EXAMINATIONS

CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL EXIT EXAM (CAHSEE)

The purpose of the CAHSEE is to ensure that California high school graduates can demonstrate grade-level competency in the state content standards for reading, writing, and mathematics. The exam has two parts: English/Language Arts and Mathematics. A student must pass both components of the CAHSEE in order to receive a high school diploma. CAHSEE exam blueprints, released test questions, and study guides can be downloaded at the following website: www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/hs/resources.asp

PSAT/NMSQT

(PRELIMINARY SAT / NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING TEST)

Students are provided the opportunity to take the PSAT test annually, and juniors are particularly encouraged to do so. The PSAT is administered only once a year on a date in October that is predetermined by the College Board.  We offer the PSAT each year on either a Wednesday or a Saturday. This test prepares students for the SAT Reasoning Test and is also used to qualify junior students for the National Merit Scholarship. Students register for this test on campus through the Student Accounts office. www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about.html

ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAMS

Achieving passing scores on the College Board Advanced Placement exams may result in students receiving credit at colleges and universities. Scores on selected AP exams are used in evaluating admission to many colleges. Any student may apply to take an Advanced Placement exam in any of the Advanced Placement subjects without completing an AP class; however, taking the course is usually the best preparation. The curriculum for AP courses is directly related to the concepts that the exam will cover. Test fees are determined annually by the College Board. Students sign up for AP exams on campus. www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/about.html

COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMS: ACT and SAT Reasoning Test / SAT Subject Tests

Most colleges require scores from either the SAT or ACT for admission. These exams are offered on Saturdays throughout the school year (from September to June). Check with specific colleges for the entrance exams they prefer or require. University of California campuses require candidates to take two SAT Subject Tests (in two different subject areas: history, literature, mathematics - Level 2 only, science, or language other than English) in addition to the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT Assessment plus Writing.

Students are encouraged to take these exams in the spring of junior year and/or early in the fall of senior year. Check with specific colleges for test date deadlines. Students must register for these exams directly with the test providers by picking up mail-in registration materials in the counseling office or by registering online at the following websites:

www.collegeboard.com (SAT)

www.act.org (ACT)