**What happened**
The University of California (UC) system has paused an effort to finalize recommendations on whether to reinstate SAT and ACT testing requirements for undergraduate admissions. The move — reported by the Los Angeles Times — came after months of debate and a directive from UC leadership asking for a formal recommendation by the end of the academic year. The suspension leaves the future role of standardized tests at UC unclear for the near term.
**Why it matters to students in Jordan and the Middle East**
Many international applicants view UC campuses (UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, etc.) as top choices. If UC eventually restores testing requirements, applicants who assumed a test-optional window may suddenly need SAT/ACT scores to be competitive. Conversely, a final decision to remain test-optional would keep emphasis on grades, coursework rigor, essays and other credentials. For Middle Eastern applicants, access to test centers, timing, and preparation resources can be limiting — so uncertainty at the UC level complicates application planning.
**Practical steps students should take now**
1) Monitor UC announcements closely and ship any new requirements into your application checklist. The system has previously set internal deadlines for recommendations; expect official guidance before application cycles begin. 2) Keep test options open: if you plan to apply to UC or other U.S. institutions, register for a forthcoming SAT or ACT date as a contingency rather than assuming tests won’t be required. Aim to register at least 6–8 weeks before preferred dates and check local test-center availability. 3) Strengthen non-test elements: maintain strong transcripts, secure teacher recommendations, work on personal insight essays, and prepare international evidence such as IB/AP/A-level results or national exam scores.
**Alternatives and regional options**
Students who want to reduce risk can consider parallel applications: strong regional choices include Jordanian universities (Shatnawi partners include Applied Science Private University — 10% registration discount for Shatnawi students; University of Jordan — 20% discount; Jordan University of Science & Technology — 25% discount). For medicine and dentistry, Georgia (Batumi and Tbilisi) remains a practical, English-medium option with WHO/EU-recognized degrees and programs starting from roughly $4,000/year. Applying to a mix of U.S., regional, and European programs can protect students from sudden policy shifts.
**How Shatnawi for College Admissions & Academic Consultations can help**
Shatnawi for College Admissions & Academic Consultations (شطناوي للخدمات الجامعية والاستشارات الأكاديمية) in Amman provides SAT and ACT test preparation, exam-planning advice, and scholarship matching to help students adapt to changing admissions rules. We also assist with document equivalency (service fee 70 JOD) and can guide applicants toward partner universities and discounts. For prompt help and tailored planning, contact Shatnawi via WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.