Standardized Testing: PSAT, SAT, ACT, AP, and TOEFL
In October, all underclassmen are required to take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), which is also used as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) when taken in the junior year.
In January and May of the junior year, all students are required to take the College Board SAT. In May, juniors are also able to take the SAT Subject Tests. Darlington students normally take the SAT Subject Tests in Math (Level I or II), and either Chemistry, Physics, Biology, World History, American History or a world language. Participation in both of these testing programs is essential for entrance to many competitive colleges and universities.
Seniors are required to take the SAT again in October, and Darlington recommends that they take the November or December test as well, if needed. Students may also need to take the SAT Subject Tests again. Some seniors and juniors, instead, choose to take the American College Test (ACT) instead of or in addition to the SAT, and the College Guidance staff will be happy to advise students and parents in this regard. They can also advise students and parents on whether or not they should consider taking both the SAT and the ACT. Sophomores who wish to do so are encouraged to take the May SAT for the testing experience. It is the student’s responsibility to send official scores to the colleges through the testing services. Most colleges will no longer accept scores from a high school transcript, and therefore, Darlington does not include them on its transcripts.
Students in AP classes are required to take the AP Exams in May. Successful candidates may earn college credit, advanced standing, or exemption from certain courses. Through the AP program, Darlington students have earned as many as 45 to 55 trimester hours of college credit and even full sophomore standing. The AP program is a challenge to the superior student. Only students enrolled in AP courses are allowed to take AP Exams.
Students whose native language is not English must also take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) during their junior and senior years. The College Guidance Office has the necessary information and will help them register for the internet-based test, which is taken at Darlington.
Most of the tests are administered at Darlington on the dates listed, and students should not schedule other activities at these times. The registration deadlines are usually about a month in advance of the test dates, but students should check with the College Guidance Office to be sure. For the convenience of our students, Darlington is now a test center for the SAT, ACT, and TOEFL on certain test dates as listed on the school calendar.
