Standardized Tests

The PSAT/NMSQT is a practice test that helps students prepare for the SAT and identifies strengths and weaknesses in specific content areas. The PSAT/NMSQT consists of sections in math, critical reading, and writing, and is scored by section for a combined total between 320 – 1520 points. No formal preparation is necessary for the PSAT/NMSQT. The test is administered at Georgetown Prep on a Wednesday in mid-October to all sophomores and juniors, and students are automatically registered through the school. Results from the PSAT/NMSQT are never shared with colleges and universities, but scores for eleventh grade students are used to determine qualification for National Merit standing. Further information can be found at College Board’s PSAT/NMSQT.

The College Board’s standardized test used in the college admission process, the SAT, consists of Two sections. The maximum score is a 1600, and is the combined result of the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing section and the Math section. The SAT is offered seven times a year, and several times at Prep. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so it is therefore in the student’s best interest to provide a response for all questions. Please note, we recommend students sit for the SAT no more than 2 - 3 times. Even if the student wishes to test at Prep, It is the student’s responsibility to register himself for the SAT through his College Board account. Visit the SAT website for more information.

The ACT is another standardized test used in the college admission process. Composed of four sections, including English, math, reading, and science, plus an optional writing component, the ACT score is a composite of the four sections, with the highest possible being a 36. Similar to the SAT, the ACT is offered seven times per year, with several sittings offered at Prep. Please note, we recommend students sit for the ACT no more than 2 - 3 times. Even if the student wishes to test at Prep, it is the student’s responsibility to register himself for the ACT through his ACT account. Please see the ACT website for more information.

At Georgetown Prep, students enrolled in an Advanced Placement course are required to sit for the corresponding AP exam. AP exams are scored out of a possible 1 – 5, and demonstrate mastery of college level work in the subject area. A score of 3 or higher may result in a student being granted college credit or a higher level placement when enrolling in post-secondary courses. Registration is completed at the beginning of the school year in which a student enrolls in the AP course; exams take place in May. A student may choose to self-report AP scores of which he is most proud (generally scores of 4 or 5), as U.S. institutions do not require AP exam results during the college application process. 

Although the Georgetown Prep curriculum is solid preparation for the standardized tests required for admission, all students should spend additional time preparing for the tests on their own. It is best to prepare about 8 – 12 weeks in advance of the test date. In general, there are three ways to approach test preparation: on one’s own, using books and online resources; in a class; or with a tutor, one-on-one. Click here for a list of recommendations as compiled by suggestions from alums. 

it is the student’s responsibility to register for the SAT and/or the ACT through the respective testing agency. To register for the SAT on a date when the test is offered at Prep, Georgetown Prep must be listed as the student’s current high school in his College Board account.

Test Fee Waivers: Students who have limited financial resources may be eligible for a test fee waiver for the SAT, AP exams, and/or ACT tests. See if you qualify for the income limits for eligibility. If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver, please speak with your counselor, who can provide you with the necessary form and instructions.