There are so many tests it’s hard to figure out who should take what test and when below is a short synopsis of what each test is.
PSAT is given only once a year in October. It provides sophomores and juniors with an opportunity to practice for the SAT. During the junior year the PSAT is also used as selection for National Merit Scholarships. Please click here to obtain information on how to register for the PSAT's
SAT is designed to help measure a student’s ability to handle college level work. The 7 sections that currently make up the test are comprised of a variety of math and verbal questions designed to gauge a student’s critical thinking and problem solving skills.
SAT II Subject tests: There are 22 different subject tests designed to measure a student’s ability in a specific discipline. The SAT I measure how well a student reads and thinks while SAT II subject tests measure the extent of a student’s knowledge in a specific discipline. Not all colleges require SAT II, so check with the schools you are thinking about applying to.
ACT - The ACT is more of a content-based test than the SAT I. While still a test of problem solving skills, the ACT more closely tests a student’s knowledge of the “Core-Curriculum” taught in most classrooms. The format of ACT is 4 subject tests in English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning.
Most colleges require the SAT or ACT; you can decide which one to take based on your particular strength and weaknesses.
The SAT and ACT are changing format beginning in March 2005 for SAT and January 2005 for ACT. Changes to the format include a writing sample for each test and math will include more Algebra 2. SAT and ACT scores are used for college admissions purposes because the test predicts readiness for college work.
With more than 25,000 high schools in the US, courses and grading standards vary widely. Since the SAT is standardized and objective, it gives colleges a common yardstick that complements the high school curriculum in a common manner. Your scores show how ready you are to handle the work at their institutions and how your verbal and math skills compare with those of other applicants.