External Testing in preparation for university at LIS
We have our students sit two standardized exams –The MAP test (in grades 3-8) and the PSAT (in grades 9-10). These assessments give the students, you and us an idea of where our students stand globally and help us determine progress and learning targets. Information was sent out to parents about both exams in December. After two years of our IB Diploma Programme (in grades 11-12), our IB Diploma candidates will sit the iB exams which can lead to the internationally recognized IB Diploma.
We will host an information session for parents on the new MAP test later in January led by Ms Wuest. Questions about PSAT or SAT can be directed to Mrs Mindorff.
Aside from the exams mentioned above, we are a test centre for the following exams boards:
SAT, ACT, Cambridge.
Students can register to take the SAT elsewhere but we are a SAT site for most SATs (including subjects). We do not run the October SAT. The dates are posted each year on our school calendar. Students MUST inform me well in advance if they intend to take these tests. Students who intent to apply to the United States for university will need to take the SAT and achieve a score that meets admissions requirements. Universities vary so students should be looking at what is expected from each university. Typically, the SAT is first taken in grade 11 and then a subsequent test might be taken in grade 12.
The link to the international SAT dates here. Current test dates for international centers (it can change so check the College Board website)
March 10 (SAT only)
May 5
June 2 (subject tests only)
The early registration deadlines are:
January 24, March 21, April 18
We are also an American ACT test centre. The ACT test dates for 2018 are: in April (14) and June (9th). Like the SAT, students must inform me of their plans as we do not automatically prepare to run a test without students indicating their intent. For 2018 exams students must let me know and register by the start of February.
Students need to determine which test is best suited for the universities in the US to which they are applying . Typically the SAT is more common but there is increasing acceptance for the ACT. I recommend a conversation with me about which test should be taken in addition to students doing their own research.
Further, we are a test centre for the British Cambridge exams that are used as part of the UK university entrance exam process. Students apply via the UCAS system and they will need to determine which entrance exams they will need to take. This UCAS process takes place early in the grade 12 year (complete by October 15) and the entrance exams are often in early November.
Finally, we recommend that students should take the IELTS(academic) or TOEFL if they are non-native English speakers. Our English teachers are able to give guidance on taking these English proficiency exams.
