Standardized Testing

Standardized testing is important to all students.  From the state required MCAS, to the range of college admission exams the acronyms and requirements can create confusion for many of us. Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT as one criteria used for admission, and some very selective colleges and universities may also require SAT Subject Tests. There are an increasing number of colleges who are “test optional” which allows students to apply without submitting standardized test scores. FairTest maintains a list of colleges that are test optional.

ACT — This test has four multiple-choice sections – English, Reading, Math and Science, as well as an optional Writing section that is scored separately. Composite scores in ELA and STEM are also calculated. We recommend taking the ACT with the optional essay in case a college requires it. The ACT is generally thought to be preferred by students who do better applying what they already know, as it is subject-based. The composite score ranges between 1 and 36, and the Writing ranges between 2 and 12.

The ACT is offered in September, October, December, February, April and June.

SAT — This test is administered by College Board and has two broad sections – Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math, as well as an optional Essay section that is scored separately. Seven sub-scores and two cross-test scores are provided to colleges in subject and skill areas. The College Board has a complete explanation of the scoring.  We recommend taking the ACT with the optional essay in case a college requires it. The test includes multiple choice, but also incorporates a math section where testers must determine their own answers. The SAT is generally thought to be preferred by students who do well general reasoning and problem solving, in addition to content. The composite score ranges between 400 and 1600 (200 and 800 per section), and the Essay ranges between 2 and 8.

The SAT is offered in August, October, December, March, May and June.

PSAT/NMSQT — This test is a practice SAT, but also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Its sections and approach are based on the SAT (see above). The score ranges  are 320–1520 for the total score, 160–760 for each of two section scores, and 8–38 for sub-test scores. There is no essay section. PSAT scores are not used for college admissions.

Weston High School tests juniors on the Saturday test date in October (which usually falls on the Saturday after Columbus Day). Registration is done through the Guidance Office (not College Board). Information will be sent to juniors in September with details.

Pre-ACT — This test is a practice ACT, and is structure and approach are based on the ACT (see above). The scoring follows the ACT’s 1-36 range, and there is no essay section. Pre-ACT scores are not used for college admissions.

Weston High School tests sophomores on a Saturday test date in March  (usually the first weekend). Registration is done through the Guidance Office (not ACT). Information will be sent to sophomore in January with details.

Fee waivers for standardized tests are available for students with economic need. College Board allows for two SAT fee waivers and two SAT Subject Test waivers. ACT allows for two test fee waivers. Students who qualify may also receive waivers for college application fees.

Please contact Sherri Matthews in the Weston Public Schools Business Office to determine eligibility and to request that your school counselor be notified of your qualification.