Standardized Tests
 

Standardized test scores give colleges some indication of a student's aptitude for college work, however these scores are only one of several criteria used in the admissions decisions. Colleges accept students with a range of scores; colleges resource books generally indicate the middle range of scores (25th to 75th percentile) for accepted freshmen. Test scores are one way a student can assess his/her chances for admission at a given college.

There is small list of colleges for which standardized testing is optional. For a list of these schools, check out www.fairtest.org.

See schedules at the bottom of this page.

SAT I - Reasoning Test (Sept.'06 - Jan. '07)


The SAT measures two areas - the verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities that you have developed over the years. Students generally take the SAT I once in the spring of junior year and again in the fall of senior year if they wish to attempt to raise their scores. If a student has taken the SAT more than once, colleges will take the highest verbal and highest math score. Students who are comfortable with their scores on the first administration need not repeat the SAT I in their senior year.

After Jan. '05 the SAT will contain a new writing section. Read about the New SAT.

SAT II Subject Tests

These tests measure a student's mastery of specific subjects. Scores are used primarily for placement purposes, sometimes allowing a student to bypass an introductory college course. However, they are also often used by highly selective colleges for the admissions process. Many selective colleges will "recommend" or "require" the SAT II (usually a writing test, a math test and a third subject of choice). Students generally take SAT II Subject Tests in June of their sophomore and/or junior years as they complete courses (e.g. Biology, Chemistry, Math and U.S. History).

TOEFL/ELPT


Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

The TOEFL measures the ability of non-native speakers of English to use and understand North American English as it is used in college and university settings.

Scores on the test are required by more than 4,300 two- and four-year colleges and universities, professional schools, and sponsoring institutions.

The test includes four sections (Listening, Structure, Reading and Writing), plus computer tutorials and a break. It takes between three and one-half and four hours to complete everything. The test is offered on computer at a testing center in South Portland.

Appointments are available throughout the year, but you must call at least three days before your first-choice appointment date. Centers fill quickly, so it is best to schedule your appointment early. You can only test once per calendar month. The busiest months are October, November, December, April, and May. The TOEFL costs $110; if you receive free or reduced school lunch, see your counselor to find out about a fee reduction. For more information on the TOEFL, visit the Student Services Office or www.toefl.org.

ACT

The ACT measures achievement, or what students have learned in the past, versus aptitude (SAT). It is another test that may be used in the admissions process and is accepted by most colleges in the United States
 
SAT schedule
ACT schedule
TOEFL schedule
AP schedule