One of the biggest factors in determining which standardized tests you should take will be the graduate or undergraduate programs you intend to apply for. Some universities require your scores from a particular test in order to apply. If you are not sure what program you are interested in yet, it makes sense to take both the SAT and the ACT. Here is more information on when you should take these standardized tests.
When to Take Standardized Tests
You can take your freshman year in high school off from standardized testing. Just enjoy your schooling and work hard to maintain good grades. By your sophomore year, however, it is test time. In fact, you can take the PSAT as early as the fall of your sophomore year. This is a great way to discern if you will need a prep course for the SAT. Keep in mind that as of 2015, the average student scored 139 points higher on the SAT than the PSAT, so if you are already close to the score you want, you may not need additional preparation.
Toward the beginning of your junior year, you will need to register to take both the ACT and SAT. This will ensure you have a test date and will allow you to take these important exams during your junior year. Taking them during your junior year is vital because if you feel you need to take a prep class and retake the test to get a higher score, this will give you time to have all of that completed by the summer when you should be thinking about applying early to your schools of preference.
ACT and SAT Test Dates and Deadlines
For more information about the ACT and SAT tests, check out our list of dates and deadlines. This will help you to know when you have to register and take the exams you need for your applications. Don’t forget to contact College Planning Source to assist you with your early college planning needs. We’re here to help, so call today at 858.676.0700.
