College Entrance Exams and Test Preparation

A college entrance exam is a standardized aptitude test that measures your proficiency in various areas, such as verbal, math, analytical, and writing. These tests are not designed to measure what you have learned in school. These tests help answer questions about the preparedness, capabilities, and merit of applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Your high school courses will help you prepare for these exams. However, taking practice exams is an additional way to study, as they will familiarize you with the types of questions asked, the format, and the timing necessary to finish each section.

The college you are applying to and your standing in school will determine which standardized test you need to take. Most colleges and universities accept both SAT and ACT scores.

The ACT and the SAT are private testing companies, and there is a fee to take these tests. Visit the website for each test to see the current cost for this year's administration. If you are currently eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, you may qualify for a fee waiver for these tests. Your school may also offer a free test administration during the school day.

Remember, these tests are recommended for students to take in the spring of their junior year.

Why do Colleges and Universities use entrance exams?

College entrance exams are used by admissions counselors to evaluate applicants from different high schools and locations.

How important are the scores?

Some colleges require a minimum ACT or SAT score for admissibility. Other schools look at the applicant holistically, utilizing test scores as just one piece of the admissions decision. Many schools publish the average SAT and ACT scores of incoming first-year students (freshmen) from the previous year, helping determine if you are a good candidate for admission.

Colleges can also use test scores for other purposes, such as qualifying students for merit-based scholarships. Math and English sections of college entrance exams are often used to place students in the university's appropriate first math and English classes.

PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test)

The PSAT is a test taken by sophomores or juniors in high school looking to gain test-taking experience in Preparation for the ACT and SAT. The PSAT is great practice and qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship. Your PSAT score is for your benefit, identifying areas where you need to apply more study time. https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt

PSAT & SAT Test Preparation at Khan Academy

https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/practice-preparation/official-sat-practice-khan-academy

This website provides official practice tests for the SAT, creating a tailored practice plan based on a diagnostic or your PSAT or SAT scores. It includes full-length tests and practice questions with instant feedback.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The SAT is a standardized aptitude test measuring a student's college readiness. It comprises three sections: reading, writing, language, and math. Questions are generally multiple-choice. Each section is scored on a scale from 200–800, with a total possible score of 1,600. The SAT is offered seven times yearly, and you are given three hours to complete it. satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat

ACT (American College Test)

The ACT is another standardized aptitude test designed to measure a student's readiness for college. Like the SAT, the ACT measures a student's potential to perform well in college. Test questions are based on standard high school subjects. The multiple choice test consists of four subject areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. There is also an optional writing section. Each section is scored on a scale of 1–36, with your final score averaging all four subject areas.

act.org

ACT Test Preparation: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/free-act-test-prep.html.