Departments
Online Links to More Information
Sometimes students need help getting ready for college entrance exams, such as SAT I, SAT II, and ACT. Follow the links on the right for more information about each test or to practice sample questions.
PSAT – Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test
The PSAT is the qualifying examination for the National Merit Scholarship Program and is administered in October of each year by The College Board to 10th and 11th grade students. The test measures verbal reasoning skills, math problem-solving skills, critical reading skills and writing skills that have been developed by students during the course of their education. The PSAT serves as a valuable tool to assist students and their parents with early college preparation and planning. For more information, contact the High School Counselor's office at 903-295-5031.
Home-schooled students who are eligible to attend public school at PTISD will be permitted to participate in an administration of the PSAT or a college advanced placement test offered by the district. To register for the test, contact the High School Counselor's office at 903-295-5031.
SAT – Scholastic Aptitude Test
Universally accepted for college admissions, the SAT is a reasoning test that students need to complete college level work in any academic area. It is a three hour test that is administered by The College Board and measures two sets of skills – verbal (reading and writing) and mathematical reasoning. A new SAT began in spring of 2016. Among other changes, the test includes an optional essay section, and no longer deducts points for incorrect answers.
ACT – ACT Assessment
The ACT is a national college admissions examination which covers four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading and science. It is designed to assess high school students’ general educational development and their ability to complete college level work. The ACT includes 215 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. An optional 30-minute Writing Test is also available to students.
Texas Success Initiative (TSI) AssessmentAccuplacer Student Brochure
The TSI Assessment (TSIA) is part of the Texas Success Initiative program designed to help colleges or universities determine if students are ready for college-level course work in the general areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. This program also will help determine what type of course or intervention will best meet students' needs to help them become better prepared for college-level course work if they are not ready.
More information about the TSIA can be found in the Accuplacer TSI Assessment Student Brochure