Think you can succeed without taking standardized tests? Think again.
- About 80 percent of four-year colleges and 20 percent of two-year colleges require the SAT or ACT.
Although the words "standardized tests" may be two of your least favorite, RELAX!
These exams aren't as bad as you think. As a student, there are a number of things you can do to make these tests seem much less intimidating - take practice test online, study with a study group, or work with a tutor just to name a few. The more you know the easier they are to manage. And let's face it - if you want to get into college, you can't get by without them.
Now, before you rush off and grab your No. 2 pencil, make sure you know the difference between the most widely used standardized tests. They are:
- SAT:
Also called the "SAT Reasoning Test." This test is required by most colleges and universities so they have a standard by which to measure you. The test contains three sections: Math, Critical Reading, and Writing. They add a 4th section that doesn't count towards your score - they use it to try out new questions for future editions of the SAT.
- PSAT/NMSQT:
PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It's a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT Reasoning Test. It also gives you a chance to enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs. - ACT:
This test might be required by the college or university you're applying to. The ACT is a multiple-choice test that covers the areas of English, Math, Reading and Science.
Another acronym you should know is:
- AP:
AP courses can help you explore areas of interest to eventually help you figure out what you might want to focus on in college, while passing an AP exam can help you earn credit for college while still in high school. You can gain a college-ready edge and stand out as you apply to college.
NOW WHAT? Ready for the next step of Think Over: Top 10?
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