Testing
Austin High School's testing code is 240125.
AHS Testing Dates
| Test | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| PSAT (Optional for Grade 10) |
October 8 |
| ACT (All Juniors) |
April 22 |
| MCA Reading/Math | April 15 |
| MCA Science | April 16 |
| AP Testing (Refer to AP Website for Specific Dates and Times) |
May 4-8, 11-14 |
| ACCESS Testing (EL) |
TBD |
| Biliteracy Seal Testing | March 24-26 |
For any questions regarding testing, please contact Jane Carlson (jane.carlson@austin.k12.mn.us) or Allison Gunderson (allison.gunderson@austin.k12.mn.us).
ACT
The ACT is a standardized test to determine a high school graduate's preparation for college level work. It is a knowledge/curriculum based achievement test, measuring what a student has learned in school. The ACT score is only one factor colleges consider for admissions. It covers four areas: English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning. It also adds an optional writing section, which is a required by some colleges. This test is given multiple times a year at multiple locations. Most US colleges and universities accept the ACT as their college entrance exam. A high test score may help a student get into a specific college plus possibly earn additional scholarship money.
All juniors will have the opportunity to take the ACT Test online for free at the high school, including the writing portion. The test will be offered in April with a specific date to be announced. Registration for this test takes place at Austin High School several weeks prior to the test. Look for more details later this school year.
Juniors and Seniors - please visit act.org for current test date and registration information.
ASVAB
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test was initially designed to measure aptitude in different fields of study including math, science, engineering, reading, and problem solving for entrance into the military. Today's ASVAB is so much more than that! It is a great tool to use when learning about your strengths and aptitudes in certain areas. Once you complete the test, it allows access to a fantastic Career Exploration website where you use your custom code to link to careers and help select a career pathway. Sign up for the ASVAB in SchooLinks.
ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP)
PSAT Test (Optional)
In October, the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) will be administered to interested. Sophomores will typically use this as a “practice” test and cannot be used as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship. Juniors use the PSAT to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. The PSAT/NMQST is the only test that the Hormel Foods Corporation will accept for their scholarship program. These scholarships are available to the children of current, retired, or deceased employees of Hormel and its subsidiaries. In no instance will any officer or employee of the Hormel Company play a part in the selection of scholarship winners or monies to be awarded. The NMSQT Corporation handles the entire award process. Paperwork will be available to pick up on September 26th through the cashier’s office. Cost is $18. The test will start at 8:30am sharp. Locations will be posted on the Career Center window the week of the test.
AccuPlacer
The ACCUPLACER test is a series of placement assessments designed to evaluate students' skills in reading, writing, and mathematics to ensure they are placed in appropriate college-level courses. The test is computer adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on the test taker’s performance. Students who are enrolling in dual credit opportunities (PSEO or RCC courses) or in a college or university may be asked to take the Accuplacer depending on their GPA and other test scores. Accuplacer interactive online learning tools are available to help you sharpen your skills. Before signing up for the Accuplacer, please meet with your counselor to determine whether it is necessary.
What does your test score mean?
What will I be tested on?
Reading: You will be asked to read a passage and then answer several questions about the passage.
Mathematics: This portion measures your understanding of arithmetic through problem solving. Skills in operations of whole numbers and fractions, decimals and percentages, ratios, measurement, and geometry will be assessed.
Advanced Placement (AP)
Advanced Placement (AP) exams are standardized tests offered by the College Board that allow high school students to earn college credit by demonstrating their knowledge in rigorous subject areas. AP courses are open to 9th-12th grade students, and students choose whether they wish to take the exam in May. Students can also self-study and take exams in courses they are not enrolled in. AP exams are scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 (strong mastery) being the highest score possible. Each college has a policy indicating which AP exams they accept, what score you need to earn credit, and how much credit you will receive. To learn more about AP courses and exams, visit the AP Courses website or stop by the Career Center.
SAT
The SAT is a college entrance exam that is used by some colleges for admissions, scholarships, and major placement. The SAT evaluates high school students’ skills and knowledge in three content areas: reading, writing and math. Austin Public Schools does not host the SAT. Instead, we offer a free ACT Online with Writing during a school day for all 11th graders. The SAT provides students a composite score which ranges from 400 to 1600, as well as two subtest scores (reading and writing; math) which range from 200 to 800. If you wish to take the SAT, you can register at https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/find-test-centers.