ACT/SAT College Entrance Tests


ACT/SAT

Test scores do equal higher scholarship dollars so we want to do well.  Test prep sites: Higher Scores Test Prep or ACT for Dummies or Collegeboard

You must put in the effort; but one extra point can be worth thousands of dollars. 

What is the format of the SAT I and ACT? All questions on both tests are multiple choice.

 The SAT I includes verbal reasoning questions and math reasoning questions. The verbal and math sections are interspersed.  Math-better than half of the math questions are multiple choice. Logic, common sense and basic math principles are about 25%. The remaining math is computation.  Verbal- includes analogy questions that ask you to analyze the relationship in a given pair of words and find another pair showing the same relationship.  At least 25% are pure vocabulary questions.  Sentence completion questions are based on the social and natural sciences and the humanities, but there is no science per se.  Reading comprehension questions expect you to be careful discerning and logical.  Half of the verbal questions come from reading passages and several test the meaning of words in context.  Again, these questions require and extensive vocabulary.  A strong vocabulary is the key to doing well on verbal questions.  PSAT/NMSQT is a shortened version of the SATI with a writing assessment included. Penalty if you guess. SAT II subject tests-Some competitive colleges require these test like Duke, Vanderbilt. SAT is offered 7 times each year.

The ACT is a multiple-choice achievement test composed of four sections: English-75 questions 45 minutes; Math-60 questions 60 minutes; Reading-40 questions 35 minutes; Science Reasoning-40 questions 35 minutes. A composite score is reported along with the sub-scores in each category with the highest composite being 36.  Most colleges require a minimum of 20 in each section to prevent remedial placement. NO penalty for guessing.

All juniors will take the ACT in the spring. You may take the test as often as you wish-it is offered 6 times each year.

To Prep or Not to Prep

Definitely prep!! The test format will never change and the more familiar you are with it –the more confident you will be.  Also, you adjust your thinking to how the questions are being asked.  There are several types of test preps you can do. So pick one that fits your style.

How do I register for the test?

You may register on-line or paper from the office.  ACT-www.act.org; SAT-www.collegeboard.org. You must include our school’s CEEB code which is: 

List the school that is your top choice as school number 1 or 2 when reporting yor scores.  College admissions asks for this information from ACT and SAT companies.

What should I do if I have documented special testing needs? You must have CURRENT documents-within last 3 years-of your diagnosis.  There is paperwork that is sent off to ACT for them to determine your testing conditions.  If you are rejected the first time, don’t stop asking.  Tests can be given untimed, larger print, time and half, read out loud etc.

Which test do I take? Check with your specific college to see if they require one over the other.  Usually, it is just one of the test.

What is superscore?  A college or university will take your highest subject sub-scores from different test dates and re-average for a higher composite.

What is a residual ACT?  Colleges/Universities will schedule and ACT test day for you to take the test on their campus. BUT the results are only used at their campus.  You  cannot transfer or send these scores.

Your scores will be sent on your transcript. However, many schools want them directly from ACT/SAT.


Contact information

: SAT: Score request by credit card-1 800-727-7267, www.collegeboard.org

ACT: 1 319 337-1270. www.act.org

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