Do international student-athletes need the SAT or ACT? The short answer is: it depends on your target university, athletic division, and academic goals.

While the NCAA no longer requires standardized test scores for athletic eligibility in Division 1 and Division 2, many individual universities, academic departments, and elite institutions still require them for admission. Furthermore, high test scores are often the key to unlocking academic scholarships that can supplement your athletic funding. Navigating these rules is crucial to securing your roster spot and funding.

At StudyNSport, we have helped over 600 athletes from 10 different countries navigate the US college recruiting process since 2010. Below, we break down exactly when you need to take these exams, how they affect your recruiting timeline, and why a strong test score is still your best tool for reducing college costs.

NCAA vs. NAIA: Athletic Eligibility Rules

To compete in college sports in the United States, you must be cleared by the respective governing body's eligibility center. The rules regarding the SAT and ACT vary significantly between associations.

NCAA Division 1 and Division 2

In January 2023, the NCAA voted to permanently remove standardized test score requirements (SAT or ACT) for initial eligibility for both Division 1 and Division 2. This means the NCAA Eligibility Center will not look at your test scores to determine if you are allowed to practice, compete, or receive an athletic scholarship. Instead, your eligibility is determined entirely by your core-course GPA and your high school graduation status. You can learn more about how these divisions operate in our guide to NCAA Division 1.

NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics)

Unlike the NCAA, the NAIA still utilizes standardized test scores as one of its primary pathways for eligibility. To be cleared to play in the NAIA, an international student-athlete must meet two out of the following three criteria:

• A minimum overall high school GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

• A minimum score of 18 on the ACT or 970 on the SAT.

• Graduation in the top half of your high school class.

If your high school GPA is lower or class rank is unavailable, a qualifying SAT or ACT score is mandatory to secure your eligibility in the NAIA.

Why You Should Still Take the SAT or ACT

Even though the NCAA does not require the SAT or ACT for basic eligibility, you should not automatically skip these exams. There are three major reasons why taking the SAT or ACT is highly recommended for international student-athletes:

1. University Admissions Requirements

An athletic department might recruit you, but the university's admissions office has the final say on whether you are accepted. Many highly selective universities—including the entire Ivy League, top-tier private universities, and prestigious public institutions—have reinstated or maintained their standardized testing requirements for all incoming students, including recruited athletes.

For example, StudyNSport placed athlete Lénárt Paula, who went on to play basketball at Dartmouth College (an Ivy League institution), had to meet rigorous academic standards that required top-tier academic credentials. Without strong academic scores, admission to elite universities like Dartmouth, Harvard, or Yale is virtually impossible, regardless of your athletic talent.

2. Maximizing Academic Scholarships

While athletic scholarships are highly competitive, academic scholarships (often called merit aid) are highly structured. Many universities use a matrix combining your high school GPA and your SAT/ACT score to determine your academic scholarship level.

By securing a high SAT or ACT score, you can qualify for significant academic scholarships. This is especially important for sports that only offer partial athletic scholarships, or for programs where the coach has limited athletic funding. Combining a partial athletic scholarship with a strong academic scholarship can cover tuition, room, and board, resulting in a "full ride."

3. Broadening Your Recruiting Options

If you refuse to take the SAT or ACT, you immediately eliminate hundreds of universities from your list. Coaches at academic-heavy institutions will not recruit athletes who do not have a test score on file, as they cannot guarantee the admissions department will accept them. Taking the test keeps every single option open, giving you maximum leverage during negotiations.

Standardized Testing and English Proficiency

It is important to note that the SAT and ACT are not English language tests. If you are an international student from a non-English speaking country, most US universities will also require you to prove your English proficiency.

Exams like the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test are typically required in addition to (or sometimes in place of) the SAT/ACT. To understand which language exam is right for you, read our detailed comparison of TOEFL vs. IELTS vs. Duolingo.

When Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

Timing is critical in the US recruiting process. You should aim to take your first SAT or ACT during your junior year of high school (typically 11th grade, or two years before you plan to enroll in a US university). This timeline allows you to:

• Establish a baseline score to share with college coaches during early recruiting conversations.

• Identify areas of weakness and study to retake the test in the fall of your senior year if necessary.

• Submit your complete academic profile to admissions offices and eligibility centers early, speeding up your official offer letters.

For a complete breakdown of when to contact coaches, submit documents, and take exams, check out our US recruiting timeline.

Next Steps: Plan Your Academic Path

Deciding whether to take the SAT or ACT depends entirely on your athletic level, your academic profile, and the specific universities you want to target. Since 2010, the team at StudyNSport has helped over 3,000 athletes across 20 different sports find the perfect balance between elite sports and high-level academics.

We analyze your academic transcripts, evaluate your athletic level, and design a personalized strategy for your admissions exams, coach outreach, and scholarship negotiations.

Don't leave your academic eligibility to chance.

• Book a free consultation with our placement experts to discuss your academic path.

• Get evaluated for a scholarship to see which divisions and universities fit your profile.