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French Alps

Standardized Testing

​Applying to U.S. colleges as an international student usually requires submitting standardized test scores to demonstrate academic readiness and English proficiency. This page explains the key tests, estimated costs, fee waiver options, and tips for preparing.

1. The SAT: Academic Readiness Test

The SAT measures skills in Math, Reading, and Writing and is widely used by U.S. colleges for admissions.

  • Format: Digital since 2024

  • Skills tested: Math, Reading Comprehension, Grammar 

  • Cost: $111 USD for international student registration 

  • Register & Send Scores: Through the College Board website

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2. English Proficiency Tests

U.S. colleges require proof of English language skills from international applicants. The main accepted tests are:

a. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Skills tested: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing

  • Format: Mostly internet-based (iBT), some paper-based

  • Cost: Approximately $180–$250 USD depending on test location

  • Accepted By: Most U.S. colleges worldwide

  • Official Info: ETS TOEFL site

Fee Waivers:
ETS offers TOEFL Fee Reduction Services for eligible students in certain countries. Visit the TOEFL Fee Reduction page to check eligibility and apply.

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b. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Skills tested: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing

  • Format: Paper-based or computer-based

  • Cost: Approximately $215–$250 USD depending on location

  • Accepted By: Most U.S. and international colleges

  • Official Info: IELTS Official site

Fee Waivers:
Fee waivers are rare, but some local test centers or educational organizations may provide assistance. Check with your test center or local nonprofits.

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c. Duolingo English Test (DET)

  • Skills tested: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing

  • Format: Fully online, taken at home

  • Cost: Approximately $49 USD

  • Accepted By: Growing number of U.S. colleges, including many top universities

  • Official Info: Duolingo English Test

Fee Waivers:
Duolingo offers an Access Program with free test access for eligible students facing financial hardship. Apply at the Duolingo Access Program page.

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3. Submitting Your Scores

  • Always submit official scores directly from the testing agencies by the college application deadlines.

  • Keep copies of your registration confirmations and score reports.

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4. Managing Costs & Financial Help

  • Testing fees can add up, so explore fee waivers for TOEFL and Duolingo where available.

  • Some colleges are test-optional or may waive test requirements in special cases. Always check individual college policies.

  • You may also qualify for application fee waivers from colleges themselves — contact their admissions offices for more information.

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5. Tips for Success

  • Start preparing early to avoid extra fees from late registration or retakes.

  • Use free official practice resources. 

  • Register early in case you need to retake  try to aim for the 50th percentile score required to get into your top choice university.

At  AceMySAT, we are committed to making SAT preparation simple, clear, and achievable for everyone. In addition, we want to make the college admissions process simple for all learners. We recognize that preparing for college and the SAT can be challenging because many of the resources available are either costly or difficult to navigate. While free materials do exist, they are often scattered, hard to follow, or overwhelming to sort through. That’s why we created AceMySAT—a central, trustworthy space where students can easily access the most effective free resources, all in one place. Our goal is to provide well-structured study plans, practical strategies, and helpful tools that allow students to focus on what truly matters. We want every learner to feel confident, supported, and able to prepare with purpose, without unnecessary stress or confusion.

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