At Mobile Tutors, we often hear from Canadian families who are new to the ACT. Most Canadian students are used to provincial exams and school-based marks, so a standardized test like this can feel unfamiliar. If you are thinking about an ACT tutor, this guide explains what the test is, who may need it, and how to choose the right kind of help.

What is the ACT, and why do Canadian students take it?

The ACT is a standardized college admissions test used mainly in the United States. Some Canadian students take it when they plan to apply to US colleges or universities. Others take it to keep their options open while they decide on a study path.

Requirements change from school to school, and some US colleges no longer require test scores. Before you book a test date, check the admissions page of each school on your list. You can also find current test details on the official ACT website, since the format and sections can be updated over time.

What does the ACT usually cover?

The test has traditionally included English, math, reading and science, with an optional writing section. Each part checks how well a student can read carefully, solve problems and manage time under pressure.

Many students find that content is not the only challenge. Pacing, stress and unfamiliar question styles can matter just as much. This is where a tutor can help.

How one-on-one tutoring can help

A good tutor does more than hand out practice papers. Here is what one-on-one support can look like:

• Finding weak areas by reviewing a practice test together

• Reteaching math or grammar topics that were missed at school

• Building reading speed and comprehension for longer passages

• Practising time management, so students do not run out of time

• Reviewing mistakes to understand why an answer went wrong

Because sessions are one-on-one, the tutor can spend more time where the student needs it and less on topics they already know.

Tips before you start

Here are a few simple steps we suggest to families:

1. Take a full practice test first, so you have a clear starting point.

2. Set a target score based on the schools you are considering.

3. Work backward from your test date and plan weekly study time.

4. Review every mistake, not just the score.

5. Keep sleep and breaks in the plan, especially in the last two weeks.

Starting early usually helps. A student who begins a few months before the exam has time to build skills slowly, instead of cramming.

Choosing the right tutor

Not every tutor is the right fit for every student. When you compare options, ask these questions:

• Does the tutor understand the current ACT format?

• Will lessons be planned around my child's strengths and gaps?

• Can sessions be held at home or online, whichever works better?

• How will progress be tracked between practice tests?

Do not be afraid to start with a short conversation. A good tutor will listen to your goals before suggesting a plan.

Support from Mobile Tutors

Mobile Tutors offers one-on-one tutoring for students across Canada, with lessons available at home or online. Whether your child needs help with math, reading skills or general test preparation, we plan each session around the student's grade, pace and goals. If you want an ACT tutor to guide your preparation, you can reach us through https://mobiletutors.ca/ or call (780) 710-5868.

A final thought

The ACT can seem like a big step, but it becomes much easier with a clear plan and steady practice. Take your time, check what your target schools require, and choose support that matches how your child learns. With the right preparation, students can walk into test day feeling ready instead of rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Canadian students need an ACT tutor?
Not always. It depends on whether you plan to apply to US colleges that ask for ACT scores. If you do, an ACT tutor can help you understand the test format, fix weak areas and practise under timed conditions.

2. When should my child start ACT preparation?
A few months before the test date is a good starting point. This gives your child time to take a practice test, review mistakes and build skills steadily instead of cramming.

3. Can ACT tutoring be done online?
Yes. Online sessions work well for many students, since lessons run over a video call from home. Some families prefer in-person sessions, so it helps to choose the format that suits your child's routine.

4. How can Mobile Tutors help with ACT preparation?
Mobile Tutors offers one-on-one tutoring for students across Canada. Each lesson is planned around the student's grade, pace and goals. To discuss what your child needs, visit https://mobiletutors.ca/ or call (780) 710-5868.