What is the ACT and why is it important?  Created by ACT Inc., the ACT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions.  The assessment is used to provide colleges with one common criterion that be used to compare applicants.  It is just one factor in the admissions decisions.  Schools also consider high school GPA, academic transcript, letters of recommendation, interviews, and personal essays.  For specific information about the importance of ACT scores at the schools you are interested in, contact the admissions offices directly.

What does the ACT Test?  The ACT has four sections:  English, Reading, Math, and Science, as well as an optional 30-minute writing test.  Some schools may require the writing test, so be sure to ask before your register. 

How long does it take?  From start to finish, the test will take you approximately three hours or three hours and 30-minutes including essay.

How is the ACT scored?  You will earn one score (1 to 36) on each test (English, Math, Reading, and Science) and a composite ACT score, which is an average of these four tests.  The composite score falls between 1 and 36 with the national average being 21.

When do I need to take the ACT?  Most students take the ACT during their junior or senior year of high school.  More and more students are choosing to take their first ACT earlier, such as during the fall of their junior year.  This gives them flexibility to retake the ACT test one more times. 

How do I register?  ACT registration deadlines are approximately 5 weeks prior to each test administration.  You can get registration materials from your school’s guidance counselor.  You can also register online at www.ACT.org