Admission Tests
American colleges commonly require a score on either the SAT or ACT. Many will accept scores on either test, but some request the SAT only or the ACT only. Be sure to check college websites and/or the application materials themselves to determine each college's requirements. There is no "pass" mark for these admission tests. Your test scores are just one part of the whole application.
The SAT is the test most commonly held worldwide, and over 1 million students take it annually. The SAT is held 6 times a year between October and June, at various sites throughout Australia. Special requests can be made for alternative centers or for accommodations appropriate to disabilities. In 2003-04 the cost of the test is US$45.50. If you miss the registration deadline, it may be possible to sit the test on a standby basis. (Note the standby fee is an additional US$30). The SAT Registration Bulletin contains information about test dates, special requests, registration information and deadlines, test centers, fees, what the tests involve, sample questions and test taking tips.
Some colleges may request scores on some SAT II Subject Tests which test knowledge in particular areas of study, e.g., English, History, Maths, etc. The SAT I: Reasoning Test and the SAT II: Subject Tests cannot be taken on the same test date.
The SAT I and II test preparation materials are available from the advising center.
English Language Tests: If English is not your first language OR if the majority of your studies have been completed in a language other than English, you will probably be required to take the TOEFL Test. Registration Bulletins are available from all U.S. Educational Advising Centers. Test preparation materials are available from the advising center.
The ACT is designed to access students' general development and their ability to complete university level work. The test covers four "skill areas", English, maths, reading and science reasoning. The basic fee for the test is US$42.
To register: Students must register DIRECTLY with the test center they wish to sit the test NOT with the ACT or via the web. The deadline for contacting the test center is the Friday 2 weeks prior to the scheduled test date. There is NO standby test provision.
The PSAT measures critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills that are developed over time. The test, which is usually taken in Year 11, is an excellent practice test opportunity for the SAT. It also gives American citizens the opportunity to qualify for scholarship and recognition programs.
AP (Advanced Placement) Exams are available as 35 exams in 19 subject areas. These exams allow students to receive advanced placement and/or credit at many U.S. undergraduate institutions, for university level knowledge and work completed prior to starting tertiary level studies.