ACT

ACT

It is suggested that students take the ACT at least twice: the spring semester of the junior year and early in the fall semester of the senior year.  


FREE ACT for SMNW JUNIORS in February



REGISTER

REGISTER online for the ACT test. Click here to get started and to create a student account. *Remember you have to enroll at the specific website for each test.*  If you are needing financial assistance, see your school counselor to see if you meet with testing waiver guidelines. 


For help after you've already registered or for more information on why you should take the ACT, click here.


ACT TEST DATES

Scroll past "additional information" on the ACT page


PREPARE FOR THE ACT

ACT's Test Prep

Practice ACT Prep

Kaplan's FREE Test Prep

 *Accommodations -- See your case manager several months in advance in order to get accommodations on the ACT.


RESEARCH ON TEST PREP

"Because the ACT tests what students learn in high school, the best way for them to prepare is to take core classes, study, and participate in class...ACT has shared the importance of rigorous coursework in preparing students to take the ACT test. Research shows that students in the graduating class of 2017 who completed a core curriculum achieved an average ACT Composite score of 22.1, while students who took less than the core curriculum had an average ACT Composite score of 18.9.


When students need additional support, test prep programs can help. Test prep can be used to familiarize students with the format and questions of the test, develop test taking strategies, and identify areas where additional learning is necessary. ACT test prep programs and resources include full-length practice tests, expert advice, and learning tools that achieve these ends." -- ACT Website, Scores

October (National) Test Day

National Test Day is observed by all high schools across the United States. SMNW students will participate in various activities during National Test Day. Activities are subject to change, so please check regularly for the most current information.

Freshmen

All freshmen will take the Pre-ACT 8/9, with automatic registration and no cost to students.  

During National Test week, freshmen will also complete the YouScience (Aptitude Test). This test is a 90-minute aptitude test that will give students valuable insight into their future. Using proprietary artificial intelligence, YouScience identified student aptitudes and links them to careers and educational pathways. This is the foundation for the required Individual Plan of Study ("IPS"). 

Sophomores

All sophomores will take either the Pre-ACT or the optional PSAT. Students are automatically registered for the Pre-ACT, which is provided free of charge. Those wishing to take the PSAT should start with their academic counselor.

Juniors

Juniors will follow a regular 7-period day unless they choose to take the junior PSAT. Depending on student performance, this exam can qualify students for National Merit Scholarship


Juniors interested in taking the PSAT during National Test Day need to contact the PSAT coordinator, Zach Cash (zacharycash@smsd.org). Once registered, students will pay on Total Registration. The PSAT will be administered online beginning October 2024. PSAT NMSQ Information


PSAT Registration DEADLINE: September  

The fee for the PSAT is $20 

Pay here:  www.TotalRegistration.net/PSAT/172771

Seniors

Seniors will follow a regular 7-period day. 

PSAT / NMSQT

PSAT/NMSQT

JUNIOR NMSQT ($20) 

Depending on student performance, this exam can qualify students for National Merit Scholarship.  

Juniors interested in taking the PSAT during National Test Day need to contact the PSAT coordinator, Zach Cash (zacharycash@smsd.org). Once registered, students will pay on Total Registration. The PSAT will be administered online in October 2024.  


Register:  www.TotalRegistration.net/PSAT/172771

DEADLINE: September 13, 2024 


SOPHOMORE PSAT ($20)  

All sophomores have the opportunity to take the PSAT/NMSQT during October (National Test Day). Please sign up with your academic counselor.



PREPARE FOR THE PSAT

SAT

SAT ($60) SAT Test Dates

Most students take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school. At least half of all students take the SAT twice — in the spring as a junior and in the fall as a senior. Most students improve their score the second time they take the SAT.  Colleges use the SAT for admission purposes. Check the colleges of your choice to see if they require the ACT or SAT.  


For more information on the SAT, go to the College Board website:  SAT   


PREPARE FOR THE SAT

For free Khan Academy SAT test prep:  click here