This one-hour test measures knowledge in specific subject areas. Scores range from 200 to 800, and students may take up to three tests per test date. While most colleges do not require these tests, some require as many as three. Some colleges require certain tests for everyone or specify ones for applicants to certain majors. Students applying to engineering schools are frequently required to take Math and either Chemistry or Physics. Not all Subject Tests are available on each test date – check the Registration booklet. Students register on-line at www.collegeboard.com, paying via credit card.
SAT is a three-hour test in verbal and mathematical reasoning ability. Scores range from 200 to 800 on each section. There are two verbal sections: critical reading and writing. The math sections assess your ability to solve problems involving arithmetic, algebra and geometry, using three formats: multiple choice, quantitative comparisons, and a section in which you write your answer rather than selecting from multiple choices. The test is offered on six dates each school year. Students register online at www.collegeboard.com, paying via credit card.
This test is given in mid-October to all sophomores and juniors. It comprises two 25-minute math and two 25-minute verbal sections, plus one 30-minute writing skills section. It is useful as a rough predictor of SAT scores, a counseling tool and test practice. This test is also the basis of some merit scholarships, and the source of many college mailings. Scores, which arrive in early January, range from 20 to 80, with an average score of around 50; results are not included on your transcript. The writing skills section is comparable to the multiple choice section of the writing SAT Subject Test. Students are automatically registered by the school.
These tests are the culmination of a year-long, nationally-prescribed curriculum. While not required for college admissions, colleges respect the rigor of the courses and will look favorably upon strong test results (4 or 5 at highly selective colleges; 3, 4, or 5 at many other colleges).
ACT includes tests in four areas: English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning. Scores range from one to 36; four sub-scores plus a composite score are reported. All colleges accept ACT in lieu of the SAT, some in lieu of Subject Tests. Students sometimes find that this test is a better fit for them and submit it in lieu of the SAT. The College Counseling office has a table that can help you compare your SAT scores to your ACT result to see which is preferable.
Some differences between the tests include: (1) the ACT math involves some trigonometry; the SAT does not; (2) the ACT stresses reading comprehension, but is not as focused on vocabulary, especially out of context; (3) the ACT tests English grammar; the SAT does not; (4) unlike the SAT, there is no penalty for guessing on the ACT, so you should answer each question. The test used during one school year is basically the same, so it can be helpful to take it more than once in that time period. Students register online at www.act.org.
The PLAN® program helps 10th graders build a solid foundation for future academic and career success. The test helps students measure their current academic development, explore career options, and make plans for the remaining years of high school. As a "pre-ACT", the PLAN test is a powerful predictor of success on the ACT.