Visual and Performing Arts Athletics Standardized Testing What About Test Prep? Using Cialfo

PSAT

Most colleges will review standardized test scores in the admissions process. Early assessment tools like the PSAT used to be popular in test preparation, but, in recent years, online platforms like Methodize (to which Woodberry subscribes) have outpaced the PSAT in efficacy. Woodberry offers the PSAT optionally to fifth-form students in October, but does not require students to take the test. The PSAT is a qualifying test for the National Merit competition, a program that could earn a small handful of students scholarship money at certain colleges. In the early fall each year, the college counseling office will invite boys and families to register for the PSAT if they have an interest in taking it.

SAT & ACT

Almost all admission offices accept both the SAT and ACT and are interested in a student’s highest scores. Students are generally encouraged to take three of these tests — two of one, and one of the other — by the end of their fifth-form year. In addition, students should plan to test at least once more in the fall or early winter of their sixthform year. Most colleges don’t require the “writing” section of the ACT; we encourage students not to engage that version of the test.

Boys are responsible for their own SAT and ACT registration; accounts can be set-up through the College Board and ACT websites. Boys will be responsible for having their SAT/ACT scores sent directly from the testing agency to each college to which they are applying and can complete this task on the appropriate testing agency website for a fee.

AP EXAMS

Some students will be enrolled in an AP-equivalent course at Woodberry and have the opportunity to sit for the corresponding AP exam. Sharing AP results with colleges – through the Common Application – is optional.

Woodberry is a testing center for the PSAT, SAT,

ACT*, and AP, which means boys don’t have to travel to take those tests. If a student wishes to be considered for extended time or other accommodations on the SAT or ACT, he must have received a disability diagnosis and should have had accommodations in place at Woodberry for at least four months during the academic year prior to the request. Please contact our test coordinator for assistance with testing accommodations.

*Woodberry’s test center code is 250400. When not offered at

Woodberry, the ACT can be taken at Orange County High School with test day transportation provided by WFS.

WHAT ABOUT TEST PREP?

There are a wide range of test prep options. Khan Academy – a College Board online partner – offers free SAT practice. Woodberry subscribes to a platform called Methodize that offers an asynchronous test prep curriculum and full-length practice tests for both ACT and SAT. College counselors guide fourth-form students through an assessment process to determine which test, either ACT or SAT, is best suited for them. During the fifth- form year, students are offered group classes or supplemental test prep support at a discounted rate.

Many students take advantage of spring and summer breaks to prepare for standardized tests. These are particularly good times for more formal courses or tutoring, if desired. Boys can also sign up for the “question of the day” and other free practice questions through the College Board and ACT websites. For a fee, students can order a copy of their ACT or SAT test booklet with correct answers from select test dates.

A powerful resource for families is a program called Cialfo. In addition to general information about colleges, scholarships and aid, and links to other resources, Cialfo provides a detailed history of Woodberry applications and admission decisions at hundreds of colleges. Except in a small number of cases, Cialfo is also the system used to submit supporting documents to colleges electronically. Cialfo also serves as a vital organizational and communications tool, providing your son and his college counselor a common platform through which important tasks and deadlines are conveyed. A link to Cialfo can be found on the college counseling page of Woodberry’s website. Parents or students should contact the college counseling office if they need help accessing or using Cialfo.