About College Entrance Exams
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ACT
The ACT is a national college admissions exam that consists of subject area tests in English, Math, Reading, and Science. The exam is also offered with a writing test. Almost all colleges and universities use the ACT to make admissions decisions.
PSAT/NMSQT (grades 10 & 11)
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board and cosponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). The scores from the PSAT/NMSQT are used to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
PSAT 8/9 (grades 8 & 9)
The PSAT 8/9 (Preliminary SAT) is the first in the College Board's tests, and is offered to eighth and ninth graders. The purpose of the PSAT 8/9 is to establish a starting point in terms of college and career readiness at the time when students are transitioning to high school. It tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT - in a way that makes sense for your grade level.
SAT
The SAT is a globally recognized college admission test that lets you show colleges what you know and how well you can apply that knowledge. It tests your knowledge of reading, writing, and math - subjects that are taught every day in high school classrooms. Most students take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school and almost all colleges and universities use the SAT to make admissions decisions.