Academics
College and Career
Testing
Standardized testing is an important factor in admissions decisions at most colleges and universities. We want our students to understand the testing requirements in order to succeed. We also desire students to keep testing in perspective as it is one measure used for college and career readiness but not the only measure. Some institutions have chosen to go test-optional. You can visit http://fairtest.org/university/optional to see a comprehensive, updated list of institutions that are now test optional.
TESTING INFORMATION
| Test | Dates and Location | Grade Level(s) | Purpose and Summary | Cost |
| PSAT | Date TBD at LCS | 11 | The PSAT test is a preparatory SAT test that could also qualify students for a National Merit Scholarship. The PSAT tests students in Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing and will help students prepare for the SAT as well as provide information on how they compare academically to other 11th graders who will be applying for college. Certain test scores will enter students into the National Merit Scholarship Competition. | Free forLCS Families |
| NWEA – MAP Testing | Fall and Spring at LCS | K-9 | MAP testing is given to LCS school students in grades K-9. The test assesses students in various subjects within Language Arts, Mathematics, and Reading. LCS uses the tests to help improve instruction and identify strengths and areas of improvement for individual students. | Free |
| ACT Plus Writing | Various Dates at LCS | 11-12 | The ACT is used for college admission and scholarship purposes. The test covers Reading, Writing, Science, and Mathematics. It is recommended that students begin taking the ACT in the spring of their junior year. The ACT is the college admission test most commonly taken by LCS students. More information can be found at www.actstudent.org. | $97.00 |
| SAT | Various Dates at LCS | 11-12 | The SAT is used for college admission and scholarship purposes. The test subjects include Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing. Some colleges and universities require students to take the SAT for admission, but most will accept either the ACT or SAT. More information can be found at www.collegeboard.com. | $52.00 |
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
The links below provide information and additional resources (financial aid calculators, forms, tips, and advice) for paying for college.
www.fafsa.ed.gov
www.collegeboard.com
www.finaid.org
SCHOLARSHIP SEARCH TOOLS
The website links below provide information regarding paying for and preparing for college. Members are matched to relevant scholarship opportunities free of charge. There are scholarship matches for every student’s educational goals, activities and interests. Many of these resources also provide financial aid tips and advice on high school and college life.
Fast Web
Cappex
Unigo
Big future
Chamber of Commerce