Most colleges will ask you to report your scores on the SAT or ACT as part of the application process. There are lots of resources to help you do well on these exams (see Test Prep Tips and Resources).

One of the best things you can do is start by taking one of the preliminary tests — the PSAT/NMSQT or PLAN — in 9th, 10th, or 11th grades. You'll have a better chance of scoring higher on the SAT or ACT — plus, if you take the PSAT/NMSQT, you may qualify for a scholarship.

Here’s what you need to know:

PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT^®/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)

What is it? Co-sponsored by the two organizations, it’s a standardized test that does two things at once: helps you prep for the SAT Reasoning Test™ and gives you a chance to compete in the National Merit Scholarship program, which offers up to $2,500 a year to qualified students. The PSAT covers the following areas:

• Critical Reading — two 25-minute sections.
• Math Problem-Solving — two 25-minute sections.
• Writing — one 30-minute section.

When do I take it? In your junior year for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Some students choose to take the test in other years as well.

When and where is it given? Two Saturdays in October at your high school or another local high school. Check with your school counselor or college access provider for the dates that apply to your school.

How do I register? See your school counselor.

How much does it cost? The base rate is $13. Some schools may charge an additional administrative fee.

What if I can't afford it? See your counselor to learn if you are eligible for a fee waiver or other financial support.

Why take the test? It’s not required, but it definitely can help. It’s a low-risk opportunity to:

• See how your skills measure up to college-level expectations.
• Get an advance look at the kind of questions you’ll be seeing on the SAT.
• Enter the National Merit Scholarship competition.

How do I find out more? Visit the College Board Web site.

PLAN^®

What is it? PLAN is a standardized test used by many students to help them prepare for the ACT college admissions test. PLAN includes multiple-choice tests in the following subjects:

• English — one 30-minute section.
• Math — one 40-minute section.
• Reading — one 20-minute section.
• Science — one 25-minute section.

When do I take it? PLAN is usually taken in 10th grade.

When and where is it given? Your school counselor will announce when PLAN is scheduled to be given at your school.

How do I register? See your school counselor.

How much does it cost? Your counselor will notify you of fees for this year’s PLAN.

What if I can't afford it? See your counselor to learn if you are eligible for a fee waiver or other financial support.

Why take the test? It’s a good way to find out what kind of skills colleges are looking for and to measure your progress. It also helps you become familiar with the kinds of questions you’ll see on the ACT, an important standardized college admissions test.

How do I find out more? Visit the ACT Web site. 

kathy test