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What do we mean by 'testing' for university admission?
What do we mean by 'testing' for university admission?
Alongside your SAIS exams and assessments - whether Stamford, BTEC, IBDP or AP - sometimes students will be required to sit additional 'tests' for their university applications.
This could include an SAT / ACT standardized test, an English proficiency test (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo) or a university admissions test. See below for a breakdown on each category - and check out our most recent session slides on this wider topic area!
NOTE: UNIVERSITIES DO NOT ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO TAKE ANY ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC EXAMS IN ADDITION TO THOSE IN THEIR HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE! Do not think you will have an advantage by taking extra, external AP exams outside of SAIS. In many cases, this may disadvantage you.
SAT / ACT tests: take a test in March of Grade 11 - October Grade 12
SAT / ACT tests: take a test in March of Grade 11 - October Grade 12
SAT and ACT are equally accepted by universities worldwide. Students should take SAT/ACT no earlier than December Grade 11! This still gives students plenty of time to retake the test, if needed.
Our Individualised pathway students may find that some of their chosen universities require this - either for their general admission policy, or in addition to Advanced Placement (AP exam results). For example, most universities in Australia will require an SAT / ACT test as part of the application process for US High School Diploma students.
Students taking the IBDP pathway would usually not be required to take this test (unless applying to a 'test-required' university in the USA). For information on Test Optional (re. ACT or SAT test submission) in the USA, please visit Fairtest.org.
All our Grade 10 students take the PSAT in October each year.
SAIS is an SAT testing center! You can find more information about registration here.
English proficiency tests: take a test between December of Grade 11 - August Grade 12
English proficiency tests: take a test between December of Grade 11 - August Grade 12
For some study destinations, an English proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo may be required for admissions.
Even though SAIS students study in English, and will graduate with a WASC-accredited US High School Diploma, in some countries, or specific universities, the English proficiency test is a strict requirement.
Check the websites of the universities you are considering - search for 'English proficiency requirements' as this information is often very transparent and accessible on each university website. If you are unsure, talk to your A&C Counselor.
Remember these tests are only valid for two years, and must be valid when you enrol at university. Do not take the test too early!
Admission tests: take a test in August-October of Grade 12
Admission tests: take a test in August-October of Grade 12
For some particular majors (e.g. Medicine) additional academic tests may be used within the university admissions process. These tests are more common in the UK, and in certain cases across Europe. A small number of universities may have their own specific admissions test/exam, operated exclusively by the university.
See our slides for more information on Oxbridge testing, UCAT (Medicine/Dentistry), LNAT (Law), TMUA (Math) and more.
Most of these tests can be taken only once per admissions year, unlike English proficiency tests and the SAT/ACT.
NOTE: College admissions testing requirements can change annually. It is a good idea to discuss your individual testing plan with your A&C Counselor, and to check with a few universities you are considering to see if these tests are required.
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