Skip To Main Content

Logo Image

Logo Title

ACT & SAT Testing Information

General Testing Information

Students take either the ACT or SAT test as part of the college application process. Almost every student that attends a college has taken the ACT or SAT. What exactly are these tests? Which one should you take? We strongly encourage students to take both tests at least once. This will give you an idea of which test showcases your abilities, and you can concentrate on increasing the score of your "best" test. Please check your prospective college's testing requirements.  

ACT

The ACT contains four sub-tests in English, Math, Reading, and Science. A separate ACT Writing test is also available. Each sub-test has a high score of 36. These sub-test scores are averaged together for a Composite Score. Some colleges look at the sub-tests individually, others consider the entire Composite Score. To register for the ACT, follow this link: ACT Registration.

SAT

The SAT assesses your math and English skills. It also contains a writing portion. Each section has a maximum of 800 points, with a high score of 1600 for the math and verbal sections. Many college websites will discuss their "freshman profile" and list the SAT scores out of 1600. Please check with your prospective college or university admissions office to see if they "super score" or only look at the highest individual score. To register for the SAT, follow this link: SAT Registration.

Testing Waivers

If you are on Free or Reduced Lunch, you are eligible to receive waivers for the ACT and SAT. Students can obtain a waiver by seeing Ms. Velasquez Soto in the Counseling & Curriculum office or sending her an email: dina.velasquezsoto@gcpsk12.org.