PSAT - PRELIMINARY SAT

PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It's a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT Reasoning Test. It also gives you a chance to enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs.

The NMSQT portion uses the scores from the math, verbal reasoning, and writing to find the top 1% of the nation's juniors for eligibility in participating in Merit and Achievement programs.

The most common reasons for taking the PSAT/NMSQT are:

• To receive feedback on your strengths and weaknesses on skills necessary for college study. You can then focus your preparation on those areas that could most benefit from additional study or practice.

• To see how your performance on an admissions test might compare with that of others applying to college.

• To enter the competition for scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (grade 11).

• To help prepare for the SAT. You can become familiar with the kinds of questions and the exact directions you will see on the SAT.

• To receive information from colleges when you check "yes" to Student Search Service.

The PSAT is administered at UPA once a year in October. Talk to your academic counselor for more information. For more information about the PSAT/National Merit, click the links below.

• CollegeBoard

• PSAT Information

• National Merit Scholarship Corporation

ACT - AMERICAN COLLEGE TEST

These are four, 35-60 minute tests in academic areas of English, mathematics, social studies, reading and science reasoning. Scores range from 1 to 36 for each of the four tests and the Composite. The Composite score is the average of the four test scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. There is an optional writing assessment which is required by certain colleges; check the ACT website or the college website to determine if you will need this section.

For more information about the ACT and how to register, click on the link below.

• ACT Information

• Preparation for the ACT

SAT

The SAT is a college admissions test comprised of a verbal, math and writing section. The SAT assesses the critical thinking skills students need for academic success in college—skills that students learned in high school. The SAT is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors. It tells students how well they use the skills and knowledge they have attained in and outside of the classroom—including how they think, solve problems, and communicate.

Each section of the SAT is scored on a scale of 200-800, with two writing subscores for multiple-choice questions and the essay. It is administered seven times a year at various sites off campus. Students can register though The College Board.

For more information about the SAT and how to register, click the link below.

• College Board

• SAT Information

• Preparation for the SAT

AP - ADVANCED PLACEMENT

AP tests are placement tests taken after completing a college level course. These are high school examinations based on college level courses. AP exams are given once a year in May. The scores are primarily used for college placement, credit or advanced standing. The most highly selective colleges may also consider AP scores as part of the admission decision. Universities grant either advanced placement and/or credit with qualifying score. Tests are administered in May to students completing appropriate courses.

Unlike honors courses, students may earn college credit, depending on their AP test scores and the colleges' requirements. To find out more about AP tests, click HERE. 

Khan Academy

Creates a tailored practice plan for you based on a diagnostic or your SAT or PSAT/NMSQT® scores. 8 full-length, real practice tests and content created in partnership with College Board. Thousands of practice questions, videos, lessons, and hints plus study and test-taking tips and strategies. Get constant feedback and progress so you know where you stand

Princeton Review

Free online and in person practice tests offered at local libraries in Santa Clara and Los Gatos. Free score report is given after it is graded to highlight area of improvement. 

Kaplan

Learn what to expect and how you’d score on the exam with the free practice test. Plus, get a breakdown of where you need improvement and how to score higher next time. They also offer 20 minute "SAT Workouts"- test your knowledge of the SAT material and get complete explanations of every question in 20 minutes. 

Varsity Tutors

Everyone should have the tools and opportunity to earn their very best score. Give your student that chance with our free SAT and ACT live online classes. They’ll get deep insights and learn key techniques for understanding and mastering each section.