SAT - ACT - AP Test Information
Advanced Placement Examinations
APs are offered in United States by the College Board and are taken each May by students. The tests are the culmination of year-long Advanced Placement courses.
PSAT Information
What is the PSAT?
Co-sponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT)—often shortened to PSAT—is a standardized test targeting 9th - 11th graders.
In addition to being a preparatory test for the SAT, the PSAT is a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program in the junior year. Visit the PSAT Website for more information.
Why Do Students Take the PSAT?
Students take the PSAT primarily for the following reasons:
Practice for the SAT: Helps students get familiar with the layout and content of the SAT. The PSAT allows students to get a feel for the SAT and helps them identify potential strengths and weaknesses.
Opportunity for National Merit distinction or scholarship: Students take the PSAT is to try to win a National Merit scholarship. 7,500 entrants will each win a $2,500 scholarship along with distinction of National Merit Scholar.
Prepare for second attempt at the PSAT: Students practice for the PSAT as 9th & 10th graders before taking it again as juniors. Although freshman and sophomores aren't eligible for National Merit, taking the PSAT early can increase your shot at getting a high PSAT score—and the possible National Merit scholarship
UC and CSU Standardized Test Policies
Test-Optional/Test-Free
Fairtest.org provides a list of colleges and universities who have a test optional and test blind policies. It is always wise to visit the college website to verify the policy.
ACT & SAT Test Prep