Standardized Tests for US University Admissions
US universities have traditionally required standardized test scores as part of the admissions process. While some schools have moved to test-optional or test-free policies in recent years, many still require or strongly recommend test scores — particularly for international applicants. Understanding which tests you need, what they measure, and how to prepare is an essential part of your application strategy.
Note that English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, and the Duolingo English Test) are covered separately on their own pages. This page covers the academic admissions tests used to evaluate your readiness for university-level study.
The SAT
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is the most widely used undergraduate admissions test in the United States. It is administered by the College Board and accepted by virtually all US colleges and universities.
Format: The SAT is now administered as a digital test and takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. It consists of two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (800 points maximum) and Math (800 points maximum), for a total score of 400–1600.
What it tests: The SAT measures reading comprehension, grammar and writing, algebra, advanced math, and data analysis. It is designed to assess college readiness rather than knowledge of a specific curriculum.
Score requirements: Average SAT scores at highly selective universities are typically above 1450–1500. Mid-tier universities typically accept students with scores in the 1100–1350 range. Less selective schools may accept scores below 1100. Check the score ranges of admitted students at each school you are applying to.
Test-optional policies: A significant number of US universities adopted test-optional admissions policies, meaning that submitting SAT scores is voluntary. However, submitting strong scores can still strengthen your application even at test-optional schools — particularly for international applicants whose academic records may be less familiar to US admissions readers.
The ACT
The ACT (American College Testing) is an alternative to the SAT that is equally accepted by all US colleges and universities. Some students find the ACT format more comfortable than the SAT — it is worth taking a practice test for both to see which suits you better.
Format: The ACT consists of four sections: English (grammar and usage), Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning. It is scored on a scale of 1–36, with the composite score being the average of the four section scores. Total testing time is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus an optional essay).
What it tests: The ACT places somewhat more emphasis on science reasoning than the SAT and covers a slightly broader range of mathematics. The science section does not require advanced scientific knowledge — it tests your ability to interpret data, graphs, and experimental results.
Score requirements: Highly selective universities typically enroll students with ACT composite scores of 33–36. Mid-tier universities typically accept scores in the 22–29 range.
The GRE
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is the standard admissions test for most US graduate programs outside of business, law, and medicine. It is administered by ETS (the same organization that administers the TOEFL) and is accepted by thousands of graduate programs in the US and internationally.
Format: The GRE General Test consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning (scored 130–170), Quantitative Reasoning (scored 130–170), and Analytical Writing (scored 0–6). The test is adaptive — your performance on the first section of each type determines the difficulty of the second section. Total testing time is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes.
What it tests: Verbal Reasoning tests reading comprehension and vocabulary in context. Quantitative Reasoning tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Analytical Writing tests your ability to construct and evaluate arguments in essay form.
Subject Tests: In addition to the General Test, ETS offers GRE Subject Tests in specific disciplines (such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology). Some highly competitive PhD programs require or strongly recommend the relevant Subject Test.
Score requirements: Requirements vary widely by program and field. For competitive STEM PhD programs, a Quantitative Reasoning score of 160 or above is typically expected. For humanities and social science programs, Verbal Reasoning scores matter more. Always check the specific requirements and average scores of admitted students for each program.
Test-optional trend: Many graduate programs have dropped the GRE requirement in recent years. Always check whether your target programs still require it — but if they do accept scores, submitting strong scores remains advantageous.
The GMAT
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is the primary admissions test for MBA programs and other business graduate programs. It is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
Format: The current GMAT Focus Edition consists of three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. Total testing time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Scores range from 205 to 805.
What it tests: The GMAT tests the analytical, quantitative, verbal, and data interpretation skills considered important for success in business education. It places particular emphasis on logical reasoning, data analysis, and problem-solving under time pressure.
Score requirements: At top-ranked MBA programs (Harvard Business School, Stanford GSB, Wharton), the average GMAT score of admitted students is typically 720–740 out of 800 on the old scale. Mid-tier MBA programs may admit students with scores in the 600–680 range. Many business schools also accept GRE scores in lieu of GMAT.
Preparing for Standardized Tests
Regardless of which test you are taking, effective preparation follows similar principles:
- Start early: Give yourself at least three to six months of preparation time, particularly if you need to significantly improve your score
- Use official practice materials: The College Board (SAT), ACT, ETS (GRE), and GMAC (GMAT) all publish official practice tests that closely resemble the real exam
- Take full-length timed practice tests: Familiarity with the test format and time pressure is as important as content knowledge
- Identify and address weaknesses: Analyze your practice test results to find the specific question types or content areas where you lose the most points, and focus your preparation there
- Consider a prep course if needed: For students who struggle with self-directed study, a structured prep course (in-person or online) can provide accountability and expert guidance