GA is a PreK-12, coed, nonsectarian day school in Fort Washington, PA

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Standardized Testing

Planning and Information - PSAT, SAT, ACT 

Standardized testing may be one required component of your application within the holistic admission process. As you research colleges and universities, be sure to review each school’s specific testing policies carefully.  

PSAT at Germantown Academy  

October 2025 - PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test  

  • The digital PSAT/NMSQT test will be given on October 31, 2025 to JUNIORS. Every junior is highly encouraged to register and take this exam. The PSAT results for Juniors will identify those students who qualify for National Merit Scholarship consideration. 
  • There is no school on 10/31, and the tests begins promptly at 8:00 am (arrival 7:45 am). Scores will be available electronically 2-3 weeks after the exam (sent electronically November 13).  

March 2026 - PSAT 10 

The digital PSAT 10 will be given on March 6, 2026 to SOPHOMORES. We will require all sophomores to take the exam. Details to follow in the coming months.  

  • We require the exploration of practice exams, typically in the spring of sophomore year, for both the SAT and the ACT to determine the most appropriate exam for the student.  
  • In addition to the March PSAT, Sophomores may take additional practices tests on April 11 and/or April 25, 2026. The College Counseling office will send out a registration link for Compass Prep.  
  • There are many opportunities to take free practice tests through local test prep companies and online https://www.test-guide.com/free-compass-practice-tests.html 

Timing:  

  • Students should consult with their college counselor to create a personalized testing plan before registering for any exam. 

  • Typically, students take the SAT or ACT in the winter and/or spring of their junior year. Seniors will have the opportunity to retest during the summer and fall, if needed. Please consult your college counselor about a testing strategy best suited for you.  

  • We generally recommend that all students take either the SAT or ACT at least once, preferably twice. It is NOT recommended for students to take any one test more than three times.  

To Submit or NOT to Submit Testing: 

  • When you meet individually with your college counselor, we will discuss whether applying under a test-optional or test-flexible policy is the right approach for you.  

  • Many institutions have adjusted their requirements to include options such as test-optional (you may choose not to submit scores) or test-flexible (you may submit a combination of scores to meet the requirement).  

  • FairTest is a helpful resource that provides up-to-date information on colleges’ testing policies in one centralized place. 

SAT

GA is an open testing site which means it is listed on the College Board website and open to any student who would like to register. Seats are limited and they are released by College Board on a first-come, first-serve basis.  

Please pay close attention to signups as GA’s site and available slots fill quickly. There are many testing sites in the greater Philadelphia area. It is the student's responsibility to register online and create a College Board Account. Your college counselor and Mr. Hamilton are here to assist you but cannot register you for the test.  www.collegeboard.com   

2025-26 SAT testing available at GA - September, October, March, and May 

CEEB Code: 393321       Test Center Number: 3927       Support for SAT 1-866-756-7346