Testing

Austin High School's testing code is 240125.

AHS Testing Dates

Test	Date(s)
PSAT (Optional for Grade 10)	October 9
ACT (All Juniors)	April 23
MCA Reading/Math	April 15-16
MCA Science	April 29-30
AP Testing (Refer to AP Website for Specific Dates and Times)	May 5-16
ACCESS Testing (EL)	February 18-21 February 24-28 March 3-7
Biliteracy Seal Testing	March 25-27

 

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.

PSAT

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is an OPTIONAL standardized test administered by the College Board and cosponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) in the United States. The PSAT measures critical reading skills, mathematics problem solving skills and writing skills.

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 the 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.

AccuPlacer

ACCUPLACER tests your knowledge in math, reading, and writing. Over 1,500 institutions administer ACCUPLACER tests as part of the enrollment process. These tests help identify your strengths and needs in each subject area. ACCUPLACER interactive online learning tools are available to help you sharpen your skills. The academic advisers and counselors at your college or technical school will use your ACCUPLACER test results along with information about your academic background, goals, and interests to help you take courses that match your skill level and give you the best opportunities for success.

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.

How will I be tested?

You will take the tests using a computer. You will communicate with the computer by using the keyboard or the mouse to enter your answers. A test proctor will be present if you need assistance. The tests are not timed and no prior computer skills are required.

Advanced Placement (AP)

The AP Exams assess a student's college level knowledge, skills and abilities that are learned. AP Exams are also an excellent way to demonstrate understanding in specific subject areas. Students who lack access to AP classes and still wish to demonstrate subject knowledge, may opt to take the Subject Tests.

AP is a rigorous academic program built on the commitment, passion, and hard work of students and educators from both secondary schools and higher education.

Each college and university makes its own decisions about awarding credit and placement. Most have a written policy specifying the minimum required score to earn credit for each AP Exam.

One great benefit of taking AP Exams, is the opportunity to earn college credit and placement. Most colleges and universities in the United States grant credit and placement for qualifying AP scores.

SAT

The SAT is a standardized test used for college admissions that is focused on you applying your knowledge and skills with a focus on vocabulary. The test is intended to compare students regarding their readiness for college. The SAT is more of an aptitude test, testing reasoning and verbal abilities. The SAT has a range score from 600 to 2400. It contains two sections, which includes Mathematics, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, plus an optional Essay.

SAT Subject Tests are used to measure students' knowledge and skills in particular subject areas, and their ability to apply that knowledge. The subject tests are closely linked to the high school curriculum. Subject Tests give students an additional opportunity to distinguish themselves and showcase their skills in a particular subject area, and demonstrate their mastery of particular subjects. Colleges use these tests as a common and objective scale for evaluating a student's mastery of specific content areas. These tests indicate a student's readiness to take college level courses in specific subject areas. Some colleges require or recommend SAT Subject Tests in addition to the SAT Test.

The SAT score is only one factor colleges consider in admissions, and most indicate that they see high school achievement as a more important predictor of college success.

Most students at Austin High School take the ACT as their college entrance exam. If you wish to take the SAT, you can register at https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/find-test-centers.

For any questions regarding testing, please contact Jane Carlson (jane.carlson@austin.k12.mn.us) or Allison Gunderson (allison.gunderson@austin.k12.mn.us).