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The ACT also known as American College Testing, is a test that’s standardized and that is widely used to determine colleges in the United States. It’s designed to measure the ability of a high school student to prepare to take college-level courses and provides colleges with a standard basis for comparing candidates.
Here’s a rundown of what you should be aware of about the ACT:
What does the ACT test?
The ACT comprises four sections of multiple-choice:
- English: This section will test your comprehension of reading grammar, writing, and reading abilities. You’ll be assessed in your ability to spot mistakes, correct passages, and examine different styles of writing.
- Mathematical: This chapter covers an array in mathematical ideas, ranging from the basics of algebra and geometry up to trigonometry, and data analysis.
- Reading The section tests your capacity to comprehend and evaluate different kinds of reading texts, such as non-fiction, fiction, and scientific writing.
Science This test will assess your understanding and reasoning abilities in a range of fields such as biology and chemistry, physics and Earth/space science.
| OVERVIEW OF ACT TEST SECTIONS | |
| English | 75 multiple–choice questions45 minutesTests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and rhetorical skillsLearn more about the ACT English Test |
| Math | 60 multiple–choice questions60 minutesAlgebra I and II, geometry, and some trigonometryLearn more about the ACT Math Test |
| Reading | 40 multiple–choice questions35 minutesFour passages (prose fiction, social studies, humanities, and natural sciences) with 10 questions per passageLearn more about the ACT Reading Test |
| Science | 40 multiple–choice questions35 minutesQuestions on science-based passages presented with graphs, charts, tables and research summariesLearn more about the ACT Science Test |
| Writing | Writing test is optional *1 essay40 minutesLearn more about the ACT Essay* We recommend taking the ACT Writing Test because some schools require it. |
How long is the ACT?
The ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes long. If you choose to take the ACT with Essay, the test will be 3 hours and 35 minutes long.
The ACT Writing Test (Optional)
The ACT also provides an optional writing test which evaluates your writing ability by requiring you to consider an issue and then present your view. While it’s not required for all schools, certain institutions might require the test, or may consider it during an admissions procedure.
Scoring the ACT
Every section on the ACT is scored using a scale of 1-36 (low) from 1 (low) to 36 (high). The aggregate score is the sum of your four scores which is then rounded to the nearest complete number. In addition, the writing test gets scores that vary between 2 and 12.
Importance of the ACT for College Admissions
Although the ACT isn’t the only aspect for college selection but it plays an important role in several institutions. Colleges look at your ACT score along with your GPA at high school as well as essays, extracurricular activities or letters of reference to build an overall assessment of your candidature.
Preparing for the ACT
There are a variety of resources available to assist you in preparing for the ACT with official test-taking guides, practice tests and online classes. Becoming familiar with the format of the test and rehearsing your test-taking abilities as well as focusing your attention on the areas in which you require improvement are the most important steps to getting a great score.
How do I sign up to be a part of the ACT?
Deadlines for registration are approximately five weeks prior to the ACT exam date. You can obtain registration materials at the school counsellor’s office or you can sign up on the website of the ACT.
Additional Points to Remember:
- The ACT is offered seven times a year in the United States and Canada and five times internationally.
- You can register for the ACT online through the official ACT website.
- There are fee waivers available for students who meet certain eligibility criteria.
Knowing the ACT as well as its function and the role it plays in college admissions is essential for high school students who are going through their way through the process of applying to college. By becoming familiar with the format of the test by preparing well, and using the available resources will increase your chances of getting scores that reflect your academic ability and will help you stand out from your college applications.