As the school year is getting into full swing, the SAT is approaching on November 5 for most upperclassmen here at Bernards. Nearby high schools administering the test include Bridgewater-Raritan, Hunterdon Central, Morristown, Ridge, and Somerville high schools.  The deadline to register for the November SAT was October 7, but the latest deadline by phone/online is October 25. The late registration fee is $28 in addition to the normal registration fee.

This year, the “new SAT” will be administered, which means there will be some key content changes when it comes to the test. Instead of being scored on a scale of 2400, the test will be scored on a scale of 1600. Both the math and the reading/writing sections range from 200-800 points, and the sum of  both sections ranges from 400-1600. The essay portion of the test is optional for students, but some colleges do require the essay, so students may want to consider taking this portion.

When it comes to the day of the test, here are some things to remember:

1. Make sure to print your admission ticket before arriving.
2. An acceptable photo ID, such as a driver’s license/passport, is required.
3. Only No. 2 pencils with erasers are allowed on the test.
4. To find out which calculators are approved, go to collegeboard.org to find out more.
5. No watches with alarms are allowed.
6. If you would like, you are allowed to have a small bag with drinks and snack for the break.
7. Make sure to have a good breakfast to prepare for the long day!
8. If any electronics, including phones, are found, test scores will be cancelled.

All test centers open at 7:45 AM and close at 8 AM, so make sure to arrive in a timely manner.  Once the test starts, there is only one ten minute and one five minute break during which you can eat or drink. Test scores will be posted online at collegeboard.org about three weeks after taking the test.

If you missed out on registering for November’s SAT, make sure to register for the following dates:

-December 3, 2016

-January 21, 2017

-March 11, 2017

-May 6, 2017

-June 3, 2017

Good luck to all those taking the SAT and make sure to follow the checklist above!