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2 days ago

Gates Chili High School

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  3. College entrance exams

College entrance exams

College entrance exams

Many colleges and universities consider standardized test scores as part of the admissions process. Below is information on the PSAT, SAT, and ACT—including what each test covers, when it’s taken, and how to register. Some colleges are test-optional, meaning students may choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. Students should research individual college admissions websites or speak with a counselor to determine if submitting test scores is in their best interest.

Purpose:
The PSAT is a practice version of the SAT and helps students prepare for college entrance exams. It also serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Recommended for:
Juniors planning to attend a four-year college.

What it covers:

  • Math
  • Verbal Reasoning
  • Writing (all multiple-choice)

More Information:

Purpose:
The SAT measures verbal reasoning and math skills. It is used by colleges to evaluate college readiness. Many schools are now test-optional, meaning the SAT may not be required.

Recommended for:
College-bound students, typically taken:

  • Spring of junior year
  • Fall of senior year
    • Advanced students may take it more than once before senior year.

Test Structure:

  • Reading and Writing: 64 minutes
  • Math: 70 minutes
  • No penalty for guessing

Registration:

Note: Gates Chili High School is not a testing site for the SAT. Students can choose from available locations during registration.

Purpose:
The ACT tests knowledge learned in high school and is used by colleges to assess academic readiness. Like the SAT, it is accepted at most colleges and may not be required at test-optional institutions.

Recommended for:
College-bound students, typically taken:

  • Spring of junior year
  • Fall of senior year

Test Structure:

  • English – 45 minutes
  • Math – 60 minutes (calculator allowed for entire section)
  • Reading – 35 minutes
  • Science – 35 minutes
  • Optional Writing – 40 minutes

Unique Features:

  • Includes a science section
  • Offers a STEM score
  • Based on high school curriculum

Registration:

  • Online at ACT Registration Site
  • Fee: $69 (no writing), $94 (with writing)
  • Fee waivers may be available through the Counseling Office

  • Purpose:
    The PSAT is a practice version of the SAT and helps students prepare for college entrance exams. It also serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

    Recommended for:
    Juniors planning to attend a four-year college.

    What it covers:

    • Math
    • Verbal Reasoning
    • Writing (all multiple-choice)

    More Information:

  • Purpose:
    The SAT measures verbal reasoning and math skills. It is used by colleges to evaluate college readiness. Many schools are now test-optional, meaning the SAT may not be required.

    Recommended for:
    College-bound students, typically taken:

    • Spring of junior year
    • Fall of senior year
      • Advanced students may take it more than once before senior year.

    Test Structure:

    • Reading and Writing: 64 minutes
    • Math: 70 minutes
    • No penalty for guessing

    Registration:

    Note: Gates Chili High School is not a testing site for the SAT. Students can choose from available locations during registration.

  • Purpose:
    The ACT tests knowledge learned in high school and is used by colleges to assess academic readiness. Like the SAT, it is accepted at most colleges and may not be required at test-optional institutions.

    Recommended for:
    College-bound students, typically taken:

    • Spring of junior year
    • Fall of senior year

    Test Structure:

    • English – 45 minutes
    • Math – 60 minutes (calculator allowed for entire section)
    • Reading – 35 minutes
    • Science – 35 minutes
    • Optional Writing – 40 minutes

    Unique Features:

    • Includes a science section
    • Offers a STEM score
    • Based on high school curriculum

    Registration:

    • Online at ACT Registration Site
    • Fee: $69 (no writing), $94 (with writing)
    • Fee waivers may be available through the Counseling Office