The ACT is a standardized test widely used by colleges and universities to assess a student’s readiness for college. This multiple-choice exam is administered by ACT, Inc., and it serves as one of the primary tools for college admissions.
The purpose of the ACT is to measure a high school student’s academic abilities and provide colleges with a standard benchmark to compare applicants. It offers colleges a data point that complements other aspects of the college application process, such as high school GPA, the courses a student has taken, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and interviews. The weight given to ACT scores varies depending on the college.
A higher ACT score can enhance your chances of college acceptance and can even influence scholarship opportunities. The better your score, the more options you have when it comes to choosing and paying for your education.
When Should I Take the ACT?
Most students typically take the ACT during the spring of their junior year or the fall of their senior year. It’s important to allow yourself time to retake the test if you need to improve your score before submitting your college applications. The ACT is offered multiple times throughout the year in September, October, December, February*, April, June, and July*. You can find the upcoming test dates on the official ACT website.
Note: No test centers are available in New York for the February or July test dates, and no test centers are scheduled in California for the July test date.
What is on the ACT?
The ACT consists of four main sections:
- English
- Reading
- Math
- Science
Additionally, there is an optional Writing Test that lasts 40 minutes. Some colleges may require the Writing Test, so it’s important to check each school’s admissions requirements.
How Long is the ACT?
The ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes long. However, if you choose to take the ACT with the Writing Test, the total time increases to 3 hours and 35 minutes.
How is the ACT Scored?
Each section of the ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Your composite score, which represents your overall performance, is the average of your four section scores. If you complete the Writing Test, you will receive a separate score for it.
Should I Take the ACT or the SAT?
Both the ACT and SAT are widely accepted by colleges, and most schools don’t have a preference for one over the other. Many students choose to take both tests, as the content and style of the tests are very similar. Since the changes to the SAT in 2016, it’s become easier to prepare for both exams simultaneously.
The best way to decide whether to take the SAT, ACT, or both is to take a full-length practice test of each. By testing how you handle time pressure and identifying which types of questions you find more challenging, you can determine which test best fits your strengths and testing style.
How Do I Register for the ACT?
To register for the ACT, you need to sign up at least five weeks before your preferred test date. You can register online on the official ACT website or through your school counselor.
How Can I Prep for the ACT?
ACT preparation can vary depending on your study preferences and budget. There are many test prep resources available, including online courses, study guides, and tutoring. The more prepared you are, the better your chances of achieving a competitive score.
By dedicating time to practice and preparing effectively, you can increase your confidence and improve your results on test day.
