College Admissions Testing Information

Either an ACT or SAT test is frequently requested by colleges for admission purposes. Most colleges accept either test, so do some research and try some practice questions to choose whichever you prefer. Many colleges will “superscore”, or take a student's highest SAT math and highest SAT verbal score. It is recommended that students take these tests in or after the spring of their Junior year.

The "Test Prep Links and Information" section below contains valuable resources for any students taking admission tests.

Some colleges may require additional testing, ie. SAT subject tests, or may be test flexible (allowing you to submit other testing, ie. APs, etc.) or test optional. Please read your college’s admissions requirements so you know.

 

CEEB CODES FOR SENDING SAT SCORES

College Board (CEEB) codes are needed when you register for SAT Program tests or send score reports to colleges and scholarship programs

HELPFUL LINKS

For dates and to register for the ACT, visit www.actstudent.org

More information on the ACT and its layout, visit  http://www.acttestquestions.com

For dates and to register for the SAT, visit www.collegeboard.org

Test optional schools may not require testing in all, or only in some circumstances. Make sure to understand your college’s policy. If you wonder if you should submit an application with or without testing, talk to an admissions counselor. For more information on test-optional schools visit Fair Test.org

http://www.fairtest.org/university/optional

 

 

Other pertinent testing information:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Second Language)

If you are an international student or a student for whom English is not your native language, you may consider taking the TOEFL as a replacement for the ACT or SAT.  Please talk to your counselor, the career center specialist, and the admissions representatives of the college you are interested in to find out if this applies. Registration for the TOEFL iBT fills up very quickly, so register as soon as possible. A new feature will enable you to view which test dates and locations have availability. Go to the Learners and Test Takers section at www.ets.org/toefl and select TOEFL Test Centers. Learn what is on the test at www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/about/content/ and take a practice test at http://toeflpractice.ets.org/ (not free.) Check the public library and Career Center for TOEFL prep books.

 

ASVAB 

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) assesses a student’s ability to learn new skills and is a predictor of success in training and education programs. It includes an interest inventory and other activities and resources designed to help students explore the world or work and gain confidence in making career decisions. Although this test can be taken by anyone, it is a requirement for military enlistment. (Please note that scores are good for 2 years.) For details visit www.asvabprogram.com . The College & Career Center offers this test once or a twice a year. Sign-up information will be emailed to students as the test dates get closer, but stop by the Career Center if you have questions.

 

Test Prep Links & Information

 

Oakton High School Library Test Prep

Visit the Library’s page (add link)  on Oakton High School’s website. Click  Online Databases @ Your Oakton Library, select Gale, then click on the Testing & Education Reference Center

 

Fairfax County Public Library’s ACT, SAT, and AP test prep

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library

Click on Online Databases, then Test Preparation. Some personal information will be required, including your public library card number.

Number2.com

http://number2.com/

Free test prep for SATs and ACTs. Provides information in college, career, and military options, as well as financial aid

Khan Academy

www.khanacademy.org/sat

Official SAT Practice for the redesigned SAT. The Khan Academy also provides tutoring in content area subjects!

MajorTests

www.majortests.com - Prep by test section, including essay prompts; get an explanation for answers.

March 2 Success

The US Army and Princeton Review have created a thorough online test preparation site for free use. You will be asked if you would like a recruiter to contact you. Users need to be at least 13 years of age and will have 45 days to complete the course. Turn off pop-up blockers and go to www.march2success.com/ to check it out. This site is excellent preparation for the ASVAB as well as the ACT and SAT.