15 Best ACT Test Prep Companies Offering Practice Exams and Guides

Understanding the ACT – History, Purpose, and Structure

The Origins of the ACT

The ACT, or American College Testing, was officially introduced in 1959. Its creator, Everett Franklin Lindquist, was a professor at the University of Iowa and an advocate for educational measurement. At the time, the SAT was already the dominant standardized test used by colleges and universities across the United States. Lindquist envisioned the ACT as a more academically grounded alternative. Instead of focusing heavily on abstract reasoning like the SAT, the ACT was designed to reflect the knowledge students had gained during their high school education.

The original ACT consisted of four sections: English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Natural Sciences. These subjects mirrored the core areas of a typical high school curriculum, and the goal was to evaluate how well students had mastered the material taught in schools. This made the ACT more content-based and less focused on innate problem-solving ability, in contrast to the SAT’s original design.

In 1989, a major revision to the ACT occurred. The Social Studies section was replaced with a Reading section, and the Natural Sciences section was restructured and renamed as the Science Reasoning section. These changes aimed to place a stronger emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. Another major update happened in 2005 with the addition of an optional Writing section, which aligned the ACT more closely with college admissions needs by assessing students’ writing and argumentation skills.

The ACT has been continually refined over the decades to stay relevant to modern education. Despite facing competition from the SAT, the ACT has grown in popularity and acceptance, particularly in the Midwest and Southern United States. Today, it is accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the country.

The Purpose of the ACT

The primary goal of the ACT is to assess a student’s academic readiness for college. It does this by evaluating skills that are typically developed throughout a high school education. While high school GPA provides an overall picture of a student’s academic history, the ACT offers a standardized way to compare applicants from different schools and states. Since grading standards can vary significantly between high schools, the ACT gives colleges a common metric.

Beyond college admissions, ACT scores are also used for scholarship decisions and placement in college courses. Some colleges use ACT scores to determine whether a student needs to take remedial classes in English or mathematics, while others consider high ACT scores when awarding merit-based scholarships.

Importantly, the ACT is designed not to reward raw intelligence but rather to test accumulated knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge under time constraints. This approach allows a student who has worked hard throughout high school to demonstrate their preparedness for college-level work.

Format and Timing

The ACT consists of four required sections and one optional section. Each section has a specific focus and time limit:

• English: 75 questions in 45 minutes

• Math: 60 questions in 60 minutes

• Reading: 40 questions in 35 minutes

• Science: 40 questions in 35 minutes

• Writing (optional): 1 essay in 40 minutes

All sections, except for the Writing test, are multiple-choice. The questions are arranged to test both knowledge and the ability to manage time effectively. The total testing time without the Writing section is just under three hours. With the Writing section, it becomes just over three and a half hours, not including breaks.

The ACT is generally administered on Saturday mornings and is offered multiple times per year. Students may take the test more than once, and many choose to do so to improve their scores.

Overview of Each Section

English Section

The English section focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. Students are presented with five passages, each accompanied by multiple-choice questions. These questions ask students to identify grammatical errors, improve sentence clarity, and understand how ideas are developed in writing.

There are three main areas tested:

1. Usage and Mechanics – grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure

2. Rhetorical Skills – strategy, organization, and style

3. Understanding Context – how well students comprehend the flow and purpose of the text

This section requires both attention to detail and a broad understanding of writing conventions.

Math Section

The math section evaluates a student’s grasp of topics taught from pre-algebra through trigonometry. The questions progress in difficulty and cover a wide range of topics:

• Pre-algebra and elementary algebra

• Intermediate algebra and coordinate geometry

• Plane geometry and trigonometry

Students are allowed to use a calculator, though certain advanced calculators (especially those with a Computer Algebra System) are prohibited. The math section is often the most predictable, as the types of problems tend to follow consistent patterns from year to year.

Reading Section

This section is designed to test reading comprehension, which is the ability to understand, interpret, and analyze written passages. The section typically contains four reading passages drawn from the following types of material:

1. Prose fiction or literary narrative

2. Social science

3. Humanities

4. Natural science

Each passage is followed by a series of questions that assess the ability to understand main ideas, infer meaning, interpret words in context, and analyze the author’s intent. The biggest challenge in the reading section is time management, as students have only 35 minutes to read all the passages and answer 40 questions.

Science Section

Contrary to what the name might suggest, the Science section does not test scientific facts or formulas. Instead, it evaluates the ability to interpret data, read scientific texts, and analyze research summaries. The section includes:

• Graphs and tables

• Experimental procedures

• Conflicting viewpoints

This portion of the test is more about reasoning and critical thinking than recalling specific scientific knowledge. Success in this section often depends on a student’s comfort with handling complex information quickly.

Writing Section (Optional)

The optional Writing test presents students with a short prompt about a contemporary issue. Three different perspectives on the issue are provided, and the student is expected to:

• Present their perspective

• Analyze and evaluate the given perspectives.

• Develop a cohesive and well-structured essay.y

Colleges that require or recommend the Writing section tend to place value on a student’s ability to communicate effectively in writing. This section is scored separately and does not impact the ACT composite score.

Test Administration and Availability

The ACT is offered seven times per year in the United States, usually in:

• September

• October

• December

• February

• April

• June

• July

International testing is also available on select dates. Students register for the test online through the official ACT website, where they can also access test prep resources, check scores, and send score reports to colleges.

The registration process allows students to choose from available testing centers in their area. Early registration is advised, especially for popular dates, as testing locations can fill up quickly. Fee waivers are available for eligible students who demonstrate financial need.

The ACT is a long-standing and widely accepted college admissions test that provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate academic readiness. Understanding its origins, purpose, and structure is essential for students who want to approach it strategically. By knowing what to expect and how each section is designed, students can tailor their preparation to meet the test’s demands. Part 2 will explore each section of the test in detail, including the types of questions, strategies for success, and common challenges.

Detailed Breakdown of ACT Sections – Skills, Strategies, and Focus Areas

English Section

The English section of the ACT is the first part of the test and consists of 75 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 45 minutes. This section evaluates students’ understanding of standard written English and rhetorical skills. The questions are embedded within five passages, and each passage resembles an essay or a narrative. The challenge lies in both the time pressure and the range of skills tested.

There are two broad categories of questions:

1. Usage/Mechanics: This includes grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Students are required to detect and correct errors such as incorrect verb tenses, misplaced modifiers, run-on sentences, comma splices, and pronoun agreement.

2. Rhetorical Skills: These questions focus on strategy, organization, and style. Students are asked to revise the text to improve clarity, coherence, word choice, and tone.

To perform well in this section, students must be familiar with common grammar rules and can recognize logical flow in writing. Often, the best strategy is to read each passage quickly and focus on the underlined portions. Sometimes, the correct answer is “NO CHANGE,” which emphasizes the importance of understanding when a sentence is already grammatically correct.

Common question types include:

• Choosing the most concise and clear version of a sentence

• Improving paragraph transitions

• Rearranging or deleting sentences to enhance logical flow

• Identifying redundancy or awkward phrasing

Good preparation for this section includes reviewing grammar rules and completing practice passages to improve speed and accuracy.

Math Section

The math section contains 60 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 60 minutes. It evaluates a wide array of mathematical skills typically covered in grades 9 through 12. Students are allowed to use a calculator, although not all calculators are permitted.

The test covers six content areas:

1. Pre-Algebra (approx. 20 – 25%): Basic operations, fractions, ratios, proportions, percentages, and probability.

2. Elementary Algebra (15 – 20%): Solving linear equations, inequalities, algebraic expressions, and simple word problems.

3. Intermediate Algebra (15%): Quadratic equations, systems of equations, functions, radicals, and complex numbers.

4. Coordinate Geometry (15%): Graphing, slope, distance, midpoint, and geometric transformations.

5. Plane Geometry (20 – 25%): Angles, triangles, circles, polygons, area, volume, and the Pythagorean theorem.

6. Trigonometry (5 – 10%): Sine, cosine, tangent, radians, and basic identities.

The difficulty of questions increases as the section progresses. The early questions are more straightforward, while the later ones may require multiple steps or deeper conceptual understanding.

Key strategies for this section include:

• Practicing with a variety of question types

• Memorizing key formulas and properties

• Managing time wisely by skipping and returning to difficult problems

• Eliminating wrong answers when unsure

Success in this section depends on not only knowing math concepts but also applying them quickly and accurately under timed conditions.

Reading Section

The reading section has 40 questions to be answered in 35 minutes. It consists of four passages, each followed by 10 multiple-choice questions. The content areas are consistent across all ACT administrations:

1. Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative: Excerpts from novels or short stories focusing on characters and narrative structure.

2. Social Science: Passages discussing topics such as history, economics, psychology, or sociology.

3. Humanities: Literature, art, philosophy, or cultural topics.

4. Natural Science: Topics from biology, chemistry, physics, or earth sciences.

Each passage tests reading comprehension skills, including:

• Understanding the main idea

• Interpreting details

• Making inferences

• Analyzing tone and point of view

• Understanding vocabulary in context

• Comparing viewpoints or arguments

This section is particularly challenging because of the tight time limit – students must read and answer questions on each passage in under nine minutes. Practicing timed reading is crucial. Skimming the passage and focusing on topic sentences, as well as scanning for key words when answering questions, are helpful strategies.

Approaches to this section vary. Some students prefer to read the questions first and then the passage, while others read the passage in full before tackling the questions. The key is to find a strategy that allows for maximum comprehension within the time limit.

Science Section

The science section includes 40 questions and must be completed in 35 minutes. It is often misunderstood as a test of scientific knowledge, but its real focus is on interpreting data and scientific reasoning.

There are seven passages covering topics from biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space sciences. These passages come in three formats:

1. Data Representation (2 – 3 passages): Charts, graphs, and tables

2. Research Summaries (2 – 3 passages): Descriptions of experiments and results

3. Conflicting Viewpoints (1 passage): Two or more hypotheses or theories

The types of skills assessed include:

• Reading and interpreting graphs and tables

• Understanding experimental design

• Concluding data

• Identifying variables and controls

• Analyzing differing viewpoints

Unlike the reading section, where students must interpret tone or emotion, the science section focuses on extracting factual information and applying logical reasoning. Although basic familiarity with scientific terms is helpful, specific knowledge (such as laws of physics or the periodic table) is not required.

Effective strategies for this section include:

• Skimming for data rather than reading every word

• Focusing on labels, units, and patterns in graphs

• Identifying what each experiment is testing

• Noting changes between experiments or viewpoints

Time management is crucial in this section, as each passage must be approached methodically yet quickly.

Writing Section (Optional)

The ACT Writing Test is optional and consists of one essay prompt, with a time limit of 40 minutes. Students are given a short passage presenting an issue of current interest, along with three different perspectives on the issue. They must:

• Develop their point of view

• Analyze the relationships between their view and the other perspectives.

• Support their ideas with reasoning and examples.s

Essays are scored in four domains:

1. Ideas and Analysis: Does the writer present a thoughtful argument and perspective?

2. Development and Support: Are ideas supported with reasoning and evidence?

3. Organization: Is the essay logically structured with clear transitions?

4. Language Use and Conventions: Is the writing clear, and does it follow grammar and mechanics rules?

Each domain is scored from 2 to 12 by two independent readers. The final Writing score is the average of the four domain scores, not included in the composite ACT score.

Preparation for this section includes:

• Practicing planning essays within a few minutes

• Writing sample responses to past prompts

• Reviewing feedback to identify areas for improvement

Students should verify whether the colleges they are applying to require or recommend the Writing test. Some institutions place significant weight on it, while others do not consider it at all.

Understanding each ACT section in detail allows students to focus their preparation efficiently. While some students may excel naturally in math or reading, others may need more practice in English or science reasoning. Recognizing strengths and addressing weaknesses is critical to achieving a balanced and competitive composite score.

Scoring, Test Dates, and Registration for the ACT

Understanding the ACT Scoring System

The ACT uses a standardized scoring system that helps colleges compare students from different educational backgrounds fairly. Each of the four main sections – English, Math, Reading, and Science – is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The Writing section, if taken, is scored separately.

Section Scores

Each ACT section is evaluated independently:

• English: 1 – 36

• Math: 1 – 36

• Reading: 1 – 36

• Science: 1 – 36

These section scores reflect a student’s raw performance – i.e., how many questions were answered correctly – but are converted into scaled scores to account for slight variations in test difficulty across different test dates. The scaled scores are then used to calculate the composite score.

Composite Score

The composite score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. This score also ranges from 1 to 36.

For example, if a student scores:

• English: 28

• Math: 30

• Reading: 27

• Science: 31

The composite score would be:
(28 + 30 + 27 + 31) ÷ 4 = 29

This single number gives colleges a quick snapshot of the student’s overall academic readiness for college-level coursework.

Writing Score (Optional)

If a student chooses to take the Writing test, it is scored separately from 2 to 12. Two trained readers evaluate the essay based on four domains:

1. Ideas and Analysis

2. Development and Support

3. Organization

4. Language Use and Conventions

Each domain receives a score from 1 to 6, and the two scores are combined. The average across the four domains gives the final Writing score.

Importantly, the Writing score does not affect the composite score. Some colleges consider the Writing score in admissions decisions, while others do not.

Subscores and STEM/ELA Scores

In addition to the main scores, students also receive subscores in specific skill areas:

• English: Usage/Mechanics and Rhetorical Skills

• Math: Pre-Algebra/Elementary Algebra, Algebra/Coordinate Geometry, Plane Geometry/Trigonometry

• Reading: Social Studies/Natural Sciences and Arts/Literature

• Science: No subscores, but focuses on interpretation, analysis, and problem-solving

These can help students and educators understand strengths and weaknesses in specific content areas.

The ACT also provides two combined scores:

• STEM: The average of Math and Science scores

• ELA (English Language Arts): The average of English, Reading, and Writing (if taken)

These scores are especially useful for students planning to pursue STEM fields or the humanities.

Score Reports and Sending Scores

ACT scores are typically available online about two to eight weeks after the test date. Writing scores may take a few additional days.

Students receive:

• Composite score

• Section scores

• Subscores

• Optional Writing score (if applicable)

During registration, students can choose up to four colleges to receive their scores for free. Additional score reports can be sent later for a fee. Students may also use the Score Choice option to select which test date results to send, giving them control over how they present their performance.

Some colleges require all scores to be sent, so it’s important to check each school’s policy before deciding.

Test Dates and Frequency

The ACT is offered seven times per year in the United States:

• September

• October

• December

• February

• April

• June

• July

Test dates are typically on Saturdays, although accommodations are available for students with religious conflicts or disabilities. Internationally, the ACT is administered on fewer dates, usually four to five times annually.

Students can take the test multiple times. Many choose to retake it to improve scores. Some colleges “superscore,” meaning they combine the highest scores from each section across multiple test dates to form the best possible composite score.

Planning and aligning test dates with college application deadlines is essential. Many students take the ACT for the first time in the spring of their junior year and retake it in the fall of their senior year if needed.

ACT Registration Process

Registration for the ACT is done through the official ACT website. The process includes:

1. Creating an account on the ACT website

2. Selecting a test date and location

3. Choosing whether to take the optional Writing test

4. Entering academic and personal background information

5. Uploading a photo for identification

6. Paying the registration fee (fee waivers available for eligible students)

ACT registration deadlines are typically about five weeks before the test date. Late registration is available for an additional fee, but space can be limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

The cost of the ACT (as of recent updates) is:

• ACT without Writing: around $66

• ACT with Writing: around $91

Fee waivers are available for students who demonstrate financial need. Eligible students can take the ACT for free up to two times and may receive additional benefits, such as free score reports and college application fee waivers.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

ACT provides testing accommodations for students with documented disabilities. These may include:

• Extended time

• Testing over multiple days

• Large print or Braille test materials

• Wheelchair-accessible testing centers

To apply, students must submit documentation and be approved by ACT’s services for students with disabilities. It is important to apply early, as approval can take several weeks.

Online and Paper Testing Options

Traditionally, the ACT has been a paper-based test. However, computer-based testing has been introduced in select locations. The structure and content of the test are the same regardless of the format.

Computer-based testing offers:

• Faster score delivery

• User-friendly interface

• No bubbling errors

Availability varies by location, and students should check whether their test center offers computer-based testing.

Superscoring and Retaking the ACT

Superscoring can be a powerful tool for students. Instead of sending only the highest composite score from one test date, colleges that superscore will consider the highest scores from each section across all ACT attempts.

For example:

• Test 1: English 28, Math 27, Reading 30, Science 25 = Composite 28

• Test 2: English 26, Math 30, Reading 29, Science 31 = Composite 29

Superscore: English 28, Math 30, Reading 30, Science 31 = Composite 30

Not all colleges superscore the ACT, so students should check policies on each school’s admissions website.

Using Scores for Placement and Scholarships

Many colleges use ACT scores not only for admissions but also for:

• Course placement (e.g., placing into advanced math or English classes)

• Scholarship eligibility

• Honors program applications

Some state universities have automatic admission thresholds based on ACT scores. For example, a student with a composite score above a certain cutoff may be guaranteed admission or qualify for merit scholarships.

Knowing the score requirements for specific goals (admission, scholarships, honors) can help students target their preparation efforts effectively.

Understanding the ACT scoring system and registration process is vital for students to plan effectively. From knowing how the composite score is calculated to navigating the different test dates and options, this knowledge empowers students to make informed choices.

Students should take full advantage of score reporting options, prepare for their preferred test date well in advance, and consider retaking the test if doing so may improve their outcomes.

ACT Preparation Strategies, Study Resources, and the Role in College Admissions

Why ACT Preparation Matters

The ACT is a high-stakes exam. A strong performance can significantly influence college admissions, scholarship eligibility, and course placements. Because of the standardized nature of the test, effective preparation not only improves familiarity with the content but also builds confidence and enhances time management – critical for success on test day.

The ACT is not a test that rewards cramming or passive review. Instead, it measures a student’s ability to apply concepts under time pressure. Therefore, preparation must be both strategic and consistent. Understanding how each section works, taking multiple practice exams, reviewing incorrect answers, and targeting specific weaknesses are all essential components of a comprehensive prep plan.

Common ACT Preparation Methods

Self-Study

Many students choose to study independently using prep books, online materials, or official ACT resources. Self-study offers flexibility, affordability, and the ability to move at one’s own pace.

Advantages:

• Affordable or free

• Can be tailored to individual needs

• Ideal for self-motivated learners

Challenges:

• Requires discipline and time management

• May lack structure or feedback

Best for students who are confident in managing their own time and who have identified specific areas for improvement.

Test Prep Books

Books remain a staple of ACT preparation. Quality books provide detailed content reviews, sample questions, full-length practice exams, and test-taking strategies.

Popular publishers include:

• ACT Official Guide

• Kaplan ACT Prep

• Barron’s ACT Study Guide

• Princeton Review ACT Premium Prep

These books often include diagnostic tests, access to online resources, and explanations for every question type. Students should look for the most current editions to ensure alignment with the latest ACT format.

Online Courses

Online prep programs offer video lessons, interactive quizzes, and digital tracking tools. These are ideal for students who prefer structured learning but want the convenience of studying from home.

Examples of platforms:

• Magoosh

• Kaplan

• PrepScholar

• Testive

• Varsity Tutors

These platforms typically offer self-paced or live courses, progress tracking, and access to thousands of practice questions. Many include score prediction algorithms and personalized study plans.

Advantages:

• Flexible and accessible

• Visual and auditory learning options

• Personalized pacing

Challenges:

• Subscription or access costs

• May lack one-on-one support without additional tutoring

Tutoring

Private tutoring offers the most personalized form of ACT preparation. Tutors identify weaknesses, tailor sessions to individual learning styles, and provide targeted feedback.

Benefits include:

• Customized instruction

• Accountability and motivation

• Focused improvement on weak areas

Tutoring can be done in person or online. It’s often used by students aiming for elite college admissions or those with specific academic challenges.

Downsides:

• High cost

• Scheduling constraints

Practice Tests

Full-length, timed practice tests are essential for ACT preparation. They simulate the test-day experience and build endurance. The ACT is nearly three hours long (over three and a half with Writing), so practicing under real conditions helps students develop time management and pacing strategies.

Practice tests also help:

• Identify patterns in errors

• Adjust test-day strategies

• Reduce anxiety through familiarity.

The official ACT website offers previous exams, which are the best practice materials. Many third-party companies provide additional practice tests, but students should cross-reference for accuracy.

Selecting ACT Prep Resources: Top Providers

When choosing ACT prep materials, students should consider learning style, budget, and score goals. Here are brief overviews of some reputable providers:

• ACT Official Prep: Best for authenticity; includes past exams and accurate format.

• Kaplan: Comprehensive, with books, online courses, and tutoring options.

• Magoosh: Affordable and mobile-friendly; ideal for busy students.

• PrepScholar: Personalized learning plans and analytics-driven.

• Testive: Combines AI-based study plans with one-on-one coaching.

• Varsity Tutors: Offers free diagnostic tests and adaptive learning platforms.

• Barron’s: Known for detailed content reviews and challenging practice questions.

• Wiley Efficient Learning: Offers strong analytics and interactive tools.

When using third-party materials, students should ensure the content closely mirrors the current ACT structure to avoid confusion or outdated methods.

Creating a Study Plan

A study plan helps students stay organized and focused. Here’s how to build an effective plan:

1. Diagnostic Test: Begin by taking a full-length ACT practice test to assess current level.

2. Set a Goal: Research the average ACT scores for target colleges and set a realistic but ambitious goal.

3. Timeline: Ideally, start preparing 2 – 4 months before the test. Break study time into weekly goals.

4. Focus Areas: Prioritize the weakest sections while maintaining strengths.

5. Daily Practice: Incorporate content review, timed drills, and weekly full-section tests.

6. Full-Length Tests: Take a full ACT practice test every 2 – 3 weeks to measure progress.

7. Review Mistakes: For every incorrect answer, understand the error and reattempt similar questions.

8. Test-Day Simulation: In the final weeks, practice under actual test conditions, including breaks.

Students preparing for multiple test dates can revise their study plan between exams to focus on sections where they saw the least improvement.

The ACT’s Role in College Admissions

ACT scores are a major component of college applications, though their importance varies by institution. While many colleges have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, a strong ACT score can still offer advantages.

How Scores Are Used

1. Admissions Decisions: Scores are reviewed alongside GPA, coursework rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations.

2. Scholarship Eligibility: Many merit-based scholarships require a minimum ACT score. Some automatic awards are based solely on GPA and test scores.

3. Course Placement: ACT scores can determine placement in math or English courses, potentially allowing students to skip introductory classes.

4. Honors Programs: High scores may qualify students for honors colleges or special academic programs.

Test-Optional Trends

While more schools now allow students to apply without standardized test scores, submitting strong ACT results can still help applicants:

• Stand out in a competitive pool

• Offset a lower GPA or class rank.

• Demonstrate college readiness in a homeschool or non-traditional setting.

Before choosing not to send ACT scores, students should review each college’s policy. Some programs within a college, such as nursing or engineering, may still require them even if the school is test-optional overall.

Strategic Score Reporting

Students can take the ACT multiple times and use strategies to maximize how scores are presented:

• Superscoring: Combine the highest section scores from different test dates

• Score Choice: Choose which full score reports to send

• Targeted Testing: Focus future test dates on weaker sections for higher superscores

Understanding each college’s policies on superscoring and score submission is key to applying strategically.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the ACT is an investment of time, effort, and, in some cases, money. Students who succeed do so not by simply studying hard, but by studying smart. They understand the test structure, use high-quality materials, and focus on consistent improvement.

While the ACT is just one part of the college admissions process, it can carry significant weight. Strong scores open doors to more colleges, scholarships, and academic opportunities. But preparation doesn’t mean only memorizing facts – it’s about practicing skills, refining strategies, and gaining the confidence to perform well under pressure.

With dedication, access to the right resources, and a clear plan, students can maximize their ACT performance and strengthen their path to college success.

Let me know if you’d like a downloadable version of all four parts or if you need help creating a personalized study plan.