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Q

What is the SAT?

A

The SAT is a standardized test used for college admissions. It tests a students reasoning ability in the areas of Mathematics, Critical Reading and Writing. Please note that the SAT is a reasoning test; it tests what a student does with what he/she knows.

Q

How does a student register for the SAT?

A

• Go to www.collegeboard.org and establish an account.
• Click on “SAT” and “Register.”
• Keep username and password in a safe place. This information will be used frequently in junior and senior year.

Q

When is the SAT offered this year?

A

• January 28 at HC (December 30 registration deadline) - SAT & Subject Tests
• March 10 (February 10 registration deadline) – SAT only
• May 5 at HC (April 6 registration deadline) – SAT & Subject Tests
• June 2 at HC (May 8 registration deadline) – SAT & Subject Tests

For complete location and time information, and for late registration deadlines and fees, please go to: www.collegeboard.org.

Q

What are Subject Tests?

A

Subject Tests are hour-long, content-based, single subject tests that are required by some schools. Please check the admissions requirements of schools in which you are interested to see if they require Subject Tests.

A student can take up to three Subject Tests per sitting but cannot take the SAT and Subject Tests on the same day.

If taking subject tests, it is advisable to take them whenever a major course has been completed. For example, an ideal time to take a Subject Test is at the end of an AP course or an Honors course when the material is fresh in a student's mind.

Q

What is the ACT?

A

The ACT is a second standardized test option for college admissions. The ACT is a knowledge-based test; it tests what a student knows.

Always check college admissions requirements for individual schools, to see which standardized test is required. To learn how the SAT compares to the ACT visit: www.princetonreview.com/sat-act.aspx.

Q

How does a student register for the ACT?

A

• Go to www.actstudent.org and establish an account.
• Click on “Registration.”
• Keep username and password in a safe place. Will use this information frequently.

Q

When is the ACT offered this year?

A

• February 11 at HC (January 13 registration deadline)
• April 14 (March 9 registration deadline)
• June 9 at HC (May 4 registration deadline)

For complete location and time information, and for late registration deadlines and fees, please go to: www.actstudent.org

Q

What are the recommendations for college testing?

A

Take the SAT twice between January and June of junior year if possible. If taking in senior year, schedule SAT as early as possible in the Fall.

Take the ACT, especially if PSAT/ SAT scores are not reflective of a student's abilities.

Have a plan. Map out dates early and get registered for the tests including SAT Subject Tests. Please note that a student cannot take Subject Tests and the SAT on same day.

Q

Are there schools that do not require standardized test scores for admission?

A

Yes. For a list of schools that do not require test scores visit: www.fairtest.org.

Q

Are there review classes for standardized college tests?

A

There are many options for review classes for the SATm through local tutoring schools and other outside agencies. HC also offers an SAT Review Class.

HC's Spring SAT Review Class starts in March, meets on Mondays & Wednesdays after school, and prepares a student for the June SAT. For complete information, please click on the link "SAT Review Class" on the left side of this webpage.

Q

What's a good source for additional information on standardized college testing?

A

Both the College Board and ACT websites have Frequently Asked Questions links on their websites that are excellent sources for information.

Students with questions on college testing should see their counselors.