Saint Thomas Academy School Code—242320—used for test registration
Colleges that require testing accept either the ACT or SAT as part of the application process. While the exam is merely one factor in most college admission review processes, it is always best to feel prepared and confident going into the exam.
Standardized Tests Timeline
9TH GRADE
- Practice ACT
Date: October
Saint Thomas Academy sponsored and required
10TH GRADE
- Practice SAT
Date: October
Saint Thomas Academy sponsored and required
Practice for the PSAT for junior year which will determine eligibility for National Merit Scholarship - AP Test as appropriate
Student responsible for registration and cost
11TH GRADE
- PSAT/NMSQT
Date: October
Saint Thomas Academy sponsored and required
The PSAT is a two-hour test given once a year in October. Students take the PSAT, not only as preparation for the SAT but also to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. - SAT and ACT
www.collegeboard.com (SAT) and www.actstudent.org (ACT)
Students are responsible for registration and cost of each test.
Students can chose to take either the ACT or SAT. Most students choose to take the test two- three times. How often and when to take the test is an individual choice. Your College Counselor can assist with coming up with a testing plan. - AP Test(s) as appropriate
Students are responsible for registration and cost.
12TH GRADE
- SAT and ACT
www.collegeboard.com, www.actstudent.org
Students are responsible for registration and cost - AP Tests as appropriate
Students are responsible for registration and cost
We encourage students to take AP tests for all AP courses they enroll in.
Key differences between the ACT and the SAT:
The SAT and ACT test on the same basic material in a very similar manner, but the ACT gives you less time per problem to go through the same set of steps.
ACT Time Per Problem
English: 75 problems in 45 minutes.
Math: 60 problems in 60 minutes.
Reading: 40 problems in 35 minutes.
SAT Time Per Problem
Writing+Language: 44 problems in 35 minutes.
Reading: 52 problems in 65 minutes.
Math: 58 problems in 80 minutes.
Time management is important on the SAT, and it is EVERYTHING on the ACT.
For more information, and to register for standardized tests, go to the following websites:
ACT.org
College Board