for the SAT, you can follow these steps:
- Check the SAT dates for the school year and the registration deadline for each test date. You can take the SAT any time starting freshman year, but it is advised to start preparing for the SAT the spring/summer before junior year.
- Register online on the College Board website as soon as you know when you'll be taking the test. There may not be any open spots in testing centers near you if you wait until the last minute to register.
- Provide your personal information, such as your full name and address. Ensure that this information matches exactly the information that appears on your photo ID.
- Upload a photo.
- Select the type of device you'll be using for the SAT.
- Review your personal information and test details before paying the registration fee. The SAT costs $68 to take, but there are fee waivers available for low-income 11th and 12th graders.
- Print your admissions ticket, which you will need on your test date.
It is also important to note that while several top U.S. universities require standardized tests such as the SAT, some schools, such as Michigan State University, are test-optional. This means that prospective international students can apply without submitting SAT scores. However, students who do not provide SAT scores may need to submit alternative English proficiency test scores.
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ACT registration
The ACT is a standardised test used by US colleges and universities to compare students from different educational backgrounds. The test is available for international students and is becoming increasingly popular among them. The ACT is known for its straightforward wording. It consists of a Science section, along with English, Reading, Math, and an optional essay section.
To register for the ACT, you can visit the ACT website to learn about your country's ACT test dates. It is recommended that you register at least one month before your desired exam date to avoid late registration fees. You can also register to receive text or email registration deadline notifications.
Test Day
On the day of the test, you must arrive at the test centre no later than 8:00 a.m. Testing staff will confirm your registration against your ID and assign you to your designated seat. You will not be admitted to the test if you are late or do not have acceptable photo identification.
Test Format
The ACT test is becoming more flexible and less time-consuming, offering students more choice to tailor their test experience. The test is digital for international students. You will not be permitted to use your cell phone or any electronic devices during breaks. You may bring sharpened No. 2 pencils with good erasers (no mechanical pencils or ink pens).
Test Preparation
To prepare for the ACT, you can take sample practice tests to familiarise yourself with the structure and types of questions. You can also create a MyACT account to explore your interests, college majors, and potential careers.
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SAT/ACT: optional or mandatory?
Whether or not to take the SAT or ACT is a question that many international students applying to US colleges grapple with. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the requirements and preferences of the colleges you are applying to, as well as your own preparation and familiarity with the tests.
College Requirements and Preferences
It is important to research the standardized test requirements of your chosen colleges. While some colleges have a test-optional policy, others may require or recommend submitting SAT or ACT scores. For instance, Dartmouth College, Georgetown University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have stated that they will require standardized test scores from applicants. On the other hand, Michigan State University (MSU) has a test-optional policy, allowing international students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. They will, however, need to provide alternative English proficiency test scores.
Advantages of Taking the SAT or ACT
Taking the SAT or ACT can be advantageous for international students, even if it is not mandatory for their chosen colleges. These standardized tests provide a universal metric for college admission boards to compare students from different educational backgrounds and grading systems. A good SAT or ACT score can confirm or enhance a student's grades, demonstrating their strengths beyond what their high school transcripts may show. Additionally, a high SAT score can contribute to receiving a full scholarship, as it is an important component of college applications.
Test Preparation and Familiarity
When deciding whether to take the SAT or ACT, it is essential to consider your preparation and familiarity with the tests. Taking practice tests for both exams can help determine which test better suits your strengths. The SAT and ACT have similar structures, but the ACT includes a Science section and is known for its straightforward wording. The SAT, on the other hand, is more popular with international college applicants. It is also important to be aware of the registration process and fees, test dates, and the rules and guidelines to follow on test day.
In conclusion, while the SAT or ACT may not be mandatory for all colleges, taking these standardized tests can provide international students with an opportunity to showcase their strengths and enhance their college applications. However, it is important to carefully research college requirements and preferences, as well as prepare adequately for the exams.
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SAT/ACT: scholarships
Many scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, and they often consider your ACT or SAT scores. While some colleges have gone test-optional, many still require standardised tests such as the SAT and ACT for applicants. A good SAT score is generally considered to be 1200 or higher, while a good ACT score is considered to be above the 75th percentile for the school you are applying to.
Some scholarships that consider SAT/ACT scores:
- The B. Bradford Barnes Memorial Scholarship: Available for Delaware residents enrolled full-time at the University of Delaware with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and an SAT score of 1290 or higher, or an equivalent ACT score.
- The Point the Way Foundation: Offers scholarships to students with a minimum SAT score of 1100 or an ACT score of 22, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- The Troy University Scholars Award: Provides full tuition for students with an ACT score of at least 30-32 or an SAT score of at least 1360-1440 and a GPA of at least 3.7.
- The Kaminski Scholarship: Awarded to first-year SUNY Fredonia students majoring in chemistry or biochemistry. Students need an SAT score of 1250 or an ACT score of 28, and must maintain a GPA of 3.25 to renew.
- The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation scholarships: Available to Western Washington high school seniors with an SAT score of at least 1200 or an ACT score of 26 or higher.
- Texas Tech scholarships: The amount of the scholarship increases as your SAT or ACT score and GPA go up. For example, a student with an SAT score of 1100 or an ACT score of 22 and a GPA of 3.0 can receive $1,000 a year, while a student with an SAT score of 1500 or an ACT score of 34 may receive $4,000-$9,000 a year.
- FGCU: Scholarships based on GPA and SAT/ACT score. No separate scholarship application is required.
- FAMU: Offers multiple scholarships that range from $8,000 a year to full tuition (with out-of-state students receiving a $10,000 tuition waiver).
It is important to note that scholarships are not solely based on test scores, and other factors such as GPA, class rank, and financial need may also be considered. Additionally, some colleges, such as Michigan State University, do not require ACT or SAT scores and will consider other factors such as academic performance and leadership for scholarships.
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Frequently asked questions
Several top US universities require standardised tests such as the SAT and ACT from applicants. These tests allow American schools to compare students, even if they come from different educational systems.
The SAT is scored out of 1600 points: 800 for the Math section, and 800 for the Reading and Writing sections combined. The ACT measures a student’s academic knowledge and skills in five areas: English, Reading, Math, Science, and an optional essay.
Register for the SAT through the College Board's official website. For the ACT, register through ACT, Inc. and learn about your country's test dates on the ACT website.
Understand the scoring process for your chosen exam. Take sample practice tests to get a sense of how the questions work and determine which test helps you get a higher score.
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