• Resource Links:

    College Board Practice Test

    Khan Academy Prep Material

     

     

    What is the PSAT? (Purchased through College Board and given to students at no cost during the Fall Semester)

    The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized assessment created by the College Board that helps students prepare for the SAT and future college entrance exams.

     

    The PSAT measures skills in:

    • Reading
    • Writing and Language
    • Mathematics

    The exam helps students:

    • Practice for the SAT
    • Identify academic strengths and areas for improvement
    • Receive feedback on college readiness

     

    Why is the PSAT Important?

    For 11th grade students, the PSAT also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). High-scoring students may qualify for recognition and scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship Program.

    Who Takes the PSAT?

    • 10th Grade: Practice and preparation for the SAT
    • 11th Grade: Qualifies students for National Merit recognition and scholarships

     

     

    What Is the SAT? (Students/Parents can purchase this exam through College Board) 

    The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a nationally recognized college entrance exam administered by College Board. It is designed to measure the skills and knowledge students develop in high school that are essential for college and career success.

    The SAT assesses students in two primary areas:

    • Reading and Writing – Measures reading comprehension, vocabulary in context, grammar, and analytical skills.
    • Math – Assesses algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math concepts.

     

    What is SAT School Day? (No Purchase is needed/ is given during Spring Semester) 

    The SAT School Day is an opportunity for students to take the SAT during the regular school day at their high school instead of on a weekend at a testing center. This administration is provided through the school district to help ensure that all students have access to a college entrance exam.

    Where Will Students Test?

    Students from Hightower High School will take the SAT School Day on the campus of Hightower High School during the school day. Testing will take place in designated testing rooms across the campus.

    Why is SAT School Day Important?

    SAT School Day allows students to:

    • Take the SAT at no cost

    • Test in a familiar school environment

    • Receive an official SAT score that can be used for college admissions and scholarships

    Students should be sure to bring their district-issued laptop and charger on testing day and arrive on campus on time and prepared to test.

     

    Resource Links:

    College Board Practice Test

    Khan Academy Prep Material

     

    Why Is the SAT Beneficial?

    While some colleges are currently test-optional, the SAT can still offer several advantages:

    1. College Admissions Opportunities
    Many colleges use SAT scores as part of their admissions review process. A strong score can enhance a student’s application and help demonstrate academic readiness.

    2. Scholarship Eligibility
    High SAT scores can qualify students for merit-based scholarships. In some cases, strong performance can significantly reduce the cost of college.

    3. Academic Placement
    Some colleges use SAT scores for course placement. Strong scores may allow students to place into higher-level courses or bypass certain entry-level classes.

    4. Strengthens College Applications
    For students with a GPA that may not fully reflect their academic potential, the SAT provides another opportunity to showcase their abilities.

    5. Builds Test-Taking Skills
    Preparing for and taking the SAT helps students develop critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving skills that are valuable beyond the exam itself.

     

    When Should Students Take the SAT?

    Students do not have to wait until their junior or senior year to take the SAT. While many students choose to test during their junior year, the SAT can be taken as early as middle school if a student feels academically prepared.

    When students register independently through the College Board, there is a registration fee required for each exam administration.

    In addition to national Saturday test dates, our district offers SAT School Day, which is a designated school-day administration that allows eligible students to take the SAT at no cost. This provides an excellent opportunity for students to test without the financial burden of registration fees.

    We encourage families to consider their student’s academic readiness, college goals, and scholarship aspirations when deciding the best time to test.

     

    Resource Links:

    College Board Practice Test

    Khan Academy Prep Material