Our counseling efforts are focused on introducing possible career and college options to students and introducing students to college admissions testing. All members of the sophomore and junior classes take the PSAT/NMSQT in October. This allows students to familiarize themselves with the SAT, and identify areas of strength and weakness that will help them prepare for the exam. Moreover, the detailed score report from this test should provide some idea of what students can expect on the SAT when they take it during late Junior and early Senior year.
NHS students may take the SAT or ACT, and can register for these exams individually. The two exams are similar, but they have a few differences in terms of content and test approach.
The Princeton Review has published a more detailed comparison of the SAT vs. ACT which can be found here.
Please note that each student has a unique testing plan. Please see your school counselor to share your plan and ask for advice.
It is our recommendation that NHS students take a standardized test in preparation for college applications. Historically, standardized testing scores have been an asset to compliment college applications. On the other hand, many colleges have already stated that they will consider applicants on a test-optional basis for the upcoming admissions cycle and others in the future.
Students are encouraged to discuss it with their school counselor if they feel as though they may not send their scores to colleges. Score reports are not automatically sent to colleges but are submitted by the student.
Newburyport High School offers the SAT three times during the academic year, specifically in October, March, and May. If you have any questions regarding the SAT at our school, please contact our SAT coordinator, Melissa Martin mmartin@newburyport.k12.ma.us
