The SAT is your passport to top universities around the globe. While it’s widely recognized in the U.S., an increasing number of institutions worldwide are accepting SAT scores to evaluate applicants. Whether you’re a U.S. student seeking international education or an international student applying abroad, here’s a region-by-region guide to colleges that accept SAT scores.

1. United States: The Home of the SAT
Virtually all U.S. colleges and universities accept SAT scores. Here’s a closer look at the types of schools and standout examples:
Ivy League Universities
Harvard University
Princeton University
Yale University
University of Pennsylvania
SAT Expectations: Scores typically above 1450.
Top Public Universities
University of California (UC) System: UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego.
University of Michigan
University of Texas at Austin
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
SAT Expectations: Competitive scores (1200–1400+).
Renowned Private Institutions
Stanford University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Duke University
University of Chicago
For International Students: U.S. schools often value SAT scores as a standardized measure, especially for students from diverse educational systems.
2. Canada: High-Quality Education with Lower Costs
Canadian universities are increasingly accepting SAT scores, especially from U.S. and international applicants.
Top Canadian Institutions
University of Toronto
McGill University
University of British Columbia (UBC)
Queen’s University
University of Alberta
SAT Expectations: Scores above 1200 are typically competitive, but requirements vary.
Why Choose Canada?
Affordable tuition for international students compared to the U.S.
A multicultural environment and pathways to permanent residency post-graduation.
3. United Kingdom: SAT Scores for Undergraduate Admissions
Many universities in the U.K. accept SAT scores, especially for students from the U.S. and countries without national exams equivalent to A-levels.
Top U.K. Universities
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
London School of Economics (LSE)
King’s College London
University College London (UCL)
University of Edinburgh
SAT Expectations: High scores (1400+), often paired with AP exams or SAT Subject Tests.
Why Study in the U.K.?
Specialized degree programs (3 years vs. 4 in the U.S.).
Globally respected institutions with strong alumni networks.
4. Europe: An Emerging Hub for SAT Applicants
English-taught programs in Europe are growing in popularity among international students, and many institutions now accept SAT scores.
Top European Universities
Germany: Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University.
Netherlands: University of Amsterdam, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Leiden University.
Spain: IE University, ESADE Business School.
Italy: Bocconi University, Politecnico di Milano.
SAT Expectations: Scores typically range from 1250–1400+, depending on the institution.
Why Choose Europe?
Affordable tuition and living costs.
Opportunities to experience multiple cultures while earning a degree.
5. Asia: Growing Recognition of the SAT
Asian universities are among the world’s most competitive and increasingly consider SAT scores for admissions.
Top Asian Universities
Singapore: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
Hong Kong: University of Hong Kong (HKU), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).
South Korea: KAIST, Seoul National University, Yonsei University.
India: Ashoka University, O.P. Jindal Global University.
SAT Expectations: High scores (1350+), coupled with strong academic performance.
Why Choose Asia?
World-class education with a focus on innovation and research.
Affordable tuition fees and generous scholarships for international students.
6. Australia and New Zealand: SAT-Friendly and Welcoming
Universities in Australia and New Zealand provide a relaxed yet academically rigorous environment, and many accept SAT scores.
Top Australian Universities
University of Melbourne
Australian National University (ANU)
University of Sydney
University of Queensland (UQ)
Top New Zealand Universities
University of Auckland
University of Otago
Victoria University of Wellington
SAT Expectations: Scores above 1200 are often competitive.
Why Choose This Region?
Post-study work opportunities for international graduates.
English-speaking countries with straightforward visa policies.
7. Middle East: High-Quality Education with Global Standards
Universities in the Middle East, especially those with partnerships with Western institutions, accept SAT scores as part of their admissions criteria.
Top Middle Eastern Universities
United Arab Emirates: New York University Abu Dhabi (NYU Abu Dhabi), American University of Sharjah.
Qatar: Qatar University, Georgetown University in Qatar.
Saudi Arabia: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).
SAT Expectations: Scores typically range from 1200–1350+.
Why Choose the Middle East?
State-of-the-art facilities and campuses.
Generous financial aid and scholarships for international students.
So Top colleges worldwide actually accept SAT scores
The SAT is much more than just a U.S.-centric test—it’s a gateway to top universities worldwide. Whether you’re a U.S. student dreaming of international education or an international student aiming for global opportunities, the SAT score is a powerful tool to unlock prestigious programs.
Key Takeaways:
Research your target university’s specific requirements and expectations for SAT scores.
Consider tuition costs, living expenses, and scholarship opportunities when choosing a region.
Leverage your SAT score as part of a strong, well-rounded application that includes GPA, extracurriculars, and personal statements.
With the right preparation and strategy, your SAT score can take you anywhere in the world. Good luck! Should you need some prep resources, you can use our amazing YouTube channel with comprehensive Digital SAT prep resources, and our trove of Free Practice Resources.
*SAT, Digital SAT are registered trademarks owned by the College Board, and EduretiX is not related to the College Board in any way or holds any ownership on the trademarks.
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