Counseling Corner: Addison Trail Guidance Department shares important information about college entrance exams

The Addison Trail Guidance Department is committed to providing opportunities to help prepare students for success in their post-secondary education. As part of that focus, the department shares important information regarding upcoming college entrance exams.

The SAT and ACT assessments are an important part of the college admissions process. On April 9, the Illinois State Board of Education will provide the College Board’s SAT exam, including a writing component, at no cost to all public high school juniors. That assessment provides a college-reportable score for admissions purposes. Eligible Addison Trail juniors will pre-register for that assessment at school.

After completing the SAT, students will receive a score report that outlines their strengths and areas for improvement through an online portal with the College Board and an overview of their college and career readiness. Also through the College Board account, each student will receive individualized tutorials from Khan Academy on how to improve in his or her areas of growth.

All college-bound juniors are encouraged to take another SAT and/or ACT exam on a national testing day as well.

• Students can register for the SAT at www.collegeboard.com.
• Students can register for the ACT at www.act.org.
• Students should be sure to take advantage of the free test preparation provided after registering for the exam.

Both exams have an optional writing portion for an added fee. The writing portion is required for select colleges and universities. Consult the college or university website to see whether the writing portion is necessary for admission. Students who receive free or reduced lunch should see their counselor for a fee waiver.

What are the differences between the SAT and the ACT?
For details about each assessment, go to https://crushthegretest.com/act-vs-sat.

For questions about the SAT or the ACT, contact Addison Trail Guidance Counselor Shane Cole at scole@dupage88.net or 630-628-3322.