SAT and ACT Prep in the UAE: Choosing the Right Test for U.S. Colleges
Every year, more than 1.1 million international students study in the United States, with India, China, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Canada leading the way. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also plays a key role in this global pipeline, with students from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah increasingly looking to U.S. universities for undergraduate opportunities (Open Doors Data – IIE).
For these students, one critical question arises early in the admissions journey: Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
Why Testing Still Matters
Even as many U.S. colleges have adopted test-optional policies, strong SAT or ACT scores remain a competitive advantage. Admissions officers continue to use scores as:
Proof of English readiness for international applicants
Benchmarks for academic performance in math, reading, and writing
A way to compare students from different school systems worldwide
In fact, the average international SAT score for students admitted to U.S. colleges was 1351, compared to the U.S. domestic average of 1068 (College Board Research).
SAT in the UAE
The SAT is the most widely recognized test for U.S. admissions. Students in the UAE can register for the SAT through local test centers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other major cities (College Board International Testing).
Key facts:
Offered multiple times a year
Now fully digital, beginning in 2024–25 (College Board Digital SAT)
Accepted by more than 4,000 U.S. institutions worldwide
ACT in the UAE
The ACT is also a strong option for students who:
Prefer science-focused sections
Excel at pacing and quick test-taking strategies
Want an alternative to the SAT’s structure
The ACT is offered internationally at approved test centers, including locations in the Middle East (ACT International Testing). Like the SAT, ACT results are accepted by nearly all U.S. colleges and universities.
Which Test Should UAE Students Choose?
Here are some considerations for students in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah:
Math strength: SAT may play to your advantage if math is your strong suit.
Science skills: ACT includes a dedicated science reasoning section.
Time management: ACT requires faster pacing, while SAT questions may feel more complex but allow slightly more time.
Practice access: Consider which prep resources and boot camps are available in your time zone.
The best way to decide is to take a diagnostic test for both SAT and ACT, then compare your performance.
Smart Push International Boot Camps for UAE Students
At Smart Push Academic Coaching, we specialize in helping students in the UAE and worldwide prepare for the SAT, ACT, and PSAT through customized virtual boot camps.
What makes us unique:
Time-zone friendly scheduling for UAE evenings
English-only instruction designed for fluent or advanced English speakers
Custom cohorts available by request for schools and counselors in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
Proven strategies to boost scores and build U.S. admissions readiness
Whether you are a student looking for individual support or a counselor hoping to equip your entire school, Smart Push can design the right program based on demand.
Next Steps for UAE Families and Counselors
Visit our International Students page to explore options.
Register interest through our Custom Cohort Request Form.
Begin preparing early for the SAT or ACT to stay competitive with global peers.
Final Word
For students in the UAE, the choice between SAT and ACT should be guided by personal strengths, test-taking style, and preparation support. With Smart Push’s international boot camps, you can confidently prepare for whichever test aligns with your goals and maximize your chances of admission to U.S. universities.
Ready to get started? Learn more at thesmartpush.com.