Taking a test can definitely provide a measure of experience and insight that leads to improvement on the next test. However, the way to extract as much value as possible from an given test administration is to carefully review what you got right and wrong afterwards, preferably with an expert instructor. Unfortunately, getting a copy of your test booklet just isn’t an option on most official SATs and ACTs. ACT does offer a Test Information Release for specific national test dates. The College Board, luckily, offers a similar service for certain SAT test dates.
The SAT Question-and-Answer Service provides a test taker a booklet copy of the SAT questions, a report including his or her answers, the correct answers, and additional scoring instructions needed. Note that they do not receive their actual test booklet, but rather a clean copy. A bonus over the similar ACT offering is that test takers also receive information about the type of test questions and levels of difficulty of the questions.
You can order a Test Information Release during the registration process or during a five-month period after your test date. Of course, you’ll pay an extra fee, currently $18.
Regrettably, the Test Information Release is only an option for tests taken on October, March, and May test dates. In fact, only those who take the SAT in the Unites States or Canada have access to this service for all three dates. May is the only month the Question-and-Answer Service is offered worldwide for the Saturday and Sunday tests. This is also the only QAS option for students utilizing school-based testing accommodations.
What if I test on a day other than Saturday?
The Question-and-Answer Service is only available for non-Saturday testing in May.
Can I request Question-and-Answer Service for an SAT Subject Test?
Sorry, the Question-and-Answer Service is only available for the SAT, not for SAT Subject Tests.
When will I receive my Question-and-Answer Service materials?
Test materials are typically mailed about six to eight weeks after the test date. Do not expect to receive them before the registration deadline or in time to study for the next test date.
Mike Bergin