Test Preparation
Whether you are trying to earn college credit or taking a college entrance exam, it is important to know which tests are available and what FREE resources there are to prepare for them.
Khan Academy Links to an external site. | Access free academic support for multiple AP exams and the SAT test.
SAT vs. ACT Links to an external site. | The Princeton Review has a great write-up and comparison of the two tests. Both tests are accepted by colleges and universities, and both tests can provide opportunities for merit-based scholarships. Even though the tests cover similar topics, the tests are set up in two very different ways, so it is recommended to study for the two separately. By participating in TS-SM, you have access to fee waivers so you can take the test multiple times to improve your scores. Talk to your TS-SM Advisor to get more information on the fee waivers.
PSAT Test Prep Links to an external site. | In San Marcos, students begin taking the PSAT in seventh grade. It is important to take these tests seriously, because it can make you eligible for merit-based scholarships and resources before your senior year.
SAT and SAT Subject Tests Links to an external site. | Students can register for the SAT tests and find information on their scores on the College Board website.
SAT Test Prep Links to an external site. | In addition to Khan Academy, there are apps, practice tests, and sample questions to help you study.
ACT Tests Links to an external site. | Students can register for the ACT tests and find information on their scores on the ACT website.
ACT Test Prep Links to an external site. | Access the ACT Academy and free study guides.
TSI Test Links to an external site. | Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSI Test) is used by colleges to determine if you are ready for college-level courses or if you need to take remedial courses. Not all students need to take the TSI Test. You may be exempt from the test if your SAT and/or ACT scores qualify.
- SAT Score Qualifier: Minimum Score of 480 on EBRW and 530 on Mathematics.
- ACT Score Qualifier: 23 or higher on ACT composite and a minimum of 19 on both English and Math tests.
- TSI Sample Questions Links to an external site.
- TSI at ACC Links to an external site. | For TS-SM students interested in attending Austin Community College (ACC), they will need to take the TSI test before enrolling unless they are exempt.