Testing requirements vary by college. Some colleges accept only
the SAT while others accept either the SAT or ACT. Most schools
will take the highest scores from different test dates, and others
have standardized test results as an optional requirement. Many
colleges also require SAT Subject Tests. Some will accept the
ACT instead of Subject Tests.
Practice can improve scores. There are many preparation books,
computer programs, and online services. College
Answer offers test dates, costs, and how to prepare and test
prep at discounted prices.
Tests | Registration
| Non-Standard Testing
Tests
PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test/National
Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)
A practice test designed to prepare students for the SAT. It is
used in the awarding of merit scholarships; however, scores are
typically not part of the college admission criteria.
SAT
A three-hour college admission test of verbal and mathematical
reasoning abilities. It can be taken in the junior year then again
in the senior year and is a required test for admission to many
colleges. The SAT is designed to test a student's aptitude for
scholastic work, not intelligence. The SAT is primarily multiple
choice and provides math and verbal scores, each graded 200 (low)
to 800 (high), or combined scores of 400-1600. Learn
more>
SAT Subject Tests
A one-hour college admission test of knowledge in a specific
subject area. Usually, only highly selective colleges require
these tests, most requiring three Subject Tests, one of which
should be writing. Many colleges will accept an ACT score in place
of the three Subject Tests. It's recommended to take an Subject
Tests immediately following its equivalent high school course.
The test is primarily multiple choice.
ACT (American College Test)
A three-hour college admissions exam that consists of
tests in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning.
ACT provides a composite score. The sub scores and composite score
are grades 1 (lowest) to 36 (highest). The test is primarily multiple
choice. Learn more>
Registration
Keep your students informed of upcoming dates and have registration
materials available—include your school’s CEEB Code.
Registering is the student’s responsibility. Remind your
students to check the appropriate box requesting test scores will
be sent directly to their choice schools, this will save you time
in the future. Visit College
Answer’s Test Prep section for dates and additional
registration information.
Non-Standard Testing
Both the SAT and ACT are offered in different forms or with
extended time to accommodate students with learning disabilities.
Students who qualify for these tests may take them with extended
time, given on tape, or read to them by a proctor. How colleges
and universities look at non-standard testing varies by school.
Colleges will not deny admission based solely on a learning disability;
however, admission officers will not admit students whom they
feel will not succeed in their college programs. Some schools
offer extensive programs detail to accommodate special needs.
The
College Board and the ACT
sites offer information for those needing to apply to take a non-standard
test. There are a variety of forms and documentation required
to be eligible for non-standard testing.
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