Upper School

SAT/ACT Information

CEEB Code/School Code: 053112

The SAT Reasoning Test is the most widely used test in college admission; it includes three sections: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing. It is developed by the College Board and then presented through the Educational Testing Service (ETS). All students who plan to attend college should take the SAT Reasoning Test. Juniors are encouraged to take the SAT Reasoning Test in their spring semester and seniors in their fall semester.

Each of the three sections of the SAT Reasoning Test is scored on a scale of 200-800, with two writing sub-scores for the multiple-choice and the essay.

In the U.S., the SAT is administered on seven national test dates: October, November, December, January, March, May, and June. Registration deadlines are about six weeks before the test date. It is recommended that students register online at the College Board SAT website.

Subject Tests (formerly SAT II's) are designed to measure your knowledge and skills in particular subject areas. Students take the Subject Tests in specific subjects like English, history, mathematics, science, and language. Many colleges use the Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, and to advise students about course selection. Some colleges specify the Subject Tests they require for admission or placement; others allow applicants to choose which tests they take.

Subject Tests are scored on a scale of 200-800. All Subject Tests are one-hour, multiple-choice tests; however, some of the tests have unique formats and/or test dates.

In the U.S., SAT Subject Tests are administered on six national test dates: October, November, December, January, May, and June. Registration deadlines are about six weeks before the test date. You should register online at the College Board SAT website.

• Registration Dates and Deadlines
• Online Registration for the SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests
• Sending SAT Scores to Colleges

The ACT is a national college admission examination. 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. The ACT is used heavily in the mid-west and is becoming more common in the western region of the U.S. Most colleges will accept either the ACT with Writing or the SAT Reasoning Test. It is up to you to know which tests are required by the colleges you are considering.

Each section of the ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36 with a total composite score that averages your scores on all sections. For complete ACT scoring information, go here.

In the U.S., the ACT is administered on five national test dates: October, December, February, April, and June. In California and other selected states, the ACT is also offered in late September. Registration deadlines are about six weeks before the test date.

• Registration Dates and Deadlines
• Online Registration for the ACT
• Sending ACT Scores to Colleges

There are a variety of test prep agencies on the market and those listed here are simply for reference. St. Margaret's does not endorse any test prep program or company.

• Princeton Review
• IVY West
• Revolution Prep
• Kaplan
• Capistrano Adult and Community Education (a lower cost option run through Ivy West)
• Eureka

Some free online services are also available from:

• Number 2 Pencil
• College Board
• ACT

Students with documented learning differences may be able to receive extended time or other prescribed accommodations for the PSAT/SAT/ACT/AP exams. There are strict guidelines in place that must be followed for students to receive permission from the testing agencies to test with accommodations. Applications for accommodations must be completed well in advance of testing dates and in concert with the St. Margaret's SSD liaison.