ACT

The ACT is a national college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in: English, Mathematics, Reading and Science. The ACT Plus Writing includes the four subject area tests plus a 30-minute Writing Test. ACT results are accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the U.S.

The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, including a short break (or just over four hours if you are taking the ACT Plus Writing). Actual testing time is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 30 minutes if you are taking the ACT Plus Writing). The ACT is offered several times a year, but on some occasions the ACT plus writing may not be available. Check the ACT website.

The basic registration fee includes score reports for up to four college choices, if you list valid codes when you register.

Start preparing your students for the ACT by signing them up for pre-ACT test opportunities. ACT Explore is designed to help 8th and 9th graders explore a broad range of options for the future. ACT Explore data gives educators, students, and families early insight into a student's level of preparedness for college and career by high school graduation. ACT Explore includes four multiple-choice tests: English, Math, Reading, and Science. ACT Plan helps 10th graders assess their foundation for future academic and career success. ACT Plan contains four curriculum-based assessments—English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science—and includes a career exploration component that stimulates students' thinking about future plans and relates personal characteristics to career options. Both these tests give your student the opportunity to see what the ACT will be like when they take it their Junior year.

Here is a link to further information about the ACT: http://www.actstudent.org/.

Is it enough for college application, if I only have the ACT score?

Yes, generally speaking you may submit either the ACT or the SAT. Please check the college's website to confirm that this is their policy.

Do I still need to take SAT subject tests when I only have the ACT?

You should check the college website to see the requirements of individual colleges, but generally, if SAT subject tests are required by the college, then you need to take the Subject Tests.