Over 1,800 colleges in the United States have shifted to test-optional policies, signaling a significant change in the admissions landscape. However, the SAT remains a pivotal factor in unlocking merit scholarships and showcasing academic readiness. Similarly, TOEFL scores are a fundamental requirement for many international applicants demonstrating English proficiency. Navigating whether to take both tests can feel overwhelming, but understanding this can save you valuable time and resources.
The SAT and TOEFL serve two different purposes in the college admissions process. The SAT primarily assesses readiness in math, reading, and writing, while the TOEFL evaluates English language skills across reading, listening, speaking, and writing. This guide breaks down when each or both are necessary, key policies across countries, and strategies to help applicants efficiently plan their tests and preparation.
“Standardized tests should illuminate, not intimidate, a student’s readiness for college.” – College Board
Table of Contents
- What Are the SAT and TOEFL? Purpose, Format, and Who Needs Them
- When Is One Test Enough vs. When You Need Both (Common Admissions Scenarios)
- Country- and Program-Specific Policies (US, Canada, UK/EU, Australia, Asia)
- Test-Optional, English-Waiver, and MOI Rules: Hidden Exceptions That Save You a Test
- How Universities Evaluate Scores: SAT Percentiles, TOEFL Section Minimums, and MyBest™
- Scholarships and Funding: Score Thresholds That Unlock Merit Aid
- Planning Your Calendar: Ideal Sequencing of SAT and TOEFL Across the Application Year
- Cost, Retakes, and Fee Waivers: A Practical ROI Analysis for Both Tests
- Building a Shared Prep Stack: Overlapping Skills and Efficient Study Routines
- Edge Cases and Strategy Tweaks: Transfer, Pathway, Community College, and Test Substitutes
What Are the SAT and TOEFL? Purpose, Format, and Who Needs Them
The SAT and TOEFL play distinct, essential roles for students applying to colleges, particularly in English-speaking countries. The SAT evaluates academic skills in math, reading, and writing to showcase college readiness. Meanwhile, the TOEFL measures proficiency in English across reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
The SAT consists of 154 questions completed in approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes, with a maximum score of 1600. The TOEFL iBT includes about 64 tasks and takes roughly 1 hour and 56 minutes, with scores up to 120. Most universities require TOEFL scores between 80 and 100, often with minimum section scores needed.
Generally, domestic U.S. students take the SAT, while international students often must submit both SAT and TOEFL unless they have attended schools where English is the medium of instruction. It’s noteworthy that practicing SAT writing also benefits TOEFL writing skills.
When Is One Test Enough vs. When You Need Both (Common Admissions Scenarios)
Here are common scenarios where one or both tests may be required:
- U.S. citizens typically need the SAT but not the TOEFL.
- Indian CBSE students usually need both tests unless they qualify for an English waiver.
- Students with an IB Diploma from English-medium schools may require the SAT, but TOEFL requirements vary by institution.
- Transfers from U.S. community colleges with sufficient credits might be exempt from both.
Country- and Program-Specific Policies (US, Canada, UK/EU, Australia, Asia)
Admissions requirements for SAT and TOEFL vary globally:
In the U.S., many colleges remain test-optional but still value strong SAT scores, especially for scholarships.
Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto accept SAT scores (usually 1330 or above) in place of board marks and require TOEFL scores of about 100 unless English was the primary instruction language.
In the UK and EU, SAT scores can be used to demonstrate A-level equivalencies; IELTS is more commonly accepted than TOEFL.
Australia’s Group of Eight universities consider SAT scores favorably but expect TOEFL or IELTS unless the applicant has an IB English A.
In Asia, top schools like HKUST and NUS set competitive thresholds: SAT around 1400 and TOEFL near 100, particularly for STEM courses.
Test-Optional, English-Waiver, and MOI Rules: Hidden Exceptions That Save You a Test
Certain conditions can exempt students from one or both tests.
Many U.S. colleges operate test-optional policies, making SAT submissions voluntary but beneficial for scholarships.
Some universities waive the TOEFL if applicants score 650+ on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section (e.g., Purdue University).
Proving at least four years of schooling in English (Medium of Instruction – MOI) can waive TOEFL requirements at many Canadian schools.
How Universities Evaluate Scores: SAT Percentiles, TOEFL Section Minimums, and MyBest™
Universities apply their own criteria when assessing SAT and TOEFL scores.
Competitive SAT applicants generally score in the top 25 percentile (ex: NYU 1470+, MIT 1520+).
TOEFL scores often demand minimum section scores; UCLA, for example, requires 25 in Writing and 24 in Speaking regardless of total score.
TOEFL MyBest™ allows combining the highest section scores across test attempts and is accepted by over 80 institutions.
Scholarships and Funding: Score Thresholds That Unlock Merit Aid
Scholarships predominantly depend on SAT performance more than TOEFL.
For example, Arizona State University offers $15,500/year for SAT scores above 1360.
The University of Alabama provides full tuition for SAT above 1480 and TOEFL above 79.
University of Central Florida awards $10,000 for SAT scores 1330+ and TOEFL 80+.
Planning Your Calendar: Ideal Sequencing of SAT and TOEFL Across the Application Year
A well-structured schedule can help reduce stress and maximize results.
A sample timeline:
- Grade 10 summer: Initial diagnostic testing for both exams.
- Grade 11 March: First SAT attempt.
- Grade 11 May: Take TOEFL while verbal skills are fresh.
- Grade 11 August: Retake SAT if needed.
- Grade 12: Have a fallback TOEFL date before applications close.
Cost, Retakes, and Fee Waivers: A Practical ROI Analysis for Both Tests
Considering fees and retake frequencies is important.
The SAT costs $60 per attempt; most students take it twice on average.
The TOEFL costs $195 per attempt, averaging 1.4 tests per student.
Fee waivers exist, especially for U.S. residents with financial need.
Although TOEFL is costlier, scholarship opportunities hinge mostly on SAT scores, influencing strategic planning.
Building a Shared Prep Stack: Overlapping Skills and Efficient Study Routines
Preparing jointly for SAT and TOEFL has its benefits.
Vocabulary and grammar drills assist both SAT reading and TOEFL listening and speaking.
SAT writing practice can double as TOEFL writing preparation.
The Galvanize SAT App offers quick grammar quizzes supporting both tests.
Edge Cases and Strategy Tweaks: Transfer, Pathway, Community College, and Test Substitutes
Special cases require tailored strategies:
Transfer students with more than 30 US college credits typically bypass both tests.
Pathway programs may waive the SAT but require their own English testing.
Community colleges usually don’t require these tests, but check transfer regulations.
Duolingo English Test and ACT may be accepted alternatives for TOEFL and SAT respectively by some schools.
FAQs
Q: Is sat and TOEFL mandatory for every U.S. college?
A: No. More than half of U.S. colleges are test-optional for SAT, and TOEFL waivers apply with sufficient English-medium education or high SAT EBRW scores.
Q: Can high TOEFL scores compensate for a low SAT verbal score?
A: TOEFL reflects English proficiency, but SAT verbal also assesses critical academic reasoning, so balanced scores are preferred by top schools.
Q: How many times should I retake each test?
A: Average SAT takers improve within two attempts; TOEFL retakes are generally limited to one unless there’s room for improvement in a section.
Q: Does SAT writing practice help TOEFL?
A: Absolutely. Skillful essay writing honed in SAT prep translates well to TOEFL writing tasks.
Q: What is a competitive TOEFL score for Ivy League?
A: A score of 105 or above with minimum 25 in each section is competitive.
Q: Are Duolingo or IELTS easier than TOEFL?
A: These tests may be logistically easier but differ in scoring and acceptance, so verify with your target schools.
Q: When should I start preparing?
A: Begin 12-15 months before applications; an ideal start is summer before Grade 11.
Q: Can fee waivers cover both exams for international students?
A: SAT waivers are more widely available globally, but TOEFL waivers vary; students must check with ETS or local programs.
Primary Sources
Conclusion & Next Steps
Deciding whether to take both the SAT and TOEFL can seem complex, but understanding your personal admissions requirements clarifies the path. SAT scores primarily influence scholarship opportunities and academic placement, while TOEFL scores confirm your English proficiency to universities. Combining preparation smartly and planning early will reduce stress and improve your chances. Tailor your testing strategy to your target schools and personal situation for the best results.
Ready to get started? Access your FREE adaptive SAT Mock Test + TOEFL diagnostic test here. This tool will highlight your strengths and help you plan an effective study path.
