College Exams

Admission Testing

SAT REASONING & SAT SUBJECT(S) TESTS

SAT Reasoning

The SAT is one of the standardized tests required by colleges. It measures three skill categories: critical reading, mathematics and writing. Each section is worth 800 points, with a total of 1600 points. The SAT test has 4 sections, and writing is optional.

SAT Subject(s)

The SAT Subject(s) Test is required by several private colleges. Check their websites. It is not required by the UCs, but it is recommended if you are an engineering major. The test measures a student's knowledge in a particular subject area. Each test is worth 800 points. A student can take up to three subject tests in one sitting. The subject areas include languages, history, science, English and mathematics.

List of "Test Optional" Colleges

PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT. Juniors who take the test can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The PSAT has three sections: critical reading, math and writing skills. It is offered once a year in October.

About PSAT/NMSQT
Cost is $28. You will be assigned a testing room the day of the test. Assignments will be posted. Bring your student ID.

AP Tests

Advanced-Placement (AP) is considered to be college-level courses students can take while in high school. Students usually take the AP test in their course's subject. AP tests are administered in May

Advanced-Placement (AP) is considered to be college-level courses students can take while in high school. Students usually take the AP test in their course's subject. AP tests are administered in May and the score ranges from 0 to 5, with 5 as the highest. Three is considered the minimum passing score.

Unlike honors courses, students may earn college credit, depending on their AP test scores and the college's requirements. To find out more about AP tests, please visit the CollegeBoard website.

TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is occasionally required by colleges for students who are (or have been) enrolled in an English Learner course in high school. In some cases, this test is dependent on a student's residency. We recommend that students check out the testing requirements of the colleges that they are interested in.

FREE ONLINE TEST PREPARATION

ACT

The ACT is one of the standardized tests required by colleges. It has five categories: English, mathematics, reading, science and an optional writing section. Each section is scored separately and combined together for a composite score. The highest score a student can receive is 36.

FEE REDUCTION ELIGIBILITY APPLICATION

If you are eligible for a reduced fee for the SAT, PSAT, ACT, AP Tests, or more, please fill out the Fee Reduction Form. The application is not connected to the Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Please return this form to Ms. Moyoli in the ASB Office.

Advanced Placement® courses are for students with exceptionally rapid learning abilities, advanced school skills, preparing for an Advanced Placement® examination, and/or planning to attend a college/university after high school.

Students in the AP® level are expected to:

Take full and immediate responsibility for independent learning with limited guided practice.
Review and study class material extensively in addition to completing assigned homework.
Have recall, comprehension, and problem-solving skills. The AP® level emphasizes inference, synthesis, and evaluation. A difference between AP® and Honors levels is the frequency and depth of activities reflecting these higher order skills. The curriculum is more complex, challenging, and extensive than at the Honors level.
In the event that research projects are assigned, be self-directed and independent in their research. The projects can take any of the following forms: written, spoken, performed, or crafted. Students will be expected to complete these projects in addition to daily class work and homework.
Adjust to an accelerated pace that approximates college-level pacing.

Homework will typically be assigned daily. It will be extensive, time-consuming, and require students to read, write, problem-solve, review, memorize, design, or craft. Summer assignments may also be provided.