Dear sir, my nephew would like to pursue his postgraduation in the US. What do you think would be the right time to appear for Step 1 exam? Does he have the option to choose subjects as well? What is the minimum score to qualify? Kindly advise

Ans: Hello,

First and foremost, thank you for getting in touch with us. I am happy to hear that your child is currently studying in the 8th grade and you want him to pursue college in the USA. To answer your question first, I would like to tell you that scores of standardized tests viz., the ACT or SAT are required to secure admission to a number of colleges in the USA. These exams aid colleges in evaluating a student's preparedness for studies at the college level. I would like to tell you that although a solid intellectual foundation can be offered by programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge AICE, a number of colleges in the USA do not accept them as alternatives to the SAT/ACT.

I would recommend that you motivate your child to study for the ACT or SAT, and make sure he very well understands the unique prerequisites of the universities he wishes to apply to. Not just that, your son might also consider taking SAT Subject Tests as advised or mandated by certain universities. Remember, maintaining a high academic standing and participating in extracurricular activities, frequently influence US college admissions, and thus, your son should focus on the same.

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