Academic Requirements vs. Standardised Tests: Which Matters More?

Probably the most asked question in every college counselling session is: "What's more important... GPA vs test scores?"

The annoying answer? It depends on where you're applying.

The helpful answer? GPA  forms the foundation of college admissions, while standardised tests provide a benchmark for comparison. Although recent trends show universities prioritising transcripts amid test-optional policies, tests remain key for top schools. 

Here, understanding both will help you strategise effectively.

The US

It's Complicated 

Over 80% of US colleges are test-optional for 2026. That means you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.

But here's the plot twist: elite schools like Yale and Princeton basically say, "We'll take your application without scores, but honestly, test scores are really good predictors of how you'll do here."

And the data backs them up. Research shows standardised tests explain about 22% of the variation in freshman GPA, while high school grades alone only explain about 9%.

So, What Should You Do?

If you have strong test scores: Submit them, period! They help you, especially at top schools.

If your scores are weak but grades are solid: Go test-optional. Focus on your transcript, which shows years of sustained effort rather than one specific day.

The real priority: Keep your GPA above 3.5 (ideally 3.7+) and take courses like AP or IB. Universities like Michigan are still looking at those challenging classes regardless of whether you submit test scores.

The UK

Grades Are King

If you're applying to UK universities, this one's simple: your A-levels or IB scores are basically everything.

Russell Group universities (Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham) set minimum grade requirements, usually AAA or higher, for competitive programs. Test scores from things like the LNAT or UCAT only matter for specific courses like law or medicine, and even then, they're secondary.

Canada

Your Transcript Is the Golden Ticket

Canadian universities are refreshingly straightforward. They want to see:

GPA: Usually 3.0-3.7 out of 4.0 (varies by province and program)

Your transcript: Actual course grades matter more than a single test score

English proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL if you're international

SAT and ACT? Most Canadian schools don't care. They're optional or outright ignored for undergrads.

Australia

It's All About ATAR

Australian admissions revolve around your ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). 

Top universities want ATAR scores of 85+, which translates to roughly 60-75% in most programs. You'll also need IELTS or PTE for English proficiency if you're international.

Click to know more about ATAR scores and ATAR conversions.

Europe 

Simple and Grade-Focused

Applying to schools in the Netherlands, Germany, or other European countries? It's pretty straightforward.

Dutch universities: Look for VWO equivalents (around 7.5/10 or AAB in A-levels)

German universities: Want Abitur equivalents or strong A-level grades

Language: IELTS for non-EU students

Subject-specific tests are rare because they mostly care if you've completed high school with strong grades.

What the Research Actually Says

Here's where it gets interesting. There are two competing truths:

Truth #1: Ivy League data shows standardised tests predict college performance better than GPA alone.

Truth #2: Studies from NACAC and AERA show high school GPA is the strongest predictor of college graduation, like, five times more reliable than ACT scores.

So... both matter. But GPA signals sustained effort, something tests don't.

The Honest Truth

Grades show you can handle sustained academic work. Tests show you can perform under pressure and have strong foundational skills.

The best applicants have both. But if you're stronger in one area, play to your strengths and apply to schools where that strength matters most.

So yes, work hard on your grades. Yes, prep for your tests if they matter for your target schools. But also tell your story, show your growth, and apply to places where you genuinely fit.

Because at the end of the day, the goal is getting into a school where you'll thrive.

But don’t worry! Hello Study Global is with you at every step you take towards your dream destination and course. Whether it’s just shortlisting suitable universities or actually applying to them, we are here for you. Just reach out to us and see it all happen for real!