Testing and Assessment

Each Spring, Franklin 11th graders take the Statewide Assessment System Tests (OSAS) (formerly Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBAC)) and the Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (OAKS) Tests. 

Please see the PPS Assessments link above for these and other descriptions of Oregon's statewide assessments. 

If you are unsure about testing vs not testing and what is best for your student, please reach out to your counselor for more information. You can view Oregon's 30-day Notice for Statewide Assessments and to find links to the opt-out form. Return any forms to VP Alfredo Quintero, test coordinator at Franklin, by emailing aquintero@pps.net, or return paper forms to the main office or VP Office.

In recent years, there has been a shift in the approach to standardized tests for the use of college admissions. Colleges are regularly updating and changing their procedures on whether or not they are using these tests, or will be in the future. Many colleges have gone "test optional", which means admissions tests are not required for application. Students should regularly visit college websites and attend college admissions rep visits during the Junior and Senior year to receive updated information on the status of admissions tests at that particular college. Students can also consult with their counselor for updates and recommendations regarding testing.
 
Resources to check out: What do I Need to Know About Standardized Testing?

SAT - 11th graders

The digital SAT will be offered to all 11th grade students on March 4th, 2026. They are automatically registered for this test. All they need to do is show up on the day of the test, with school identification, fully charged chromebook, and be in their assigned location before 8:30 am.  More info about digital SAT test set-up will be emailed to families as the date approaches

The SAT and ACT are offered ~7 times each per year, on weekends at various locations. Students may sign up independently and directly with these testing companies if they wish take more than the school based option. Students can find test dates and sign up for these exams directly on the testing websites:

For the SAT: College Board website

For the ACT: ACT website

Students who believe they are eligible for a fee waiver should see their counselor. 

Colleges typically accept both tests and do not give preference to one test over the other. Students may choose to take one over the other, or both, according to their own testing style, preferences, and availability. Students can explore the differences between the two tests to decide which test they believe is the best option for them.

Resources:

• SAT vs ACT 
• Difference between ACT and SAT?

 

FREE test prep:

• Khan Academy: free SAT full-length and section practice tests, questions-of-the-day, and tips and strategies.
  • Khan Academy links to your College Board account so it knows your PSAT/SAT scores and can tailor the practice to your needs.
  • Khan Academy also offers practice in your school-based subjects.
  • Daily SAT practice App: look for it in iTunes or Google Pay
• College Board: Free SAT Practice Tests 
• 4Tests.com: Short online SAT and ACT practice tests: 
• Princeton Review: free SAT practice tests online 
  • Note: Princeton Review also offers classes, books, and tutoring for purchase
• Kaplan Test Prep: free SAT online boot camps, virtual practice events, and practice tests
  • Note: Kaplan also offers classes and books for purchase
• Kaplan Test Prep: free ACT practice tests
  • Note: Kaplan also offers classes and books for purchase
• Powerscore: printable SAT & ACT practice tests to print 
• Union Test Prep: free ACT study guides, flashcards, and practice tests

Test Prep for purchase:

There are a variety of companies and organizations that offer test prep classes and tutoring services, both online and in-person, at a cost to the student/family. Most should be easy to find through a simple internet search. 

Students enrolled in an AP course will receive information via email or in class regarding AP Exam registration.

Teachers can recommend practice resources to students for their course's exam. For general information about AP courses, exams, and how college credits are calculated, please visit the College Board's AP website.

Students interested in taking an AP exam can review the process and testing information here. Questions should be directed to the school testing coordinator listed on the website or the PPS Testing Coordinator. Registration information can also be found there. 

PSAT/NMSQT - 10th and 11th graders

Each October, all 10th graders and interested 11th graders can take the PSAT (Practice SAT) /NMSQT. The national test date is determined by the College Board and is only offered once per year.

In early December, students receive their scores via email directly from the CollegeBoard. Only students can access their CollegeBoard accounts; students experiencing password or log-in problems are encouraged to contact CollegeBoard. 

Understanding your PSAT scores:  https://youtu.be/ie6WBDzjtGA