Which English test and entrance exam do I need to study in the USA after 12th?
To study in the USA after 12th, you may need to prove English proficiency through a test such as IELTS or TOEFL and submit SAT or ACT scores, depending on each college's policy. Other English tests are also accepted, so check your shortlisted colleges before applying.
To study in the USA after 12th, many colleges ask for two things: an English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL (other tests are often accepted), and SAT or ACT scores. Each depends on the college's policy, and you take them before applying, so it helps to plan early. Requirements can differ by university, so always confirm on each college's own admissions page.
The two tests at a glance
| Requirement | What it covers |
|---|---|
| English proficiency test | IELTS or TOEFL (other accepted tests may work too), taken before you apply, depending on the college's policy |
| SAT | SAT or ACT scores, required or optional depending on each college's policy |
What happens after the tests
- Apply to the colleges you shortlist once both test scores are ready.
- After you receive an acceptance, move on to the student visa and other pre-departure requirements.
My Advice
Book your English test and the SAT early so you have time for a retake if needed. Then check each university's admissions page, because test policies can vary by college. Build your shortlist around programmes that fit your budget and goals.
Low percentage, study gap or no work experience?
Find out which US universities you still qualify for.
More Universities & admissions questions
- When are the spring and fall application deadlines for South Korean universities that I should plan for?
- How much would I pay in first-year tuition for the International MBA program at York University, Toronto?
- What are some effective online German language classes for Indian students preparing to study in Germany?
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- If I apply to two courses at the same university, do I need separate letters of recommendation for each course or can I use the same letter for both?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Is January 2027 intake possible for masters in business analytics in UK/UAE?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
More USA questions
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- How much extra should I keep aside for unexpected costs during my MS in the USA?
- By when do I need to submit my application for most UG and PG courses at UCLA?
- Can you track an Employment Pass application on the MOM portal when your employer files it?
- Can I apply for an education loan up to 30 to 35 lakhs or 30 to 40 lakhs budget?
- What are the visa application chances and procedures for USA compared to Australia?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?
- Is the scholarship available for the next intake in USA for a Master's?