What Is the ACT Test, and How Do I Prepare for It?

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What Is the ACT Test, and How Do I Prepare for It?

The ACT (or the American College Testing exam) is a common college admissions test that many high school students must take to be able to apply for colleges and universities. It’s also one of the most challenging tests you can take as a high school student. This article will answer any questions you may have about the ACT test and how you can prepare for it. Arguably, the most important factor in getting into your dream college is your performance on its admissions test. Most applicants need to achieve a certain score in order to be admitted. What’s more, these scores often have a direct impact on what majors or degrees you are eligible for once you graduate from high school. The good news is that with enough preparation, anyone can boost their ACT score. Here are some great resources and tips if you’re looking to beat this tricky test and get into your first choice university.

What is the ACT test?

The ACT is a standardized college admissions test that measures your skills in English, Math, Reading, and Science. It’s a little different to the SAT (another common admissions test) in that it’s not based on your grade point average or where you went to school. Instead, the ACT is designed to judge your skills and knowledge independent of any other factors. The ACT test is split into four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each of these sections will be timed, and they are all scored out of 36 points. The best way to think of the ACT is as a combo of a written exam and a math skills test. You’ll also need to read short passages in each section, answer a few questions about what you just read, and then try a few calculations. The English section of the ACT is an essay, like the SAT, so don’t panic! The ACT essay is a lot shorter than the SAT essay, and the prompts are often focused on opinion or ethics. Finally, the ACT math section tests skills in a range of topics, including algebra, geometry, and statistics.

Why Take the ACT Test?

As mentioned, the ACT test is an admissions requirement for many (but not all) universities. The good news is that more and more schools are adopting the ACT as an admissions test: in 2018, more than 2,200 colleges and universities accepted ACT scores. That’s a significant increase from the 1,600 schools that accepted the test in 2010. If you’re not sure whether or not a particular school accepts the ACT, be sure to check its website or talk to an admissions counselor. It’s also worth noting that some universities require a minimum ACT score for admission. If you want to get into your top choice schools, it’s a good idea to aim for a score that is slightly above the accepted minimum.

How Much Does It Cost to Take the ACT?

The cost of the ACT varies depending on where you take the test and how many times you take it. If you’re a high school student planning to take the ACT more than once, it’s worth considering the ACT’s fee waiver program. This program allows students to take the test for free once they’ve applied to a participating university. If you’re not sure whether or not the school you want to attend is a part of the program, it’s a good idea to check before you register. The cost of the ACT exam is $54 (USD). Taking the test in the first week of October will cost $69. Why the difference? It’s to cover the additional costs associated with administering the test at that time of year.

When and Where Is the ACT Test Held?

The ACT test is administered on a rolling basis throughout the year. It’s a good idea to check the ACT website to find out when the test is offered near your home. The ACT test is offered throughout the year and can be taken as many times as you wish. However, note that the ACT fee waiver program is only available to high school students once per year. If you want to take the exam more than once, it’s worth booking the date as soon as you know when you want to take it. The ACT is incredibly popular, and the more desirable test dates will fill up quickly. You’ll also need to take the ACT on a computer, as it no longer offers a paper-and-pencil version.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT score is calculated using a combination of your performance in each of the four sections. Each section is assigned a number between 1 and 36. This number is then added to your total and divided by 36, which gives you a score between 1 and 36. The higher your score, the better you’ve done on the test. That being said, there’s no magic ACT score that will get you into your dream school. The ACT is more of a general indicator of your skills and knowledge (and a way for admissions officers to compare you with other applicants).

3 Key Strategies to Help You Scored Higher on the ACT

Before you start studying, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your study time. Here are a few key strategies that can help you score higher on the ACT: - Get the best ACT prep book for your skill level: Each of the four sections of the ACT is covered in a separate book, so make sure you get one for each section. You’ll get a better idea of what’s expected in each section, and you’ll be able to practice for each section individually. - Unlock the full potential of your ACT prep book: Most ACT prep books come with sample tests at the end. These are a great way to test your skills and identify areas where you need to improve. It’s also worth reading through the answer explanations in your books to understand why the correct answers are correct. - Practice ACT questions daily: It’s impossible to study for the ACT in a day, week, or even month. The best way to prepare for this test is to keep taking the practice tests and learning from your mistakes.

Bottom Line

The ACT is a challenging exam that can be hard to study for on your own. If you want to get the best score possible, it’s a good idea to sign up for a prep course. Most of these courses will cost you between $200 and $500, but they’re a worthwhile investment if it means getting a better score. With a few key strategies, you’ll be able to put your best foot forward on the ACT and impress any universities that receive your application.