I had made the decision to go with the ACT in order to avoid the mess that comes with the changing SAT test. Took December 2015 ACT and got 34 composite. Was debating taking it again in April 2016 to see if could improve. Along came my PSAT score and got 222 SI (in CA). People are telling me I might qualify for NMSF, which I hadn’t really been thinking about. So should I plan to take the SAT in case I do advance in the NM process? Also, given that I can only now take the new SAT, should I take it in March or June? March fits well but, really, the first date of the new test??!! Better to wait till June for the 3rd time it’s given? Or October?? Trying to minimize test taken but make sure I am putting my “best foot forward” (my mom’s phrasing).
REVISED POST/ QUESTION: (can you edit posts on CollegeConfidential??!!)
I received a SI of 222 (in CA) on PSAT. I was not going to take SAT only ACT…but peers are telling me I need to take SAT since I may qualify for NMSF, which I did not know much about. With 222 in CA should I be registering for SAT before school year ends???
Yes, I think you should take the SAT.
And I think you should spend some time looking at what you need to be eligible for NMSF & NMF on the NMF website.
My kids are not taking the first new SAT test, they’re planning on taking it later this year. Let some of the bugs shake out…
34 on ACT is as good as 36 for most colleges (congratulations on your success on your first try!).
Taking it again might look like being obsessed with the scores.
Still want to better your score? Take April ACT with a minimal prep prior to it.
Just analyze your December ACT thoroughly.
If you have not ordered its copy, you still can do that and receive it within ~5 weeks.
http://www.actstudent.org/scores/release.html
If you want to pursue NM (congratulations again!) - take the SAT in March and register for June just in case.
Yes, take the new SAT! You may nail it and you need it for NMS. Either date is fine