A test-optional policy means U.S. colleges don’t require you to submit SAT or ACT scores—but they’re happy to consider them if you do. For Swiss students navigating the Matura, IB, or French Bac, this might sound like a sigh of relief. But here’s the truth: a strong test score can still provide a significant advantage, […]

That depends on how your brain works and which parts of your Swiss curriculum you shine in. Both the SAT and ACT are accepted by nearly all U.S. universities. The real question is: which one suits your skills better? The SAT leans more into Algebra, data analysis, and dense reading passages. It gives you more […]

No, absolutely not. U.S. colleges only require one standardized test—either the SAT or the ACT. For Swiss students applying from Geneva, Zurich, Lausanne, or abroad, this is good news. You don’t need to double the prep, pressure, or panic. Most applicants choose the test that feels like a better fit, prep thoroughly, and submit their […]

Yes, and that’s not wishful thinking—it’s data. Students across Switzerland, whether they’re in the Matura track or studying the IB, routinely improve their SAT scores with the right preparation. But here’s the key: improvement comes from strategic effort, not just retaking the test and hoping for better luck. At Cardinal Education, we help students turn […]