What kinds of tests are required to get into college?

Most colleges require students to take either the ACT or the SAT to enter their undergraduate programs, according to the Federal Student Aid Office. Many colleges require standardized test scores for both their undergraduate and graduate programs. However, some community colleges require students to take placement tests instead.

The SAT measures a student's writing, critical reading and mathematics abilities. The ACT measures what a student learned in high school and consists of English, reading, math and science sections.

Frequently used graduate admission tests include the Graduate Record Examination, Law School Admission Test, Medical College Admission Test and Graduate Management Admission Test.