PSAT/NMSQT

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test provides critical reading, math problem-solving, and writing skill practice. The test does not have an essay. The test provides practice for the SAT and acts as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program, the National Achievement Scholarship Program for Black American Students, and the National Hispanic Recognition Program. Only the junior year administration results are used for the scholarship programs. Typically the test is given in October at the student’s high school. In December, students will receive their test booklet and scores in the form of a comprehensive score report. In addition to the results, the score report provides information related to college and Advanced Placement course readiness. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of free, personalized online SAT practice with Khan Academy. The practice test is closely aligned with the PSAT/NMSQT. (www.collegeboard.org/psatpractice) Students with special accommodations for extended time on national testing must fill out a Services for Students with Disability (SSD) form and have prior approval by the College Board in order to take the PSAT or SAT test with special accommodation.

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

Beginning spring 2016, the SAT has been redesigned to focus closely on the knowledge and skills that matter most for postsecondary education and career success. There is a greater emphasis on the meaning of words in extended contexts and on how word choice shapes meaning, tone, and impact. The SAT is aligned to current Hoboken High School curriculum and instructional practices. This test includes Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math. The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing portion of the test includes (a) reading, (b) writing and language arts. The Math section of the test includes a calculator portion and a non-calculator portion. The SAT tests are offered several times during the year. Registration should take place online at www.collegeboard.com. There is a registration fee, but fee waivers are available to financially eligible students. The school codes for registration is: 310555

SAT Subject Tests

The SAT Subject Tests are a battery of one hour, mostly multiple-choice tests that measure how much students know about a particular academic subject and how well they can apply that knowledge. Students can choose tests in subject areas of interest and in which they excel to demonstrate academic qualification for college admission.

American College Test (ACT)

The ACT assessment is designed to measure high school students’ college readiness and is made up of multiple choice tests that cover four skill areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skills in planning and writing a short essay. Testing information can be found at www.actstudent.org

Advanced Placement (AP) Tests

AP courses are designed to meet the objectives of rigorous first year courses at the college level as prescribed by the College Entrance Examination Board Advanced Placement Program. AP courses are offered in the following subject areas to prepare students for taking the AP examination: art, English, math, music, social studies, world languages, and the sciences. Many colleges grant credit and placement for qualifying work on these examinations. Students who enroll in AP courses are required to take the AP examination, administered in May, if they wish to receive the weighted credit for rank and grade point average (GPA) in those subjects. There are additional course requirements for AP classes, particularly during the summer. Students are expected to consult their AP teachers for those requirements.