The ACT is Around the Corner — Get Prepared Now

Understanding the ACT – What It Is and Why It Matters

Introduction to the ACT

The ACT is a standardized test used across the United States to evaluate a high school student’s readiness for college. It is one of the two major college entrance exams, the other being the SAT. While different colleges have different policies, the ACT is accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the United States. The test measures academic proficiency in English, mathematics, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. These components are designed to reflect the skills and knowledge that students are expected to develop during high school.

The purpose of the ACT is to provide colleges and scholarship organizations with a common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. This helps level the playing field among students from different schools, districts, and states. Because grading systems and curriculum can vary significantly between schools, the ACT provides a standardized way to assess core academic capabilities.

Core Structure and Timing

The ACT consists of four required sections and one optional writing section. Each section is timed, and managing your time effectively during the test is critical to completing it successfully.

• English: This section includes 75 questions to be completed in 45 minutes. It evaluates grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, strategy, organization, and style.

• Math: This portion has 60 questions and a 60-minute time limit. Topics include pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, and trigonometry.

• Reading: You will be given 35 minutes to answer 40 questions. This section measures reading comprehension through passages from fiction, social studies, humanities, and natural sciences.

• Science: This section is also 35 minutes long with 40 questions. It assesses the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in natural sciences.

• Writing (Optional): This is a 40-minute essay test. You will be asked to develop an argument in response to a given issue, using critical reasoning and analytical writing.

Each of the four required sections is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Your composite score is the average of these four scores. The optional writing section receives a separate score and does not factor into your composite score.

What the ACT Measures

The ACT is not a test of abstract intelligence or general knowledge. Instead, it measures what students have learned in school. Its questions are designed to be straightforward and rooted in high school coursework. However, the test does evaluate how well students can apply their knowledge under timed conditions and in slightly unfamiliar contexts. It is not enough to have memorized facts or formulas; students must also understand how to interpret data, solve problems, and construct well-reasoned responses.

Each section tests a different skill set:

• English: Focuses on standard written English and rhetorical skills. You will be required to revise and edit passages, improving the grammar, organization, and overall effectiveness.

• Math: Measures mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities across a range of topics. A calculator is permitted, but not all problems are easily solved with one.

• Reading: Tests your ability to quickly understand and analyze texts from a variety of sources and subjects.

• Science: Despite its name, this section does not require in-depth scientific knowledge. Instead, it assesses your ability to interpret charts, graphs, and data, as well as understand scientific hypotheses and experimental procedures.

• Writing: If you choose to take this section, you’ll be assessed on your ability to present a logical argument, support it with evidence, and organize your thoughts clearly in writing.

These sections together are designed to mirror the academic experiences of high school students and assess how well they are prepared for college-level work.

The ACT as a College Admission Tool

College admissions committees consider many factors when reviewing applications, such as GPA, extracurricular involvement, recommendation letters, and personal essays. Standardized test scores serve as one component of this holistic review. When a student applies to multiple schools, each with its own academic standards, the ACT provides a consistent measurement that admissions officers can use to compare applicants fairly.

A strong ACT score can improve your chances of acceptance at competitive institutions, especially if your high school GPA or course rigor is not as strong. It can also signal your readiness for advanced coursework. In some cases, high ACT scores may allow you to bypass certain introductory college classes or fulfill basic requirements early.

Some colleges have moved toward test-optional admissions policies, meaning you are not required to submit standardized test scores. However, submitting strong ACT results can still enhance your application, particularly if other parts of your academic profile need reinforcement.

The ACT and Scholarships

In addition to college admissions, ACT scores are frequently used to determine eligibility for scholarships and merit-based financial aid. Many private and institutional scholarships have minimum ACT score requirements. By scoring above these thresholds, students can qualify for thousands of dollars in aid that do not need to be repaid.

Some scholarships are automatic based on ACT scores and GPA. For instance, certain public universities offer guaranteed scholarships to students who meet specific score benchmarks. Other scholarship programs use ACT scores as one of several criteria, along with essays, recommendation letters, and community service.

ACT scores are also used by state-funded scholarship programs. In states like Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida, students who meet ACT cutoffs can receive substantial financial support to attend in-state universities.

By improving your ACT score, you can increase the number of scholarships for which you qualify and potentially reduce the financial burden of college.

Self-Assessment and Skill Building

One of the less discussed but highly valuable aspects of taking the ACT is the self-assessment opportunity it provides. The detailed score report breaks down your performance in each section and sub-section. This feedback allows you to identify academic strengths and weaknesses.

If you plan to retake the test, this information helps target your study efforts. If your reading score is strong but your math score is weaker, you can focus your preparation on math topics. This focused approach makes studying more efficient and increases the likelihood of score improvement.

Even if you do not retake the ACT, understanding your performance areas can guide you in selecting appropriate college courses. For example, a student with high English and Reading scores but lower Math and Science scores may want to consider additional support in quantitative subjects when starting college.

The Optional Writing Section

The optional Writing section is not required by all colleges. However, some competitive or writing-intensive programs may require or recommend it. Even if a school does not require the Writing Test, a strong score can be a valuable addition to your application.

In this section, you will be asked to read a prompt about a contemporary issue and evaluate three different perspectives on that issue. You must then present your own viewpoint and support it with logical reasoning and examples. This section tests your ability to structure an argument, analyze different perspectives, and write clearly under time pressure.

Although the Writing score does not affect your composite score, it is reported separately and can be used to demonstrate your communication skills, especially if you’re applying to a major that involves significant writing.

College Readiness Indicator

The ACT is more than just a college entrance exam—it serves as a meaningful indicator of your readiness for the demands of higher education. By identifying your strengths and areas for improvement, the ACT gives you the tools to make better educational choices. Whether it’s deciding which college to attend, what major to pursue, or which classes to take first, your ACT results provide data that support smart academic planning.

For many students, taking the ACT is the first step in transitioning from high school to college. It is a challenge, but one that can be met with the right preparation and mindset. The more you understand the format and purpose of the ACT, the more confident and capable you’ll feel when it’s time to take the test.

The Benefits of Taking the ACT and Planning Strategically

Introduction to the Benefits of the ACT

For high school students planning to attend college, the ACT is more than just another test. It plays a significant role in the college admissions process, but its usefulness extends well beyond getting into school. Understanding how and why to take the ACT strategically can open up opportunities for scholarships, boost your chances of admission, and provide valuable insight into your academic abilities. This part explores the key reasons to take the ACT and how to make the most of it.

Standardized Testing and College Admissions

One of the most important benefits of the ACT is its broad acceptance by colleges and universities across the United States. Most four-year institutions accept either the ACT or the SAT for admission. Some schools may even prefer one over the other depending on regional trends. By taking the ACT, students ensure that they meet a key component of most admissions requirements.

In recent years, a number of colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning applicants are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, submitting strong ACT scores can still give students an edge, especially when applying to selective institutions. Test scores provide another dimension to your application, showcasing your academic potential in a nationally standardized format.

Admissions officers use ACT scores to assess your readiness for college-level work, to compare you with applicants from other schools, and to supplement your high school GPA, which may be subject to grade inflation or inconsistent academic standards.

ACT Scores and Scholarships

In addition to being a powerful admissions tool, ACT scores can significantly influence your access to scholarships. Many colleges automatically award merit-based financial aid to students who meet certain GPA and ACT score thresholds. These awards can cover partial or full tuition and are sometimes renewable for all four years of college, provided academic requirements are met.

For example, a public university might offer a $3,000 annual scholarship for students with a 3.5 GPA and a composite ACT score of 28. A higher score, such as a 32 or above, might unlock more competitive scholarship opportunities or honors program admission. These benefits not only reduce the financial burden of college but also enhance your academic experience.

ACT scores are also used in eligibility decisions for national and state-level scholarship programs. For instance, some states offer financial aid based on ACT performance to students attending in-state schools. Private scholarship organizations may require ACT scores as part of their application process, especially for awards related to academic achievement.

The optional Writing Test, while not always required for admission or scholarships, may serve as an extra credential when applying for scholarships with a writing or essay component.

Understanding Your Academic Strengths and Weaknesses

One of the most underrated benefits of taking the ACT is the detailed feedback it provides on your academic skills. After completing the exam, you receive a score report that not only lists your composite score and individual section scores but also includes a breakdown of how you performed in different skill areas within each section.

This information is extremely useful for identifying areas where you are already strong and those where you need improvement. For example, if you score high in English but struggle in Math, that gives you clear guidance for future preparation. You may choose to focus your study efforts on algebra and trigonometry before retaking the test or consider enrolling in supplemental math support in your senior year.

The feedback also helps with course placement once you’re in college. Some institutions use ACT scores to determine whether incoming students need to take remedial courses in math or English. High ACT scores in these sections may allow you to skip certain entry-level classes, saving time and tuition money.

Moreover, knowing your strengths can help you choose a college major that aligns with your natural talents. Strong science and math scores might suggest a future in engineering or health sciences, while high reading and English scores could indicate aptitude for communication, education, or social sciences.

The Value of Taking the ACT Early

Timing is crucial when it comes to standardized testing. One of the most effective strategies is to take the ACT early—usually during the spring of your junior year. This timing gives you the opportunity to review the material thoroughly, receive your scores with plenty of time left in your college planning process, and retake the test if necessary.

Taking the test early has several specific advantages:

• You gain familiarity with the testing process, environment, and question format.

• You identify your weak areas while there is still time to address them.

• You can use your score to start researching colleges where you are a strong candidate.

• If you decide to retake the test, you have multiple test dates available before college applications are due.

According to data from the ACT organization, nearly half of all test-takers choose to take the test more than once. Among those who do, a majority improve their scores on subsequent attempts. This increase is often due to a better understanding of the test format and targeted studying based on the results of the first test.

By taking the ACT early and using the feedback wisely, you can significantly improve your performance and potentially gain access to more competitive colleges and scholarships.

Flexibility in Score Reporting

Another benefit of taking the ACT is the control you have over how your scores are reported to colleges. When you register for the ACT, you can choose up to four colleges or universities to receive your scores for free. If you’re confident in your performance, this can save money and get your scores to schools quickly.

However, if you’re unsure about how well you’ll do, you can opt not to send your scores during registration. Once you’ve reviewed your results, you can choose to send them to specific colleges for a fee. This flexibility allows you to be strategic about which test scores are seen by which schools.

You also have the option to send scores from only one specific test date. If you take the ACT multiple times, you can choose to send just the test with your highest composite score. This policy, known as “score choice,” gives students the advantage of presenting their best performance while keeping lower scores private.

However, it’s important to note that while you can select the test date, you cannot mix and match section scores from different test dates. All section scores from a single test date must be reported together. Some colleges practice superscoring, where they take the highest scores from each section across all test attempts to create a new composite score. Check with the colleges on your list to find out their score-use policies.

Using the ACT for Career and College Planning

The ACT doesn’t only serve as a college admissions and scholarship tool. It also contributes to long-term educational and career planning. Along with your test scores, ACT provides a Career Map and Interest Inventory, which matches your strengths and interests with potential career paths.

By analyzing your ACT scores in conjunction with your personal interests, you can get a clearer picture of what fields might suit you best. For example, if you enjoy analytical thinking and have strong math and science scores, careers in technology or engineering might be a good fit. If you enjoy writing and scored well in English and reading, journalism, education, or public relations might be areas to explore.

This feature of the ACT encourages students to think beyond test day and consider how their academic performance aligns with future goals. This kind of planning is particularly helpful when selecting a major, researching colleges, or looking for internship opportunities.

The Role of Confidence and Preparation

The ACT, like any high-stakes exam, can be a source of stress and anxiety. However, preparing thoroughly and taking the test early in your academic journey can build confidence and reduce that pressure. When students know what to expect and have had time to practice, they tend to perform better. Familiarity with the test format, pacing, and types of questions can make a huge difference in reducing test-day nerves.

Some students find it helpful to take full-length practice tests under timed conditions, while others benefit from tutoring, online prep courses, or ACT prep books. The key is to choose the study method that best suits your learning style and stick with a regular study schedule.

By viewing the ACT not just as a one-time hurdle but as a strategic opportunity, you can approach the test with a clearer sense of purpose and a higher likelihood of success.

Registration, Costs, and Logistics

Introduction to the Registration Process

Registering for the ACT is a straightforward but essential part of your college preparation journey. The process is primarily completed online and allows you to manage your test dates, testing locations, score reports, and personal information from one central place. Understanding how to navigate the registration system can prevent delays, avoid late fees, and ensure your test day goes as smoothly as possible.

Students can begin the registration process by creating an account on the official ACT website. This account is used not only to register for test dates but also to view and send scores, upload a photo, and even explore career planning tools offered through the ACT platform. Once you’ve created your account, you can start registering for the test by selecting your preferred date and location.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering

The ACT registration process includes several steps. Each one must be completed accurately to secure your spot on test day:

1. Create an ACT Account: Go to the ACT website and follow the instructions to create a personal account. You will need a valid email address and some basic personal information such as your full name, address, and school details.

2. Select a Test Date and Location: The ACT is offered multiple times a year, typically in April, June, July, September, October, and December. Once you choose a date, you’ll be shown a list of available testing centers near you. Choose a convenient location, preferably one that is easy to get to on the morning of the test.

3. Choose Whether to Take the Writing Test: During registration, you’ll have the option to sign up for the ACT with or without the Writing section. If you’re unsure whether your target colleges require the writing test, check their admission requirements or include it just to be safe.

4. Provide School and Academic Information: You’ll be asked about the high school courses you’ve taken and your academic interests. This information helps colleges and scholarship agencies better understand your background.

5. Select Score Recipients: You may choose up to four colleges or scholarship agencies to receive your scores for free. You can leave this section blank and decide later, although additional score reports after test day come with a fee.

6. Upload a Photo: A recent photo is required for security purposes. This photo must meet specific requirements (head-and-shoulders, full-face view, plain background) and will be printed on your admission ticket and shared with your testing center.

7. Pay the Registration Fee: Registration isn’t complete until you pay the testing fee. You can pay by credit or debit card. If you qualify for a fee waiver, you’ll enter that information during this step.

8. Print Your Admission Ticket: Once your registration is complete and your photo is approved, you can print your admission ticket. You must bring this ticket with you on test day.

ACT Test Dates and Deadlines

The ACT is typically offered on Saturdays, six to seven times a year. It’s crucial to be aware of registration deadlines, which generally fall about five weeks before the test date. Late registration is available for an additional fee, usually up to two weeks before the test.

Here are the typical test months:

• April

• June

• July

• September

• October

• December

Not all testing centers are open for every date, and some dates may not be available in every state. For instance, students in California and New York should check the ACT website for special information, as these states may have different regulations or availability.

Planning ahead is important. Early registration ensures you get your preferred test location and avoids additional costs. It also gives you ample time to prepare and, if needed, reschedule or cancel without penalty.

ACT Fees and Fee Waivers

Taking the ACT comes with a cost, though fee waivers are available for eligible students.

As of the most recent guidelines:

• ACT (without Writing): Standard fee

• ACT (with Writing): Slightly higher fee

• Late Registration: Additional fee

• Change Center/Test Date: Additional fee

• Sending scores to more than four colleges: Fee per report

Fees may change slightly each year, so it’s best to check the ACT website for the most current pricing.

For students who qualify, fee waivers are available through high school counselors. These waivers cover the cost of the test (with or without writing), allow free score reports to more colleges, and may provide access to free online test prep resources. Eligibility for fee waivers is generally based on family income and participation in certain government assistance programs.

Applying for a waiver is simple. Students should talk to their school counselor well before the registration deadline and submit any necessary documentation. If approved, they’ll receive a waiver code to use during the online registration process.

Choosing the Right Test Center

When selecting a test center, convenience and familiarity matter. Choose a location that is close to home or school and consider driving to it a few days before your test to ensure you know how to get there. Also, check if the location is subject to any travel restrictions or weather risks, especially in winter.

Test centers are typically located in high schools or colleges. If you have any accessibility needs, such as wheelchair access or extended testing time, accommodations can be requested during the registration process. Approval for accommodations may take additional time, so submit any necessary documentation early.

Students testing with accommodations will receive different scheduling instructions, often testing over multiple days or with extended time in a private or smaller group setting. It is important to coordinate with ACT in advance to confirm these arrangements.

Managing Changes to Registration

Life is unpredictable, and you may need to change your registration. The ACT allows students to:

• Change the test date

• Change the testing center

• Add or remove the writing section

• Cancel a registration

These changes can usually be made online through your ACT account. Be aware that changing your test date or center may involve a fee, and changes must be made before the deadline.

If you cannot attend your scheduled test date and do not reschedule in time, you will not receive a refund. However, you can request that your registration be transferred to another date, subject to a rescheduling fee.

What to Expect After Registration

After registering and uploading your photo, the ACT will issue your admission ticket. This document confirms your registration details, including your test date, reporting time, test center location, and test type (with or without writing). Print your admission ticket and keep it in a safe place. You must bring it with you to the test center on exam day, along with an acceptable photo ID.

Around this time, it’s a good idea to gather other necessary materials such as #2 pencils, a permitted calculator, and snacks. Check the ACT website or your admission ticket for a complete list of what to bring and what to leave at home.

You’ll also receive information on when and how to access your scores. Typically, multiple-choice scores are available online about two weeks after the test date. Writing scores, if applicable, are usually released a week or two later.

Testing Outside the United States

The ACT is also available internationally, although fewer test dates are offered. International testing follows the same registration process but may involve additional fees and limited center availability. Students outside the United States must carefully review registration deadlines and select from a shorter list of available locations.

If you’re an international student applying to colleges in the U.S., taking the ACT can help demonstrate your academic proficiency, particularly if English is not your first language. Some U.S. schools consider strong ACT English and Reading scores as proof of English language proficiency, potentially waiving the need for other exams like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Test Day Preparation and Final Thoughts

Preparing for Test Day: The Final Countdown

Registering for the ACT and studying for it is just part of the process. The way you prepare in the final days leading up to the test—and how you manage yourself on test day—can have a major impact on your performance. It’s not just about what you know, but also how well you’re able to stay focused, manage your time, and follow instructions.

Test day is often stressful for many students, but it doesn’t have to be. With a solid preparation plan and a calm, focused mindset, you can give yourself the best possible chance to succeed. Let’s go over what to do in the days before the test, what to bring, what to expect, and how to stay mentally sharp.

Build a Personal Countdown Plan

As test day approaches, you should transition from general studying to focused, strategic preparation. The final week before the ACT is a good time to:

• Review your previous practice test scores to focus on your weakest areas.

• Do short, timed practice sets rather than full tests to sharpen pacing skills.

• Refresh any key math formulas, grammar rules, or scientific methods that you often forget.

• Rest and avoid overloading your schedule with last-minute studying.

A few days before the test, make a list of everything you’ll need, and begin preparing your materials. Pack your test day bag in advance so that you’re not rushing around the morning of the test.

The Night Before the ACT

The night before the test should be calm and relaxed. This is not the time for cramming or staying up late to squeeze in one last practice section. Your brain will perform better if it’s well rested and free from anxiety. Here are some tips for the evening before the ACT:

• Set out everything you need for the morning, including your admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, calculator, snack, and clothing.

• Know how to get to your test center. If you’re unfamiliar with the route, drive it ahead of time or use a GPS to estimate travel time.

• Set multiple alarms to avoid oversleeping.

• Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime and try to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep.

Sleep is often underestimated, but it plays a major role in your mental clarity, attention span, and emotional stability—all crucial for performing well on a timed test.

What to Bring on Test Day

Being prepared is more than just knowing the material—it also includes bringing the right items. Here’s what you should have with you:

• Printed admission ticket: This confirms your registration and must match your identity.

• Acceptable photo ID: School ID or government-issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport.

• At least two #2 pencils: Mechanical pencils are not allowed.

• Approved calculator: Make sure your calculator is on the ACT-approved list. Graphing calculators are allowed, but models with computer algebra system functionality are prohibited.

• Watch (optional): A watch can help you track time if it doesn’t make noise or have a smart function.

• Snack and water: You’ll get a short break between the Math and Reading sections. This is a good time to refuel.

Leave the following items at home or in your car:

• Smartphones or any device with internet access

• Smartwatches or fitness trackers

• Books, papers, or notes

• Any electronic device with an alarm

Test centers have strict policies about electronic devices. Having one go off during the test could result in your scores being canceled.

The Morning Routine

Wake up early enough to have a healthy breakfast and mentally prepare. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that might lead to a crash during the test. Instead, choose protein and complex carbohydrates—like eggs, toast, and fruit—to stay alert and energized.

Plan to arrive at your test center at least 30 minutes early. Late arrivals may not be allowed to test, and you won’t be refunded. Once at the center, you’ll check in, have your ID verified, and be escorted to your testing room.

The test begins with instructions and a scripted process to ensure fairness. Once it starts, no talking or unauthorized behavior is allowed. Listen carefully to instructions and ask questions before the test begins if anything is unclear.

Strategies During the ACT

Once you’re seated and the test begins, your performance will rely on your preparation and your ability to manage the test itself. Here are some core strategies to help you succeed:

• Pace Yourself: Each section is timed, and the time limit is strict. Keep an eye on the clock, but don’t rush unnecessarily. It’s better to answer 90% of the questions accurately than to rush and get half of them wrong.

• Guess Strategically: There is no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT. If you don’t know an answer, make an educated guess. Eliminate obvious wrong choices to improve your odds.

• Use the Process of Elimination: This is especially helpful in the Reading and Science sections, where answer choices may seem similar. Cross out choices that are clearly incorrect to narrow down the best option.

• Stay Calm: If you feel stuck on a question, don’t panic. Move on and come back later if time allows. Don’t let one difficult question ruin your focus for the rest of the section.

• Manage Breaks Wisely: You’ll have a short break after the Math section. Use this time to stretch, eat a small snack, and hydrate. Do not check your phone or notes—doing so can result in being dismissed from the test.

After the Test

Once you’ve completed all sections (including the optional Writing, if you signed up for it), the proctor will collect all materials, and you’ll be dismissed. You cannot take your test booklet or scratch paper with you. Your job is done for the day.

Most students receive their multiple-choice scores online within two to three weeks after the test date. Writing scores, if applicable, take a bit longer—usually an extra week or two. You’ll get an email notifying you when your scores are available in your ACT account.

Reviewing Your Scores

When your scores are posted, take time to carefully review them. You’ll receive:

• Composite score (1–36 average of all sections)

• Individual section scores (1–36)

• Subscores in specific skill areas within each subject

• Writing score (if applicable), reported on a separate scale

If your scores are lower than expected, don’t panic. Analyze the breakdown to see where you can improve. You might discover that time pressure was an issue in one section or that a specific topic—like coordinate geometry or punctuation—needs more review.

Consider whether a retake is in your best interest. If you have enough time before college deadlines and believe you can significantly improve, taking the ACT again might boost your chances of admission and scholarship eligibility.

Score Sending and College Applications

After you’ve reviewed your scores, you have a few choices:

• Send scores to additional schools (beyond the four included with registration). This involves a small fee for each additional report.

• Choose which test date to send scores from (if you’ve taken the ACT more than once).

• Research whether your colleges “superscore” (combine your best section scores from multiple test dates).

Make sure all score reports are sent before your colleges’ deadlines. For many schools, the ACT must be received by the application deadline—not just postmarked.

Final Thoughts

Taking the ACT is a major step in your college preparation journey. It is designed to assess what you’ve learned and to help colleges understand your readiness for their programs. But the ACT is not just a score—it’s a tool that you can use strategically.

Whether you’re hoping to qualify for scholarships, get into a dream college, or assess your own academic strengths, the ACT can provide the information and opportunities you need. Preparation is important, but so is your mindset. Confidence, consistency, and calmness on test day can often make the difference between a good score and a great one.

Start early, make a plan, and stay committed. Use your score report to guide your academic choices and remember that even if your first test doesn’t go as planned, you can always improve. The ACT is a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity—a stepping stone to the next stage of your academic and professional life.