The SAT is a globally recognized college admission test. It tests reading, writing, and math knowledge of students — subjects taught in high school. 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. Taking the SAT is the first step in college admission. consider during admission decisions processes. High school grades are also very important. In fact, the combination of high school grades and SAT scores is the best predictor of a student’s academic success in college. The SAT is not designed to test logic or abstract reasoning but rather it tests the skills learned in school: reading, writing, and math. Students’ knowledge and skills in these subjects are important for success in college and future career. However, SAT scores are only one of many factors that colleges
The SAT is just one factor among many that colleges employ to understand applicants. It is best to keep the test in perspective and understand that it is only part of a comprehensive admissions process that also recognizes other factors including extracurricular activities and recommendation letters. Every college and university use a different combination of criteria for admissions. Feel free to reach out to schools of interests to understand their unique admissions policies.
Facts and Features | PSAT/NMSQT | PSAT10 |
Who takes the test? | 10th and 11th graders | 10th graders |
Where? | At school | At school |
When? | Schools choose between Oct. and Nov. | Schools choose a date between Feb. and March |
The American College Testing (ACT) is a standardized test for high school achievement and college admissions.