College Entrance Exam FAQ’s

ACT vs SAT

Differences between ACT & SAT?ACT – measures what you currently

know. It is an achievement test. (approx 3 hrs)

SAT – measures your potential (critical thinking ability). It is an aptitude test. (approx 3.5 hrs)

ACTThe ACT is a national college admission

examination that consists of subject area tests in English, Math, Reading and Science.

The ACT Plus Writing includes the four subject area tests and a 30-minute Writing Test.

The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete with breaks (or just over four hours if you are taking the Writing Test). Actual testing time is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 30 minutes if you are taking the Writing Test).

SATThe SAT Reasoning Test is a measure of the

critical thinking skills you'll need for academic success in college.

The SAT assesses how well you analyze and solve problems—skills you learned in school that you'll need in college.

The SAT includes a Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing section. The 25-minute essay will always be the first section of the SAT, and the 10-minute multiple-choice writing section will always be the final section. The remaining six 25-minute sections can appear in any order, as can the two 20-minute sections.

Do colleges look at the ACT differently from the SAT?According to the US News and World Report

College Ranking Guide: Both the SAT and ACT are treated as equivalent tests.

Most schools accept both exams but it is your responsibility to know if one is preferred over the other. You can find this information out by looking at the admissions webpage or talking to a representative.

How are the tests counted?ACT: No penalty for wrong answers, writing section is optional

SAT: There is a penalty for wrong answers (1/4 point).

When should I take the test?It is typically recommended for high school students

to take the ACT or SAT in the spring of their junior year. Each test is administered several times a year.

In Colorado ALL Juniors take the ACT in lieu of TCAP testing in April

If you want to increase your score on either test for admission or scholarship purposes it is recommended that you do so by the Fall of your senior year

Test prep basicsPractice makes perfect!Students should take numerous practice tests!Students should not under any circumstances take the

tests for the first time without practicing when it counts towards their admissions!

There are different test prep books available in the post-grad center and local library to borrow for FREE

There are many different private test prep programs that some families choose to use – these range in price and some can be expensive.

ZAPS is a ACT prep offered at CHS for juniors in January

Test prep basicsBy taking several practice exams you will Increase your confidence & decrease test

anxiety by becoming familiar with the testIncrease your overall speed and accuracy

PSAT- What is it and why take it?The PSAT is a practice test for the SAT. To get exposure to the format of the SAT to help determine

which standardized test (SAT or ACT) is a better fit for you. The PSAT is an old SAT with one question left off each section.

It is recommended for all college bound Juniors as an indicator of college readiness. Some students take the test as sophomores for an additional practice

It is the only test that qualifies you for National Merit Scholarships when taken during your Junior year.

Juniors may also be considered for corporate-sponsored scholarships, college-sponsored scholarships, and other special opportunities based on their participation.

PSAT at Centaurus

The PSAT will be given on Wednesday, October 15, 2014, at Centaurus High School. The test will begin at 8:20 AM. Students should arrive no later than 8:00 AM.

We will be on a modified schedule that day and there will be no classes in the morning so students can participate in the exam

PSAT at Centaurus (cont.) There are two ways to register for the PSAT. Please register as

soon as possible as space may be limited. The deadline to register is Monday, October 13 (if space is still available). The fee is $20. Fee waivers are available; if you need assistance with the test fee, please contact your Centaurus Counselor.

1. If paying by credit card, use the Centaurus Web Store - RevTrak to sign up and pay. No paper form is needed

2. If paying by check or cash or if you are requesting a fee waiver, please complete the registration form, pay the test fee to the Centaurus Treasurer, and return the form to the Centaurus Counseling Office. Centaurus students, please complete registration during your lunch, off periods, etc.

For test dates and to register go to the following webpages:

ACT – Go to: www.act.org

SAT – Go to: www.collegeboard.com

Centaurus High School code for both tests: 060865

One last note about standardized tests…. The ACT or SAT , while important, is just one component of the

college admissions process. Colleges will look at many other things when considering your application for admission.