Testing
Colleges and universities will take scores from either the SAT or ACT for admission consideration. They will consider the student's highest score. Each college and university is handling testing requirements differently as a result of Covid-19. We encourage you you to reach out to the admissions representative and visit the individual institution's website for the most up-to-date information.
There will be a question on the application that asks, “Do you want your standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) considered in the admissions selection process?” You must choose whether or not your test scores to be considered for admission. In most instances, once you submit your application you cannot go back and change your answer. Test scores that are sent to the college from when you registered to take a test will NOT be considered for admission if you chose to apply test-optional.
You can opt to have your test scores on your transcript. Indicate this on your transcript release form.
If you are submitting test scores to be considered for admission, all official test scores must be sent directly from the testing company (College Board or ACT).
Most colleges require applicants to send their official score reports directly from the College Board. If you think you're eligible for a fee waiver contact your counselor.
Most colleges require applicants to send their official score reports directly from ACT. If you think you're eligible for a fee waiver contact your counselor.
There are many opportunities for test preparation. Resources can be found on the PSHS Student Services website.
Taking the SAT during the school day is now a GRADUATION REQUIREMENT! All Juniors will begin taking the SAT on Wednesday, April 13, 2022.
*Juniors:
One of the opportunities available to you is the chance to be considered for State Scholar designation. The State Scholar Program recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement and is a prestigious honorary award for your academic resume. Approximately the top 10% of graduates from Illinois high schools are announced as State Scholars each year.
Even though some colleges do not require an SAT or ACT exam for admission, the exam is required if you want to be considered as a State Scholar. There is no application for the State Scholar Program – selection is based on a combination of your SAT or ACT exam scores and your sixth semester class rank. Exams need to be taken between now and June 30, 2022 to be considered for the designation.
Test Prep Resources: Khan Academy Excel Edge Prep at PSHS
Test Anxiety Resources: College Board and JED Test Anxiety Toolkit
Due to the cancellation of SAT and ACT testing dates, many colleges announced they are moving to a test-optional policy. These institutions will not need test scores to make admission decisions. The following database lists colleges with test-optional policies in place.
The ASVAB is a military enlistment test. ASVAB scores are used to determine if you are qualified to enlist in the military and to assign you to an appropriate job in the military. However, some students choose to take the ASVAB simply because the program provides tool to help students learn more about career exploration and planning, in both the civilian and military worlds of work. The ASVAB was given at PSHS on October 7, 2021.
AP CREDIT BY COLLEGE
Many colleges will grant you credit or placement depending on the score you received on your AP exam. CLICK HERE to access a website where you can find each college's AP credit policies.
Some colleges may allow you to self-report your AP scores on your college applications to be considered during the admission process. You don't need to send the official AP scores until the end of senior year to the college you plan to attend.