The PSAT is taken in October of the Junior year. Registration is done through the Counseling office approximately one month prior to the test date. The PSAT offers students the opportunity to participate in a standardized testing situation that is less stressful for the student; PSAT scores are not reported to colleges and universities. PSAT scores are used as qualifiers for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Test results are given as a verbal score, a math score, and a National Merit Selection Index.
The SAT I is a test used by many colleges for entrance purposes. It is a test designed to measure verbal and mathematics abilities. A score ranging from 200 to 800 is reported for both the verbal portion and the mathematics portion. The cost is $60. Registration deadlines are approximately five weeks prior to each test administration.
The ACT is accepted for entrance and/or placement purposes by many colleges and universities. It consists of a series of four tests in the following areas: English, Mathematics, Reading Context, and Science Reasoning. The tests are designed to provide an overall estimate of a student’s ability to succeed academically at the college level. Each test deals more with the use of skills than with specific subject matter. Approximate cost is $63.00 (no writing) and $88 with writing. Students must register online at the ACT web site.
Study Resources
Study Skills
Students are encouraged to work with their teachers to learn the best ways to study and prepare for particular courses. The following list of online study skills resources is provided in order to compliment other efforts toward increased academic success:
Khan Academy : Free site that provides video based instruction in a variety of topics including SAT prep.
NYS Regents Exams : A collection of prior exams and information on current testing
Regents Review Videos : video tutorials to prepare for upcoming Regents examinations
Virginia Tech Study Skills Self-Help Information: From the SQ3R Reading/Study system to time management to notetaking and proofreading, Virginia Tech provides this comprehensive self-help resource for students. Information is provided in a user-friendly manner; this site will help students enhance their current study skill repertoire.
*LINKS TO THIRD PARTY SITES: The links in this area will let you leave the Baldwinsville Central School District ("The District") site. The linked sites are not under the control of the district and The District is not responsible for the contents of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site, or any changes or updates to such sites. The District is providing these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by The District of the site.