SAT, ACT, & CLT Testing
National standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, and CLT are important components of the college admissions process. Although many schools across the country have become "test optional", all the Florida public universities still require test scores. Regardless of the institution's testing requirements, students should still submit their scores to schools in hopes it will add value to their college application.
Students will have exposure to the College Board testing platform by taking the PSAT annually. These PSAT scores will give them an idea as to how they will perform on the official SAT and what areas they need to work on. Students should wait until the Spring of their Junior Year to attempt the SAT/ACT for the first time. In the meantime, students should be using test prep websites such as Khan Academy or hiring a private tutor after school. The average amount of prep time is 6-8 weeks before testing.
Both national exams will also help students meet the requirements for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship. They are not required to take both exams, but we highly recommend it as the testing platforms are based on personal preference and they might score higher on one platform than the other. See photo below for comparisons between both testing platforms.
Test Fee Waivers are available to those students who qualify for the free/reduced lunch program. Their eligibility is determined by completing the lunch application annually. Lunch code status only carries over for ten days into the following school year. SAT provides 2 test fee waivers and ACT provides 4 waivers in total. CLT provides 2 test fee waivers per school year. Students should see their CAP advisor to steps on redeeming their waiver code before registering for the SAT/ACT/CLT.
Mater Bay also offers SAT Group tutoring once each semester comprised of five-week sessions. All sessions are held on Saturday leading up to both the FALL and Spring SAT School Days.