For the first time ever, LAUSD offered the SAT exam during the school day. The test was free for all students, but it will be up to the district to decide if it will continue to be. On March 6, the juniors took the SAT. The test lasted approximately five hours and students were tested on reading comprehension, writing and grammar, math as well as an optional essay.

“[LAUSD] made the SAT free because they want to make sure all juniors take the test regardless of their family income,” said school counselor Jamie Simon-Meyer.

Students usually take the SAT on Saturday mornings at other schools and pay about $60. For students who benefit from the free lunch program, the registration fee is much lower.

The free SAT program will continue annually as far as the school knows, said College Counselor Renysha Scott. However, that will depend on the district’s funding and whether or not the exam is necessary for certain college applications.

“I think the SAT being free was a good thing. This was my first time taking the SAT and it being free will allow me to see if I need to retake it or not,” said junior Fatima Reyes.

The ACT exam will not be offered as a free school day test; therefore, students will have to pay $67 for a test with the writing portion. Students will also have to take the exam at other schools if they need the ACT for colleges they wish to apply to.