Standardized Tests

If you’re a high school student getting ready for your GCSEs in 2026, one of the first things you should do is note the key dates. Knowing when your exams are scheduled and when you’ll get your results can help you plan your revision, avoid stress, and prepare for life after GCSEs. This may include A-levels, college, apprenticeships, or other pathways.

The 2025 AP History exam scores are out! Explore a complete breakdown of AP U.S. History, World History, and European History exams, covering class content, 5-score data, and trends from recent years. Get insights and strategic advice on whether these popular but challenging courses are right for you.

Earlier this year, the College Board announced two new AP courses to debut in the 2026-2027 school year. These additions—AP Business Principles/Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity—are part of the AP Career Kickstart Program, an initiative designed to equip students with practical, career-ready skills alongside traditional academic rigor. Here’s what you need to know about the two new courses and when they’ll be available to students.

In May 2025, the College Board transitioned the majority of AP Exams to a digital format. With over 3 million students expected to take nearly 6 million AP Exams in spring 2025, this effort marks a significant shift in the Advanced Placement experience for students, teachers, and schools. Read below to learn more about the change and what it means for students taking the AP exams this year and in the future!

The ACT is a popular standardized test for high school students applying to college in the United States. However, if you’re living outside the U.S. and planning to take the ACT, you might be wondering: Is the test different for international students? The short answer is yes; while the core test remains the same, there are key differences in how and when the ACT is administered in the U.S. versus internationally.

In the 2025 admissions cycle, a significant shift occurred as many U.S. universities reinstated the requirement for applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. This marks a surprising turn after years of a “test-optional” policy. In this article, Aralia explores the recent wave of “test-optional” policies in the U.S., the reasons behind the return of SAT/ACT scores in admissions decisions, and strategies for effectively submitting standardized test scores.

Discover why English proficiency tests are crucial for U.S. college admissions. Learn how these scores assess your academic readiness and the top universities’ score requirements for international students.