All juniors and seniors are encouraged to take the SAT I and/or ACT as part of the college admissions process.  The counselors will help you decide which exams are appropriate.  Be sure to ask if you are not sure. Very often students can maximize their scores and chances of acceptance at the college of their choice by repeating exams, and certain colleges require not only the SAT-I, but one or more SAT-II exams as well.  It is also important to note the gaining popularity of the ACT in the college admissions process, particularly at many highly selective colleges.

It is recommended that the first experience with the SAT-I occur in the spring of the junior year.  SAT-II exams, required for applications to more selective colleges, should be taken after various courses regardless of class status.  For example, the best time to take the Math Level 1 SAT-II is after completing Math B or Geometry.  Students interested in applying to highly competitive colleges should plan an  individual test-taking strategy with their counselors.

Please do not stress over SAT/ACT scores as they are but one factor in determining admission decisions.  Remember that they were designed to predict how well students perform in their first year or college, and may not necessarily predict overall college success over the course of four or more years.  Many students who just don't seem to be great at taking standardized tests such as the SAT have excellent success in the first year of college.  Work ethic seems to be a much more important factor!  As a point of interest, FairTest is a website which lists schools that do not use SAT I or ACT scores for admitting substantial numbers of students into Bachelor degree programs. Your counselor will assist you in finding possible options for collegiate study regardless of your SAT scores.  Come see us for assistance...