SAT & ACT
Which exam should I take?
Colleges accept both exams as part of the admissions process. It is a matter of personal preference.
NOTE: There are also Test Optional Schools, these colleges do not require any testing as part of their admissions process.
The key is to take practice tests on both to know which testing style works better for you.
SAT and ACT Information.pdfSUPERSCORE
SUPERSCORING: Superscoring is the process by which colleges consider your highest section scores across all the dates you took the SAT. Rather than confining your scores to one particular date, these schools will take your highest section scores, forming the highest possible composite score. Read more about superscoring.
In order to superscore, you must take the SAT or ACT at least twice!
NEW - ACT now allows students to retake a specific section of the test, rather than taking the entire test just to improve one section. Read more about the new ACT section retake.
Test Optional Colleges
More and more colleges are opting to be test optional or test flexible. Testing policies can change each year, it is important that you confirm with the colleges on your list!
Standardized Testing Timeline
10th Grade
PSAT10 (March)
In school, all students are automatically registered. These scores are not sent to colleges. P stands for Practice.
SAT Subject Test (Dates vary)
Students must register themselves on collegeboard.com. We highly recommend students take an SAT Subject Test at the end of an AP course while the material is fresh. However, if you feel confident and comfortable taking an SAT Subject Test, you may register to take it in any subject offered without taking an AP course.
Registration Fee covers one test date, on which you can take one, two or three Subject Tests.
Fee Waivers
If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver based on your family’s income. You must fill out the “lunch form” at www.myschoolapps.com in order to verify and receive a waiver.
11th Grade
PSAT (for) National Merit Scholarship consideration (October)
In school, all students are automatically registered. These scores are not sent to colleges. P stands for Practice. However, they are taken into consideration for the National Merit Scholarship.
SAT (March)
In school, all students are automatically registered.
For additional SAT exams, students are responsible of registering using their College Board account.
List of additional testing dates:
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/dates-deadlines
ACT
ACT is not administered in school at any point. Students must register at act.org