PSAT (Optional Test for Juniors)
The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is a standardized test that measures critical reading, math problem-solving and writing skills. It is also a National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The PSAT is conducted in October each year and is an optional test for juniors.
The most common reasons for taking the PSAT are to:
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Qualify for the National Merit Scholarship (NMS). Juniors can compete nationally for awards ranging from $500 to $2500, with some scholarships renewable for up to four years of college.
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Receive feedback on strengths and weaknesses on skills necessary for college study. Students can then focus their preparation on those areas that could benefit them from additional study or practice
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Receive information from colleges and scholarship programs when you check "yes" to Student Search Service.
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Help prepare for the SAT or ACT by becoming familiar with the kinds of questions, directions, and testing environment.
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Guide booklets containing sample questions and test-taking hints are available here: Students can also look into Khan Academy (https://www.khanacademy.org/sat) for additional practice.
ASVAB Exam (Juniors)
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) exam is a mandatory exam for all juniors. The ASVAB Career Exploration Program is designed to specifically assist high school students with career planning, whether students plan to enter the workforce, military or other college/vocational programs after high school.
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The ASVAB exam is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success. Students are under NO obligation to serve in any branch of the military by taking this test, and there is no cost for it.
Also, students' ACT scores can be estimated based off of their ASVAB/AFQT score and juniors may get a sense for how they might do on the ACT in the spring.
ACT
The ACT is a standardized test that measures high school students' skills in five core areas: English, math, reading, science, and writing. It evaluates their general educational development and capability to complete college-level work.
Juniors take the ACT so that they can submit their scores to colleges as part of the college application process.
The ACT is conducted each March and is mandatory for all juniors.
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The ACT Academy is a free personalized online learning tool and test practice program. Information on the Academy and other test preparation materials for the ACT can be found here: