Postsecondary Exam Information
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Note: The State of Illinois is transitioning from the SAT to ACT in School Year 2025.
The state of Illinois requires all students to take a college entrance exam as part of their Graduation Requirements. The Class of 2026 (current juniors) will be taking the ACT in April 2025. All students are automatically registered, so no student needs to pay to take this exam. While many colleges and universities across the country are becoming test-optional for admissions, colleges and universities can still use the ACT to place students in college coursework so it is important for students to do the best they can.
A great example is the City Colleges of Chicago; if a student scores high enough on their ACT, they are exempt from taking placement exams and place into the intro level of math and english. Students are also able to retest in the summer and fall of their senior year, but must register on the ACT website, it is recommended to register 2 months prior to exam.
If students wish to take additional exams, counselors and college/career coaches are able to provide fee waiver codes for eligible students.
SAT
SAT
The SAT is an exam administered annually to students in the 11th grade during the spring semester, typically in late April/early March.
This exam is used optionally by many college and universities to help place students in English and Math classes, and for admission evaluation. While the exam is still extremely important as it is a requirement for graduation from the State of Illinois, many colleges and universities are becoming test-optional.
PSAT/NMSQT
PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is an exam taken by students in the 11th grade during the Fall semester. It is important to take the test seriously as it is an indicator of the projected performance of the SAT. This also provides relevant information that a student can use for test preparation.
This exam is also used to determined National Merit Scholar status.
PSAT 10
PSAT 10
All 10th grade students take this exam in the fall semester as a means to familiarize themselves with the type of exam that is the SAT.
PSAT 8/9
PSAT 8/9
All 9th grade students take this exam in the fall semester as a means to familiarize themselves with the type of exam that is the SAT.
Testing Resources
Khan Academy is the official provider for SAT practice. Students can link their College Board accounts with Khan Academy to get individual recommendations for practice.
A number of companies sells physical study books with questions and mock exams, such as Kaplan, Princeton Review, College Board, and many more
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