Testing
Standardized tests can play an important role in your high school journey, from preparing for college to exploring career paths. Throughout high school, you may have the chance—or the requirement—to take a variety of tests.
Each one has a specific purpose, and some are required while others are optional. On this page, you’ll find a breakdown of the major tests by grade level, plus links to learn more about each one.
List of Tests By Grade Level
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Below is the list of tests that SENIORS are eligible to take:
Required
None
Optional
ACT
AP (Advanced Placement) Exams
ASVAB
SAT
Tell Me More About the . . .
- ACT
- AP (Advanced Placement) Exams
- ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)
- EOC
- Practice ACT
- PreACT
- PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholar Qualifier Test)
ACT
AP (Advanced Placement) Exams
ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)
EOC
Practice ACT
PreACT
PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholar Qualifier Test)
I Want To Learn More About . . .
- ACT
- Free ACT for Juniors
- ASVAB (Armed Services Vocation Aptitude Battery)
- AP (Advanced Placement) Exam
- EOC (End of Course) Exam
- Practice ACT
- PreACT
- PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholar Qualifying Test)
- SAT
- SAT vs ACT: How Do I Choose?
- Test Preparation Resources
ACT
🎓 The ACT: What You Need to Know
The ACT is a national college entrance exam. It tests you in:
✍️ English
🧮 Math
📖 Reading
💵 Cost: $68
➡️ If you get free/reduced lunch, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask Mrs. Klawiter for details.
🔬 Science Add-On
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Starting Fall 2026, the Science section will be optional.
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Cost: $4
⏱ Time: 30 minutes
👉 Check each college’s website or ask an admissions rep if they require it.
✍️ Writing Add-On (Essay)
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You’ll write one essay in 30 minutes.
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Most colleges 🚫 do NOT require it.
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Cost: $25
👉 Always double-check with the schools you’re interested in.
🖥 Registration
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Sign up at ACT.org.
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Already have an account? ✅ Use the SAME one for future tests.
❌ Don’t make two accounts—it causes score problems.
📅 ACT Test Dates
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Parkway South will NOT host Saturday ACT tests in 2025–26.
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You’ll need to pick another test site when registering.
📊 Score Reports
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Each test gives you 4 free score reports (to colleges or NCAA/NAIA).
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Extra reports later = $20 each per test date.
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Parkway South’s code: 260-129
🛠 Requesting Accommodations
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Must be submitted at least 6 weeks before your test.
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Accommodations must be requested before EACH test (Being approved for one test date does not automatically ensure you will be approved for accommodations for future ACT test dates)
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Step 1: Register for the ACT and request accommodations. [🎥 Watch the tutorial]
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Step 2: Email the right staff member with your test date + location:
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IEP students → Ms. Shannon Jacob (sjacob@parkwayschools.net)
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EL/504 students → Ms. Leigh Klawiter (lklawiter@parkwayschools.net)
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⚠️ Final approval comes from ACT. They usually only approve accommodations listed in your IEP/504. Recent diagnoses may not qualify.
Free ACT for Juniors
FREE ACT FOR JUNIORS (Class of 2027)
MARCH 10, 2026
The Parkway School District is providing all 11th graders the opportunity to take the ACT at South High on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at no cost.
What is on the ACT?
The ACT is made up of four curriculum-based multiple-choice tests (English, mathematics, reading, science). The composition of the test is:
- English Test – 75 items, 45 minutes
- Mathematics Test – 60 items, 60 minutes
- 10-minute testing break to use the restroom and have a snack (if needed)
- Reading Test – 40 items, 35 minutes
- Science Test – 40 items, 35 minutes
**Please note –the District ACT will NOT include the optional Writing section
Is this a “real” ACT?
Yes. Your score will be reportable to all colleges and universities.
Do I need to do anything to sign up for the test?
All juniors enrolled at Parkway South are automatically registered to take the test. .
Am I required to take the free District ACT?
The district encourages all students to take the ACT at least one time. If taking the ACT does not align with your post-secondary goals, or you have already tested and are satisfied with your score, a parent may email Mrs. Armon, the PSH ACT Coordinator (aarmon1@parkwayschools.net) to allow you to opt out of the testing.
ASVAB (Armed Services Vocation Aptitude Battery)
The ASVAB Career Exploration program is a comprehensive career planning program that includes a multiple aptitude test battery, an interest inventory, and various career planning tools designed to help students explore career opportunities.
This test is administered by a representative from the military. It is often taken by students considering enlisting after graduation or entering an ROTC program. However, there is no obligation to do so after taking the ASVAB.
The ASVAB is an optional test.
Registration Deadline: TBD
Administration Date: Spring 2026 TBD
If you have questions about the ASVAB please contact school counselor and ASVAB Testing Coordinator, Ms. Amy Armon (aarmon1@parkwayschools.net)
AP (Advanced Placement) Exam
About AP
An Advanced Placement (AP) class is a college-level class you can take in high school. It's offered by the College Board (the same group that does the SAT) but taught by PSH faculty during the school day. These classes are typically more challenging than regular high school classes and cover topics in more depth.
At the end of the year, you can take an AP exam. for a fee. Students earn a score of (1-5). If you score high enough, some colleges might give you credit or let you skip an introductory course—so it could save you time and money in college!
learn more about the ap program
Whether or not a school grants you college credit or uses the exam score for placement purposes, varies from college to college. However, if you navigate to the college website of the school(s) you are interested in, you can do a site search using the keywords "AP Credit". The school policy should be available for you to review.
AP Courses at PSH
(Changes each year due to enrollment and availability)
- Arts: 2-D Art and Design, 3-D Art and Design, Drawing
- English: English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition
- History and Social Sciences: Human Geography, Psychology, United States Government and Politics, World History: Modern
- Mathematics and Computer Science: Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles, Statistics
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics 1: Algebra-Based, Physics 2: Algebra-Based, Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, Physics C: Mechanics
- World Languages and Cultures: French Language and Culture, Spanish Language and Culture
AP Dates and Deadlines
- All AP Students are to sign up for an AP account at myap.collegeboard.org. They will receive a classroom code from their AP teacher to join the correct AP classroom.
- All students must indicate whether or not they intend to take the AP exam.
- November 1, 2025: Registration and Payment Deadline
- December 1, 2025: Accommodation Request must be completed by students wanting accommodations based on their specific educational needs.
- accommodation request form
- March 1, 2026: Second Semester Course Registration and Payment Deadline
- Students can also order first semester / full year exams by this deadline, but there will be a $40 late fee added.
- May 4-15: 2026 AP Testing Exam Window
Costs and Payment Instructions
- Each AP Exam is $100 (Reduced rates available for students with free or reduced lunch.)
- $40 additional late fee will be applied if you order a first semester or full year exam after November 1.
- $40 cancellation fee if you cancel your exam after March 1.
- Pay for your AP Exam(s) through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal, or in the school store
- Infinite Campus payment instructions:
- Have your PARENT or GUARDIAN log into their IC account.
- Click on “More” on the left hand side.
- Click on “Online Payments.”
- Select your name under the Parkway Logo.
- Under “New Items”, select and pay for your exam(s).
- Infinite Campus payment instructions:
EOC (End of Course) Exam
EOC exams are online tests required by the state of Missouri. If a student earns credit from a public high school in English II, Algebra I, Biology, or Government, they MUST take the corresponding EOC exam before graduating.
EOC exams are given during the school day, typically at the end of the year, when the course concludes. Specific exam dates will be shared with students by their teacher.
No registration is needed—PSH will take care of everything!
Students entitled to testing accommodations through an IEP or Section 504 plan do NOT have to request them. The student's IEP or 504 plan case manager, will request the accommodations for the student prior to the test administration date.
If you have questions about the EOC, please reach out to Ms. Angela Flick, the PSH EOC coordinator.
Practice ACT
Practice ACT - Grade 9 - Freshmen will take a modified ACT with questions focusing specifically on grade-level appropriate content.
The purpose of a Practice ACT is for students to:
- experience what taking the ACT is like, including the format, timing, and test environment students will encounter on the official exam
- practice using test-taking strategies that help students most accurately show what they know and are able to do
- understand test taking procedures, ranging from learning the test format and how to pace themselves, to ensuring they know logistics like what to bring and not bring on test day
- learn what areas on the ACT they are on track to do well in, and which areas they may need to focus on between now and when they take the official exam
Parkway's ACT Day will be Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
Parkway will automatically register students for this test.
Test results will be sent to students via email 1-2 days after testing.
NOTE: since the 9th Grade Practice ACT is experiential only, the district does not provide testing accommodations.
PreACT
PreACT - Grade 10 -
The PreACT is a practice test designed to expose sophomores to the structure, pace, and content of the ACT test.
The PreACT provides a predicted ACT score and offers insight into a student’s academic and career-planning needs.
Parkway's ACT Day will be Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
Parkway will automatically register students for this test.
Score reports (with answer key) and test booklets will be returned to students after 2-3 weeks.
NOTE: since the 10th grade Practice ACT is experiential only, the district does not provide testing accommodations.
PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholar Qualifying Test)
The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT or the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), is an OPTIONAL test that serves as practice for the SAT, allowing students to get familiar with the format and types of questions they can expect on that particular college admission test.
Additionally, a high score on the PSAT as a junior can qualify you for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program, which offers scholarships for college. However, less than 1% of students nationwide become National Merit Scholars.
Between 150 - 200 PSH students elect to take the PSAT each school year.
For the 2025-26 School year, the PSAT will be given at South High on October 15, 2025.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE - TBD
IMPORTANT - Students who use testing accommodations pursuant to an IEP or Section 504 plan, can apply for testing accommodations for the PSAT.
If you have a Section 504 Plan, then Contact Mrs. Klawiter (LKLAWITER@parkwayschools.net)
If you have an IEP, then contact Ms. Shannon Jacob (sjacob@parkwayschools.net)
The DEADLINE to REQUEST accommodations is TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026
SAT
🎓 The SAT: What You Should Know
The SAT is a national college entrance exam. It tests you in:
✍️ English
🧮 Math
📖 Reading
💵 Cost: $68
➡️ If you get free/reduced lunch, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask Mrs. Klawiter (Lklawiter@parkwayschools.net) for details.
🖥 Registration
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Sign up at Collegeboard.org
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Already have an account?
✅ Use the SAME one for future tests.
❌ Don’t make two accounts—it causes score problems.
📅 SAT Test Dates
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Parkway South will NOT host Saturday SAT tests in 2025–26.
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You’ll need to pick another test site when registering.
📊 Score Reports
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Each test gives you 4 free score reports (to colleges or NCAA/NAIA) if you request them up to 9 days after you take the test.
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Extra reports later = $12 each per test date.
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Parkway South’s code: 260-129
🛠 Requesting Accommodations
Must be submitted at least 8 weeks before your test.
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Contact the appropriate PSHS staff member to begin the process:
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IEP students → Ms. Shannon Jacob (sjacob@parkwayschools.net)
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EL/504 students → Ms. Leigh Klawiter (lklawiter@parkwayschools.net)
- Complete the "parental consent form" if you are a minor, to authorize your school to submit the request.
- Provide required documentation to Klawiter/Jacob: of your disability and the need for accommodations, such as an IEP or 504 plan, or other professional evaluations.
- Jacob/Klawiter will submit your request: through College Board's online system.
- Wait for approval . The College Board will review your request and send a decision to Jacob/Klawiter and the student.
- Use your approval code to register: for the SAT once accommodations are approved.
Be sure to visit the College Bard website for more information about SAT test dates, registration, and practice materials.
SAT vs ACT: How Do I Choose?
Colleges have no preference
Which Test Fits Which Type of Student?
✅ACT Might Be Better If…
- You’re a fast reader/test-taker who doesn’t mind a
brisk pace. - You like having a calculator for all math problems.
- You want a test with more straightforward wording in questions.
✅SAT Might Be Better If…
- You prefer more time per question.
- You’re strong in algebra, data analysis, and multi-step reasoning.
- You like the new adaptive digital format (tailored difficulty).
- You want a shorter overall test.
Test Preparation Resources
The best thing a student can do to ensure their personal best score, is to prepare. Below are a list of FREE test prep resources.
- ACT Academy - MyACT Practice Test; sample online class; practice test; study guide with full-length test
- PSH Library - LearningExpress (click on "Prepare for College")
- Varsity Tutors - one free trial class
- Khan Academy SAT Prep
- Kaplan PSAT Prep
- Sample Tests and Prep Books (Available in Counseling)
- Parkway Summer College & ACT Prep Course (sign up in the Early Spring for this summer Class)