Admissions tests are national standardized tests designed to help colleges determine the test taker's level of college readiness and potential for academic success. In addition, admissions tests give colleges a data point they can use to compare applicants. This means students’ test scores are used to determine their rank in each school’s national pool of applicants. For this reason, the higher the test score you receive, the more likely you are to be admitted into the college of your choice. 

Students applying to 4-year schools should take the SAT or ACT. Students applying to technical colleges can take the Accuplacer, SAT, or ACT. 

All in-state public colleges and universities will accept ACT or SAT scores. If you plan to attend a private school or a school located outside the state of Georgia please check with the institutions you are applying to to determine if a particular test is required. 

The choice of which test to take is personal. Practice tests found on the Accuplacer, SAT and ACT websites are a great way to determine which test is the best fit for you. 

The SAT and ACT have several differences including testing time, the number of questions, the type of questions, and scoring. For more information about these differences check out this helpful article. However, the best way to familiarize yourself with these differences and determine the best fit for you is to utilize the practice tests on the SAT and ACT websites. 

The University System of Georgia (USG) is test optional through the 2024-2025 school year. The temporary admissions test waiver does NOT apply to GA Tech or UGA. 

To be admitted to a USG school without an admissions testing score, students must meet the minimum GPA standard for the school(s) they are applying to.  For more information on the minimum GPA requirement, please visit the USG website. 

The Techincal College System of Georgia (TCSG) does not require admission testing for any student with a GPA of 2.0 or higher. 

ACT or SAT scores are still required for Zell Miller Scholarship eligibility. 

Admissions test are a great way to stand out to colleges.  Even if a testing score is not required for the school(s) you are applying to, they may help you earn a spot.

Admissions testing scores may also help and/or be required for merit scholarships and awards. Be sure to check with the schools and scholarship programs you are applying to. 

The best time to test is second semester junior year through first semester senior year. 

Students should test at least twice. Testing multiple times gives the student some advantages.  Many students see an improvement in their score the second time they test. Additionally, some colleges and universities will superscore (averaging best scores from each subject from multiple test attempts resulting in a higher overall score).