High School At Home

Exams to Take

Test-taking sometimes looms large when you are making the commitment to homeschool through high school. I've been through the whole process more than once, and I want to reassure you-- it's no big deal. I've created the chart below to help you see what exams are available, and when and where you can register for them. And if you would like reminders of the next available SAT and ACT dates, please sign up for my e-newsletter. The newsletter also contains helpful articles, reviews, and links to encourage you as you teach your teens.

Homeschooling through high school is a wonderful privilege, and I hope you enjoy it as much I have!

Exams	Register	Take
PSAT: Practice for the SAT; opportunity to qualify for National Merit Scholarships.	Local high school - call the guidance office to register. $10 fee.	October of 11th grade (You can also do a practice run in 10th grade - this doesn't qualify for NMS.)
SAT I: General exam for admission - tests verbal and math skills. A 3-hour test, mostly multiple choice. This test will change in 2005, with a timed essay, more reading, and Algebra II skills added.	www.collegeboard.com $26 fee. The site is loaded with planning information for the entire college application process.	Can take more than once, usually beginning in spring of 11th grade. Offered at local high schools about 7 times during the school year.
ACT: Alternate general exam for admission. Tests English, Math, Reading, and Science Reasoning. About 3 hours, all multiple choice.	www.act.org $25 fee. This site also features many planning helps, including career planning information.	Can take more than once, usually beginning in spring of 11th grade. Offered at local high schools about 6 times during the school year.
SAT II: Subject-area tests (22 subjects available) that are used either for admissions or placement, depending on college policy. One hour, mostly multiple choice.	www.collegeboard.com $14 registration fee for up to three tests on one day, plus $7-12 for each test taken.	Offered at local high schools about 6 times during the school year. Usually taken 11th or 12th grade.
AP: Subject-area tests for advanced-level knowledge. Many colleges grant college credit for a score of 3 or over.	www.collegeboard.com $78 fee per test.	Offered at local high schools in May. Usually taken 11th or 12th grade.
CLEP: Subject-area exams. Many colleges grant 3-6 credits per exam. A 90-minute, computer-based exam. Mostly multiple choice.	Local college - list on www.collegeboard.com. $50 per exam, plus a testing center fee of about $15.	Offered throughout the year at colleges. No age limit, can be taken any time.
GED: This exam, administered to students over age 16, tests for 10th grade skills. Not recommended due to reputation as a "drop-out" test.	Call your county school superintendent's office for information. $35 fee.	Do not take unless an underage student must have it to qualify for federal financial aid.

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