College Information

College Entrance Exams

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School Code: 052986

Note: Due to the impact of COVID-19, many colleges are posting updates to their testing policies and requirements, so please check each college admissions website directly. For a list of test optional colleges and universities visit fairtest.org.

Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT testing for admissions. Sometimes UC and Private colleges also require SAT Subject Exams in addition to the SAT/ACT. Check college applications for submission dates of test scores; they can vary from college to college. Please see below for registration sites for the official exams.

ACT

ACT is a test that is used by colleges as a part of its admission process. The ACT test assesses high school students' general development and their ability to complete college-level work. The multiple-choice test cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skills in planning and writing a short essay. Click here to visit the ACT website.

SAT Reasoning Test

SAT is a test that is used by colleges as a part of its admissions process. The SAT Reasoning Test is a measure of the critical thinking skills you'll need for academic success in college. The SAT assesses how well students analyze and solve problems--skills learned in school that are needed in college. The SAT is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors.

The SAT includes several different question types, including: a student-produced essay, multiple-choice questions, and student-produced responses. Please visit the College Board website for test dates and registration.

 

When should the ACT or SAT be taken?

Generally speaking, we recommend students spend their freshmen and sophomore years preparing to take the ACT or SAT during their junior year. They may do things such as take the PSAT in October of the 9^th, 10^th and 11^th grade year. They can supplement that with a possible prep course, self-study using a practice booklet, or a number of other aids. Then, in the spring of Junior year, they should start taking the actual test. During the fall of the senior year, students will have a couple of opportunities to increase their scores if they so choose. Of course, if students are prepared to take assessments earlier, they are always welcome to do so.

PTSA Mock Exams for SAT & ACT

Westview PTSA offers mock exams for the SAT and ACT. These tests give students a chance to take tests, receive their scores, and learn strategies to utilize before they take the real SAT and ACT tests. These tests do not get sent to colleges and give students a chance to get accustomed to standardized tests prior to taking the actual exams. Please visit the PTSA website for more information and registration details.

Palomar College Assessments

During the spring term, Westview offers Palomar College placement testing on our campus. Please see the Guidance Tech in the Wolverine Center for more information about registering for placement tests.

What you will need:

1. Your Social Security Number to register.
2. Go to the Palomar website to submit your application at www.palomar.edu/.
3. Click on the "Apply for Admission" link to the left side of the screen.
4. Answer the questions on each page only if you've never previously applied to Palomar. If you have, you should already have a Student Identification Number and should update your application. (Do not use the back button as you may lose your information and will need to start again.)
5. On the last page, you will be given your Student Identification Number. Please write it down and then provide it to Ms. Bloomfield prior to the testing date.

The Early Assessment Program (EAP)

The Early Assessment Program (EAP) is a collaborative effort among the State Board of Education (SBE), the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California State University (CSU). The program was established to provide opportunities for students to measure their readiness for college-level English and mathematics in their junior year of high school, and to facilitate opportunities for them to improve their skills during their senior year. The goal of the EAP program is to have California high school graduates enter the CSU fully prepared to begin college-level study. Click here for more information on the EAP. Additional information can be found on www.csusuccess.org/.

The Entry Level Math (ELM) and English Placement Test (EPT)

The California State University system requires potential students to take the English Placement Test (EPT) and the Entry Level Mathematics Test (ELM) prior to enrollment in the CSU. These tests are designed to measure preparedness for college level courses. Students can be exempted by means of scores earned on other appropriate tests such as the EAP, the SAT, and ACT. The EPT and the ELM are not admission tests; instead, they determine eligibility to enroll in specific courses. Students who are required to take the EPT and the ELM but fail to do so will not be allowed to register for General Education courses at the CSU. Not performing well on the tests will require placement in an appropriate remedial or developmental program or activity during the first term of enrollment. For more information, click here.