The CCHS counseling team recommends that students take either the ACT/SAT or a combination of both at least 2 and up to 4 times between the spring of their sophomore year and the early fall of their senior year.
The ACT Test
The ACT test is a college entrance examination and measures mastery in five areas: English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing. The test is offered at CCHS throughout the year. Please visit www.act.org for more information and to register for the ACT. We encourage students to begin to take the ACT early in their junior year. Students are encouraged to take the ACT at least three times because most students tend to improve their score each subsequent time. Many colleges will not accept ACT scores after October of the senior year.
The PSAT/NMSQT Test
The PSAT/NMSQT is a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship. Sophomore and junior students may choose to take this test for a fee of $18 for the purpose of preparing (10th grade) or qualifying (11th grade) for the National Merit Scholarship OR for practicing for the SAT.
PSAT 9/10
The PSAT 9 and 10 are tests that will help you and your teachers figure out what you need to work on most so that you’re ready for college when you graduate from high school. It tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT. PSAT 9 and PSAT 10 are practice tests for the SAT and also help students prepare for all standardized test situations.
The SAT Test
The SAT and SAT Subject Tests are globally recognized college admissions exams designed to assess academic readiness for college. These exams provide a path to opportunities, financial support, and scholarships in a way that’s fair to all students. The SAT and SAT Subject Tests keep pace with what colleges are looking for today, measuring the skills required for success in the 21st century. The test measures knowledge of reading, writing, and math skills. The SAT and other College Board tests are offered several times a year. Most students take the SAT for the first time during the spring of their junior year and a second time during the fall of their senior year.
AP Tests
AP (or Advanced Placement) courses are designed to deliver college-level curriculum and content at the high school level. Students pay to take an exam in the spring to measure their mastery of the course material. If the student scores high enough (each college has different requirements about what scores they will accept), he/she will be granted college credit for the course. AP classes are a great way for high school students to earn free college credit in high school (excepting the cost of the AP exam). CCHS offers three AP classes: AP Government and AP Calculus, along with numerous AP options through Michigan Virtual University.