Standardized Test
What are they and when will I take them?
Standardized tests measure all students by a single standard. Colleges like them because they compare the ability of students from all over the country.
Standardized tests are not IQ tests. College admission exams measure verbal and math ability. They do not measure how smart you are, how well you learn, or how well you'll do in your life after college. Colleges know this when evaluating your scores during the admissions process, and may use your scores to help advise you on your study program.
The PLAN is a "pre-ACT" test that will help predict your success on the ACT Assessment. It also focuses attention on career preparation and improving academic achievement. Schools typically administer the PLAN in the fall of the sophomore year.
The PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It provides firsthand practice for the SAT Reasoning Test. It also gives you a chance to enter the National Merit Scholarship Corporation scholarship programs. This test is typically offered during the fall of your junior year.
The ACT includes test areas in English, math, reading, science and an optional writing section. Many Midwestern colleges require the ACT. You should take the test in the spring of your junior year and again in the fall of your senior year.
The SAT measures verbal, writing and math reasoning skills. You should also take this test in the spring of your junior year and the fall of your senior year to earn the best score.
- Make sure your child registers for PSAT during the junior year. In addition to National Merit scholarship consideration, it will also help with SAT preparation. Contact the high school guidance office for registration information.
- Pre-registration is required for all standardized tests. Talk to your child's counselor about test dates and registration fees.
Note: This article was used with expressed permission of EducationQuest Foundation
