The following exams are voluntary, meaning they are not required for high school graduation.
College Credit Testing Options:
College Entrance Examination Options:
Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations
The Advanced Placement program consists of college-level courses that high school students may substitute for the regular curriculum. Students who are successful on the subsequent AP exams may meet certain college entrance requirements and/or earn college credit if they score well on these exams. To learn more, visit the College Board AP website and https://sites.google.com/sandi.net/sdusdap/ap-sdusd
International Baccalaureate (IB)Assessments
The International Baccalaureate program is a rigorous, two-year liberal arts course of study for students in grades 11 and 12. IB final assessments are based on two years' coursework in each course for each student. Students who score well on the IB assessments may meet certain college entrance requirements and/or earn college credit. To learn more, visit the International Baccalaureate Organization website or
American College Test (ACT)
The ACT Assessment is designed to assess high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. To learn more, visit their website.
Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT) + National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT)
The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT I: Reasoning Test and SAT II: Writing Test. It also gives students a chance to qualify for National Merit Scholarship Corporation's (NMSC) scholarship programs. To learn more, visit their website.
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
The SAT measures verbal and mathematical reasoning skills students have developed over time and skills they need to be successful academically. The SAT is scored on a scale of 200-800 and is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors. The test is administered several times a year. To learn more, visit their website.
Scholars are strongly encouraged to confirm with their future colleges and universities which, if any, of the above exams are needed.
Additional information can be found on the linked websites above and the Advanced Studies website.