American Exams: What You Need to Know About Standardized Tests in the U.S.

When students in the U.S. aim for college, they don’t just rely on grades—they take American exams, standardized tests used by colleges to assess readiness for higher education. Also known as college entrance exams, these tests are a major gatekeeper for admissions, scholarships, and even merit-based aid. Unlike Indian boards that focus on year-end exams, American exams are taken at specific points in high school and measure skills like critical reading, math reasoning, and writing under timed conditions.

The most common ones are the SAT, a test developed by the College Board that evaluates reading, writing, and math, and the ACT, a similar exam that includes a science section and is more curriculum-based. Then there’s the PSAT, a practice test that doubles as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program. A high PSAT score can mean thousands of dollars in scholarships, even if you’re not a U.S. citizen. For Indian students targeting top U.S. universities like Harvard, these exams aren’t optional—they’re essential. Your CBSE or ICSE grades matter, but without a strong SAT or ACT score, your application might not get full consideration.

These exams aren’t just about memorizing facts. They test how well you think under pressure, manage time, and apply logic. That’s why students spend months preparing—using practice tests, tutoring, or free online resources. The PSAT cutoff for National Merit varies by state, so a score that qualifies you in Texas might not in California. And while some schools are going test-optional, top-tier programs still use scores to sort through thousands of applications. If you’re serious about studying in the U.S., knowing which exam to take, when to take it, and how to prepare isn’t just helpful—it’s your first step toward getting in.

Below, you’ll find real guides on how to hit the PSAT score needed for National Merit, what Harvard expects from CBSE students, and how to compare American exams with Indian board patterns. These aren’t theoretical tips—they’re based on what actually works for students who’ve been there.