College entrance examinations
The seven types
1. SAT I:
As of March 2016, there are two SAT sections: Math, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, plus an optional Essay (which is recommended). SAT measures the skills you have learned in and outside of the classroom and how well you can apply that knowledge. It tests how you think, solve problems and communicate. Score range for math and Evidence-Based Reading/Writing section is 200-800. The optional essay section is scored separately and has a maximum score of 24.
2. SAT II: SUBJECT TESTS
One-hour tests measuring knowledge and ability to apply that knowledge in specific subject areas. Three tests can be taken on one test date. Many selective four-year colleges require three subject tests. The subject tests are offered on several dates during the school year. Tests are given in 16 subject areas including: American History, Biology, Chemistry, World History, Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Spanish, Literature, Mathematics Level I and II, and Physics.
3. ACT
Four tests, which average 45 minutes each, are administered. They are English, Math, Reading, and Science reasoning. Four separate scores plus a composite score is reported. An optional writing section will be included as well. Score range is from 0-36.
4. A.P. – ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM
Three-hour examinations based on a full-year college level course taken during high school years. Scores range from 1 through 5, with five being the high. Colleges determine credit to be given to high school students based on scores of 3, 4 and 5. The AP exams are given only once a year (during May). Some of the subjects offered for AP testing are: American History, Art, Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Classics, English Composition and Literature, European History, French, German, Physics, Spanish and Computer Science. They are used for both college placement and credit.
5. CLEP – COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATIONS
This exam offers the opportunity to obtain college credit regardless of where or how prior learning occurred. Students may take examinations in five general areas (English Composition, Humanities, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Social Science), as well as in 30 specific subjects. CLEP examinations are administered monthly at test centers throughout the country. Each college decides which CLEP tests it will accept for credit and the amount of credit it will award.
6. PSAT/NMSQT – PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST / NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING TEST
Exam is given in October of every school year to high school juniors and wise sophomores, however freshman are allowed to register also. The format is similar to the SAT. It is useful as an indicator of future SAT scores and as a practice test. This test is the basis of some merit scholarships.
7. TOEFL
This test measures the ability of non-native English Speakers to communicate in English in an academic setting. It accurately measures how well students can read, listen, speak, and write in English in the college classroom
Test taking tips
Here are 14 test taking tips:
Review the sample test in your SAT/ACT information packet; study the test structure and the different types of questions.
Be careful to eat and sleep well the night prior to the exam. Be ready physically and mentally for the test.
Arrive at the test site early and bring the complete set of “tools” which you will need (i.e. #2 pencils, watch, identification, calculator, SAT/ACT ticket, etc.). Choose a good seat and then relax.
Listen carefully to all instructions and be very familiar with the different subtest instructions.
Approach the testing situation calmly; take it with confidence. Picture yourself doing as well as possible because you know what to expect.
Look over the questions in each section for the EASIEST ones and answer those first. You need to accumulate points for all the questions you can possibly answer correctly.
Use every second efficiently; continue working until the last possible moment. Watch your time and budget your attack based on your strengths.
Make sure you understand what each question is asking. Rephrase questions as needed to clarify them in your mind.
Get all the help you can from “key” words; remember how to do this for the verbal section questions.
Refresh yourself with a few well-chosen MINUTE BREAKS. You can relax and recharge your energy in several simple ways.
Don’t worry about hard questions. Simply answer those which you can as effectively as possible. Remember when to guess and when to leave the questions unanswered. Guess intelligently.
EDIT, CHECK and PROOFREAD the answer bubbles and make sure you match questions and answers perfectly. It is worth the minute or time investment to ensure you have carried out the fundamentals.
Take a deep breath and smile, knowing you did your best. And leave it at that.
You have earned a reward; go out and celebrate!