Common Standardized Tests
ACT
The ACT is administered six times each year. The four subtests- English grammar, mathematics (through trigonometry), reading comprehension, and science reasoning- are each scored 1-36, and these scores are averaged for a composite score. It lasts three and a half hours, unless the student chooses to write an optional, 30-minute essay.
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SAT Reasoning Test
The SAT Reasoning Test is administered seven times each year. Its three subtests are writing, critical reading, and mathematical reasoning (through Algebra II). Each subtest is scored on a scale of 200-800, and these scores are added together for a total SAT score from 600-2400. Over 90% of four-year colleges in the United States use either the ACT or SAT in making admissions and scholarship decisions.
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SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests measure achievement in specific high school subjects, including English, history, sciences, and foreign languages. Many students, especially those who are applying to more competitive schools, may wish to take one or more subject tests in addition to the SAT Reasoning Test in order to strengthen their application packages.
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PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is administered to freshmen and sophomores and serves both as an introduction to standardized testing and as the first stage in the process of selection for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship. It is essentially a shorter, less challenging version of the SAT.
ISEE
The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) is required for admission to many private middle and high schools. It is very similar in structure and content to the SAT and PSAT, and students who prepare early for the ISEE are often at an advantage when they take their college entrance exams.
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AP
High scores on AP (Advanced Placement) Examinations allow students to earn college credit for high school coursework, and can sometimes reduce the number of courses required for graduation or lower the cost of a degree. They are offered in many subjects, including literature, history, art, sciences, and advanced mathematics.
TCAP/Gateway
The TCAP (Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program) Achievement Tests measure students' competency in various subject areas. Students in grades 3-8 are required to test in reading, mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies. The TCAP Writing Assessment is required in grades 5,8 and 11. High school student must take Gateway exams in Algebra I, English II, and Biology I, and may be required to take certain other end-of-course tests.
GED
The GED (General Education Diploma) is a useful option for many students who choose not to complete a formal program for a high school diploma. It comprises five subject tests: reading, writing, social studies, science, and mathematics. Students must make a passing grade in each subject and attain a minimum overall average score.
Graduate/Professional
Many professional and graduate studies programs require their own tests, most of which are quite similar in nature to the secondary school exams mentioned above. The Learning Lab can provide preparation for these tests, as well.
For more information about common standardized testing or to schedule a consultation, please call (615) 377-2929 (Learning Lab Brentwood) or (615) 321-7272 (Learning Lab Green Hills).
