Standardized Testing (PSAT, ACT, SAT)
Standardized Testing (PSAT, ACT, SAT)
NOTE: The California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems are test-blind, meaning they do not consider standardized test scores for college admissions. Standardized tests are not required for community college applications.
Registering for the ACT and SAT
NOTE: The SAT will be administered exclusively in a digital, adaptive format starting in March 2024, affecting the Class of 2025 and beyond. The ACT will continue in its paper and pencil format.
ACT - Registration and test information at https://www.act.org/
Usually given 7 times a year: September, October, December, February, April, June, and July. Deadlines are typically 5-6 weeks prior to the test dates but testing locations fill up quickly, so register early. Find an ACT Test Center.
SAT - Registration and test information at https://www.collegeboard.org/
Given 7 times a year: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. Deadlines are typically 4-5 weeks prior to the test dates but testing locations fill up quickly, so register early. Find an SAT Test Center.
Do I Need to Take the ACT and/or SAT?
Test Optional - What It Means and Things to Consider
Many colleges that had previously required SAT or ACT scores have moved to test-optional and test-blind testing policies. Research the standardized testing policy at the institutions to which you wish to apply. See the link above for more information on what it means to be test optional.
If you would like to submit test scores, or are applying to an institution that requires them, know that the majority of four-year colleges require students to take at least one of these exams by December of their senior years. NOTE: October is the last test date that makes scores available in time for early decision and early action programs.
* Recommendation: juniors taking the tests should plan to do so in the spring, or by the end of their junior years, so they can re-take the tests, if needed, in the fall.
PSAT
Livermore High School offers the PSAT/NMSQT once a year in October. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) measures what you're learning in school, determines if you're on track, and opens doors for opportunities to prepare and pay for college. Students who take the PSAT/NMSQT as a junior, can use their scores as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Fee Waivers
You qualify for a fee waiver if you are enrolled in or eligible to participate in the federal free or reduced price lunch program (FRPL). Our district offers free lunch to all students, regardless of family income. Students who would traditionally qualify for free or reduced lunch can continue to benefit from additional services by completing the district's Meal Application Form. Contact Ms. Cabading (pcabading@lvjusd.org) in the College & Career Center if you are eligible to receive a test fee waiver.
Free Practice
(ACT) Free Test Preparation Resources
(SAT) Full Length Practice Tests - includes adaptive, digital tests
(SAT) Khan Academy - free prep sharpen your skills through thousands of practice questions, videos, lessons, and hints plus test-taking tips and strategies