What is the ACT?

The ACT is a four hour test administered in February, April, June, September, October, and December. Most, if not all colleges, use the ACT interchangeably with the SAT.

What are the sections on the ACT?

The ACT has four main components:

• English (including an essay)
• Math
• Reading
• Science

Note that the science section does not really test how much you know about science. It instead measures whether you can interpret tables, graphs, and passages relating to topics in physics, chemistry, and biology.

How is each section scored?

Each section is scored out of a maximum of 36 points. Your combined score is simply the average of the four sections (if you average a 33.5, that rounds to a 34).

What is a good ACT score and how does that compare my SAT score?

Check out this page to see the conversion.

Should I consider taking the ACT?

Yes! For two reasons:

• You may score higher on the ACT than on the SAT
• Many schools use the ACT in place of the SATII Subject tests. So, if you are applying to a school that requires two SATIIs, you could instead take the ACT and be done with your standardized testing!

What is the main difference in difficulty between the SAT and the ACT?

SAT: Tries to trick you, sees how you think, but generally gives you enough time to finish.

ACT: Does not try to trick you, tests you on things you learn in school, but does NOT give you enough time to finish. The main difficulty about the ACT is the time crunch, and that’s where preparation makes a difference.

How should I prepare for the ACT?

There is not as much “content-based” studying for the ACT as there is for the SAT. Meaning, you really just need to focus on taking the test effectively rather than on knowing the things on the test.

Your best option is to take 2 to 4 proctored ACT tests before the real test in order to give yourself a good timing strategy. Then, you should review each question that you get wrong and figure out why you missed it — was it something you didn’t know or something you didn’t have time to answer?

Do you offer ACT prep?

Yes! We are currently working with students preparing for the April and June exams. If you are interested in ACT prep, please email us at info@scholarsforstudents.com.