Tests are Important
Tests are usually one part of the college admission process. The SAT, ACT and other standardized tests not only play a part in college admissions, but, in some cases, in scholarship decisions. Therefore, the more you know about them, the better off you’ll be.
Why are Test Scores so Important?
When admissions officers consider applicants, sometimes a test score is the only objective evidence in the application packet. It’s very difficult for admissions officers to choose students with vastly different backgrounds and diverse talents. Therefore, sometimes college admissions officers use test scores to narrow the pool of applicants quickly and to determine placement in college programs and coursework. Additionally, committees may feel justified denying a student with low test scores because it feels less like a personal rejection when the decision is based on a number rather than personal characteristics.
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
The SAT is a standardized test taken by college-bound students. There are two forms of the test: the SAT I and SAT II. The SAT I is designed to measure reasoning abilities in the area of verbal and math skills, and assists colleges in assessing student readiness for college-level work. Most of the questions on this test are multiple choice and feature three verbal and three math sections. The SAT II is a test that measures knowledge and skills in a particular subject, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge.
We strongly recommend taking advantage of the practice SAT test before taking officially taking the SAT. This will help you become familiar with the format of the SAT and practice answering questions. The College Board offers a free SAT Preparation Booklet, which includes a full sample test and test-taking advice. To obtain a copy of the practice test, or for more information, registration forms and test dates, visit the
College Board’s website or contact the College Board by phone or mail:
The College Board
PSAT Program/NMSQT Office
PO Box 6720
Princeton, NJ 08541-6720
Phone: 866-290-8979
Hearing Impaired TTY: 609-882-4118
American College Testing (ACT)
The ACT assessment is a national college admission examination consisting of English, math, reading and science reasoning subjects. The ACT is not an aptitude test or an IQ test. Instead it focuses on what a student should have already learned in high school. It includes more than 200 multiple-choice questions and takes about almost four hours to complete. While the multiple-choice questions test analytical and problem-solving skills, some general subject knowledge is required.
There is a fee to take the test and additional fees for late registration, standby testing, changing test centers or test dates.
Sample test booklets, as well as
The Real ACT Prep Guide are available. Visit
ACT’s website for more information.
You can also contact ACT by phone or mail:
ACT Registration
301 ACT Dr.
P.O. Box 414
Iowa City, Iowa 52243-0414
Phone: 319-337-1270
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Keep taking math courses: Students who don’t continue studying math courses do not perform as well on the math portion of the SAT and ACT. Take advantage of courses like Algebra II, pre-Calculus or advanced Algebra, if available. Every bit of knowledge helps.
How to Prepare for the SAT and ACT
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Get plenty of rest the night before the test.
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Eat a high-energy breakfast.
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Dress comfortably. Consider layers, as some test centers may be warmer or cooler on weekends.
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Bring the following items with you to the test center:
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Your test center admission ticket, if you are registered at a national test center.
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Acceptable identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Your admission ticket is not acceptable as identification.
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Three sharpened, soft-lead, No. 2 pencils with erasers