ACT Guide
The ACT (American College Testing), is a standardized test that assesses high school students' readiness for college. It is a staple for college admissions across the United States. The test is composed of four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science which consist of all multiple choice questions (mcq) along with an optional Writing section. To take the test it normally costs a one time fee of $68 without the writing and $93 with, but if you qualify for free and reduced lunch you can easily receive financial aid covered in the registration process below.
Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
Writing (optional) | One Essay | 40 min |
Science | 40 | 35 min |
Reading | 40 | 35 min |
Math | 60 | 60 min |
English | 75 | 45 min |
Practice Test
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ACT offers online a free full length practice test Preparing for the ACT Test 2023–2024
This pdf has valuable information including an Overview of the ACT, Test-Taking Strategies, and Tips on the different sections.
Click on the icon below to download the full length practice test
Upon completing this test there will be a grading rubric provided below for you to evaluate your score
Before you begin your ACT journey, take a full practice test to gauge where you are at and identify any weaknesses.
https://www.act.org › unsecured › documents
ACT Course
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1. Official ACT Website (act.org):
Log in to your ACT account and scroll down to the bottom of the page
There you can access free resources, including sample questions, practice tests, and test prep booklets at act.org.
2. Khan Academy (khanacademy.org):
When practicing for standardized tests Khan Academy is arguably the best practice out there.
Since the content covered in the paper SAT and ACT is similar, practicing for the paper SAT on Khan Academy can provide valuable preparation for both exams. Although Khan Academy primarily offers SAT preparation resources, mastering the SAT content will greatly benefit your readiness for the ACT as well.
Start by visiting Khan Academy's website: www.khanacademy.org
After signing in, enroll in the SAT (Fall 2023)
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Create the practice schedule fit for you and follow it well
Alternate from math to reading day by day and make sure to focus on any weaknesses identified in your initial diagnostic test
Review and understand any answers you got wrong and make sure you are comfortable performing the skill during the real ACT
Registering for the ACT
Step 1: Create an ACT Account
Visit the official ACT website: www.act.org.
Click on "MyACT Sign In" to create an ACT account if you don't already have one. You will need this account to register for the test, view your scores, and manage your registration.
Step 0: Financial Aid
If you qualify for free and reduced lunch at school this should be your first step. Line up outside the counselors (college counselor if your school has one) office and ask to talk. Let them know you are planning to take the ACT and ask for a fee wavier. If they have ran out they will likely ask you to wait, in that case write down your email for them and wait. Otherwise, you should walk out with a free ticket to the ACT in your hands!
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For the ACT you can receive up to four fee waivers to take the ACT test for free and you will receive free learning resources along with them! Use them wisely!
Step 2: Register for the ACT
2.1. Log in to your ACT web account.
2.2. Once logged in, click on "Register for the ACT"
2.3. Follow the prompts to select the test date, test center, and test type (ACT or ACT with Writing). Choose a date and location that is convenient for you and fits your college application timeline.
2.4. You'll also need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, phone number, and high school details.
2.5. Select up to four colleges or scholarship programs to receive your score reports. Additional score reports can be ordered for a fee later if needed.
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2.6 You'll be required to upload a recent, recognizable photo of yourself as part of your registration. The photo will be printed on your admission ticket, and test center staff will use it to verify your identity on test day. Follow the specific photo requirements provided on the ACT website.
Step 3: Review and Confirm Registration
3.1. Review your registration details, including the test date, test center, and personal information. Make sure everything is accurate.
3.2. Pay the registration fee online using a credit card or a fee waiver (if eligible). The fee varies depending on whether you are taking the ACT or ACT with Writing and whether you want additional services like score reports or test information releases.
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
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5.1. After successfully registering and making payment, you'll receive a confirmation email. Keep this email for your records.
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Step 5: Accommodations
5.1. If you have a disability and require accommodations, you will need to submit documentation to the ACT for approval. This should be done well in advance of your test date to allow time for processing.
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Step 6: Test Day
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6.1 Arrival Time: Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.
6.2 Required Materials: Bring your ACT admission ticket, photo ID, No. 2 pencils (with erasers), and an approved calculator.
6.3 Prohibited Items: Leave phones, smartwatches, digital devices, and other prohibited items at home or in your car. Test center staff may collect and hold these items during the test.
6.4 Pacing: Time management is crucial. Allocate a specific amount of time for each section to ensure you finish within the allotted time.
There are short breaks after the first two test sections (Math and Reading) and another break after the third section (Science). Use this time wisely to rest and recharge.
6.5 Bubble Sheets: Carefully transfer your answers to the separate answer sheet provided. Double-check that you're marking the correct corresponding question number. Fully erase any stray marks. There is no penalty for guessing on the ACT, so answer every question. If unsure, make an educated guess.
6.6 Remain Until the End: Stay in the testing room until all test materials have been collected, and you are officially dismissed by the test administrator.
Remember that proper preparation and a calm, focused mindset on test day are keys to success. Follow these tips and instructions to navigate the ACT effectively. Good luck!
