Those Stressful Standardized Tests Two tests that strike fear in the hearts of most college-bound students are the SAT and ACT. However, there are a variety of resources that can prepare the student for these tests. What is the SAT? The SAT is a 3-hour test that measures verbal and mathematical reasoning skills that a student has developed. Many colleges and universities use the SAT to assess high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. Many times an SAT score is used as a basis for awarding merit-based financial aid. The SAT changed in March 2005. Some of the changes include: a student-written essay; analogies were eliminated; shorter reading passages were added; quantitative comparisons were eliminated; and, new content from 3rd-year college preparatory math was added. The student can get deadlines, test dates, sample tests and other information about the SAT by visiting www.collegeboard.com . This site also includes quick links that the student can use to get ready for the SAT. It provides the student with sample math questions, writing practice questions and a critical reading section. This site also includes a review of the SAT essay. The ACT measures the student's skills and knowledge in English, math, science and reading. A good time to take it is the spring semester of the student's junior year. By taking it then the student will have plenty of time to retake the test before applying to college if he/she feels his/her scores do not accurately reflect his/her ability. In February 2005, ACT offered the optional Writing Test for the first time. Some colleges require the Writing Test; others do not. Students should decide whether to take the Writing Test based on the requirements of the institutions to which they are applying. For more information about the ACT test, students should visit www.actstudent.org.  This site provides information about the components of the ACT, as well as test-taking tips, strategies, practice writing skills, and sample essays.  This site also lists tests dates and deadlines for the 2006-2007 school year.   Return to Education Startegy Please note that the information being provided is strictly a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided, you are leaving this site. Neither Glaus & Associates nor WSS make any representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these sites. Glaus & Associates and WSS assume no liability for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or use of a third-party site. When you access one of these sites, you are leaving Glaus & Associates's website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the sites to which you link.