1) Should I take the SAT I or ACT?
Some Midwestern or private colleges usually ask for the ACT scores only. All Florida universities accept both tests. You should check with each school you want your scores sent to and see which test is acceptable.

2) When should I take the SAT/ACT?
Typically, students begin testing in the spring of their junior year. Try to get all your testing completed by the fall of your senior year.

3) Why do colleges want me to take the SAT/ACT?
There are more than 25,000 high schools in the United States, and their courses and grading standards vary widely. Since the SAT/ACT are standardized and objective, it gives colleges a common yardstick that complements the high school curriculum in order to compare your verbal and math scores with other applicants.

4) Is it possible to fail or pass the SAT/ACT?
There is no such thing as a "passing score" or grade on the SAT/ACT test. Colleges develop a sense of how well students who score in a certain range are likely to fare at their schools; consequently, they judge scores to be high or low by their own local standards.

5) How many times should I take the test(s)?
At least half of all students take the SAT/ACT twice - in the spring of the junior year and fall of their senior year. All scores are reported, but colleges generally look only at the highest ones. If you plan on taking the test more than once to improve you score, make sure you do some test preparation and studying beforehand. Studies have shown that you are more likely to score higher if you have done some type of studying or preparation before you test again.

6) How do I register for the SAT/ACT?
Several ways. You can register online. Go to CollegeBoard.com to register for the SAT and ACT.org to register for the ACT. Alternatively, you can obtain a Registration Bulletin from your school counselor. Students who have previously registered for the SAT can re-register by calling 1-800-SAT-SCORE. To re-register for the ACT call 1-800-525-6926.

7) How do I find out how I did on the test?
Scores are mailed - usually about four weeks after the test date - to you, your high school, and the colleges or scholarship programs that you designate.

8) What are the SAT II and are they needed?
SAT II are subject tests which measure your knowledge of particular subject areas and your ability to apply that knowledge. Mostly private or ivy league colleges require or recommend one or more of these tests for placement or admission. Again, you should check with the college or university you are applying to check their requirements.

9) What kind of score do I need to make to be accepted to a college?
That depends on the "type" of college you are applying to and the other credentials you have (grades, essay, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, community service, leadership involvement).

For more information: SAT I and SAT II           ACT

Other Tests: PSAT/NMSQT