College Entrance Exams (SAT & ACT)

The SAT Tests:

Norwell High School CEEB Code: #221675

SAT Reasoning: This is the standard SAT test that is required by most colleges for admission. The test is administered several times each year. Students are tested on verbal and mathematical ability. Anybody who is planning to go to college should plan to take the SAT I. Typically, students will take the SAT I in May of their Junior year. Students may wish to take the test again at the beginning of their Senior year. For more information, see the College Board's "Everything You Want To Know About The SAT."

SAT II Subject Tests: These tests (formerly known as Achievement Tests) are offered in several different subject areas. Students may take up to three tests on any testing date. About thirty percent of colleges require that applicants take SAT II Subject Tests. These schools are usually the most competitive and selective schools. Another group of schools (about 1/3) recommend, but do not require, that students take SAT II Subject Tests. Finally, a large group of schools neither require nor recommend that applicants take SAT II Tests. Typically, a school that requires SAT II Subject Tests will require three. Please note that even thought he writing test is no longer offered, many schools are still expected to require three tests.Most specify which tests to take (a Math test is often required), but some let students choose. All scores become part of the student's record and will be sent along to colleges with all other SAT I and SAT II test scores.

We strongly recommend that students who decide to take SAT II Tests obtain a copy of one of the test prep books. There are a few reasons for this. First of all, the SAT II tests often cover some material that is not a part of the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks. The prep book will expose students to some of the material that will be on the test that they may not have covered in class. Secondly, the prep book will offer a chance to take at least one full-length practice test, which is a very vauluable experience.

For more info, please see our SAT II FAQ page.

Norwell High School's Average SAT Scores, 1986-Present

SAT Website at the College Board

SAT Testing Dates & Deadlines 2007-2008

SAT II FAQ

SAT Scores & Score Reports FAQ

Related Links

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The ACT Exam:

The ACT exam has been designed to assess high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. The ACT is more commonly used in the Midwest, West, and South. Most colleges will accept ACT scores in lieu of or in addition to SAT scores. Students who may want to consider taking an ACT test are those students who would likely do better on a test that involves areas like science reasoning that are not tested on the SAT test. Also, students who are applying to schools in the West or Midwest should check to see if the college wants applicants to take the ACT exam.

Note: Many colleges are now requiring that students who submit ACT scores instead of SAT scores take the optional writing portion of the ACT.

ACT Official Website includes registration information and practice questions.

ACT Test Dates 2007-2008