Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take more than one test?
YES – still one $50 WATS fee no matter how many tests you choose to take. You will only pay the WATS fee ONCE.
Which test should I take?
Depends on the kid. ACT and ITBS kids tend to be content-driven, do well in school, absorb content knowledge easily, and watch educational programs; SAT kids tend to be problem-solvers, puzzlers, pattern- finders, and critical thinkers, though this is not as true with the new format. Kids who have never taken a long test should start with ITBS if they are 6th graders and can’t decide. Keep in mind many states now mandate the SAT or ACT for high school graduation, so this is great practice for initial testing. Test-Specific Details/Formats
Is financial aid available?
WATS does offer a reduced WATS fee and one test waiver for students who qualify for free or reduced lunch benefits through the school. Families must include free and reduced lunch documentation or income tax forms with application for consideration. Families should wait to submit payment until financial aid documentation has been reviewed and the invoice has been adjusted. Please allow one week for documentation review. We cannot issue refunds if payments are made before your invoice is adjusted and families are responsible for any late fees. An automated email notification will be sent when the review is complete. The program can be free or low-cost.
How do I find a local test site to send all of my kids?
Go to Tests and Testing Companies, then click the Testing Sites link for the desired test. Some schools with larger numbers of participants like to send their kids to the same location on the same date when submitting bulk registrations. Families do not need to look up a preferred test site before applying. You will select your preferred date and state for testing in your WATS application, then you will choose from a list of test sites sorted by city.
Can my school be a testing site?
Local high schools are probably already sites for ACT and SAT testing, and we cannot establish new sites due to test security. If you are interested in your school being a testing site for ITBS please contact us. This process requires a school official contact who will help complete the paperwork and find test day proctors. CBK does not cover the cost of facility or custodial fees associated with testing; schools assume those costs when they elect to become a test site.
Is this the “real” ACT or SAT?
Yes, this is the same ACT and SAT test given to kids preparing for college admission. Talent search students will be registered in national test centers alongside high school students. Some test sites group talent search students in a separate room, but in most cases you will be testing in the same room with students in grades 11 and 12.
What is the ITBS?
The Iowa Assessments are achievement tests designed to measure what students have learned in school and to align with the Common Core Standards. Students will be assessed two levels above their current grade.