SAT & ACT | SCHOLARSHIPS | ISEE | HSPT | EXAM DATES
SAT VS ACT
The SAT and ACT are college entrance exams that are equally accepted by ALL colleges and universities in the USA. Students only have to take one of these exams, and we highly recommend that you only prep for one. We can help you decide which exam would be a better fit for you. Schedule a free assessment today! Please note that many colleges and universities have decided to make these exams optional for the Class of 2021. To see an up to date list of Test Optional schools visit our blog post on Test Optional Policies during Coranavirus.
Some key differences between the two exams:
- The ACT includes a science section.
- SAT is scored out of 1600 points. 800 points for Reading and Writing and 800 points for Math. On the ACT, each section is worth 36 points, and the composite score is the average of all four scores.
- The SAT requires DEPTH of knowledge while the ACT covers more concepts.
- The ACT is a speed test, which means that you have to be quick and strategic.
- The SAT has a math no calculator section.
When should you take these exams?
The SAT is very Algebra centric, so we recommend preparing the SAT after taking Algebra 2. The ACT covers more concepts, so prepping after Algebra 2 or Precalculus is ideal.
What is a good score?
Top 10%: 1340-1600 on the SAT and 29-36 on the ACT
Top 25%: 1220-1600 on the SAT and 25-36 on the ACT
Top 50%: 1080-1600 on the SAT and 20-36 on the ACT
Scholarships
When should I apply for scholarships?
Most scholarships start accepting applications in January with the majority being due in March or April. We recommend that you start early identify scholarships for which you qualify and create a calendar with the due dates, list of requirements, and essay topics you may need to address. Often you can use parts of your college essays! Don’t forget to check for scholarships given by local organizations and businesses.
What if I don’t know where I am going to college?
Each scholarship will have its own requirements. If college acceptance is a requirement, the scholarship will ask you to submit proof of enrollment before they release the funds. Some scholarships will send the funds directly to your school while others will give you the award to use for school supplies, living expenses, and tuition.
About the ISEE
ISEE Levels
- Lower Level- applicants to grades 5-6
- Middle Level- applicants to grades 7-8
- Upper Level- applicants to grades 9-12
Exam Sections and Length
- Verbal Reasoning – 20 minutes
- Quantitative Reasoning – 35 minutes
- Reading Comprehension – 35 minutes
- Mathematics Achievement – 40 minutes
- Essay – 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Why is the exam so difficult?
Because the exam is intended for students in different grade levels, the exam makers have to include material that may be out of your child’s scope. The ISEE can be taken once every testing period. Testing periods fall in August- November, December- March, and April-July. Many independent schools have decided to make the ISEE optional for the 2020-2021 application season. Please check with each school to determine if your child should still take the exam.
How is the ISEE graded?
Students receive a scaled score that ranges from 760-940. They will also receive a statine score of 1-9 based on their percentile ranking. The ranking is based on ISEE norms, which a compilation of scores for the last three years.
About the HSPT
The HSPT is a high school entrance exam administered by private Catholic high schools. You must take the exam at the school at which you are applying. Many schools will forward your scores, but please inquire. Some Catholic schools have announced that the HSPT will be optional for the 2020-2021 application season.
Exam Sections and Length
- Verbal Skills – 16 minutes
- Quantitative Skills- 30 minutes
- Reading – 25 minutes
- Mathematics – 45 minutes
- Language – 25 minutes
How is the HSPT graded?
Each section receives a percentage calculated by number of questions answered correctly over the total of number of questions in that section. The exam also receives an overall percentage score.
SAT Dates
Saturday, August 29, 2020
Saturday, September 26, 2020
Saturday, October 3, 2020
Saturday, November 7, 2020
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Saturday, March 13, 2021
Saturday, May 8, 2021
Saturday, June 5, 2021
ACT Dates
Saturday, September 19, 2020
Saturday, October 10, 2020
Saturday, October 17, 2020
Saturday, October 24, 2020
Sunday, October 25, 2020
Saturday, December 12, 2020
Saturday, February 6, 2021
Saturday, April 17, 2021
Saturday, June 12, 2021
Saturday, July 17, 2021
HSPT Dates
Dates to be announced.