The American College Test Battery (ACT) or College Entrance Examination Board Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT I) is required by most colleges. Usually it is recommended that students take the ACT and/or College Board SAT I during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year. Students should consult college bulletins to determine required or recommended tests and test deadlines.

The College Board Preliminary Scholastic Achievement Test (PSAT), a short version of the SAT, is offered on a voluntary basis and is given in combination with the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). It is designed to assist talented students in obtaining scholarships. The results are also valuable for guidance of the individual student.

Advanced Placement curriculum in English and Calculus is available at all high schools. At Lubbock High School and Estacado High School, additional AP courses will be offered within the magnet program. This curriculum will prepare students for Advanced Placement tests to be offered in the spring.

The College Board Advanced Placement tests are offered in the spring semester. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests are given monthly at various testing centers. Both tests are voluntary. Participating colleges may award advanced placement, credit, or both, for satisfactory performance on these examinations. Students should consult college bulletins and counselors for additional information. College credit may also be given for the SAT II or departmental examination.

The Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) is designed to ensure that all students attending public collges and universities in Texas have the reading, mathematics, and writing skills necessary to perform effectively in college-level course work. Students must take the test prior to accumulating nine (9) or more college-level semester credit hours or the equivalent. Remedial activities will be required for those students who do not pass the TASP test. Scoring high on the TAAS, ACT, or SAT I can keep one from having to take the TASP. Students should follow the directions of the schools to which they have been accepted. Students should check with the counselor for additional information.

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