ACT Test 101.com

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This course is designed to provide students with a heads up on the overall structure of the ACT test.

Objective: Become familiar with the test layout, and what to expect on test day.

The ACT test was established in 1959 as an alternative entrance achievement test to the SAT. Ever since then, it has become increasingly popular among high school students who prefer to take it over the SAT. Currently, nearly half of high school students who take these tests choose the ACT. Almost all colleges accept ACT scores as a substitute for the SAT, and some, especially those in the Midwest, even prefer them. High school students may opt to take the ACT, since many who don’t score well on the SAT do much better on the ACT.

The ACT includes four multiple choice sections—English, math, reading, and science. It also includes an optional writing test.

The ACT is offered on roughly a half dozen dates each year, and you can choose whichever date works best for you. However, you should consider several factors when selecting your test date. You need to be able to receive your test scores in time to include them with your college applications. It takes between four and eight weeks from the date of the test for your results to go out to you and the colleges. Make sure you know the application deadlines for all the colleges to which you plan to apply. Many colleges prefer you take the ACT in your junior year. This is a good idea for several reasons. By this time, you should have completed all the coursework to be able to handle the material on the ACT. Plus, many colleges like to use the summer before students’ senior year to contact them. It benefits you for the schools to have access to your ACT scores by this time. Also, if you’re not happy with your test scores, taking the test during your junior year leaves you time to retake it if you so desire.

Learn as much as you can about the test format, general guidelines, and test-taking tips before you take the ACT so you can maximize your chances for a successful score the first time around.