Information on Entrance Exams

Planning:

Students need to lay out an overall plan regarding what tests they plan to take. Most colleges will accept either the SAT or the ACT. Many college counselors suggest that students take both tests and submit the better of the two results. Because the SAT and the ACT measure different skills and abilities, a student may score significantly higher on one of the tests.  Some of the more competitive colleges may also require a student to submit SAT II Subject tests.  If the student knows he or she will be applying to one of these colleges, the student will need to choose which SAT II subject tests to take and when.  For example, a student who is taking A.P. Physics as a junior may want to take the Physics SAT II subject test at the end of his or her junior year while the material is fresh.

Registering for the Test:

You will need to register approximately one month before the test date. If you miss the registration date, you might be able to still take the test as a late registrant.  Finally, as a last resort, it may be possible to take the test as a walk-in registrant (subject to available space).

Registration information:

To register for the SAT:   www.collegeboard.com

To register for the ACT:  www.actstudent.org

Key Books:

The Official SAT Study Guide,  published by CollegeBoard.SAT

The Real ACT Prep Guide,  published by Peterson’s.