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Everything you need to know about preparing
for the college entrance exams…
only high school which offers this practice exam
through Princeton Review (the official college entrance
exam provider) in the fort wayne area is homestead
with our parent club.
What is the PSAT?
The PSAT is a nationwide, multiple-choice test taken by about 3.4 million high
school students every year–mostly sophomores and juniors. A great primer for the
SAT® and even the ACT®, the PSAT includes math, critical reading and writing
questions. However, with no algebra II or essay section, it is shorter than the SAT
and ACT.
The PSAT doesn't count towards your college admissions. However, it is the
qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships. That means that the highest scoring
students may win scholarship money. So while you shouldn't stress about the
PSAT, you also shouldn't ignore it.
What specifically does the PSAT test?
Similar to the SAT, the PSAT has three sections that cover Math, Critical Reading,
and Writing. However, it is shorter than the SAT taking (a mere) 2 hours and 10
minutes. Learn more about the PSAT test.
How is the PSAT scored?
Its three sections: Critical Reading, Math and Writing are each worth 20 to 80
points.
PSAT quick facts
Frequency 2 test dates in October
Duration 2 hours 10 minutes
Sections math, critical reading, writing
Cost $14
max. score 80 in each section; 240 overall
avg. score 141 for 11th graders
Show Me the (Potential) Money
Winning a National Merit Scholarship is no easy task. Each year, approximately
50,000 students (out of 1.4 million) qualify for recognition based on their high
PSAT scores. Around 34,000 of these students receive Letters of Commendation
from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. While these letters don't include
a scholarship check, they look good to admissions offices and can be listed on your
college application.
The remaining 16,000 students or so – those whose scores put them in the top 99th
percentile in their state – become National Merit Semifinalists. Of these, around
half win scholarships after submitting their high school records, as well as
recommendations from teachers and a personal essay. Some students win a $2500
scholarship from the National Merit Corporation, while others may win larger
awards from colleges hoping to attract top scorers
Why take the psat?
 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.
 To see how your performance on an admissions test might compare with that of
others applying to college.
 To enter the competition for scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship
Corporation (grade 11).
 To help prepare for the SAT. You can become familiar with the kinds of questions
and the exact directions you will see on the SAT.
 To receive information from colleges when you check "yes" to Student Search
Service.
 You should definitely take the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year. Many
students benefit from also taking it earlier, typically in their sophomore year. If
you take it earlier, recognize that the PSAT/NMSQT is a junior-level test, so don't
get discouraged if your score is low. Your score will usually increase as your years
of study increase.
What is the SAT?
Created by The College Board, the SAT is an entrance exam used by most colleges
and universities to make admissions decisions. The idea (in theory, at least) is to
provide colleges with one common criterion that can be used to compare all
applicants. However, it is just one factor in the admissions decision. Schools also
consider your high school GPA, academic transcript, letters of recommendation,
interviews and personal essays. The weight placed on SAT scores varies from
school to school. For more specific information on the importance of SAT scores
at the schools you're interested in, contact the admissions offices directly.
The SAT is offered nationally every year in October, November, December,
January, March, May and June.
For more specific information on the importance of SAT scores at the schools
you're interested in, contact the admissions offices directly.
What specifically does the SAT test?
There are three SAT sections: Math, Critical Reading and Writing. The Writing
section requires test takers to complete an essay that is factored into the final score.
Start to finish, the test will take you three hours and 45 minutes.
Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
Is one harder? Is one better? More prestigious? More useful? If only it were that
simple. In many cases, schools will accept either exam, so it's up to you to figure
out the right test to take. To do that, you can take The Princeton Review
Assessment, a test designed to help you determine which test is a better fit with
your abilities. More about the SAT vs. the ACT.
How is the SAT scored?
Each section is scored on a 200- to 800-point scale, making the "perfect" score
2400.
How do I know if my score is good enough to get me into my dream school?
Good question. Check out the Can I Get In function in our School Search.
How do I register?
SAT registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each test date. To
register by mail, fill out the registration form in the College Board’s Bulletin for
the SAT Program. You can get a free copy of this publication from your school’s
guidance counselor. Or you can call ETS at 609-771-7600 and they’ll send you one
free of charge. You can also register online at the College Board website
SAT quick facts
Frequency 7 times/year
Duration 3 hours, 45 minutes
Sections math, critical reading, writing
cost $50
max. score 800 per section
avg. score math – 516
critical reading – 501
writing – 492
MYTH #1: The SAT is a test of intelligence and my scores are a good indication of
how I will do in college.
FACT: Your SAT scores reflect how good you are at taking the SAT (as well as
how much time you spent preparing)–and that's about it. Nevertheless, admissions
officers continue to place great weight on this test. So it's important to do well.
MYTH #2: The SAT tests complex math concepts.
FACT: SAT math can seem challenging because of the way the concepts are
tested, not because of the concepts themselves. The math sections include concepts
you learned in the seventh or eighth grade, like arithmetic, basic geometry, basic
algebra and algebra II. You won't see any calculus or trigonometry on the SAT.
MYTH #3: You can't really improve your Critical Reading score.
FACT: You can improve your Critical Reading score by expanding your
vocabulary. Reading comprehension and sentence completions all rely upon your
understanding of the words in the questions and answer choices. So read books,
newspapers and anything else you can get your hands on, and check out our SAT
prep for additional vocabulary-building tools.
MYTH #4: It's better to leave a question blank than to guess.
FACT: Not necessarily. You receive one point for every correct answer, zero
points for every question you leave unanswered and minus one-quarter of a point
for every incorrect answer If you can eliminate even one of the answer choices,
guess! From a purely statistical standpoint, this approach will gain you more points
over the whole test than you'll get by playing it safe and leaving the questions
blank.
Here's what you need to know about the "score choice" feature on
the SAT.
Score choice allows the test-taker (you) to decide which SAT scores to release to prospective
colleges. In the past, colleges would automatically receive all of your scores.
Score choice is a free option that you choose when you register for the test. If you do not choose
it, your prospective colleges will continue to receive all of your scores.
Does that mean colleges will see only my best scores on each section?
No. Score choice allows you to release your entire SAT Reasoning Test (formerly known as the
SAT I) results from one or more SAT test dates. If you take the test in October, for example, you
can release all of your section scores (Math, Critical Reading, and Writing) from that date or
none of your section scores from that date. You're not allowed to pick and choose by section.
The rules for the SAT Subject Tests (formerly known as the SAT IIs) are a little different. You
can release any SAT Subject Test score from any date. For example, if you took both US History
and Math Level 2 in June, you could release the History while holding back the Math.
SAT vs. ACT
Colleges will accept either the SAT or ACT. So which should you take?
It's all about the numbers. Some students end up scoring substantially higher
on the SAT; others do better on the ACT. In lieu of a crystal ball, we created
The Princeton Review Assessment (PRA) designed to help you determine
which test is better fit with your abilities.
To help you zero in on the right exam, here are seven key differences:
ACT questions tend to be more straightforward.
ACT questions are often easier to understand on a first read. On the SAT, you may
need to spend time figuring out what you're being asked before you can start
solving the problem.
The SAT has a stronger emphasis on vocabulary.
If you're an ardent wordsmith, you'll love the SAT. If words aren't your thing, you
may do better on the ACT.
The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not.
You don't need to know anything about amoebas or chemical reactions for the
ACT Science section. It is meant to test your reading and reasoning skills based
upon a given set of facts. But if you're a true science-phobe, the SAT might be a
better fit.
The ACT tests more advanced math concepts.
In addition to basic arithmetic, algebra I and II, and geometry, the ACT tests your
knowledge of trigonometry, too. That said, the ACT Math section is not
necessarily harder, since many students find the questions to be more
straightforward than those on the SAT.
The ACT Writing Test is optional on test day, but required by many schools.
The 25-minute SAT essay is required and is factored into your writing score. The
30-minute ACT writing test is optional. If you choose to take it, it is not included
in your composite score — schools will see it listed separately. Many colleges
require the writing section of the ACT, so be sure to check with the schools where
you are applying before opting out.
The SAT is broken up into more sections.
On the ACT, you tackle each content area (English, Math, Reading and Science) in
one big chunk, with the optional writing test at the end. On the SAT, the content
areas (Critical Reading, Math and Writing) are broken up into 10 sections, with the
required essay at the beginning. You do a little math, a little writing, a little critical
reading, a little more math, etc. When choosing between the SAT and ACT, ask
yourself if moving back and forth between content areas confuse you or keep you
energized?
The ACT is more of a "big picture" exam.
College admissions officers care about how you did on each section of the SAT.
On the ACT, they're most concerned with your composite score. So if you're weak
in one content area but strong in others, you could still end up with a very good
ACT score and thus make a strong impression with the admissions committee.
Before Exams:
 Get a full night of sleep before the test.
 Eat breakfast and make sure you are well hydrated. Bring a water bottle
for the test.
 AVOID STRESSFUL life changing events, family, moving, relationships.
 Bring plenty of sharpened No. 2 pencils.
 Bring a watch and calculator for the test.
 Go to the bathroom right before the test!
 RELAX and BREATHE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What is the ACT?
Created by ACT Inc., the ACT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and
universities to make admissions decisions. The idea (in theory, at least) is to
provide colleges with one common criterion that can be used to compare all
applicants. The weight placed on ACT scores varies from school to school. Other
important factors that schools consider in their admissions decisions are your high
school GPA, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, interviews and
personal essays. For more specific information on the importance of ACT scores at
the schools you're interested in, contact the admissions offices directly.
The ACT is offered nationally every year in September, October, December,
February*, April and June.
What specifically does the ACT test?
The ACT has four sections: English, Reading, Math and Science, as well as an
optional 30-minute writing test. Some schools may require the writing test, so be
sure to ask before you take it. More about what's on the different sections of the
ACT.
Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
SAT versus ACT. Is one harder? Is one better? More prestigious? More useful? If
only it were that simple. More about the SAT vs. the ACT.
How is the ACT scored?
You'll earn one ACT score (1 to 36) on each test (English, Math, Reading and
Science) and a composite ACT score, which is an average of these four tests.
Usually, when people ask about your score, they're referring to your composite
ACT score. The composite score falls between 1 and 36. The national average is
about 21.
If, for example, you scored 31 on the English, 30 on the Math, 29 on the Reading
and 30 on the Science, your composite ACT score would be 30.
The ACT includes an optional essay, known as the writing test. If you take the
writing test, you will receive a writing test subscore and a combined
English/writing score. Visit www.ACT.org for detailed information about how
your ACT writing test will be scored.
How do I know if my score is good enough to get me into my dream school?
Good question. Check out the Can I Get In function in our School Search.
When should I take the ACT?
Students have traditionally taken the ACT in the spring of their junior year and, if
necessary, again in the fall of their senior year. However, more and more students
are choosing to take their first ACT earlier, such as during the fall of their junior
year. This gives them more flexibility to retake the ACT test one or more times, or
to take the SAT or SAT subject tests.
How do I register?
Registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each ACT test date.
You can get registration materials from your school's guidance counselor, or call
ACT, Inc. at 319–337–1270 and they'll send you a registration packet. You can
also register online at www.ACT.org.
ACT quick facts
Frequency 6 times/year
Duration 3 hours, 3½ hours including essay
Sections english, math, reading, science, writing
Cost $34 - $49.50
max. score 36
avg. score
21
What are the APs?
AP ® (Advanced Placement) Tests are college–level exams on specific subjects
administered in May upon the completion of an AP course taken at a student's high
school. At many colleges and universities, a high enough score will earn the
student college credit. In some instances can mean an overall lower college tuition
bill. There are currently over 30 AP test options, though few high schools offer
classes in every subject.
AP tests are only offered in May, so if you're going to take them, you need to plan
ahead.
What specifically do the APs test?
A lot. Similar to the SAT Subject Tests, there are multiple different AP tests that
cover a range of subjects. There are over 30 AP test options, ranging from Biology
to European History to Music History. Want to know the full list? We're glad you
asked. See the list.
How are the APs scored?
AP Exams are scored on a scale of 1–5. While every college is different, most
schools won't accept AP scores for credit unless you score at least a 4.
How do I know if my score is good enough to earn college credit?
First know that every school is different. Some won't accept credit unless you score
a 5. Some won't accept them at all. Be sure to check with your top schools to
understand how they handle AP scores.
How do I register?
The APs are administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT.
However, not all AP tests are offered at every school. If you have an AP
Coordinator at your school, talk to them directly about registration. If your school
doesn't have an AP Coordinator, you need to call AP Services no later than March
1 to get the contact information of your closest AP Coordinator. You can find the
number for AP services on the College Board website.
AP quick facts
Frequency twice/year in May
number of APs 33
cost $87 per test
max. score 5
How often can I take the act assessment?
 As often as you wish– many students test twice, once as a junior and again as a
senior.
 You can test only once per national or state test date.
 You should definitely consider retesting if:
 you had any problems during the test, such as misunderstanding
the directions or not feeling physically well
 you are not satisfied that your scores accurately represent your
abilities in the areas tested
www.collegboard.com/.org
www.princetonreview.com
www.actstudent.org
ACT Test Date Registration Deadline (Late Fee Required)
September 21, 2013 August 23, 2013
August 24–September 6, 2013
October 26, 2013 September 27, 2013
September 28–October 11, 2013
December 14, 2013 November 8, 2013
November 9–22, 2013
February 8, 2014* January 10, 2014
January 11–24, 2014
April 12, 2014
March 7, 2014
March 8–21, 2014
June 14, 2014
May 9, 2014
May 10–23, 2014
What are the SAT Subject Tests?
SAT Subject Tests are one hour tests that focus on specific academic subjects.
Many selective schools require you take at least one if not more SAT Subject
Tests. Check with the admissions department of your top schools to learn more
about their requirements. The best part about the Subject Tests is that in many
cases you get to choose which ones you'll take, so you should pick the ones where
you're strongest.
What specifically do the SAT Subject Tests test?
It depends on the test. There are 5 content areas–Math, History, Literature,
Science, and Languages. There are multiple tests in every content area except
Literature.
How are the SAT Subject Tests scored?
Each Subject Test is scored on a scale of 200–800.
How do I register?
Similar to the SAT, you can register for SAT subject tests registration deadlines
fall approximately 5 weeks before each test date. To register by mail, fill out the
registration form in the College Board's Bulletin for the SAT Program. You can get
a free copy of this publication from your school's guidance counselor. Or you can
call ETS at 609–771–7600 and they'll send you one free of charge. You can also
register online at the College Board website.
SAT Subject quick
Test
facts
Frequency varies by test
Duration one hour per test
sections varies by test
cost varies by test
max. score 800
avg. score varies by test
Final comment: Parent club provides this evolving and every changing service for
our students to allow practice on the exam day, environment, emotions and above all
learning from our answers, correct or not. The real learning comes from not only taking
the exam, but reviewing the results, understanding how the correct/incorrect answers
and improving on taking the ACTUAL COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAM.
Also, we provide take home (with an extra weekend to return the scantron) exams, directions,
scantrons and scoring by Princeton Review for schedule conflicts, illnesses, special needs and
unforeseen circumstances.
Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.
Vince Lombardi
Read more at
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/practice.html#TqIeI3CI57Vmu3dQ.99
How willI do on a retest?
 ACT research shows that of the students who took the ACT more
than once:
 55% increased their composite score on the retest
 22% had no change in their composite score on the retest
 23% decreased their composite score on the retest

If you take the test more than once, click on the following link to
determine how to send the scores from one testing date to the
colleges of your choice:
http://www.actstudent.org/faq/answers/morethanonce.html
Indiana University’s Admissions Data (2012):


Percent of Applicants Admitted: 74%
Test Scores -- 25th / 75th Percentile
o SAT Critical Reading: 510 / 620
o SAT Math: 540 / 660
o SAT Writing: 510 / 610
o ACT Composite: 24 / 29
o ACT English: 23 / 30
o ACT Math: 24 / 29
o ACT Writing: 7 / 9
What is required in the college
applications?
When you apply to a college, you'll submit several things: an application, high school transcript,
SAT or ACT score report, letters of recommendation and one or more personal statements or
essays.
An important heads–up: applying for financial aid is a separate process that requires you to fill
out a separate set of forms.
Application
You can fill out a paper application or apply online. Most schools require you to list basic
information about you and your family, as well as your GPA, standardized test scores, and any
extracurriculars or awards you earned in high school.
Over three hundred colleges and universities now accept the Common Application, a single form
that you can fill out and submit to multiple schools. The Common Application is meant to
simplify the admissions process for you. Using it means you don't have to fill out individual
application forms for each school you apply to.
There is no penalty for using it: Colleges are required to give equal consideration to students who
use the Common Application and those who use the school's own application. If you do use the
Common App, however, be advised that schools may have supplementary forms you'll need to
fill out (including additional essays!).
Transcript
Some colleges require that your high school send your transcript directly, others allow you to
send it. In the latter case, your high school will give you a sealed envelope. Do not break the seal
on the envelope or your transcripts will not be accepted!
SAT or ACT Score Report
When you take the SAT or ACT, you can request that a score report be sent to your prospective
colleges. Make sure you leave plenty of time for your scores to be processed and sent.
Letters of Recommendation
Colleges usually require two or three letters of recommendation from high school teachers or
guidance counselors.
When requesting a letter of recommendation, pick someone who knows you well and can speak
to your strengths. Approach your potential letter–writers about two months prior to the actual
due date. Teachers and guidance counselors are usually swamped with term papers and other
college application requests toward the end of the fall semester.
Personal Statement or Essay
This is by far the most time–consuming and difficult part of any application. The personal
statement or essay is usually about 300 to 500 words in length, occasionally longer, depending
on the college. The prompt or question will be provided in the application. Be sure to write in
your own voice about a topic unique to you. We recommend writing several drafts. Proofread
carefully, and ask a teacher to edit your work.
SAT
Date
Nov
2
Dec
7
Jan
25
SAT Subject
Tests Available
(Find Dates)

Subject Tests

Subject Tests

Subject Tests
Mar
8
May
3
Jun
7

Subject Tests

Subject Tests
Registration
Deadline
Late Registration
Deadline
Mail
Oct
3
Nov
8
Send Reminder
Dec
27
Send Reminder
Feb
7
Send Reminder
Apr
4
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May
9
Send Reminder
Deadline for
Changes
Phone/
Online
Oct
18
Oct
21
Oct
21
Nov
22
Nov
25
Nov
25
Jan
10
Jan
14
Jan
14
Feb
21
Feb
24
Feb
24
Apr
18
Apr
21
Apr
21
May
23
May
28
May
28