PSAT, SAT, ACT, and Subject Tests…..

Why are standardized test scores important? Most colleges today use SAT, ACT, and sometimes subject test scores in addition to grades and rigor of curriculum to evaluate candidates for admission. Comparing students’ grades in classes from various high schools can be difficult due to the subjectivity of teachers, variances in curriculum rigor, and varying student peer groups. Test scores offer one way for admission officers to compare students across the country in an objective manner.

How can better scores help me pay for college?
National Merit Scholarships are based PSAT test scores taken in October of junior year. In addition, many colleges offer merit scholarships to entice students with high test scores and grades to enroll in their college. Working hard to do your very best on the SAT or ACT could mean significant dollars towards funding your college education.

When should I begin prepping for the PSAT, SAT, ACT and subject tests?
One of the first steps in the college planning process is setting up a standardized testing plan beginning with the PSAT. Based on your individual needs, we develop a testing timeline and refer you to different test prep resources. There are several choices including test prep group classes, one-on-one tutoring in your home, and online test prep.  

When would online test prep be a good choice?
Online test prep is a good low-cost choice if you want to work at your own individual pace, in your own home, and would like to fit test prep in your schedule at your own convenience. You may also want to consider online test prep if you are taking the SAT or ACT for the second time around and have already invested in a class or private tutor.

What is EPrep?
At LA College Consulting we offer discounted prices for an excellent online test prep service called EPrep. The student completes a practice test offline under timed conditions, logs into the site to submit his answers electronically, and then reviews missed problems through an excellent video demonstration emphasizing a “show, don’t tell” approach where the expert tutor models problem solving.

 
Upcoming Test Dates & Fees

PSAT - Fee: $13
The PSAT is usually administered at your high school for sophomores and juniors on one of these dates. Test results are typically received in December.

Test Dates
Wednesday, October 12th, 2011
Saturday, October 15th, 2011

SAT I and SAT Subject Tests

SAT I - Registration Fee $47
Late Registration Fee $24

Subject Tests
Registration Fee $21 plus $10 per test (up to 3 tests)
$20 Language tests with listening

You may not take the SAT and the SAT subject tests on the same day. Not all subject tests are offered on all test dates. Please check the College Board web site for details on each specific subject test.


2011-2012 SAT and Subject Test Dates

Saturday Test Dates        Registration Deadline        Late Fee Required
March 12th, 2011                February 11th, 2011           February 11th - 25th
May 7th, 2011                       April 8th, 2011                 April 8th - April 22nd
June 4th, 2011                      May 6th, 2011                    May 6th - May 20th
October 1st, 2011                 September 2011                 September 2011
November 5th, 2011              October 2011                     October 2011
December 3rd, 2011              November 2011                  November 2011



*SAT I only

Scores are available approximately 20 days after the test date. Up to four scores can be sent for free. Additional reports cost $9.50 per college.

ACT Tests
Registration Fees: (with writing) $48
Late Fee add $21

Test Dates                 Registration Deadline         Late Fee Required
February 12, 2011             January 7th, 2011           January 8th -21st
April 9th, 2011                 March 4th, 2011                March 5th-18th
June 11th, 2011                 May 6th, 2011                  May 7th-20th
September 10, 2011         August 12th, 2011            August13th-26th
October 22, 2011             September 16th, 2011        Sep.17th–30th
December 10, 2011          November 4th, 2011            Nov. 5th–18th

Scores are available approximately 2 ½ weeks from the test date.