International Students and U.S. Admissions Tests
Exams for Undergraduate Admissions and Placement
Admissions tests give colleges a standard way to evaluate applicants. Be sure to verify which tests are required by the colleges that interest your child. You can find this information in a college's profile in our College Search.
The SAT®
The SAT lasts 3 hours and 45 minutes and tests students' basic knowledge of subjects they have learned in the classroom—including reading, mathematics, and writing. In addition, it tests how students think, solve problems, and communicate. The SAT tells students how well they use the skills and knowledge they have attained in and out of the classroom.
Many colleges and universities use the SAT as one indicator among others—class rank, high school GPA, extracurricular activities, personal essay, and teacher recommendations—of a student's readiness to do college-level work.
Learn more about the SAT
SAT Subject Tests™
SAT Subject Tests are one-hour, mostly multiple-choice tests that measure how much students know about a particular academic subject and how well they can apply that knowledge. SAT Subject Tests are given in areas such as English, math, and languages. Your child may be required to take one or more SAT Subject Tests if applying to a selective college.
Learn more about SAT Subject Tests
Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) Exams
Through AP Exams, your child has the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at most of the United States' colleges and universities. Outside the U.S., universities in 27 countries recognize AP in their admissions processes. AP Exams are offered in 34 subjects during a two-week period in May.
Learn more about the AP Program
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL evaluates the English proficiency of people whose native language is not English. It measures the ability to understand North American English. It's generally required of undergraduates seeking a first degree and graduate students seeking an advanced degree. The TOEFL is offered at over 300 test centers around the world and the computer-based test may be scheduled at the convenience of the student.
Learn more at www.toefl.org
Applying in the United States
International students who wish to apply to colleges in the United States can use our International Education guide to access additional information and resources.
