SAT / ACT Information

 

The ACT is the other major test used in college admissions. The ACT is accepted by every college that accepts the SAT and some students may choose to take the ACT in lieu of or in addition to the SAT. The ACT has four parts: English, Reading, Math, and Science, as well as an optional writing section. Like the SAT, we strongly recommend students take the writing section. Registration for the ACT is also completed online through their website.

Students can register online for the ACT. 

ACT Dates 2023-2024

Test Dates	Registration Deadline	Late registration Deadline
September 9, 2023	August 4, 2023	August 18, 2023
October 28, 2023	September 22, 2023	October 6, 2023
December 9, 2023	November 3, 2023	November 17, 2023
April 13, 2024	March 8, 2024	March 22, 2024
June 8, 2024	May 3, 2024	May 17, 2024
July 13, 2024	June 7, 2024	June 21, 2024

*There is a fee for late registration. All material sent by mail must be RECEIVED by the late registration deadline, regardless of postmark date.

What are the SATs?

Many colleges require that prospective students submit standardized test scores as part of the application packet. These tests provide a consistent way for a college to evaluate you as they are nationally administered. The most common tests, the SAT and ACT, are required for most four-year colleges and colleges accept either test interchangeably. In general, students are encouraged to take both the ACT and SAT at least once, as students often find that they like one test better than the other.

SAT test includes two required sections: Evidence-based reading and writing, and math. There is an optional essay section- which we recommend students take as it is a requirement for some colleges. 

How are the tests used?

Standardized test results are only one piece of your college application. Whereas high school curriculum is different in every high school, the SAT and ACT are standardized. Therefore, these tests are one of many ways colleges can compare students from different schools and even different parts of the country.  

Some students find that standardized testing does not represent them fully or adequately as a student. These students feel that their high school transcript provides a more accurate picture of their strengths as a student. For those who are interested, there is a growing list of colleges and universities that do not require any standardized testing. This list is constantly growing and can be found at www.fairtest.org.

When should I take the tests?

For most students, the recommended testing time for the SAT or ACT is in 11th grade. We recommend giving yourself about 2 months to study for these exams. Think of it as a season, just like athletics or extracurricular activities. If you play a fall sport, then taking the March & April exams may be in your best interest as your season will be over. Similarly, if you participate in the spring musical, maybe taking the November & December administrations would give you more time to study before rehearsals really amp up. We are happy to talk with you about what might be the best plan.

Fee Waivers

There are fees to take the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Students with economic hardship, most often demonstrated by participating in the free/reduced school lunch program, may be eligible for a fee waiver for the different standardized college entrance exams. Students who believe they are eligible for a fee waiver should see their counselor.

Testing Accommodations

Students with a documented disability may be eligible for testing accommodations. There is a separate application process for testing accommodation through ACT and College Board (SAT/PSAT, AP). Each of these requests take about 6-8 weeks to process. Testing accommodations are not guaranteed but are reviewed individually by the ACT and College Board organizations.

• College Board (PSAT/SAT): Your counselor will apply for accommodation on College Board exams for all students with IEP and 504 plans at the end of their sophomore year in preparation for the PSAT (or end of freshman if taking an AP course the following year). If your test accommodation requests are approved by College Board, they are approved for ALL future College Board exams (including the SAT).
• ACT: Students must REGISTER for the ACT exam BEFORE counselors can apply for any testing accommodations. Once registered, please email your counselor your registration confirmation to start the request process. 

What are SAT Subject Tests?

SAT Subject Tests measure your knowledge in a particular subject area. It is important to determine if the schools you plan to apply require these tests. Most often, they are only required by the more selective, competitive colleges. It is best to take the subject test when the subject is most fresh in your mind. You are able to take up to three (3) Subject Tests on the same date but are not permitted to take both the SAT and Subject Tests on the same date. It is best to consult with your counselor to determine the best time to take subject tests as planning can be complicated.

Where do I take the test? 

There are multiple school sites in the area that offer both the SAT and ACT. Students are able to take it at any area location that works with their schedule. 

How do I register for the tests?

Registration for all standardized tests are done online through the test’s websites - see links below and elsewhere on this page. Registration deadlines tend to be at least a month prior to the exam date.

Click on the images below to go to their respective registration pages!