College Entrance Exams
Students are invited to contact Beyond CV for more information including fee waivers.
Why take the SAT or ACT?
Many Oregon universities and other universities have become test optional. Please check with the university you are interested to check their test status. Remember that if you submit your test scores, the test score will be used in combination with your other information including coursework, grades, and activities. See the link below for an example:
PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests
The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a practice test for the SAT that is also used to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarship programs utilize junior year test scores only.
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is generally taken during the junior and/or senior year. The SAT Reasoning Test is comprised of two sections: Critical Reading and Math, with scores ranging from 200-800 for each section for a potential score of 1600. There is an optional Essay version, that many colleges require. Registration is ONLINE only.
SAT Subject Tests are used for College admissions and sometimes for course placement for colleges classes.
ACT (American College Test)
Generally taken during the junior and/or senior year. The ACT consists of four multiple-choice tests: English, Reading, Math and Science Reasoning. Students are given a score for each test, with scores ranging from 1-36. These four scores are then averaged to arrive at a “Composite score.” The ACT offers an optional Writing Test that is only taken if a student intends to apply to a college requiring it. The difference between this test and the SAT is science. If you are good at science, take this test.
Preparing for College Entrance Exams
Solid academic coursework is the best way to prepare for college entrance exams and for college in general. Talk with your counselor to plan your course selections accordingly. Many students prepare for these tests by doing at least two of the following:
- Taking the PSAT/NMSQT
- Participating in a review class through the Assistance League of Corvallis.
- Studying an ACT or SAT review book or CD program. Beyond CV has many review books that are free and available to check out.
- Using Khan Academys’ free online SAT test prep.
Additional information and materials are available in the Beyond CV office. Free resources are also available online at the links below.
Registration for the SAT and ACT
Registration for the SAT and ACT is online at the links below. These links also provide the most up to date test information and test dates. There are dates where these tests are administered at CV. The PSAT is administered at CVHS and students sign up in the fall by paying the fee to the bookkeeper. There is no online registration for the PSAT.
