College Testing FAQ (PSAT, SAT, and ACT)

PSAT

  1. When are they offered? 
    PSATs are offered once a year in the third week of October.
  1. When should it be taken and how do I sign my child up for it?
    Students can take the PSAT in sophomore year, but all students are encouraged to take it in their junior year given that they have acquired the skills (particularly in math) to be prepared for the test.  Juniors are also eligible to be entered into the National Merit Scholarship Competition based on their scores.  Registration for the PSAT is directly through MHS and registration information is sent in September.
  1. Are PSAT scores reported to colleges/universities?
    No.  The PSAT is simply a practice test to help prepare for the SAT and allows students to identify their strengths and weaknesses in areas which may require additional study or practice.

SAT

  1. When should my child take it and how many times should he/she take it?
    Typically, students should take the SAT in the spring (May) of their junior year and again in the fall of their senior year.  SATs should not be taken more than three times.  Registration and information on test dates for the SATs are through the College Board’s website www.collegeboard.org   
  2. Do all SAT scores have to be reported to colleges/universities?
    It is the student's responsibility to request official SAT scores to be sent to colleges directly through the College Board.  MHS does not report SAT scores to colleges.  Please visit www.collegeboard.org or speak with your counselor for questions. 
  1. How important are SATs in college admissions? 
    It depends on the colleges/universities your child may be applying to.  For those schools that are SAT optional, they are not considered for admissions decisions.  For those schools that require them, they are considered important in the admissions process.  Generally speaking, the high school transcript (GPA and courses taken) is the most important factor. SAT scores are taken into account and become particularly important when it comes to applying to more selective schools.

ACT

  1. What is it and should my child take it?
    ACT stands for the American College Test and it is a standardized test used as an admissions tool for all college/universities.  It is composed of questions which test students’ knowledge and skills, in English, Reading, Math, and Science.  Scores range from 1 to 36.  The ACT should be taken at the end of junior year or the beginning of senior year.  Many schools now accept ACT scores in lieu of SAT Subject Tests.  For registration and test dates, visit www.actstudent.org
  2. Are ACT scores reported to colleges/universities?
    It is the student's responsibility to request official ACT scores to be sent to colleges directly through the ACT.  MHS does not send ACT scores to colleges.
  1. Should my child take both the SAT and ACT? 
    Yes.  We recommend that students take both given that most colleges/universities accept either the SAT or ACT. This allows the student to compare his/her scores on both tests and send in the scores from the test that best represents him/her.