Do Canadian Athletes Need SAT or ACT for NCAA in 2025?

If you're a Canadian student-athlete dreaming of playing in the NCAA, you've probably heard mixed things about standardized tests.

Some say SATs and ACTs are no longer required, while others say you still need them for certain schools or scholarships.

So what’s the real answer to: Do Canadian athletes need SAT or ACT for NCAA in 2025?

Let’s break it down.

Quick Answer: It Depends on the School and the Division

• NCAA doesn’t require SAT or ACT for eligibility as of 2020

• But many individual colleges still require them

• Some scholarships and academic programs may also ask for test scores

So while it's technically possible to be NCAA-eligible without these tests, you might still need them to get admitted to your chosen school or to maximize financial aid.

Why Did the NCAA Drop the Test Requirement?

In 2020, the NCAA Eligibility Center waived the SAT/ACT requirement due to COVID-19 disruptions. By 2023, this became a permanent change—at least for NCAA initial eligibility.

Now, the NCAA only looks at:

• Your GPA in 16 core courses

• Completion of specific academic requirements

No SAT or ACT required for Division I or II eligibility.

When Canadian Athletes Still Need the SAT or ACT

Here’s when those test scores are still important:

1. School Admissions Require It

Some colleges—especially private or academically competitive schools—may require SAT/ACT scores for admission, even if the NCAA doesn’t.

Examples:

• U.S. service academies

• Ivy League or selective private schools

• Certain California state schools

📌 Tip: Check the admissions page of each school you’re applying to.

2. For Academic Scholarships

Many merit-based scholarships still require test scores.

Even if the athletic department doesn’t need them, the school’s financial aid office might offer more money to students with strong SAT or ACT scores.

3. International Student Requirements

Some colleges ask international students (including Canadians) to provide standardized test scores as part of their application to:

• Assess English proficiency

• Evaluate academic readiness

In some cases, SAT/ACT scores may replace or complement TOEFL/IELTS.

Personal Story: When SAT Helped Get a Better Package

When my son Jimmy began his NCAA journey, the coach said, “We don’t need SAT scores, but admissions might.” Sure enough, the school required a minimum SAT score of 1000 for international students—even athletes.

He booked a test date, and he squeezed in prep during season play. He ended up scoring 1160, which not only got him in—but qualified him for an extra $2,000/year in academic funding.

It wasn’t mandatory by NCAA—but it made all the difference.

FAQs: Do Canadian Athletes Need SAT or ACT for NCAA?

Q1: Is SAT or ACT required for NCAA eligibility?

No. As of 2023, the NCAA does not require these scores for Division I or II eligibility.

Q2: Do I need the SAT to apply to U.S. colleges?

Some do, some don’t. Check each school’s admissions page for current policies.

Q3: Which is better for Canadians—SAT or ACT?

Both are accepted equally. SAT is more popular, but ACT is faster-paced and includes science.

Q4: Can I get scholarships without SAT/ACT?

Yes—but some academic or merit-based scholarships may require test scores.

Q5: Are test-optional schools really optional for athletes?

Generally yes, but always confirm with both the admissions office and the athletic department.

Final Thoughts: Play It Safe, Be Test Ready

While many schools are now test-optional, don’t assume you’re off the hook.

If you’re serious about maximizing your opportunities as a Canadian NCAA prospect, it’s smart to:

• Take the SAT or ACT once, even just for backup

• Aim for a competitive score (1000+ for SAT, 20+ for ACT)

• Submit it only where it helps you