The PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, and SAT Subject Tests are standardized tests used to evaluate your academic readiness for college. Below I have provided you with a summary of each test and what I think is important to know. The information I provide is relatively minimal because each of these tests' websites provide EXCEPTIONAL resources and information for you. They are more thorough and detailed than I could ever be. That being said, this page provides you with a simple overview of these tests.
Please do not hesitate to set up a meeting with your counselor if you have any questions, or if you would like to work through one of these websites together.
Please do not hesitate to set up a meeting with your counselor if you have any questions, or if you would like to work through one of these websites together.
PSAT/NMSQT
What?
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a program cosponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). It's a standardized test that allows you to practice for the SAT, and it also qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
The PSAT/NMSQT mesures:
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Who?
If you plan to take the SAT, you should take this test for practice.
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When?
The test is given once a year at your school or a nearby school. The test takes place in October.
The test should be taken in October of your Junior year in prepartion for the SAT as well as entrance into the National Merit Scholarship Program. Freshmen and Sophomores may take this test to identify areas of weakness and strength in time to make changes. Also, taking the test early on allows you free access to college planning tools and customized SAT study plans. NOTE: Freshmen and Sophomores must retake the PSAT/NMSQT their junior year to qualify for the scholarship program! |
Helpful Hints:
- Take the test! It qualifies you for scholarships, helps you prepare for the SAT, gives you resources to plan for college and career, and tags you for possible participation in AP courses.
- There's no pressure because your scores are only sent to you and your high school-colleges do not get to see your scores.
- Say "YES" to the Student Search Service Option when you take the test. This allows colleges to send you information about their school.
- If you need special accommodations, register with the College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities
SAT
(Here I would insert specific testing dates and locations for the current school year)
What?
The SAT is a widely accepted college admission exam that evaluates your knowledge and critical thinking skills in writing, reading, and math.
Here is a brief glance at what to expect from the SAT. |
Who?
If any of the colleges you are considering requires the SAT, you MUST take this test. Schools use the SAT as part of the admissions process, along with other factors including GPA, courses taken, extracurricular activities, awards and recognitions, jobs, etc.
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When?
You have seven opportunities each year to take this test.
You should take this test during the spring of your junior year. If you aren't happy with your score, take it again the fall of your senior year. |
Helpful Hints:
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- Say "YES" to the Student Search Service Option when you take the test. This allows colleges to send you information about their school.
- There are a ton of FREE practice resources (including test questions and study guides) found at www.sat.collegeboard.org.
- Sign up to receive the SAT Question of the Day
- Register to take the SAT online well before the scheduled date to avoid late fees and the possibility of being "waitlisted"
- If you need special accommodations, register with the College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities.
Visit www.sat.collegeboard.org/home for loads of information and resources!
SAT Subject Tests
(Here I would insert specific testing dates and locations for the current school year)
What?
SAT Subject Tests are just that- subject specific tests. They offer an opportunity to show colleges your strengths!
Some colleges use SAT Subject Tests for admission, course placement, or to advise you about course selection. Other colleges do not require any of the SAT Subject tests for admission or placement. |
Who?
If you excel in a subject area, you should take the corresponding SAT Subject Test. Scores can qualify you for college credit or even for class exemptions. They may also help you get admitted into a difficult college or major.
If a college you are applying for requires SAT Subject Tests. then you MUST take the corresponding tests. If they recommend taking a Subject Test, then it's in your best interest to do so. |
When?
It would be ideal for you to take the SAT Subject Test as soon as you have taken the corresponding class. The information will be fresh in your mind! This means you could take a subject test at any point in high school.
I recommend taking the SAT Subject Tests in spring of your junior year or fall of senior year, if it's a requirement for your college choices. |
Helpful Hints:
- Register to take the SAT online well before the scheduled date to avoid late fees and the possibility of being "waitlisted"
- If you need special accommodations, register with the College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities
- SAT Subject Tests are not available on all SAT testing days. Make sure to plan accordingly!
- Take a Subject Test if you excel in it- it will make you more marketable to colleges.
- Consider your future high school classes. Will waiting to take a Subject Test give you the time to learn more information?
- Omit questions only when you really have no idea how best to answer them. You don't gain or lose points for omitting an answer.
- The easier questions are usually at the beginning of a grouping...answer those first!
- Get a good night's rest!
- Link to FAQ
Visit www.sat.collegeboard.org/about-tests/sat-subject-tests for more information and resources!
Information retreived from www.sat.collegeboard.org and www.professionals.collegeboard.com/testing and http://www.collegeboard.com/testing/