Standardized Testing at a Glance
The practice and college admissions tests most commonly taken by students at Community High School and the Ann Arbor Public Schools are explained and linked below. The CHS Counseling Office has more information and registration materials for each test described.
ACT
The American College Test is a multiple choice college entrance examination. Nationally, it is taken by 50% of high school graduates, and by 68% in Michigan. It is usually taken in 11th and/or 12th grade. It’s given five times a year at sites in Ann Arbor and in the region. The ACT also serves as the qualifying exam for the Michigan Competitive Scholarships. Cost: $25. There is an optional writing test requested by selective colleges and universities which brings the cost up to around $42.
SAT
The SAT Reasoning Test is taken by college-bound students and used in admissions decisions at most major colleges around the country. In 2005, a writing portion was added. The SAT is administered seven times a year- many of which most are here in Ann Arbor. Cost: $42.00.
SAT Subject Tests (formerly SAT II)
The SAT Subject Tests are a series of one-hour exams, mostly multiple choice, in specific subjects used for selective college admissions and to place advanced freshmen in appropriate courses. The test(s) are voluntarily taken in addition to the SAT usually by 11th and 12th graders. It is given 6 times per year . Cost: $5-$18 per exam
AP
The Advanced Placement Tests are usually preceded by AP courses in a variety of subjects. Colleges and universities use the 3-hour exams, consisting of both essays and multiple choice questions, to place advanced students in more challenging classes and to award college credit. Tests are given mostly to 11th and 12th grade students in May. Cost: $85 per exam.
MEAP/HSPT
The Michigan Educational Assessment Program or “High School Proficiency Test” is required by the state of Michigan for all public and charter schools and includes essay and multiple choice questions. It is used to award “report cards” to schools. It is taken by some 10th graders, all 11th graders and can be retaken in 12th grade. The state of Michigan awards scholarships based on successful completion of the 4 required and one optional exam. No Fee.