A: Students who familiarize themselves with the test format through practice materials are better able to attain scores that accurately reflect their school performance. Practice materials are available online, in books and in courses. The best choice among these resources is dependent upon the student’s learning style, discipline, time and finances. Certain students who have difficulty in a particular subject area may also benefit by tutoring. Students should consult with their teachers and The College Guidance Office with questions regarding their individual needs.

A: Practice tests are available at many websites. Use the following links to find them at the Gocollege, ACT, and Peterson’s sites.

A: Unless you are confident that your SAT scores fully reflect your achievement, you should take both tests. The ACT and SAT are not identical. The SAT focuses upon problem solving while the ACT is designed to test academic development and relies more upon the student’s knowledge of particular subject matters. Some students will perform better on one test than another and most colleges will now accept the ACT in place of SAT Reasoning.

A: The answer varies depending upon the test. A student may not limit the SAT scores reported to colleges; the College Board will send all previous SAT and Subject Test scores for up to five test dates. Generally, admissions officers focus on an applicant’s best verbal and math SAT scores, even if they are achieved on different dates. Some colleges will average a student’s SAT scores. Students should not, however, take the test more than three times. The ACT will allow students to send scores from a particular date.

A: As a general rule, Subject Tests should be taken immediately after completion of the relevant course. Three subject tests may be taken on the same date, but it is not advisable to schedule more than two. Students who anticipate applying first round Early Action or Early Decision should plan ahead, understanding that the October test administration is the last date which can be used for either the SAT I or Subject Tests to ensure timely submission of the scores.