Transcript Wk4 (Standardized Tests)

Apply Yourself!
Week Four
Standardized Testing
1
We will learn…
 about different types of standardized
tests.
 which standardized test is more
beneficial for your applications.
 how to research and register for
standardized tests.
2
Types of Tests: General SAT
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Scholastic Aptitude Test
More popular on the East and West coasts
Reading, Mathematics, and Writing sections
Scores are out of 2400
Offered 7 times a year in the U.S.
Usually taken at the end of junior or
beginning of senior year
 Sent only to the schools you choose
 In 2009, the registration cost was $45.
3
Types of Tests: SAT Subject
Tests
 Measure knowledge in a specific subject
such as biology, foreign language, history,
etc.
 Some programs may ask you to take
subjects tests.
 Many schools do NOT require these tests.
 Usually taken at the end of junior or
beginning of senior year
 In 2009, subject tests were $20.
4
Types of Tests: ACT
 More popular in Illinois and the Midwest, but
accepted by all colleges and universities
 English, Math, Reading, Science, and
Writing* sections (*Writing is optional)
 Scores are out of 36
 Offered 6 times a year in the U.S.
 Usually taken at the end of junior or
beginning of senior year
Sent only to the schools you choose
 In 2009, the registration cost was $32.
5
Which Is Better?
 Either the SAT or ACT will almost always be
required to apply to a 4 year college or
university.
 Both take around 3-4 hours to complete.
 No test is “easier,” but one may align with
your strengths more.
 Both have strict deadlines and take time to
send scores to potential schools.
 Both tests cost around the same.
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Which Is Better?
 Choose the test that you feel you are better
prepared for.
 Choose the test that you are the most
comfortable with.
 Choose the test that you know your potential
school will accept.
 Don’t pick one test because you think it will
“look better.”
 In Illinois, most students take the ACT.
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Research and Registration
 SAT: www.collegeboard.org (For
Students link)
 ACT: www.actstudent.org
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Research and Registration
 On the websites, you can find…
 Sample questions
 Financial Aid
 Dates and deadlines
 General college information
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Research and Registration
 You can also look for other resources…
 from your teachers/counselors
 from your local library
 from students that have already been
through the process
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References
 http://www.collegeboard.org
 http://www.actstudent.org
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Questions??
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