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Testing

Difference between SAT and ACT

ACT

  • Has four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science)
  • A 1-36 score,
  • Emphasizing speed and content, plus an optional essay, more curriculum-based, tests content knowledge
  • Science section tests data interpretation

SAT

  • Two main areas (Reading & Writing, Math)
  • A 400-1600 score,
  • Built-in calculator for Math, 
  • Focuses more on critical thinking and problem solving, with shorter passages and fewer questions overall.
  • No dedicated science section but integrates some science-related questions.  

General Testing Information

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges and universities have adopted a test-blind approach, meaning they do not consider standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT in their admissions processes. This shift was largely due to the challenges students faced in accessing testing centers during the pandemic. However, this policy is not universal, as it depends on the individual institution's policies. Some colleges have decided to reinstate testing requirements, making it crucial for prospective students to verify the specific admissions criteria of each college they are interested in. Even when test scores are not required for admission, some institutions might use them for placement purposes. Therefore, students should stay informed and check the latest requirements directly from the colleges they wish to apply to.

It is recommended for most students to take a PSAT (for practise) in the fall of junior year. The fall PSAT scores will highlight strengths and weaknesses, allowing students to focus their study efforts for the SAT test.

The recommended time for most students to take the SAT for college applications is the spring of their junior year. This allows for ample time to study, and retake the SAT in the fall of their senior year if needed.

Paso Robles High School currently does not offer ACT testing. Please contact the ACT organisation to inquire more information and test dates.

The ACT website, Test center locator and general test info website are linked below for your convenience.

The ACT Test - info - there is an option from this website to register for an ACT test as well.
Register for ACT testing
Find an ACT Test Center

Side note: 

College Board offers testing accommodations for students with documented disabilities that affect their ability to take standardized tests, but they need to be ordered through a College Board process.  

College Board testing accommodations are not guaranteed, but they are very likely to be approved if the student has a documented disability and has been using the same accommodations at school for at least four months. Receiving school-based accommodations is a strong indicator, but it is not an automatic guarantee, as the College Board requires an application and its own review for approval. Process may take up to 7 weeks for approval by College Board!

Please let your Counselor or SSOR (College Board Admin at your school)  know if your student needs test accomadations.

  • The SAT Suite of Assessments is made up of the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT®, PSAT™ 10, and PSAT™ 8/9. These assessments examine reading and writing and math skills at a level appropriate for the various grade levels taking the tests.

  • Students don't register for the PSAT/NMSQT through College Board. Schools and districts choose whether and when to offer it. Find out if and when we offer testing through your Google Classroom announcements.
    11th graders (and some 10th graders) take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall.


    The 11th grade PSAT serves as a practice test for the SAT and also qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
    The College Board sets the PSAT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) testing window, but individual schools choose the specific date within that window for their students. 

  • Your school chooses a date to offer the PSAT 10 during a certain given testing date window given by College Board.
    Find out if and when we offer testing through your Google Classroom announcements. Similar to the PSAT/NMSQT in content and format, but the PSAT 10 doesn't qualify students for National Merit scholarships. The PSAT 10 is given to 10th graders in the spring.

  • Students don't register for SAT School Day through College Board. Schools and districts choose whether to offer it and determine if students pay fees. Find out if and when we offer testing through your Google Classroom anouncements. Many students take the SAT for the first time in the spring of their junior year, and then again in the fall of their senior year to improve their score.

  • To set a new SAT date with College Board, log in to your College Board account and navigate to the "My SAT" page. From there, you can change your test date by first changing your registration and then selecting a new date. You will also need to select a new test center and confirm your personal information, and pay the reschedule fee. 

    Students can book test dates on their own here:  SAT Dates and Deadlines​​​​​​​

    Here's a more detailed breakdown:

    • If you don't have an account yet - create one.
      Log in to your College Board account:
    • Access your account at satsuite.collegeboard.org.
    • Go to "My SAT": Find and click on the "My SAT" page, which is where your current registrations are listed. 
      Change Registration:
      Click on the "Change Registration" link associated with the test you want to reschedule.
    • Change Test Date:
      At the bottom of the page, click on the "Change my test date" link.
    • Select a (New) Date:
      Choose a new test date from the available options.
    • Choose a Test Center:
      Select your preferred test center for the new date.
    • Confirm Information:
      Verify that all your personal information is correct.
    • Pay the Fee:
      Complete the payment for the rescheduling fee.
    • Confirmation:
      You will receive a confirmation email with your new admission ticket.