SAT Information

           The SAT I: Reasoning Test is a college entrance examination that is recommended for college bound students to take in the spring of their junior year.  Students receive a critical reading score, a writing score and a math score, all of which are included on the high school transcript.  Registration bulletins as well as SAT preparation booklets are available in the College and Career Resource Room.  The College Board is encouraging all students to register for the SAT online at www.collegeboard.com.  There are numerous books, tapes, and computer software available to assist in preparing for the SAT’s.  Parkland High School also offers an SAT preparatory course twice a year, fall and early spring.  However, the best preparation for this test is a strong, challenging course load throughout the high school years.  The SAT is offered at Parkland High School in November, March, May and June.  In October, December and January, the SAT is available to students at other testing locations in the Lehigh Valley.  Registration deadlines for the SAT are four to five weeks prior to the administration of each test.  The registration dates and deadlines for the 2008-2009 school year are as follows:

           
             If students register online, an admission ticket must be printed out and brought to the test center for admission. Students must also bring picture identification in order to be admitted to the test.  This test is given on a Saturday morning and lasts approximately five hours.  Scores are typically received three to four weeks after the test date.

            SAT II: Subject Tests are one hour tests which measure a student’s knowledge of specific subjects and his/her ability to apply that knowledge.  Some, but not all colleges require these tests.  Generally, the more competitive colleges require applicants to take one or more of these tests for admission and/or placement.  College reference materials or web sites should be checked to determine what tests are required. The college website provides the most up to date information, especially now that the new SAT Reasoning Test has added a writing component.  Registration bulletins and preparation booklets are available in the Counseling Office.  SAT II tests are not offered during the March or April test date.

            The ACT (American College Test) is a college entrance examination used widely in certain areas of the country, particularly the south and west.  It is generally taken during the junior and/or senior year.  Students receive scores in English, Reading, Math and Science Reasoning, in addition to a composite score. Also, a new writing component has been added to the ACT the spring of 2005.  Many colleges will accept the SAT or the ACT for admission purposes.  The ACT is not administered at Parkland High School but other local high schools do offer this exam.  Registration packets are available in the College and Career Resource Room.