Have you signed up for the ACT yet?

As another academic year begins to wind down, students should start thinking about college testing, specifically Juniors should consider registering for an upcoming ACT test (See test and registration dates below). The ACT is similar to the traditional college admissions test, the SAT, but some students may find the format is better suited towards their strengths in Math and Science. Unlike SAT tests, the ACT measures what you have learned and includes a section that consists of interpreting graphs.
At most colleges, students can choose to submit their ACT instead of an SAT, so many students will take both tests and send both scores, or choose the best of the two to send to prospective colleges. To find out if a college accepts the ACT, search for colleges by name on HowToGetIn.com.
If you’re looking to take the ACT soon, registration for the June ACT test is less than 1 month away! Here are the upcoming ACT test and registration dates:
Register by May 6, 2011 for the June 11, 2011 ACT TestRegister by August 12, 2011 for the September 10, 2011 ACT TestRegister by September 6, 2011 for the October 22, 2011 ACT Test
For those of you who plan on taking the ACTs, you should familiarize yourself with the format of the test. The ACT test is comprised of four sections- English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning. Each section is scored on a scale from 1-36, plus a comprehensive score of all four sections. If you’re a student who plans on taking this, one of the best ways to prepare is by taking practice tests. Many students can do just as well preparing with the free ACT practice tests that can be found online, but there are also paid courses available to help students prepare for the ACT.
How early you start preparing for the ACT test is really up to you, but here is what we suggest, broken down by grade level:
Sophomores- It’s never too early to prepare. Getting this test out of the way early can be a big help come senior year. Your last year of high school is stressful enough, so if you start early, you’ll be way ahead of the game! Start taking practice tests and getting familiar with the format. This will be hugely helpful next year.
Juniors- If you haven’t started prepping yet, no worries. ACT tests are offered year round, so If you are not yet signed up for one, there is one scheduled for June 11, 2011. If you don’t feel prepared to take this so soon, spend your summer studying. This way, you will have had adequate time to prepare and can start off senior year on a high note.
Seniors- It’s a little late for the class of 2011, but typically, seniors need to take the ACTs during the fall of their senior year – at the latest – to ensure that colleges receive the necessary scores in time. Make sure you have your scores sent!
Whatever stage your at, practice practice practice! The more comfortable you get, the easier the actual test will be (and the better you’ll do)! If you have more questions about when you should be preparing for what, visit our college preparation calendar.
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