Start with the PSAT
The college application and selection process may begin with taking preliminary entrance exams. The PSAT, Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test is one of several ways to get started. This test, taken in October of the junior year, measures students’ verbal, math reasoning and writing skills. This test provides entry to the National Scholastic Program. One of the families we interviewed found that once their student took this test, his name got put on many mailing lists. They appreciated the college brochures coming to her home in her son’s name. He was somewhat overwhelmed with all of the material, but it opened his eyes to all of the possibilities.

ACT vs SAT – or both
Your student may choose to take the ACT, the SAT or both tests. Check which tests are required by the colleges to which your student will be applying.

ACT, American College Test, measures abilities in English, math, natural sciences and reading comprehension. The ACT test is routinely used for college admission, generally for Midwest institutions.

SAT I, Scholastic Assessment Test, is a three-hour test that measures verbal and math abilities. This test is frequently used in western and eastern colleges and universities.

SAT II is a one-hour test, which determines accumulated knowledge in specific subject areas.

Many high school guidance counselors routinely record these scores on transcripts because many post-secondary institutions will accept these scores from the high school as part of their admissions requirements, often saving the student time and money. Some colleges require that the scores be sent directly to them from the testing organization. Students have the right not to include their PSAT, SAT and ACT scores on their High School transcripts.

Your student may choose to retake the test. However many students, who retake the test, have found that their scores vary only slightly. Some colleges will use the highest scores by category.

Preparing for the tests
Experts suggest that your senior prepare for these tests. If they are a self-learner, there are several good books and computer programs that are relatively inexpensive. If your senior prefers group or classroom learning activities, many courses are offered. Check with your high school. Prices range from $75 up to $800.

These books and Web sites are a great place to begin test preparation:

• The Princeton Review - Cracking the System - The SAT
• Official Guide to the ACT Assessment

www.review.com: The Princeton Review site includes testing dates and registration information for all types of entrance exams. Plus, they sell test preparation services.

www.collegeboard.com: The Official site for the SAT. Information includes test dates, fees and locations. Free tests are available as well as self-guided software guides for a fee. This site provides you with a customized comparison tool that charts out the colleges of your choice. This chart includes application test requirements (SAT, ACT, etc.) and composite scores representing the middle 50% of first-year students' scores, and costs.

www.act.org: The Official site for ACT, it includes dates, locations, fees, and on-line registration. This site offers test preparation programs and with the help of Collegenet.com provides a college search engine.

www.kaplan.com: One of the best known third party provider of test preparation services in the country.