Taking Standardized Tests as a Homeschooler

The last two posts, I have written about my experiences while taking the digital SAT. This week, I want to end this series with a few tips for homeschoolers who are taking the PSAT, SAT, ACT, or AP tests.  

1: Get registered early 

Registering for standardized tests, especially the AP tests, is not something you want to procrastinate on. Be on the ball and communicate with your local schools about when registration for the PSAT or AP tests open. These tests have earlier deadlines than you would expect and are take it or leave it. They are offered once a year and there is no other option (with the exception of the second session of AP testing, but that is only if you were registered on time anyway).  

Thankfully, it’s a bit different for the SAT and ACT where everyone just has to register through the respective websites. However, you still don’t want to leave this for the last minute. You want to make sure you get into the test date that works best for you. Also, there are late fees if you register past the normal price deadline.  

2: Communication 

Communication is key in making sure you are registered for the AP and PSAT tests. You need to know deadlines, when the tests are happening, what time to be at the school, etc. Also, for less common AP tests, the school needs to know ahead of time that they need to order the test. If you’re taking AP Latin and your school does not offer that, they aren’t going to order the test if they don’t know you want to take it.  

Most other students will automatically get this information but the school system does not know who you are. You have to ask for the information or you will not get it. Be persistent in your communication too. If they are vague or unresponsive, keep trying because again, there aren’t really other opportunities to take these tests.  

3: Preparation 

The College Board website generally tells you what you need to bring to test days. Use these guidelines and be prepared for test day. But don’t forget about the things College Board might not bring up. Does the school have a dress code? Do you have a bag to bring your calculator, snacks, and ID in? Do you need to wear glasses or contacts to make the experience more comfortable?  

Also, make sure you are prepared for things to go wrong. You are testing in a new place that you’re probably not comfortable in. Things will go wrong. They may not be big or significant things, but it’s still important to be prepared for them.  

Keep in mind that you don’t know what the temperature is going to be in the classrooms, so make sure you dress appropriately. I usually wear jeans, a t-shirt, and a sweater. But one important thing to remember is to not leave your sweater in your bag. I did this at my last SAT, and once the test starts, you can’t access your bag until the end. So if you forget your sweater and it’s cold in the classroom, you might be a bit uncomfortable.  

4: Don’t be scared to ask for help 

When you get the school where you are taking your test, you might have a hard time finding your way around. After all, if you’ve never been there before (or have only been in different parts of the school), it can seem like a maze.  

And if the instructions are vague, you will probably find that you don’t know which direction your room is in, where the bathroom is, how to find a Chromebook, or where to go when you finish. You’ll probably have to ask someone for help.  

If you’re like me, asking a random stranger for help is not exactly top five on your list of favorite things. But you also don’t want to get lost, miss a bathroom break, be late to your test, or have technical issues.  

The proctor is your first choice for asking for help. But if he/she is vague, disinterested, or too distracted to answer you, your best bet is another student. Try to choose someone who looks alert and willing to help. Additionally, if you see someone wearing that school’s T-shirt, that would be a great option since he/she likely actually attends the school. Take a deep breath, approach whoever it is, and ask where you can find whatever you need.  

Standardized tests that require you to go in-person to a school you don’t attend can be nerve-wracking. Every time I have tested, I have gotten nervous. But by communicating with the school, being prepared for less-than-ideal situations, and asking for help, the experience can be less stressful.