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There are five types of standarized tests that colleges may require:

SAT I, ACT, SAT II, Accuplacer, and Toeffel

SAT I – Scholastic Aptitude Test

This is an exam that four year colleges use to predict your level of success in college. You only need to take this test if you are going to a four year college. It tests a student's verbal and math skills. Prior to taking this test you should have at least taken successfully Algebra I, Geometry and be enrolled in Algebra II or a higher math. You should also have taken a prep class in SAT. You should consider taking this exam in your second semester of your junior year and again in you senior year if you need to improve your scores. For further information check out the college board web site at www.collegeboard.com

ACT – America College Test

This is an exam that four year colleges use to see where your level of learning is on the day that you take the test. Most schools will accept this test. It is different from the SAT and many students find it easier and do well on the ACT. It has tests in reading, math, social studies, english and science. You should consider taking this exam if you are weak in your skills or do not want to take the SAT I. You may take this test in the second semester of your junior year. For further information check out the college board web site at www.act.org

SAT II – Scholastic Aptitude Test – in specific subjects

This is a one hour test in a specific subject that colleges will use as a placement test as well as for admission purposes. Do not take these tests unless the college to which you are applying requires them.

ACCUPLACER – this is the test that the Community College of Baltimore County requires

It tests reading, english grammar writing and math ability. You take this exam in the spring of your senior year. The community college will also consider the SAT for placement and scholarship purposes.

TOEFL test is a requirement for admission into colleges and universities where instruction is in English. In addition, many government, licensing, and certification agencies, and exchange and scholarship programs use TOEFL scores to evaluate the English proficiency of people for whom English is not their native language. Students who have a different language than English for their native language should consider taking this test.