What you need to know By Donna Dallam (A-K) and Michael Curtis (L-Z) or

Standardized Test  The SAT and ACT are used as part of college admissions/merit scholarships for many schools  These exams are used to take a snapshot of where you stand in terms of college preparation  Practice and gain valuable experience for the SAT by taking the PSAT in October during 10 th and 11 th grades

Why not just take the SAT or ACT instead?  You’ll get more feedback from the PSAT vs. the SAT / ACT  The PSAT score report you receive is designed to show areas of strengths and weakness, helping you better prepare  PSAT costs less (a lot less) ▪ PSAT ($16 ) vs SAT ($54 ) vs ACT ($56 )  Your scores are not seen by any colleges, nothing to fear

 The PSAT will be given on Wednesday, October 14, 2015 during the school day  This is the only opportunity to take the PSAT this school year  There is NO Saturday Test Date this fall  The College Board does not offer this as an option this year  If you are not taking the PSAT this year, you will report to study hall at 7:25am, or report to school at 11:15am

 Registration is online at  Create a free account, or login if you already have one  Have your student’s school ID number ready to complete registration  After your account is created, select “CB West PSAT Registration”  Cost is $16 ▪ see your counselor if you have a financial need  Registration closes on October 2 nd, but space may run out prior to then- don’t wait to register!

Components  Reading Test  Writing and Language Test  Math Test  with both a calculator and non-calculator section  Take a look at each section of the PSAT on the websitewebsite Scoring  No deduction for wrong answers  Scale range:  Individual sub-scores are also provided

Total Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

 College is important (and this is all part of that process), BUT:  There are a growing number of colleges which are “test optional,” and do not require SAT or ACT scores  Colleges which don’t require the SAT/ACT may require: ▪ An additional essay(s) ▪ Submission of a graded paper ▪ An interview  So, prepare, but do your best to remain calm and not stress about your test results. You will find a good fit, regardless of your scores!  Visit to learn more about “test optional” schools

 This presentation can be viewed again by going to the 10 th grade guidance page  The CollegeBoard website on the PSAT offers a great deal of information, as well as full practice tests.CollegeBoard website  There is also official practice through Khan Academy!Khan Academy  Sign up soon!