The ACT assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work.

• The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science.
• The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skills in planning and writing a short essay.

The ACT test score is a Composite score of each test score (English, Mathematics, Reading, Science). Both the composite score and individual subject scores range from 1 (low) to 36 (high). The Composite Score is the average of your four test scores.

Many students take the ACT twice; first in the spring of their Junior year of high school and then again in the fall of their Senior year. The student can designate which test score can be forwarded to the colleges. The ACT test score is a composite of the scores from the english, mathematics, reading and science (and writing, if taken) for each test date. Unlike the SAT, the student does not have the option of combining different subject scores from different test dates.

The ACT provides a standard of measure for the colleges when comparing applicants. The higher the score, the more likely a student is to become a candidate for acceptance. It is not the single factor, but plays a very important role in the admissions process. Not only does it help the student to be recognized as a viable candidate, but the ACT score is also a large factor in assigning eligibility for merit aid and/or acceptance into a Honors program which almost always is accompanied with a grant or scholarship.

The ACT is linked to BOTH admissions and financial aid. An improvement in the test score can mean a substantial difference in aid granted. With so much at stake, it's important for the student to be properly prepared going into the test.

The procedure for awarding points on the ACT is different than the calculation used in scoring the SAT. Unlike the SAT, the ACT does not punish the student for incorrect answers. Scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the number of questions answered correctly. There is no penalty for guessing. Understanding the methods of scoring and other differences between the SAT and ACT will help the student achieve higher test scores. Because higher test scores can mean better financial aid and greater probablility of acceptance, many ACT classes and preparation tools are available.

The ACT test is owned and developed by ACT, Inc.. Visit their website, www.actstudent.org, for more test information including test dates and locations and registration.

ACT classes can cost well into the thousands of dollars for multi-student or private tutoring. We currently offer an online, video-based program that allows your student to work individually and at their own pace. This product is available for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT.

This product is available a la carte or is included with one or more of our college planning packages. Please call us for details.