College Admission Testing
*Due to Covid, some schools are accepting applications test-optional. Be sure to check the school's admissions site for more information.
If you plan to attend a four year college, you must take either the SAT or ACT. Either test is accepted by all colleges and universities with no preferred test. You take the test that is the best fit for you. The best way to find out on which test you perform best/prefer is to take both tests - preferably during your junior year, then take the same test at least one more time during the fall of your senior year. Scores tend to increase the second time you take the test.
The best way to find out which test you perform best/prefer is to visit the testing websites and try the practice tests:
SAT: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice/full-length-practice-tests
ACT: www.actstudent.org/testprep/
It is best to take a test during your junior year, and then take the same test at least one more time during the fall of your senior year. Scores tend to increase the second time you take the test.
Practice The best way to prepare for these tests is to practice and be familiar with the format. Practice will result in a better score and less time testing.
Practice for the SAT is at this link: https://www.khanacademy.org/sat
ACT is at this link: http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/
Fee waivers are available for income-eligible students meeting one or more of the eligibility criteria such as free or reduced lunch. Please see Mrs. Buchanan for more information.
Should you take the SAT or the ACT?
The Princeton Review designed an online quiz to help you determine if you should take the ACT, the new Sat, or both: Which Test Should I Take?
New SAT OR ACT-Which Test is right for you? (From the Princeton Review)
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400-1600.
SAT questions require more time to understand and answer.
The SAT has 5 Reading passages.
If you are not strong in science, the SAT might be a better fit.
The SAT test covers advanced math concepts: Arithmetic, Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry. You do NOT get a calculator on all the math questions on the SAT.
The SAT essay is 50 minutes and it is optional. The SAT essay section more comprehension focused.
Take the SAT if you did well on the PSAT.
ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36
ACT questions tend to be more straightforward.
The ACT has 4 Reading passages.
The ACT has a Science section that tests your critical thinking skills.
The ACT test covers advanced math concepts: Arithmetic, Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry. You get a calculator for ALL math questions on the ACT.
The ACT essay is 40 minutes and it is optional. The ACT wants to see how well you can evaluate and analyze complex issues.
Now that college admission test essays are optional for both SAT and ACT, you should pay close attention to the requirements of the colleges and scholarships for which you apply. The SAT provides information about essays for college applications and scholarships at this link: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/college-essay-policies
You register online for each test. Make sure to follow the registration directions precisely, as there are security and photo requirements.
SAT - www.collegeboard.org
ACT - www.actstudent.org
Radford High School Code: 471815
You will need this code when registering for the SAT and ACT.
SAT II Subject Tests
Selective colleges require the SAT II subject tests. If you excel in a particular subject area, this could be your time to shine. Some schools will accept the ACT in lieu of subject tests. Check with each college about their specific requirements. If SAT subject tests are optional for the college to which you are applying, they are truly optional - colleges do not prefer that you submit a subject test score.
Sending Your Scores
All colleges/universities need scores sent directly to them from the testing agency. When you take the SAT/ACT, make sure to request that your scores be sent to any college/university that you are interested in applying. Do not worry, if your score is not as high as you would like it to be, your highest scores will be counted for admissions purposes. If you sign up for the SAT’s Score Choice Program (it is free) they will only send your highest scores. If you are an athlete, remember to also send your scores to the NCAA (code 9999).
The College Board's SAT Score Converter can be used to compare scores on the old SAT, the new SAT, and the ACT.
Accommodations
If you currently have a 504 or IEP in place and would like to request accommodations for the SAT or ACT please see Mrs. Chitwood at least two months before the registration deadline. Each agency needs accommodations requested at least six weeks in advance. The guidance department will need time to complete paperwork and submit the required materials.
Community Colleges
You do not need to take the SAT or ACT to attend a community college. Community colleges require placement tests that you will take before you enroll in your classes. If you transfer to a four year college before you have completed at least two years of community college, you will need SAT/ACT scores.