College Entrance Exams
All of Oregon's public colleges and universities (and many private and public colleges in other states) will be continuing their test-optional policies, and many are making this change permanently. Here is a List of Test-Optional Schools, but check each school's admission webpage to confirm their testing policy.
Colleges and universities that do require test results use the SAT and the ACT equally to evaluate prospective students. Cleveland students will have the opportunity to take the SAT for free during the spring of their junior year. If they wish, they can take the ACT and/or the SAT again during the fall of their senior year.
- The ACT is a national college admissions test that consists of subject area tests in English, mathematics, reading and science.
- The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a multiple-choice and essay test that tests verbal and mathematical aptitude as well as writing skills.
- The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT. For juniors, the PSAT is also the qualifying test for National Merit Scholarship programs. PSAT scores are not sent to colleges.
Preparing for the SAT or ACT
- Obtain a book of hints and practice tests. There are several publishers who offer these types of books, and they are available in the CCC, Multnomah County Library, from local bookstores, or Amazon. It is best to take a practice test well before the exam so that there is time to review academic areas that are recommended for improvement.
- Sign up on-line for Khan Academy SAT practice: https://www.khanacademy.org/sat
- Free ACT test prep available at: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/free-act-test-prep.html
- Take a test prep class. For suggestions, refer to this document.
Exam Dates
For the most up-to-date information on dates and locations, please refer to the ACT and SAT websites. Students on free/reduced lunch can receive fee-waiver forms from the Student Services Center (SSC).
CEEB Code
Cleveland High School's CEEB Code is 380855. This code will be needed when registering for the tests.