UNDERSTANDING THE STANDARDIZED TESTS IN YOUR FUTURE

What kinds of standardized tests should you take during the next couple of years? PSATSATACTCOMPASSASVAB

SAT vs. ACT ► All students hoping to attend a 4 year college must take the SAT or the ACT. ► Our students want to take the SAT Reasoning Test. (Only students going to very elite colleges need to take the SAT Subject Tests.) ► The SAT or the ACT is very acceptable to all schools in our state.

SAT vs. ACT ► It is good for a student to take BOTH tests. They should test EARLY so that if they need to improve their scores, they have time to do so. Students will find that the SAT is more a test of developed intelligence whereas the ACT tests material that has been taught. ► Neither test should be taken until the student has completed Algebra II.

SAT vs. ACT Any student that is using a test to enter college MUST take the writing section. Although the testing booklets & personnel present the ACT writing section as “optional”, our state colleges require it. Colleges are finding that the SAT Writing Test is very predictive of college success. Right now, schools are using the SAT verbal reasoning & math sections or the ACT composite score for admission purposes.

SAT vs. ACT “Local College Requirements” This year Georgia Southern is requiring a 1000 on the math & verbal combined for admission. Armstrong’s scores are a little lower. Students can enter the summer Eagle Incentive program at GSU if they have a on math & verbal combined & then enter as fulltime students in the fall

SAT vs. ACT “Other state colleges” ► UGA & GA Tech have much higher average SAT scores. ► They also look at course selection when making admission decisions: “How many honors & AP classes has a student taken?”

SAT VS. ACT “Testing Vouchers” ► If a student is on free or reduced lunch, they can receive a voucher for the SAT or ACT. However, it cannot be used for late registration. ► Once a student tests using a voucher, the student can be given up to 4 admission fee waivers. ► Students who are in foster care or wards of the court can also test for free (see a counselor)

How do I register? ► Pick up a registration booklet from the counselor’s office. ► Mail the registration form (along with a check or money order for $45.00) or sign up online at collegeboard.com or actstudnet.org using a credit card.

► If a student is not college prep, they do not need to take the SAT or the ACT unless they hope to play college athletics.

Students entering technical schools or 2 year colleges ► Can take the COMPASS Test at school for free or at the school where they have applied. ► Test is computer based ► Adaptive test- questions increase or decrease in difficulty depending on the skill level exhibited by the student. ► Results are used to place students in classes based on their performance. ► The test is not used for admission purposes.

The ASVAB ► A test used to help determine a career direction. ► Offered in the spring of Junior & Senior year. ► It is free! ► Does not obligate students to the military

► If you have any other questions regarding standardized tests that are available please visit your guidance counselor.

THANKS FOR A JOB WELL DONE!