Testing

The PSAT/NMSQT is a digital practice test provided by the College Board that helps students prepare for the SAT. Juniors also have the opportunity to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

What take the PSAT?

• Juniors may qualify for scholarships to help pay for college.
• Students get practice for the SAT and personalized feedback to improve skills before the SAT.
• Access free college planning tools to start the college search.
• Learn which AP courses they might qualify for.
• Connect with colleges across the country through the Student Search Service (opt-in on test day)

Wahconah offers the PSAT once each year (Saturday in October) to sophomores and juniors. 

Test Format

• Total Testing Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes (not including check-in, setup, or breaks)

• Math Section: Built-in calculator available for the entire section

• Completion Rule: You must stay until you reach the "Congratulations" screen
  • Leaving early may result in scores being canceled or ineligible for scholarships

• Two #2 pencils for scratch work
• Your fully charged, school issued chrome book
• A valid photo ID (School ID is acceptable)

• Snacks and drinks (must stay under your desk during testing)
• An acceptable handheld calculator (if you prefer it over the app calculator)
• Chrome book power cord

• Phones, smartwatches, wearable tech, or communication devices
• Cameras, recording/listening devices
• Books, notes, reference materials
• Compasses, protractors, dictionaries, highlighters, colored pencils
• Scratch paper (will be provided)
• Non-approved calculators
• Detachable Chromebook privacy screens
• Typing reference guides, keyboard maps
• Headphones or earplugs
• Watches with alarms/noise

• Bluebook App (already installed on Chromebooks)
• Test Preview: Short, untimed practice with tools (no scores/feedback).
• Full-Length Practice: Timed like the real test, with pause and forward options.
• Unlimited practice attempts available with your College Board student account.

For more information-  https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/psat-nmsqt-student-guide.pdf

Taking the SAT is an important step in the college application process- even if students plan to apply to colleges that are test-optional. Juniors should select their first test date for March, May, or June. Consider test center location, seat availability, practice and study time, and college application deadlines. 

When planning for the SAT, consider the following:

1. Students are encouraged to take the SAT 1-2 times during their junior year. They can continue to take the SAT over the summer and at the beginning of their senior year.
2. When deciding on a test date, remember that AP exams are scheduled in May and finals are scheduled in June.
3. Practice, practice, practice!

In order to register you will need:

• Computer
• Access to your phone and email
• College Board account information. You will be prompted to create an account if you do not have one.
• Credit Card (registration fee)

Registration and Test Dates

The majority of students take the ACT in the spring of their junior year (March, April, or June). This gives them time to retake the test if they want to improve their scores before college application deadlines. If students are not satisfied with their junior year scores, they can retake the ACT in fall (September, October, or November).

In order to register you will need:

• Computer
• Access to your phone and email
• ACT account information. You will need to create an account if you do not have one.
• Credit Card (registration fee)

Registration

This list includes bachelor degree granting institutions that do not require  recent U.S. high school graduates applying for fall 2023 to submit ACT/SAT results before admissions decisions are made. As the restrictions column indicates, some schools only exempt applicants who meet minimum grade or class rank criteria; others use ACT/SAT scores solely for course placement. Please check with individual schools for details.

For many years, Wahconah students have distinguished themselves through exemplary performance in AP courses. They have benefitted from earning a head start on honing academic skills for college, from the competitive edge these courses provide in the college admissions process, and/or from advanced course placement or college credit. AP courses are designed to offer college level opportunities to high school students, and they require corresponding effort. Wahconah expects perseverance and dedication throughout the school year from all students who enroll in AP courses. Students should expect demanding workloads and must understand that credit for the course is contingent upon passing the course, taking the AP exam in May, and meeting attendance requirements per school policy.

Students who enroll in AP course(s) are responsible for the AP exam fee (established by the College Board), as well as Wahconah's AP Contract.

Check out the Program of Studies to learn more about our AP course offerings.

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude test given to high school students (grades 10-12) to help them identify their strengths, explore career options, and prepare for post-secondary plans, including military enlistment. Administered through the ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP), the free program provides students with career information, test results, and interest inventories to help them find suitable occupations and college/career paths. The test covers subjects like math, science, and mechanics, and is used to match students with potential military jobs and educational programs. 

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