How International School Counselors Can Help Students Prepare for U.S. College Entrance Exams
International school counselors play a crucial role in guiding students who aspire to study in the United States. From helping families understand the admissions process to providing resources for standardized test preparation, counselors are often the first point of contact for students navigating the complex path to American higher education.
According to the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report, nearly one million international students enrolled in U.S. institutions in 2023–24. Many of these students relied heavily on the expertise of counselors at international schools, who help demystify requirements such as the SAT, ACT, and PSAT. With U.S. admissions becoming increasingly competitive, the role of counselors has never been more important.
Understanding the Admissions Landscape
For international students, applying to U.S. colleges involves more than strong grades. Admissions officers want to see standardized test scores, essays, recommendations, and evidence of extracurricular involvement. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) notes that standardized test scores remain a significant factor in admissions decisions at many institutions, despite the rise of test-optional policies.
Counselors who are well-informed about U.S. requirements can help students create realistic timelines, prepare adequately for exams, and align their applications with institutional expectations.
The Importance of Standardized Tests
While some universities have adopted test-optional policies, reporting from The New York Times highlights that standardized exams still matter, especially for international students. Admissions officers often use SAT or ACT scores as a common benchmark when evaluating applicants from diverse educational systems.
Students abroad may face limited test dates or availability. The College Board’s international SAT calendar and ACT’s international test schedule provide official timelines. Counselors who proactively share these resources ensure families have enough time to register and prepare.
Guiding Students on SAT vs ACT
A frequent question from families is whether to choose the SAT or ACT. Both are accepted by all U.S. colleges, but they differ in format and emphasis. The SAT is fully digital abroad, while the ACT still offers paper testing in many locations. The ACT includes a Science section, while the SAT focuses more heavily on algebra and data analysis.
Counselors can guide students by sharing comparisons from official sites like the College Board and ACT.org. Encouraging students to take diagnostic practice tests helps identify which exam better suits their strengths.
Encouraging Early Preparation
One of the most impactful ways counselors can support students is by stressing the importance of early test preparation. Many international schools operate on different calendars from U.S. institutions, which can create scheduling conflicts. Beginning preparation in 10th or 11th grade gives students flexibility to retake exams if necessary.
EducationUSA, a U.S. State Department initiative, advises students to begin exploring standardized testing timelines well before their senior year. Counselors can reinforce this advice by hosting information sessions for parents and students.
Supporting English-Language Learners
Many international students are non-native English speakers, which can make the reading and writing portions of the SAT and ACT particularly challenging. A report from The Guardian has highlighted the difficulties non-native speakers face when taking exams that rely on nuanced reading comprehension and idiomatic English.
Counselors can address this by recommending additional English language support, connecting students with appropriate resources, and emphasizing the importance of consistent practice over time.
Collaborating with Families
Parents often look to counselors for guidance on unfamiliar admissions processes. Regular communication with families can reduce anxiety and ensure that students stay on track. Counselors can provide parents with official resources such as:
EducationUSA for admissions guidance.
College Board PSAT overview for early readiness.
NACAC resources for admissions best practices.
By positioning themselves as reliable sources of information, counselors build trust with families and support stronger applications.
Partnering with Test Prep Providers
Counselors cannot do everything alone, especially in schools with large student populations. Partnering with test preparation providers allows counselors to offer students additional support. Programs like virtual boot camps provide structured preparation that aligns with international schedules.
According to The Wall Street Journal, competition for spots at top U.S. universities remains intense. Having strong test scores can still set students apart, and counselors who collaborate with trusted test prep partners give their students an added advantage.
Best Practices for Counselors
Here are a few strategies international school counselors can adopt:
Host information sessions for students and parents about SAT and ACT timelines.
Provide official resource links regularly through newsletters or school websites.
Encourage practice testing to help students decide between SAT and ACT.
Connect with EducationUSA advising centers for updated information.
Partner with reputable prep providers to offer workshops or boot camps.
Key Takeaways
Standardized tests still matter for international students, despite test-optional policies.
Early preparation is crucial to accommodate limited international test dates.
Counselors should share official resources and guide students on SAT vs ACT.
English-language learners need additional support for verbal sections.
Collaborating with families and prep providers strengthens student outcomes.
Conclusion
International school counselors are more than academic advisors. They are vital guides who help families navigate the complex world of U.S. college admissions. By staying informed about test dates, exam formats, and admissions trends, counselors can empower students to approach the SAT and ACT with confidence.
At Smart Push Academic Coaching, we work closely with counselors around the world to support international students. Our virtual boot camps align with international schedules and give students the strategies they need to excel.
Counselors, want resources for your students? Book a discovery call to explore how Smart Push can support your school community.