Taking the Right Tests
Nearly all colleges and universities require an entrance exam as part of the application process, to evaluate your skills and academic knowledge.
Sophomore year — PSAT testing.
In your sophomore year in high school, you are advised to take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT Test). The PSAT test is a shorter version of the SAT Reasoning Test that uses an additional writing skills section to evaluate student abilities. Your scores on this test are great practice for the later SAT test, because the scores will give you and your guidance counselors' insights on your academic strengths and weaknesses, but will not be sent to colleges.
Junior year — PSAT/NMSQT testing.
During the fall semester of your junior year in high school, don't miss the opportunity to take the PSAT/NMSQT test in October. The test serves to qualify students for scholarships awarded by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, and assists students with additional planning to prepare for taking the SAT or ACT in their spring semester.
Application time — SAT and ACT testing.
When it is time to apply for college, you will be expected to take one or more of the following tests:
- SAT Reasoning Test (formerly known as the SAT I):
- This College Board test measures developed reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning abilities. It is given on specified dates throughout the year at test centers throughout the Unites States and in other countries. Many colleges and universities require completion of the SAT test for financial aid consideration.
- SAT Subject Tests (formerly known as the SAT II):
- These College Board tests assess a student's knowledge of specific subjects, such as history, science, economics or a foreign language. The test is used by colleges to inform decisions about admission, course placement and exemption of incoming freshmen from entry-level courses.
- ACT Assessment:
- The American College Testing program assessment includes tests on English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning. An optional writing test is also available. The ACT test is given at test centers throughout the United States and in other countries throughout the year.
It is best to take the SAT and ACT tests in the second semester of your junior year, so that you can apply earlier to the colleges of your choice, or retake the test if you are dissatisfied with the first results.
Preparing for testing.
These tests are important resources for colleges to evaluate your application, and it is vital to prepare for them ahead of time. But remember, don't become so obsessed by preparing for the tests, that you forget the other components of your college preparation — getting good grades in your classes, and keeping up extracurricular activities and community activities.
College admissions officials look at all elements of a student's application to make their decision on acceptance.