Applications pour in from all corners of the globe with each country following its own grading systems.  The best way to compare competing applicants is to assess their performance on an independent yet standardized test. 

When applying for an undergraduate degree you need to take the SAT which is an aptitude test and the TOEFL which is a language test.

Register for the SAT in advance as these tests are held once in each of the following months - Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan and then May and June.  For each of these months it is held on the first Saturday of the month except for Jan when it is held on the third instead of the first Saturday of the month.

If you plan the SAT II subject tests, try and get the SAT out of the way first.  Logic prevails that only if you excel on the SAT, would you attempt the SAT II.  There are two subject tests required though some Universities require three subject tests.

The TOEFL is mandatory for all international applicants as it tests the ease with which you understand and speak the English language. This is to determine if you are able to follow the courses taught in class.  Thankfully, unlike the SAT, the TOEFL is offered all year round and you have much more flexibility in planning when you would like to take the test. 

We strongly recommend that you avail of the free score option when you register for the tests.  If you have done your university search in advance you can save over $100 by entering the names of colleges to whom the testing body will send your scores to free of charge.