Do I Need SAT to Study in the USA?

If you asked "do I need the SAT to study in the USA?" two years ago, the answer was "probably not." In 2026, the answer is "for most competitive universities, yes." The SAT landscape has shifted dramatically — top universities that went test-optional during COVID-19 have reversed course and reinstated SAT/ACT requirements after internal studies showed test scores are the strongest predictor of college-level academic success.

This guide explains exactly which universities require the SAT in 2026, which remain test-optional, which are test-blind, and what Nepali students should do to maximize their chances.

During COVID-19 (2020–2023), most US universities adopted test-optional policies because students could not access testing centers. By 2024, many schools had enough data to study whether test-optional admissions actually worked. The findings were consistent across institutions: SAT/ACT scores remained the most reliable predictor of first-year academic performance, especially for students from under-resourced high schools whose grades might not reflect their true potential.

Starting with Dartmouth in February 2024, a wave of reinstatements followed. As of the 2026–2027 admissions cycle, 6 of 8 Ivy League schools require the SAT or ACT. MIT, Stanford, Caltech, Georgetown, Johns Hopkins, and many state university systems (Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina) have also reinstated requirements.

These major universities require SAT or ACT scores for the current admissions cycle:

Many excellent universities remain test-optional — meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT scores. However, "test-optional" does not mean "scores don't matter." At most test-optional schools, submitting a strong score still strengthens your application significantly.

• Columbia University (permanent test-optional)
• Princeton University (test-optional for 2026–2027 cycle only)
• New York University (NYU)
• University of Chicago
• University of Michigan
• Northeastern University
• Boston University
• University of Virginia
• Purdue University (test-required from 2027)
• Many mid-tier and regional universities across the US

A small number of universities are test-blind — they do not consider SAT/ACT scores even if you submit them. The most notable system is the University of California (all campuses) including UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, and UC Davis. Even if you take the SAT, UC schools will not look at your score in their admissions decision.

For Nepali students applying to UC schools, your GPA, personal essays, extracurricular activities, and course rigor are what matter. However, if you are also applying to other US universities that require or recommend the SAT, taking the test is still worthwhile.

For Nepali students, a score of 1200+ opens doors to many strong universities with scholarship opportunities. A score of 1400+ makes you competitive at top-50 schools and significantly improves your merit scholarship chances.

• Stronger application: A good SAT score is an objective, globally recognized data point that strengthens your profile — especially when your high school grading system (NEB) may not be familiar to US admissions officers.
• Scholarship access: Many merit-based scholarships — including partial and full-tuition awards — are directly tied to SAT score thresholds. Without a score, you may be ineligible for these.
• Competitive advantage: At test-optional schools, applicants who submit strong scores are statistically more likely to be admitted and receive better financial aid packages than those who withhold scores.
• More university options: With the SAT reinstatement trend accelerating, taking the test now keeps all your options open — including schools that may reinstate requirements by the time you apply.
• Critical thinking skills: SAT preparation develops analytical reasoning, reading comprehension, and problem-solving skills that directly benefit your college-level coursework.

For most Nepali students, the Digital SAT is the better choice. It is shorter, more affordable, more widely available in Nepal, does not have a science section, and allows calculator use throughout the Math section. The SAT is also the test most US universities are familiar with from international applicants.

• Start 3–6 months before your test date. Most students need 2–4 months of focused preparation to reach their target score.
• Use Bluebook practice tests. The College Board's official Bluebook app provides free Digital SAT practice tests that simulate the actual test experience.
• Focus on weak areas. Take a diagnostic test first to identify whether Math or Reading & Writing needs more attention.
• Consider structured classes. Edwise Foundation offers Digital SAT preparation classes in Kathmandu with experienced instructors, practice tests, and personalized study plans.
• Plan 2–3 attempts. Most students take the SAT 1–3 times. Many universities accept superscoring — combining your highest section scores across sittings.

Edwise Foundation has been helping Nepali students gain admission to US universities since 2005. As Nepal's first AIRC-certified education consultancy, we offer Digital SAT preparation classes, strategic university shortlisting based on your SAT score range, scholarship identification, and complete F-1 visa support.

With a 96% acceptance rate across 150+ partner universities, our US-educated advisors know which schools match your profile and where your SAT score will be most competitive. For a complete overview of studying in the USA — including eligibility, costs, and visa requirements — visit our Study in the USA from Nepal service page.