PSAT/NMSQT – Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
The PSAT/NMSQT, a short form of the SAT, measures verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities. It serves four purposes:

- Allows students to compare their academic abilities with other college-bound students at their specific grade level.
- Familiarizes students with the SAT.
- Shows the student areas on which he/she may need to concentrate additional preparation before taking the SAT.
- Allows college-bound juniors to compete for National Merit Scholarships

The test is offered only in October and should be taken by all sophomores and college-bound juniors. Freshman are encouraged to take the test for practice.

Once you receive results & access code, go to Collegeboard's My College QuickStart.  This site will give you a personalized online PSAT score report, personalized SAT study plan, and an interactive college/career/major match.  This letter will give you more information about how to utilize QuickStart.  If you missed our PSAT Results Interpretation Night, view our PSAT powerpoint presentation.

SAT
Method of Scoring: Scores adjusted for guessing. Penalty for incorrect responses.

Test Score Scales: 200-800 on each of three areas: Critical Reading (formerly Verbal), Writing, Math

Total: 600-2400 (sum of Critical Reading (formerly Verbal), Writing, & Math)

SAT II Subject Tests
SAT II tests are required at many competitive colleges. Check with the admissions office at the school to which you are applying. The Subject Tests measure students’ knowledge and skills in a particular subject and their ability to apply that knowledge.

ACT
Method of Scoring: Scores based on number of right answers. No penalty for guessing.

Test Score Scales: 1-36 for each four sections. English 25%; Reading 25%; Math 25%; Social Science 25%

Composite: 1-36 (average of 4 test scores)

THEA
The THEA is required for admission into all Texas 2 or 4-year colleges. Its purpose is to assess the reading, mathematics, and writing skills that entering freshman-level students should have if they are to perform effectively in undergraduate certificate or degree programs in Texas public colleges or universities.

THEA Exemptions – You are exempt from taking the THEA if any one of the conditions listed below applies to you.

ACT composite score of 23 or higher with English and math part scores equal to or greater than 19.

SAT combined score of 1070 or higher with critical reading and math part scores equal to or greater than 500.

TAKS – 2200 in math and a 2200 with writing sub-score of at least a 3 in English/Language Arts.

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Testing for College Credit

AP - Advanced Placement Testing
Advanced Placement Examinations are administered at SHS during the spring of each year. These exams are based upon college-level courses taught in high school. Exam scores are reported on a five-point scale with five being the highest score. A score of three or better is acceptable for advanced placement and college credit by most colleges.

CLEP - College Level Examination Program
CLEP provides an opportunity for individuals who have acquired certain knowledge outside the traditional classroom to earn core academic college credits through an examination. The scores range from 200-800. Some colleges give credit for scores above 500, enabling students to skip certain courses. Students can register for and take CLEP Exams at most college and university testing centers.

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TAKS

TAKS – Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills
Satisfactory performance on the Exit-Level TAKS is a requirement for graduation. 9th and 10th grade students take the TAKS in preparation for their Exit-Level TAKS. Students can prepare for the TAKS by reviewing the TAKS Study Guides, by downloading released TAKS tests, or by accessing the UT Telecampus Track site.  In addition, there is an excellent science test preparation site.   

FMHS TAKS Tutorials - March 25 - April 24

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