Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the PSAT test?

    The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a program cosponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). It's a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT. It also gives you a chance to enter NMSC scholarship programs and gain access to college and career planning tools.

    The PSAT/NMSQT measures:

    • Critical reading skills
    • Math problem-solving skills
    • Writing skills

    You have developed these skills over many years, both in and out of school. This test doesn't require you to recall specific facts from your classes.

    The most common reasons for taking the PSAT/NMSQT are to:

    • Receive feedback on your strengths and weaknesses on skills necessary for college study. You can then focus your preparation on those areas that could most benefit from additional study or practice.
    • See how your performance on an admissions test might compare with that of others applying to college.
    • Enter the competition for scholarships from NMSC (grade 11).
    • Help prepare for the SAT. You can become familiar with the kinds of questions and the exact directions you will see on the SAT.
    What is the SAT test?
    This information was taken from http://sat.collegeboard.com

    The SAT is a globally recognized college admission test that lets you show colleges what you know and how well you can apply that knowledge. It tests your knowledge of reading, writing and math — subjects that are taught every day in high school classrooms. Most students take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school, and almost all colleges and universities use the SAT to make admission decisions.
     
    What does the SAT test?
    The SAT tests the skills you’re learning in school: reading, writing and math. Your strength in these subjects is important for success in college and throughout your life.
    • The reading section includes reading passages and sentence completions.
    • The writing section includes a short essay and multiple-choice questions on identifying errors and improving grammar and usage.
    • The math section includes questions on arithmetic operations, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability.

    What is the ACT test?

    This information was taken from the ACT website. 

    The ACT test assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work.
    • The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science.
    • The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.