If you’re planning on going to college, you’ve probably already heard a lot about the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and PSAT. But, you may still have questions about what these tests are like and why they seem to be such a big deal. This article will answer common concerns about the College Board’s SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and PSAT examinations.
What do I need to know about the SAT?
The SAT Reasoning Test is a standardized test commonly used by college admissions offices in the U.S. It was first created in 1901 to streamline admissions testing. SAT scores are meant to reflect how ready a student is for college, although whether the SAT can actually predict college success is controversial. The SAT has three sections: critical reading, writing, and mathematics. Potential SAT scores range from 600 to 2400. The SAT takes three hours and forty-five minutes to finish. Registering for the SAT costs $49.
Do I have to take the SAT to get into college?
Not necessarily. Many colleges and universities require students to submit either SAT or ACT test scores, but not all follow this policy. If you take the test, but score poorly, there are ways to get your low SAT score ignored and gain admittance to college anyway.
There are still advantages to scoring well, however. Even if the college you want to attend doesn’t require SAT or ACT scores, doing well on either of these tests can help them place you into advanced courses. Scoring well can also help you qualify for scholarships.
What are SAT Subject Tests?
SAT Subject Tests are multiple-choice examinations that measure how much you know about certain areas of study. The College Board offers 20 Subject Tests that cover five major areas: history, math, English, science, and foreign languages. Students are encouraged to take SAT Subject Tests in the areas in which they excel. Each test takes one hour to finish. There is a flat fee of $22 every time you register to take one or more SAT Subject Tests. Registering lets you take up to three tests per sitting. There’s an additional fee of $22 for each foreign language test that has a listening section, and a fee of $11 for every other test.
Am I supposed to take SAT Subject Tests?
That depends on the admissions requirements of the college or university you want to apply to. Many colleges and universities don’t require SAT Subject Test scores, although some competitive schools strongly recommend taking two or three of these tests. Georgetown University, for example, “strongly recommends” submitting three SAT Subject Test scores. Similarly, Stanford University advises students to take two SAT Subject Tests.
Even if the college or university you’re interested in doesn’t specifically recommend taking SAT Subject Tests, taking them can still give you an edge. According to the College Board, many “colleges that don’t require or recommend Subject Tests will still consider them when reviewing your application.” Some colleges will also use SAT Subject Test scores to place students into the right classes. For example, you may be moved up to a higher-level class or even granted credit if you receive a good score on an SAT Subject Test.
What’s the PSAT?
The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT or the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized test given by the the National Merit Scholarship Corporation and the College Board. This test gives students a chance to practice for the SAT. It also determines whether high school juniors who take the test qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The PSAT has the same 3 sections as the SAT. Potential PSAT scores range from 60 to 240. The PSAT requires 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. The PSAT costs $14 to take, but some high schools charge more to administer it. Unlike SAT scores, colleges hardly ever look at PSAT scores.
If colleges won’t look at my PSAT scores, why should I bother taking the test?
Well, the PSAT can prepare you for the SAT. The questions on the PSAT are similar to those on the SAT. Once you see your PSAT scores, you’ll know how you can expect to score on the SAT, and which section or sections you need to work on.
Taking the PSAT can also put you in the running to win a National Merit Scholarship. It’s highly competitive, but you may able to win $2,500 and a certificate from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Students who win attract attention; some actually receive sponsorship from companies! However, you’re not required to enter the running.
Also, you can sign up to receive information in the mail from colleges and universities. Again, you aren’t required to do so— it’s just an option on your PSAT score sheet.
What if I can’t afford all these test fees?
The College Board offers fee waivers to low-income students who want to take the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and PSAT. You must be a high school junior to qualify for a PSAT fee waiver or an SAT fee waiver. You can receive an SAT Subject Test fee waiver at any point in your high school career. If you’re homeschooled, “you must provide proof of eligibility to your local high school, agency fee-waiver administrator or counselor,” according to the College Board.
Can I get extended time on these tests?
If you are a student with a disability, you may qualify for extended time on the PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject tests, and other College Board examinations. You must apply to receive these accommodations. Having an IEP (Individual Education Program) or 504 Plan doesn’t automatically qualify you for extended time or any other accommodations. To find out more, check out the College Board’s services for students with disabilities.
As you can tell, the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and PSAT are much more than just exams. They can give you a big step up in the college admissions process and in your college career. For advice on how to ace these tests, check out our blog’s test-taking tips. Of course, you can still be successful in college without scoring well on these tests, but it’s to your advantage to do everything you can to boost the odds in your favor.
