Should You Take SAT, ACT, or GRE for 2026 Admissions?

This is one of the most common questions we hear from students planning to study abroad in 2026.

With many universities adopting test-optional policies in recent years, students are understandably confused. Should you invest time and money in standardised tests like the SAT, ACT, or GRE? Or can you skip them?

The honest answer is, it depends on your country, course, and profile strength.

Let us break this down clearly.

For Undergraduate Applicants: SAT or ACT

The SAT and ACT are primarily required for undergraduate admissions, especially in the United States.

Are They Mandatory in 2026?

Many US universities remain test-optional. However, policies vary.

Highly competitive institutions may:

• Recommend strong SAT or ACT scores

• Use them for scholarship consideration

• Consider them for merit-based evaluation

Even if optional, a strong score can strengthen your profile, especially if:

• Your school grades are average

• You are from a less-known board

• You are targeting competitive programs

If your academic record is already strong and holistic, you may not need to submit scores.

When You Should Consider Taking SAT or ACT

Take the exam if:

• You are targeting top-tier US universities

• You want merit scholarships

• Your GPA alone may not reflect your potential

• You enjoy standardised testing

Skip it if:

• The universities you are targeting are clearly test-blind

• Your academic record is consistently strong

• Your application strength lies in projects, research, or leadership

For Postgraduate Applicants: GRE

The GRE is mainly required for master’s and some PhD programs, especially in the United States.

Is GRE Still Required?

Since the pandemic, many universities have made the GRE optional. However, the trend varies by field.

Generally:

• Engineering and STEM programs may still value GRE scores

• Business programs may prefer GMAT instead

• Humanities and social sciences are increasingly test-optional

Always check the official program page for updated requirements.

When GRE Can Strengthen Your Application

Consider taking the GRE if:

• Your undergraduate percentage is moderate

• You are applying to highly competitive programs

• You want to demonstrate quantitative strength

• You are switching academic fields

A strong GRE score can compensate for weaker academic areas and show readiness for rigorous coursework.

Country-Wise Perspective for 2026

United States

Most flexible regarding test-optional policies. However, competitive programs still appreciate strong scores.

United Kingdom

Generally does not require SAT or GRE for most programs. Admissions focus more on academic performance and subject relevance.

Canada

GRE requirements depend on the program. Some technical and research-focused courses may still expect it.

Australia

Standardised tests like GRE are usually not mandatory, but English proficiency tests are essential.

Scholarship Consideration

Even when tests are optional for admission, they may influence:

• Merit-based scholarships

• Assistantship opportunities

• Funding competitiveness

If budget is a major concern, strong test scores can improve scholarship chances.

The Real Question: Does It Fit Your Strategy?

Instead of asking, “Is the test required?”, ask:

• Will this score improve my overall profile?

• Does it align with my target universities?

• Do I have enough time to prepare properly?

• Can I realistically achieve a competitive score?

Preparing for SAT, ACT, or GRE requires time and focused effort. Taking the test without adequate preparation can weaken rather than strengthen your application.

Common Mistakes Students Make

• Taking the GRE without checking if it is required

• Submitting low scores when optional

• Preparing too late in the application cycle

• Ignoring scholarship impact

Standardised tests are strategic tools, not compulsory checkboxes.

Our Counsellor Recommendation for 2026 Applicants

For undergraduate aspirants targeting top US universities, taking SAT or ACT can still be beneficial.

For postgraduate applicants, the GRE is helpful if you are applying to competitive STEM or research programs, or if your academic profile needs reinforcement.

If you are targeting countries like the UK or Australia, focus more on academic alignment and strong documentation rather than standardised tests.

The key is personalised planning.

SAT, ACT, and GRE are no longer universally mandatory, but they are not irrelevant either.

In 2026 admissions, these tests should be viewed as strategic advantages, not automatic requirements.

If you are unsure whether to invest time in these exams or focus on profile building, a personalised assessment can help you decide wisely.

Ready to plan your 2026 study abroad strategy with clarity? Speak with UnnatiPath’s expert counsellors at https://www.unnatipath.com/ and build a plan that fits your academic profile and career goals.