PSAT, SAT, & ACT Tests & Fee Waivers

SAT vs. ACT:

The following document highlights some of the differences between SAT and ACT tests. Our recommendation is that juniors take both SAT and ACT in late winter/spring, and then repeat at least one test in the fall of senior year.

SAT vs. ACT

The PSAT Test:

The Preliminary SAT test will be administered each October to all students in grade 10 and 11. This is a great opportunity for students to get some understanding of what it is like to take this sort of reasoning test. The score reports that students receive contain valuable information and tips for how to improve their scores. The PSAT is often used to predict success in AP courses and is also used as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Juniors who score exceptionally high on the PSAT may qualify for various awards and scholarships. For more information, please visit the PSAT/NMSQT website at the College Board.

The PSAT test date for the 2011-2012 school year was October 12, 2011. Test score report distribution will take place in January (dates TBA). Below is a presentation from College Board about understanding and interpreting your PSAT Score Report:

Understanding PSAT Scores

If you do not have Microsoft PowerPoint software, you can download PowerPoint Viewer 2007 for free from the Microsoft website.

The SAT Tests:

Handout: SAT/ACT 101

SAT: This is the standard SAT test that is required by most colleges for admission. The test is administered several times each year. Students are tested on critical reading, mathematical, and writing abilities. Anybody who is planning to go to college should plan to take the SAT I. Typically, students will take the SAT I in spring of their junior year. We recommend that students take the test again at the beginning of their senior year. For more information, see the College Board's "Everything You Want To Know About The SAT." A free publication from the College Board, "SAT Preparation Booklet", is available in the guidance office.

SAT Subject Tests: These tests (formerly known as Achievement Tests or SAT II Tests) are offered in several different subject areas. Students may take up to three tests on any testing date. About thirty percent of colleges require that applicants take SAT II Subject Tests. These schools are usually the most competitive and selective schools. Another group of schools (about 1/3) recommend, but do not require, that students take SAT Subject Tests. Finally, a large group of schools neither require nor recommend that applicants take SAT Subject Tests. Typically, a school that requires SAT Subject Tests will require three. Please note that even though the Writing test is no longer offered, many schools are still expected to require three tests. Most specify which tests to take (a Math test is often required), but some let students choose. All scores become part of the student's record and will be sent along to colleges with all other SAT and SAT Subject Test scores.

Students who decide to take SAT Subject Tests may want to obtain a copy of one of the test prep books. There are a few reasons for this. First of all, the SAT Subject Tests may test some material that is not a part of the curriculum. The prep book will expose students to some of the material that will be on the test that they may not have covered in class. Secondly, the prep book will offer a chance to take at least one full-length practice test, which is a very valuable experience. A free booklet, "Subject Test Preparation Booklet", published by the College Board, is available in the guidance office.

For more information, please visit the SAT website at the College Board.

SAT 2012-2013 Test Dates
(Subject To Change- Verify Online)

Test Dates Tests Offered Registration Deadlines

Regular Late
(fee applies)

October 6, 2012 SAT & Subject Tests Sep. 7, 2012 Sep. 21, 2012

November 3, 2012 SAT & Subject Tests Oct. 4, 2012 Oct. 19, 2012

December 1, 2012 SAT & Subject Tests Nov. 1, 2012 Nov. 16, 2012

January 26, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests Dec. 28, 2012 Jan. 11, 2013

March 9, 2013 SAT only Feb. 8, 2013 Feb. 22, 2013

May 4, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests Apr. 5, 2013 Apr. 19, 2013

June 1, 2013 SAT & Subject Tests May 2, 2013 May 17, 2013

The ACT Test:

The ACT exam has been designed to assess high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. The ACT is most commonly used in the West and Midwest. Most colleges will accept ACT scores in lieu of or in addition to SAT scores. Students who may want to consider taking an ACT test are those students who would likely do better on a test that involves areas like science reasoning that are not tested on the SAT test. Also, students who are applying to schools in the West or Midwest should check to see if the college wants applicants to take the ACT exam.

Note: The ACT Test has an optional writing component. Many colleges are now requiring that students who submit ACT scores instead of SAT scores take the optional writing portion of the ACT.

ACT Official Website includes registration information and practice questions.

ACT 2012-2013 Test Dates
(Subject To Change- Verify Online)

Test Date:	Registration Deadline:	Late Registration Deadline:
Sept. 8, 20112	August 17, 2012	Aug. 24, 2012
Oct. 27, 2012	Sept. 21, 2012	Oct. 5, 2012
Dec. 8, 2012	Nov. 2, 2012	Nov. 16, 2012
Feb. 9, 2013	Jan. 11, 2013	Jan. 18, 2013
April 13, 2013	March 8, 2013	March 22, 2013
June 8, 2013	May 3, 2013	May 17, 2013