AC College Page
Some basic terminology . . .
a-g course requirements: completion of these course requirements is required for admission to the University of California (UC) , the Cal State University (CSU) system, and most private colleges
GPA: “grade point average” is calculated using student grades from sophomore and junior year
Weighted GPA: a grade point average that is calculated using the extra points given for AP and Honors classes (all UC’s and CSU’s use weighted GPA’s)
Un--weighted GPA: a grade point average that is calculated without using the extra points given for AP and Honors classes
AP: Advanced Placement classes are offered at Berkeley High in many subject areas. These classes are considered to be college level courses and are given one extra point when a weighted GPA is calculated.
ACT: American College Test, a standardized achievement test required for application to colleges and universities. There is no penalty for guessing on this test, and scores are not reported to schools if you do not wish to send them. Most selective colleges (and the UC system) require this test with the writing (essay) component -- ACT with writing.
PSAT: the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, offered at BHS during October of each year. This test is recommended for sophomores (as a practice test) and for juniors. Results from this test are used to identify students eligible for National Merit Scholarships.
SAT I: Scholastic Assessment Test, a standardized achievement test required for application to colleges and universities. There is a penalty for guessing on this test, and all scores are reported to schools (the good and the bad). This test includes an essay component, just like the ACT with writing.
SAT II: Subject tests in specific subject areas. Most selective colleges (including the UC system) require completion of at least two SAT II Subject Tests.
ELC: Eligibility in the Local Context (top 4% of BHS students)
SAT Test Registration and Dates
ACT Test Registration and Dates