Tufts

Standardized Testing

  • SAT and ACT Policies and Score Ranges for Popular Colleges and Universities - Compass has compiled the most recently available score range data and admission testing policies for popular colleges and universities, public and private, chosen to represent a wide array of four-year postsecondary institutions in the U.S. Click here to check out the website. 

     

    August 2024 - June 2025 SAT Registration - Registration is now open for SAT Testing! Be sure to register soon to ensure your seat. Click here to register. 

     

    IMPORTANT:  Students submitting standardized test scores are responsible for sending scores from their ACT/SAT account directly to the colleges they are applying to during the application process. Standardized tests are currently still a component of the college application review process for some colleges. 

     

    Test-optional/Test-blind

    An increasing number of colleges offer test-optional and test-blind admissions. Check each institution’s website for admissions policies. With test-optional, students who choose not to submit scores will not be penalized. In a test-blind scenario, scores will not be considered for admissions review even if submitted. Fairtest offers a comprehensive list of all test-optional and test-blind colleges and their latest policies regarding ACT/ SAT.

     

    Types of Standardized Tests

     

    PSAT 

    The PSAT is administered by the College Board at MHS once per year, typically in mid-October. MHS offers the PSAT to all 10th and 11th graders. The PSAT is also the National Merit Qualifying Test for current juniors. The PSAT is not required for college admission, and colleges do not have access to students’ scores.

     

    SAT & ACT Tests

    Some colleges require an official ACT or SAT score as part of their application process. Check Fairtest for an up-to-the-minute list of a school’s testing policies. Students taking standardized testing register on either the College Board or ACT website, depending on which standardized test best fits their academic strengths. The testing calendar year runs from August - July.  Registration typically opens anywhere between May - June. Early registration is recommended to ensure a seat for a student’s desired test dates and locations.

    • The ACT administers the ACT
    • The College Board administers the SAT
    • Students typically begin taking the SAT/ACT in the winter or spring of their junior year.
    • Our recommendation is, if testing, do not take the SAT or ACT more than three times, beginning in the early spring of junior year through the early fall of senior year.
    • Many seniors will continue to test into the early fall of their senior year to improve their scores. Testing should be complete by October or December of junior year, depending on your application deadlines. 

     

    AP Tests 

    Offered by the College Board, AP tests are a way for colleges to see a student's depth of knowledge. They are rarely used for admissions purposes; however, obtaining a passing score of 3, 4, or 5 (depending on the college) may earn students college credit or serve as a placement test in college courses. Registration takes place in the fall through Miramonte. Details and the registration process will be discussed in the early fall in AP classes.

     

    Standardized Testing Registration Sites

    • ACT: Standardized Test for College Admissions
    • College Board: (SAT, AP Exams) Prepares and administers standardized tests used in college admission and placement.

     

    Preparing for ACT/SAT

    Test Prep Companies

    • Compass Education Group: Comprehensive live, one-on-one test preparation, and academic tutoring. Each tutoring program is customized to fit a student's individual needs.
    • Applerouth: Comprehensive test prep and tutoring. Offer practice tests and free educational events.
    • Tried & True: Effective, customized in-person, online, group, and one-on-one programs to help students achieve their ACT/SAT goals.
    • Khan Academy: Offers free and official SAT prep materials in partnership with the College Board, the makers of the SAT. Free SAT study tools include quizzes, tests, video tutorials, and personalized practice recommendations.