Prepare For U.S. Standardized Tests, Community College

Prepare for Standardized Tests

As part of the application process, most undergraduate programs require one or more U.S. standardized test score(s). Your test scores, academic record, and other factors are used to predict how well you will do as a college student. Test scores are one way to compare students from the United States and international students from different educational systems.

Community colleges typically have more flexible admissions processes than four-year institutions and often don’t require standardized test scores for admission. Check the website of the community college that you plan to attend for specific testing requirements of that institution.   

English Language Ability Tests

If English is not your native language, most U.S. colleges and universities will ask you to take an English language proficiency test before admission.

The most common tests for English language ability are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE), among others.

Because community colleges provide their own assessments and frequently offer Intensive English Programs (IEPs) to students who require additional English proficiency, English language test scores are not always required for the admissions process.

Admissions Tests

Most colleges and universities in the United States require standardized testing for undergraduate admissions. Community colleges typically do not require these standardized tests, but might offer a placement test in your area of study upon arrival. Check the website of the community college that you plan to attend for that institution's specific testing requirements.

SAT: a test that measures critical reading, writing, and mathematical abilities. The SAT Subject Tests measure knowledge in specific subject areas. The SAT is widely accepted at accredited two and four-year colleges and universities in the United States, and hundreds of institutions around the world. (Please note that an updated SAT made its debut in March 2016 and impacts students in the class of 2017 and younger.)

ACT: a curriculum-based multiple-choice assessment that tests reading, English, mathematics, and science, with an optional essay section. The ACT is widely accepted at accredited two and four-year colleges and universities in the United States, and hundreds of institutions around the world.