College Testing

Extensive planning should go into your child’s testing schedule. The following tests may be considered:

PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) - a practice test for the SAT which is also used to determine National Merit semifinalists. It is given each October to juniors and to some sophomores.

SAT I: Reasoning Tests - (Scholastic Assessment Test) - a college entrance examination generally taken in the spring of the junior year and possibly in the fall of the senior year. Students receive a Critical Reading, a Math and a Writing score.  Basic and advanced math concepts (including Algebra II) are tested, as are basic grammar and usage.  Critical Reading and Math are divided into three sections each.  Writing is divided into an essay section and two multiple-choice sections.

Registration bulletins as well as preparation booklets are available in the guidance office.  Most students select to register online.  The High School Code is requested when registering.  Our High School Code is:  390039.  There are numerous books, computer programs and preparation courses available. The best preparation for this test is a strong, challenging course load throughout the high school years. The SAT is offered in October, November, December, January, March or April, May and June.

Approximately one week to ten days before the test date, students who registered by mail will receive an admission ticket to enter the SAT test along with instructions. Students who register online should print out their admission ticket; they will not receive one in the mail.  Students must bring picture identification in order to be admitted to the test. This test is given on Saturday morning and takes approximately four hours. Scores are received approximately three weeks after the test date.

ACT- (American College Test) - a college entrance examination used widely in the Midwest.  It is generally taken during the junior and/or senior year. Students receive scores in English, Reading, Math and Science Reasoning, as well as a Composite score. Some colleges will accept the SAT or the ACT.

SAT II - Subject Tests – one-hour exams in subjects that include English and math, as well as foreign languages, history and natural sciences.  The tests measure a student’s knowledge of specific subjects, and his/her ability to apply that knowledge. These tests are required by some but not all colleges. Generally, the more competitive colleges require applicants to take one or more of these tests for admission and/or placement. Registration Bulletins and preparation booklets are available in the guidance office.              .

AP Exam - (Advanced Placement) – AP courses offer students three benefits:  an added challenge in the classroom, an extra credential to impress college admissions staff and the chance to earn college credits if they score well on the AP exams.  Many colleges are re-evaluating their policies of awarding credit for AP scores.  To find out if the college you are interested in awards college credit and for what minimum score, go online to:  www.collegeboard.com/ap/creditpolicy