We recommend that our students take both the SAT and the ACT no later than the end of the junior year. Then they should at least take the stronger test once again by November of their senior year.
+ Two SAT Subject Tests are required for the UC schools and other selective universities. The subject tests ought to be taken at the terminal point of that subject, i.e. biology at the end of the sophomore year if the student did well in that class. The UC system requires two SAT Subject tests in two different areas, like history and math. Two history or two science tests will not fulfill that requirement. Other colleges might require more than one subject test; it is the student's responsibility to find out what tests are required for the college to which he/she plans to apply.
THE COLLEGE BOARD SAT
Fees for the SAT are $45.00. Three subject tests can be taken at the same time for $9.00 each. (Language tests with listening are $20 and only given ruing the November testing date.) Registering online is easy at www.collegeboard.com. Otherwise, forms can be attained in the Counseling Center.
To register online, go to www.act.org. Registration packets for the ACT are also in the Counseling Center.
Our school code is 052 836.
Test Dates! Study Tips!
Much anxiety accompanies students when they sit down to take the SAT. That is understandable, because these tests have become an integral part in considering students for admissions to colleges.
Please contact Mrs. Avery or Miss Randall to let them know you are interested in a prep class.
Sometimes formal preparation is a wise route to take. The costs of these courses vary significantly and the classes range in size from over 20 students to individual tutoring. There is a list of local courses and tutors that students can pick up in the Center. Here are names of a few that have come across my desk:
Books that will be helpful if you use them are as follows:
Barron's How to Prepare for the SAT I (or ACT)
10 Real SAT's (College Board)
Princeton Review: Math Smart
Princeton Review: Word Smart
You might explore these internet sites:
Study Tips!
I recently talked with a man who studies tests and tutors students to take those standardized tests. He really had many great suggestions! One tidbit you could implement immediately to enhance your vocabulary and background for those tests looming in the future. Read the “Week in Review” in the New York Times. He told me that they are short articles about a variety of subjects. The vocabulary will challenge and topics will diversify and expand your knowledge. My suggestion: pick up a Sunday New York Times and try it. It might facilitate a rich family discussion.
The College Board offers a wonderful learning tool for students who have taken the test in October, January, or May. It is the Question-and-Answer Service. For $18.00 one can receive a copy of the math and verbal sections of the test he/she took and see how they were answers and compare them to the how they should have been answered. Visit www.collegeboard.com and search for Question-and-Answer Service to find out details.