SAT & ACT

The following is a brief introduction to the world of standardized testing. It is intended as an overview to help students do some preliminary planning for junior and senior year. Any such planning, however, should be tailored to the specific needs of the individual student.

1. It is generally recommended that students take the SAT Reasoning Test (or SAT) once in the spring of the junior year and once in the fall of the senior year. One need not worry about a lower score on one section of the SAT since almost all colleges will consider a student’s highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math scores, even if earned during different administrations of the SAT. This is referred to as "superscoring."
2. According to the College Board’s policy, students may choose to report only those SAT scores they wish to report. Be aware, however, that colleges have the option of requesting to see all scores. ACT students may choose which ACT results to report. See your college advisor for details and help choosing.
3. Some colleges (such as Brandeis, Fashion Institute of Technology, Franklin and Marshall, Muhlenberg, and Union) are test optional, but most colleges to which our students apply do require the SAT or the ACT exam. 
4. The ACT, a more subject-oriented test, is accepted (sometimes with the Writing section required) by most colleges in lieu of the SAT. The exam is offered in New York City with some dates at Ramaz (New York University is also a Sunday test site). It is administered less frequently than the SAT.

5. In some cases, students with a diagnosed learning disability or handicap may take the SAT or ACT with extended time during a non-standard test administration. Such students must be approved for extended time by the testing agency, many months in advance of the registration dates. Receiving extended time at Ramaz does NOT guarantee approval by the testing agency. These arrangements are facilitated by Ramaz's Learning Center Director, Ms. Cynthia Webb. More info on extended time testing...