When to Take College Admissions Tests

The senior year can be overwhelming with college applications, FAFSA, scholarships, senior activities, etc....so don't wait to take College Admissions tests. In addition, the best time to apply to colleges and universities is early in the senior year (September or October), so have your testing done before your senior year. Here are some general suggestions:

Sophomore year: 

• PSAT 10 in March as a practice (no need to prepare this year...use it as exposure to the test).
• Focus on state testing the rest of the year.

Junior year:

• Begin practicing during the summer, using preparation books (library or bookstore) or online resources
• PSAT/NMSQT in October (this year, prepare yourself and take practice tests)
• SAT:
  • If you take Algebra 2 in your Sophomore year, you can take the SAT any time during the year
  • If you take Algebra 2 in your Junior year, wait until March, April, May, or June 
  • Make sure to prepare before, using PSAT results and practice books
• ACT:
  • If you take Algebra 2 in your Sophomore year, you can take the SAT any time during the year
  • If you take Algebra 2 in your Junior year, wait until March, April, or May
  • Make sure to prepare before, using Pre-ACT results (if you take it) and practice books
• Re-take the ACT and SAT in June.  Most students find their scores increase the second time they take a test during the year
• SAT subject tests in at least 2 subjects (3 is better) IF you are planning to go to California, Ivy League, highly select colleges, etc.  You can take these any time during the year you feel prepared for the exam. They are offered on the same testing days as the SAT.

Senior year:

• Retake any exams early in the year if you need a higher score (for admissions or scholarships).

Community Colleges

Community colleges do not require an ACT or an SAT, but they do require placement tests, like the Compass (SFCC and SCC). We still suggest that students take the SAT/ACT - the score can be used for scholarships and/or for Math and English placement. Please check with your chosen community college for more information.