Testing Information

    Information about the Redesigned PSAT and SAT

    The College Board has made significant changes to the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT in an effort to better align the tests with high school curricula and the skills necessary for college and career readiness. The revised PSAT/NMSQT will launch in October 2015 and the SAT in March 2016. The redesign affects the way the test is structured, administered, timed and scored.

    Features of the redesigned SAT include:

    • An optional essay
    • Fewer multiple choice questions
    • No penalty for incorrect answers
    • A 1600-point scale

    There will be an increased emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving and data analysis. The test is aligned to the Common Core State Standards and is based on what students are already learning in class. Download a flyer with more information about the new tests/Descargar un bulletin con informacion del PSAT y SAT rediseñado.

    Registering

    Testing Preperation/Tutoring:

    ACT VS. SAT

      SAT ACT
    Why Take It Colleges use SAT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships Colleges use ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships
    Test Structure Reading
    Writing and Language
    Math
    Essay (Optional)    		 English
    Math
    Reading
    Science Reasoning
    Essay (Optional)
    Length 3 hours (without essay)
    3 hours, 50 minutes (with essay)    		 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay)
    3 hours, 40 minutes (with essay)
    Reading 5 reading passages 4 reading passages
    Science None 1 science section testing your critical thinking skills (not your specific science knowledge)
    Math Covers:
    Arithmetic
    Algebra I and II
    Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Analysis    		 Covers:
    Arithmetic
    Algebra I and II
    Geometry and Trigonometry
    Calculator Policy Some math questions don't allow you to use a calculator You can use a calculator on all math questions
    Essays Optional—the essay will test your comprehension of a source text Optional—the essay will test how well you evaluate and analyze complex issues
    How It's Scored Scored on a scale of 400-1600 Scored on a scale of 1-36

    TOEFL Test: Tests for English Proficiency

    TOEFL (Test of English As a Foreign Language)

    The TOEFL is designed to determine the English proficiency of students whose native language is not English. These students may take the TOEFL in addition to the SAT I or ACT. Students may wish to call (301) 314-0319 (College Park) to schedule a convenient testing time at least six weeks in advance of the desired testing date. TOEFL can be taken computer-based or on paper. Information bulletins are available in the Career Center or by calling 1-800-GO TOEFL, or by visiting the website at http://www.toefl.org