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Consider the following when deciding if taking college admissions exams is right for you.
UCs, CSUs and California Community Colleges WILL NOT ACCEPT ACT/SAT TEST SCORES for admission or scholarhips.
SOME private and out of state schools require students to submit test scores for admission or to qualify for scholarships.
Private and out of state colleges may change policies annually. Research individual colleges.
Many are test optional, so research their admissions criteria.
If you score well or are in the above average range, it might be helpful to submit scores to test optional schools.
Military Academies and other out of state schools (Utah State, MIT etc.):
DO require test scores. Again....research.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Students are recommended to schedule to prepare for the SAT/ACT in the following sequence:
What is our Western Sierra CEEB code?
What is our Western Sierra CEEB code?
The school CEEB code is used when applying to colleges, or registering for SAT, ACT, NCAA, NAIA and other services.
If asked "What is your school code?" or "CEEB Code" The answer is 054379.
How do I qualify for ACT/ACT fee waivers?
How do I qualify for ACT/ACT fee waivers?
SAT/ACT Fee Waivers: If you think you might qualify for SAT or ACT fee waivers, please apply for Free and Reduced Lunch through Nutrition Services, then see Mrs. B for the fee waiver code.
How do I register for the SAT, ACT, or PSAT?
How do I register for the SAT, ACT, or PSAT?
Please see the links lower down on this page.
Should I take the SAT or ACT?
Should I take the SAT or ACT?
The SAT and ACT are typically seen as equivalent by colleges.
Historically, nearly all 4-year colleges have accepted either SAT or ACT and had used whichever score is higher for admission purposes.
Check the individual college undergraduate admissions websites for requirements or preferences.
When should I take the PSAT/ACT/SAT?
When should I take the PSAT/ACT/SAT?
See the timeline section at the bottom of this page.
What schools require of accept the SAT or ACT?
Most schools continue to be test-optional or test blind, however some private and out of state colleges will use SAT/ACT scores for admission or scholarships.
Carefully research the school you are applying to for the most updated information.
UCs, CSUs and Community Coleges do NOT accept or consider SAT/ACT test scores tor admission or scholarships.
If a college is "test-optional," it is typically recommended that you only submit your test scores to the college if your test scores are at, or above, their average accepted student test scores particularly for selective schools.
Should I take a prep class?
Should I take a prep class?
There are free ways to prepare! Such as through Khan Academy. Linking your PSAT scores with your Khan Academy account will provide you with high-quality, free, individualized test prep.
There are several private vendors that offer SAT/ACT Prep in our region.
Please remember that taking a prep class is not a guarantee of score increase, however, it is doubtful that taking a prep class will lower your score.
See below to links for some test prep options.
What is the National Merit® Scholarship Program:
Only students who take the PSAT NMSQT during 11th grade can qualify.
Students who score VERY highly on the PSAT NMSQT may potentially qualify.
PSAT & Other SAT Practice
The PSAT NMSQT is typically offered at WSCA each fall.
This test is designed for JUNIORS.
If room allows, sophomores will be permitted to register for the PSAT.
Junior year is the only time the PSAT will allow students to qualify to the National Merrit Scholarships program.
Taking the PSAT before 11th grade year is not adventagious.
It is just as helpful to take PSAT practice test. See below for links to practie tests.
Official Online SAT Practice:
Khan Academy
Please read before you take the PSAT!
SAT
ACT
TIMELINE
Freshman Year:
Take online practice tests , very optional- only if students wants practice.
Understand SAT/ACT testing by college (see FAQs)
Sophomore Year:
Take online practice tests, only if student wants practice.
Take PSAT in October at WSCA, also only if student want practice.
Early Fall of Junior Year:
Go to websites to register for ACT or SAT early fall of junior year.
Planned testing date should be scheduled for late Winter/Spring of Junior Year.
Fall of Junior Year:
Take PSAT in October at WSCA, or a any other practice tests or prep, prior to taking the SAT
Scores released approximately two weeks after taking PSAT, then link scores to College Board Account.
Use PSAT or other practice tests results to study for official SAT or ACT.
Winter/Spring of Junior Year:
Take SAT or ACT.
Scores should be released approxiamately 2 weeks after test.
Re-study for 2nd attempt if needed.
Late Spring, Early Summer, Early Fall:
Take SAT or ACT again to improve score.
How many times should I take the test?
How many times should I take the test?
If students are not satisfied with their initial scores, they may choose to take the test again one or two more times. Most students do not take the SAT or ACT more than three times.
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