What test does Alverno accept? Alverno currently accepts the ISEE or HSPT entrance exams. We do this in order to cut down on the number of entrance exams students must take. Please note that it takes longer for us to receive results of the HSPT.

What’s the difference between these tests?

The ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) can only be taken once, and it can be taken at any test site. (Check the Pasadena Consortium test dates at www.erbtest.org for 2007-2008 ISEE test dates.) It includes an essay. ISEE sends your results to the schools you request, and you receive a copy.

The HSPT (High School Placement Test) is offered at many high schools and may be taken more than once. Alverno will accept HSPT results, which you must request from the school where the test was taken. Alverno does not offer the HSPT. If you choose to use the HSPT as your entrance test, please submit a recent, handwritten writing sample with your admissions application. It should be something written in class for which you received a grade from your teacher.

Do I have to take a test at Alverno in order to be considered for admission? No. Where you take an entrance test has no bearing on admission.

Do you prefer one test over another? No, but be sure to submit a recent, graded writing sample with your admissions application if you are taking the HSPT.

Should I call Alverno to arrange testing? No. You register for the ISEE at www.erbtest.org. The HSPT must be taken at another school.

I’m only applying to schools which accept the HSPT. Ask the testing school if they will send the results to Alverno. If they say they can do this, bring the request in writing to the test, or be prepared to fill out a request card if they have one. Don’t forget to submit a recent, graded writing sample to Alverno—even if the testing school asks you to write an essay as part of the test, the essay is not sent to us.

I’m taking both tests. Can I submit both tests to Alverno? Yes.

Testing Tip!

Take either entrance test as early as possible. ISEE tests in December as does the HSPT. There is no benefit to waiting until the last minute to test. Statistically, students who test early score higher than students who wait until the last minute! Questions? Please call Candace Siegle, Director of Admissions, at (626) 355-3463 x 235, or email her at csiegle@alverno-hs.org.