Assessments Overview
Assessments at Ballard HS
All Assessment News
Learn more about online Scores for the PSAT and SAT on the individual pages.
AP Exams Information.
Types of Assessments
On the corresponding individual test specific pages you will find helpful dates and detailed information about the different kinds of testing that happen for students over the course of their four years at Ballard High School.
Please visit the SPS Testing and Assessments page for updates and news on how assessments are used and their requirements in Seattle Public Schools. Note: SPS contracts with the College Board for the School-Day PSAT and SAT only. The district—as a single entity—does not contract with the College Board for any Saturday testing or for the ACT exam.
SAT
Grade 12 Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is the most widely used college admission test in the country. SAT scores are one tool used to demonstrate student college and career readiness.
PSAT/NMSQT
Grade 11 Preliminary SAT
The (Preliminary SAT) PSAT provides valuable feedback on strengths and the skills necessary for college study. Students can then focus their preparation on areas that could most benefit from additional study or practice. The PSAT measures critical reading skills, math problem-solving skills and writing skills.
AP Exams
Ballard HS students interested in taking an AP Exam in May 5-9 & 12-16, 2025 MUST Pre-Register AND Pay for AP Exam(s) by Nov. 6, 2024 by 5 p.m.
State Assessments
Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA): ELA, Math, WCAS
WIDA: Assessment for Multilingual Students
All students are required to meet State Standards in English Language Arts and Math in order to earn a diploma from Ballard High School. The most efficient way to demonstrate proficiency is by taking and passing the state exams given to students the spring of their sophomore year.
ACT
The ACT, is an entrance exam used by some colleges to make admissions decisions. It is administered by ACT, Inc to measure a student’s readiness for college.
How important ACT scores are varies from school to school. Students and families need to register and pay for these exams as they are not offered at SPS or Ballard High School.
Overall, the higher you score on the ACT and/or SAT, the more options for attending and paying for college in the US will be available. Refer to the ACT website for more information on ACT dates, locations and fees.