College Exams

Testing Information

• The PSAT/NMSQT takes 2 hours and 45 minutes and consists of 3 tests: (1) the Reading Test, (2) the Writing and Language Test, and (3) the Math Test. Most of the questions are multiple choice, though some math questions ask you to write in the answer rather than select it.

• The average PSAT/NMSQT score is about 920. A score between 1210 and 1520 puts you in the top 10% of test takers.

• The PSAT/NMSQT and the SAT are very similar tests, so your score on the PSAT/NMSQT can give you an idea of how you’ll do when you take the SAT.

• Fees are paid by school.

Testing Information

• ACT is a 3 hour long multiple choice test comprised of 4 sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science.

• There is an optional fifth section that some colleges and universities require: Writing. The Writing section adds 40 minutes to the total test time.

• ACT costs $50 without the writing section, $67 with the writing section.

• Each of the 4 (or 5) sections is scored from 1-36, with the final score being a composite of all of the sections. The average score is 21.

Registration

• https://my.act.org/account/signin?location=https://my.act.org

Testing Information

• SAT is a 3 hour long multiple choice test comprised of 2 sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.

• SAT costs $55.

• Each of the two sections is scored from 200-800, with your total score being the sum of the two scores (400-1600). The average score is 1060.

Registration

• https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration

Testing Information

• Most exams are 2–3 hours long.

• Your total exam score on the multiple-choice section is based only on the number of questions answered correctly. You won’t receive or lose points for incorrect answers or unanswered questions.

• Your AP score could earn you college credits before you even set foot on campus. In fact, most AP students who enroll in four-year colleges start school with some credit.

• “AP” on your high school transcript shows colleges you're motivated to succeed, and taking the exam demonstrates your commitment to tackle and complete college-level work.

Registration

• Speak with Mr. Joyner to see how you can enroll in a course.