Test Glossary

PSAT/NMSQT

Math, verbal, critical reading and writing skills
Length and type: two hours and 10 minutes, multiple choice
Purpose: The PSAT helps you prepare for the SAT and determines your eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship.
Registration and fees: www.collegeboard.com • (609) 771-7070 • Fee: $13; register with your college adviser.

SAT

Math, critical reading and writing (essay)
Length and type: three hours and 45 minutes, multiple choice and essay
Purpose: The SAT is the exam required by most U.S. colleges and universities.
Registration and fees: www.collegeboard.com • (609) 771-7600 • Fee: $45.

ACT

English, math, reading, science and writing (optional)
Length and type: two hours and 55 minutes, multiple choice and essay (additional 30 minutes)
Purpose: The ACT is a common exam required by U.S. colleges and universities.
Registration and fees: www.act.org • (800) 525-6926 • Fee: $31 ($15 for the 
writing portion).

SAT subject tests

Math, languages, literature, social studies and sciences
Length and type: one hour each, mostly multiple choice
Purpose: Some colleges require subject tests for admissions.
Registration and fees: www.collegeboard.com • (609) 771-7600 • Fee: $20 basic registration fee plus $9 per test (except for language tests, which are $20 each), plus additional fees

AP (Advanced Placement) exams

Math, languages, literature, social studies and sciences
Length and type: three hours, multiple choice and free response
Purpose: Some colleges award course credit to students who do well in these exams.
Registration and fees: www.collegeboard.com • (888) 225-5427 • Fee: $86 per test.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Listening, reading, writing and speaking
Length: fewer than three hours
Purpose: The TOEFL tests English-language proficiency in non-native speakers. Colleges often waive the TOEFL if you score 75 or above on Regents English.
Registration and fees: www.ets.org/toefl • 877-863-3546 • Fee: $150.

CLEP (College Level Examination Program)

Length: one hour and 30 minutes
Purpose: This test allows students to “place out” of a college class, depending on how well they do.
Registration and fees: www.collegeboard.com • (800) 257-9558 • Fee: $72 per test.