Test Preparation
Standardized tests can showcase your achievement and skill in a certain subject, but with the number of different tests available, it’s also important to know how they’re different and which ones you should take. We’ve organized test preparation FAQs on this page to provide you with the resources to approach standardized tests with confidence.
At ShareWorld, we offer test preparation classes for virtually any standardized exam, including SAT I, SAT II Subject Tests, ACT, AP Tests, PSAT, and TOEFL. Our test preparation course offerings cater to the specific needs of students as they begin preparing to maximize success on standardized exams. Our teachers have years of experience in test preparation and will ensure that each student reaches their fullest potential to score well on a particular test.
Test Preparation FAQ
SAT I
- What is the SAT?
The SAT Reasoning Test is a standardized test for college admissions in the United States. The SAT is administered by the College Board. - What is tested on the SAT?
The new SAT has four sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math, and an optional essay (although it is required by many schools). There are 154 questions, allocating 70 seconds per question. - How long will the SAT take?
The test consists of timed sections that in total last 3 Hours (+50 minute optional essay), but the entire process may take longer due to proctors, distribution of materials, etc. - When should I register for the SAT?
You should register for the SAT at least six weeks before your testing date. The earlier the better because you can avoid late registration fees and increase your chances of taking the test at your first choice testing center. You can register online for the SAT at www.collegeboard.com or through the mail by completing the SAT registration form. - How is the new SAT different from the SAT in the past?
Since 2016, the College Board employed a new format for the SAT I. The new SAT I has these four sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math, and an optional essay. The Reading section replaced Critical Reading, and the Writing and Language section replaced Writing. Additionally, the redesigned SAT has a changed scoring scale of 400-1600, and the exam does not give a penalty for wrong answers, as in the past it took off ¼ a point for incorrect answers.
ACT
- What is the ACT?
The ACT is a national college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science with an additional Writing section for the ACT Plus. The results are accepted by all four year colleges and universities. - How long does the Act test take?
The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete (including the essay). - Who can take the ACT?
People of all ages and grade levels are eligible to take the ACT. This includes students in grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 and high school graduates. However, most students take it in their high school years to prepare for their college admissions. - What is the highest possible ACT score?
The highest possible ACT score is 36.
AP Exams
- Do I need to take AP exams?
While taking an AP course does not require that you take the exam, it is highly recommended for students to take the exams for several reasons. First of all, many colleges will reward university course credit for subject areas where a student has received a passing score on the AP exam (3 and above), which helps save time and money in college. Also, taking AP exams makes students more competitive for college admissions, as it demonstrates the ability to perform academically at a university level. It is possible to take AP exams without enrolling in the AP class. - Can I take the AP Examination if I haven’t taken an AP course?
Yes, because the College Board is committed to providing access to the AP Exams to home-schooled students and students whose schools do not offer AP courses. This requires a solid understanding of the curriculum a student would encounter in the corresponding AP class. - When are AP tests given?
The exam is administered throughout the month of May each year. - How much time does it take to finish one?
Most of the exams take two to three hours to complete.
PSAT / NMSQT
- What is the PSAT/ NMSQT?
PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT I exam. If you score high on the test, you may be awarded a scholarship from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). - What is on the PSAT?
The PSAT/NMSQT has three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The whole test requires 2 hours and 45 minutes, with a maximum score of 1520. - Do I need to write an essay in the PSAT?
No. Unlike the SAT, the PSAT does not have an essay writing section.
For more information about any test or test prep classes, please call ShareWorld (408) 446-1956. Our staff will help you set up an appointment with our experienced counselors.