How Many Tests and Which Ones?
Make a test plan by autumn of your junior year
PSAT: Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test. The PSAT may be taken by sophomores and juniors who are interested in preparing for the SAT. The PSAT is given once a year in October on a Saturday. The test results are officially sent to colleges but are NOT used in the final admissions process. The PSAT/NMSQT also determines National Merit Scholarship finalists.
SAT I: Scholastic Aptitude Test-Reasoning Test. The four-year college admission exam measures verbal and math reasoning plus standard written English. The SAT I is required by the University of California colleges and many private colleges. It is recommended that students take the SAT I twice – once in the spring of the junior year and once in the fall of the senior year. Both scores will be released, but colleges generally consider only the higher score.
SAT II: Scholastic Aptitude Test-Subject Tests. The one-hour exams measure the level of accomplishment in particular subject fields. On one test date, a maximum of 3 subject tests may be taken. Some private colleges and the University of California colleges require three SAT II tests, including writing, math, and an additional test of the student’s choice. It is recommended that students take the SAT II in the spring of the junior year, and if necessary to improve individual scores, in the fall of the senior year.
ACT: American College Testing Program. The ACT measures the level of accomplishment in four subject areas: English, mathematics, social studies, and natural sciences. These tests average 40 minutes each and are intended to assess a student’s ability to perform academically at a level expected by colleges. Although most colleges require the SAT I, some out-of-state colleges instead require the ACT. The ACT can frequently be substituted for the SAT I.
AP: Advanced Placement tests measure a student’s ability to perform college level course work. These are not required for college admission, although students may receive college credit for passing individual tests. Students should take AP tests in the spring while still enrolled in the AP class. Note: Students need not be enrolled in an AP class in order to take the AP exam.
Remember:
Photo ID
Watch
SAT I or SAT II registration card
Approved calculator
Two sharpened #2 pencils
For more information about these tests click here.