**Major shift in the U.S. testing landscape** — The Washington Post reports a renewed surge in SAT registrations while the ACT has announced format changes for the 2026 administration that include fewer questions and more time per section. Together these developments are reshaping the standardized-testing choices facing students applying to universities abroad, particularly in the United States and some other English-speaking systems that still accept both exams.
For students in Jordan and the wider Middle East, the practical consequences are immediate. Test-center availability, preferred exam for specific universities, and scholarship criteria can all be affected. Some institutions that relaxed testing requirements during the pandemic are again accepting or even recommending SAT scores, and the ACT’s 2026 changes mean prep curricula and practice tests will be updated — so which test plays to a student’s strengths may change.
What students should do now: first, check the College Board and ACT websites for the official international test schedules and registration deadlines for late 2026 and early 2027. International registration windows can close earlier than U.S. domestic windows, and seats at authorized centers in Amman and other regional cities can fill quickly. Second, take a timed diagnostic for both the SAT and the new-format ACT (or a current ACT practice test plus updated sectional timing) to see which format suits you. Finally, factor in admissions timelines — applications for many U.S. programs open in the fall for the next academic year — and plan testing with enough buffer for a retake if needed.
Preparation advice: prioritize official practice materials from College Board and ACT as they update exams and scoring guides. For the ACT’s revised timing, practice at simulated pacing to use the extra time strategically; for the SAT, focus on the sections highlighted by recent test-taker trends (reading/grammar or math depending on your profile). Students targeting scholarships or merit aid should confirm whether awarding bodies still weigh standardized scores heavily. Also consider test-optional policies at each target university; sometimes a strong score helps, other times it’s better to emphasize grades and extracurriculars.
How Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help: our counselors in Amman can run official-style diagnostics, advise on whether to prioritize SAT or ACT under the new conditions, schedule mock exams, and help plan test timing relative to application deadlines. If you need step-by-step guidance on registration, financial waivers, or choosing test centers, Shatnawi’s advisors are available.
Contact and next steps: If you plan to apply abroad in 2027 or 2028, start planning your test calendar now to allow time for preparation and possible retakes. For direct assistance, message Shatnawi on WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com for consultations and test-prep options.