Testing & College Entrance Exams
Testing can strike fear into even the smartest and confident students. Preparation is the key to success. The ACT and SAT tests are college entrance exams often required for college and scholarship applications. Colleges and universities use these scores to predict how well a prospective student will perform in college.
ACT Exam
The ACT is a college entrance examination divided into four 35-50 minute tests in the area of English usage, mathematics, social science reading, and natural science readings. The ACT may be taken more than once. All juniors take the ACT in the spring of their junior year. This is a part of state testing for our school. Fee waivers are available for students who meet economic need, especially those eligible for free or reduced lunch. Please contact your counselor for more details.
Visit the ACT student website for more information and to register.
- Use test center code: 200320
- Use school code: 030050
ACT Resources
SAT Information
The SAT is a college entrance exam. The results give colleges a way to compare students from different backgrounds. The SAT consists of three parts: critical reading, mathematics, and writing.
The SAT is offered many times throughout the year. Fee waivers for the SAT are available in the guidance office for students with financial need, especially those eligible for free and reduced lunch.
Visit the SAT website for more information and to register.
- Use test center code: 03-007
- Use school code: 030050
SAT Study and Practice Resources
PSAT/NMSQT Information
The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), sponsored by the College Board, is a test that measures critical reading, verbal reasoning, mathematical problem-solving, and writing skills, which are shown to be important for successful academic performance in college. The test also serves as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Students who plan to take the PSAT/NMSQT will receive a full-length sample test to take for practice, complete with explanations of the kinds of questions asked, test-taking tips, and an answer sheet and instructions for scoring. After the test, student will receive their original test booklet, their answers, a key to the correct answers, and a personalized score report that provides feedback and improvement suggestions based on their performance.
Sophomores, and especially juniors, should consider taking this test, offered in October. Because of the similar format, directions and question types, student who take the PSAT have the ability to practice for the SAT and improve their scores for college entrance. Additionally, juniors who perform well may become eligible to enter the National Merit Scholarship competitions as well as programs that give special recognition to high-achieving Hispanic and African-American students.
Advanced Placement Examination Information
Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, sponsored by College Board, are three-hour exams based on a full-year, college-level course in high school. The exams are given once a year in May.
Students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses in high school should take the respective exam in May near the completion of the course. Students may use scores from the AP exams in college credit and placement.
For more information on the AP, including registration and testing dates, please visit the College Board website.
ASVAB Information
The ASVAB is the most widely used multiple-aptitude test battery in the world. The ASVAB Career Exploration Program is a career planning and exploration program that combines a multiple-aptitude test with an interest self-assessment and a wide range of career exploration tools. It is free to participating schools!
All juniors are encouraged to take the ASVAB when counselors offer it in the fall. Results will not be used by military recruiters unless students indicate interest in military service. More information is available in the counseling office and at the ASVAB website.