**What happened and why it matters**
Several U.S. states have begun adopting an alternative college entrance exam promoted by conservative policymakers, even as experts raise concerns about fairness and academic alignment. At the same time, many selective universities — including nearly all Ivy League schools except Columbia — have reversed pandemic-era test-optional policies and again require standardized test scores for admission. For students outside the U.S., including those in Jordan and the Middle East, this renewed emphasis on tests changes application strategy and timing.
**How this affects students in Jordan and the region**
International applicants must now plan for a more fragmented testing landscape. The Classic Learning Test (CLT) and similar alternatives are gaining traction in some states, but acceptance varies widely across colleges. Traditional exams (SAT, ACT) remain the baseline for most U.S. institutions and are still offered at international test centers, including in Amman. Because selective U.S. schools are reintroducing score requirements, students who hoped to rely on test-optional policies should register for at least one accepted exam and aim to have scores ready by Early Action/Early Decision deadlines (typically November) or Regular Decision deadlines (commonly January).
**Practical steps for applicants**
1) Check each target university’s current policy: some schools accept CLT as well as SAT/ACT, many do not. 2) Register early — international test seats fill fast — and plan at least two test sittings if possible to improve scores. Score reporting times vary; ACT and SAT usually release scores within 2–3 weeks, but check the official calendars for exact dates. 3) Align test dates with application timelines: for U.S. Early deadlines (Nov 1–15), sit a test no later than September–October; for Regular Decision (Jan 1–15), a November or December test date is safer.
**Additional considerations and support**
Beyond scores, admissions offices will review transcripts, essays, recommendations and extracurriculars; stronger test performance can offset weaknesses elsewhere but is not the only factor. Students aiming for Ivy League or other highly selective programs should aim to complete testing early and pair scores with strong subject preparation. Schools and states adopting new exams may further change policies; stay updated through official university admissions pages.
Shatnawi For College Admissions And Academic Consultations can help Jordanian students evaluate which test to prioritize, find local test centers, and build a testing timeline that matches application deadlines. For personalized guidance on test selection, preparation plans, and university policies, contact Shatnawi’s advisers.
For help planning tests and deadlines, WhatsApp +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.