Exams needed to study in the USA?

I'm starting to look at studying in the USA and wanted to know which exams are typically required for international students. I've heard about the SAT and TOEFL, but are there others?

To apply to colleges in the United States as an international student, you'll typically have to take one or more standardized tests. The most well-known are the SAT and the ACT. Both are used by colleges to assess your readiness for college-level work, and you could take either depending on your personal preference or the requirements of the colleges you're interested in. As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, some schools such as Columbia, Stanford, and UPenn are test-optional, which means you may choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores.

The SAT and ACT cover similar content, including math, reading, and writing. Starting Spring 2024, the SAT is a digital exam with two sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is divided into two 32-minute modules for Reading and Writing, and two 35-minute modules for Math.

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exams may be required if your first language isn't English. These tests measure your ability to use English at a college level. Each college sets its own requirements, so be sure to check the details for any school on your prospective list.

In addition to these, if you're applying for a specialized program such as art, music, or dance, you may have to submit a portfolio or audition as part of the application process. Remember to check each college's specific requirements as they can vary.

Remember to always check individual colleges' requirements for international students as these can vary widely. Lastly, note that some colleges may ask for additional testing depending on your intended major or program of study. For instance, if you're applying for a science or engineering program, a college might want to see subject-related AP scores. But remember, AP courses and exams are often less accessible for international students, and colleges understand this, so lack of AP scores would not be a disadvantage.