College Admissions Testing
College Admissions Testing: PSAT, SAT, SAT II Subject Test, and ACT
There are nearly 30,000 high schools in the United States with a wide range of courses and grading standards. College entrance exams like the SAT I, SAT II, and ACT help colleges determine who is ready for the academic rigors of college. These standardized tests are designed to compare the millions of students applying for acceptance into colleges. The scores on these tests are very important in the college selection process. Please keep in mind that these scores are only one of the determining factors toward acceptance. It is important to find out the college entrance exams required by the colleges you intend to apply to. This information can be found on the college's website.
Below are brief descriptions of each test, and an explanation as to who should take the test and when. You will also find a number of links that will help you to prepare for the test.
PSAT
The PSAT, offered in October, provides sophomores and juniors the opportunity to practice for the SAT. In December, students will receive a score report which serves as an excellent study guide for the SAT. It is highly recommended that juniors considering college take the PSAT. During junior year, the PSAT is used to select students for National Merit Scholarships. The results of the PSAT has no bearing on acceptance to college, it is strictly a practice test. Click here to view a video that explains how students should utilize their score report.
SAT I Reasoning Test
The SAT, or Scholastic Aptitude Test, is designed to measure a student's ability to handle college level work. The three sections of the test include the verbal, math, and writing tests. They measure the student's critical thinking and problem solving skills along with the student's writing abilities. In most cases, students are prepared to take their first SAT test in the spring of their junior year. If you are considering taking the test earlier, please contact your Guidance Counselor. Registering for the SAT is done online at www.collegeboard.com.
Click here for an SAT Practice Test.
SAT II Subject Tests
There are 22 different SAT II Subject Tests designed to measure a student's knowledge in a specific academic area. Not all colleges require students to take SAT II tests, however it is very important to check with the colleges you are applying to and know if they require any. Registering for the SAT II is done online at www.collegeboard.com.
Click here for more information on the SAT II Subject Tests.
ACT
The ACT, or American College Test, covers four subject tests in Math, English, Reading, and Science. The test still requires students to utilize both their critical thinking and problem solving skills, however it is considered a more knowledge based test. Registering for the ACT test can be done online at www.actstudent.org.
Click here for free ACT test prep information.