The ACT is a standardized test administered by ACT, Inc., primarily for undergraduate school admissions in the US and Canada. It evaluates candidates' written, mathematical, verbal, and scientific skills through a multiple-choice question format. Additionally, there's an optional writing section available for an extra fee during registration. As of 2024, the ACT is offered as a computer-based test, maintaining its syllabus, total scores, and pattern.

The ACT Exam Syllabus for 2024 comprises four primary sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and optionally, Writing. With a total of 215 questions, the ACT exam is structured as a multiple-choice question (MCQ) test. Its design aligns with high school curricula, covering topics from major subjects to ensure a comprehensive assessment. The ACT syllabus emphasizes logical reasoning, problem-solving, and editing skills. Unlike the SAT, the ACT syllabus is extensive and includes two additional sections. Additionally, there's an optional writing section available for ACT test-takers, subject to additional charges, which is not applicable to SAT applicants.

Every section of the ACT, including Reading, Math, English, and Science, is graded on a scale from 1 to 36. These individual scores are then summed and divided by four to determine the composite score. The table below illustrates how the composite score is calculated generally based on the performance in each section of the ACT exam:

The definition of a "good" ACT score varies depending on the colleges and universities you're interested in. Scoring a 34 or above on the ACT places you among the top scorers and strengthens your application at numerous universities.. Generally, a higher ACT score increases your range of potential options.

The ACT Superscore is determined by comparing the English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science section results across multiple ACT composite scores. It involves selecting the highest scores achieved in each section to compile one comprehensive high score.

To calculate your ACT Superscore, identify the highest score achieved in each section across all your ACT attempts. Then, sum these scores and divide by four (the number of sections). If the resulting value is a decimal, round up to the nearest whole number to obtain your ACT Superscore.

For illustration, consider the following example of ACT Superscoring:

National Extended Time Testing: If your child needs testing accommodations and is able to test at a national test center but requires up to 50% additional testing time, they will be designated under National Extended Time accommodations.

Special Testing: If your child requires accommodations that do not fit within the parameters of National Extended Time, they will be classified under Special Testing accommodations. These accommodations may include more than 50% extended time, testing spread over multiple days, alternative test formats such as Braille, audio, or the use of readers and scribes, among others.

• Review the ACT format and structure

Understanding the structure and format of the ACT is crucial for success. While setting goals is important, knowing the necessary skills is equally essential. The exam is skill-based and familiarity with its format leads to improved scores. Before taking practice tests, review the exam's structure for better preparation and feedback.

• Create a study plan and stick to it

Creating and adhering to a solid study plan is essential for boosting your ACT score. Identify weak areas, such as Science and Math if applicable, and allocate more time to improve them. Maintain balanced study sessions for all sections as the test date approaches. Consistency is key to success.

• Assess how you are managing your time

Evaluating your time management skills is crucial for success on the ACT, which is known for its strict timing. Spending too much time on a single question can jeopardize your ability to finish the test and impact your score. When practicing, focus on pacing yourself effectively throughout the exam

• Answer all questions 

Answer all questions on the test to maximize your chances of scoring well. If unsure about a question, use the elimination technique for an educated guess. Since there's no penalty for incorrect answers on the ACT, guessing won't hurt your score. With five answer choices, you have a 20% chance of selecting the correct answer through guessing. Eliminating obviously wrong choices increases the likelihood of guessing correctly. However, only resort to guessing after exhausting all other methods of finding the answer.

Scoring well on the ACT can significantly improve your chances of admission to prestigious colleges throughout the United States, particularly those with highly competitive admission rates.

In addition, colleges may take ACT scores into account when determining course placement. A lower score might result in placement in lower-level courses, while a high score could open doors to more advanced coursework.

Furthermore, achieving a high ACT score can increase your eligibility for various merit-based scholarships, thereby improving your ability to secure financial assistance for college expenses.

The majority of students typically take the ACT during their 11th or 12th-grade years. In the United States, the exam is offered seven times a year in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July. Additionally, some students may have the opportunity to take the exam on a school day as part of district or state testing.

If you're dissatisfied with your results, you have the option to retake the ACT. The organization overseeing the exam, ACT Inc. permits individuals to take the test as many as 12 times. However, it's advisable to limit retakes to 2-3 attempts as further attempts are unlikely to result in significant score improvements.

Yes, you should prepare for the ACT exam. For most people, we recommend beginning your ACT studying during the end of your sophomore year or the summer between sophomore and junior year. That will give you enough time to get in the prep you need to take the ACT at the beginning of your junior year. However, exactly when you begin studying depends on multiple factors, such as where you want to go to college and how many hours a week you'll be able to devote to studying.

For the ACT Math section, a calculator is permitted. However, it's important to note that calculators are strictly prohibited in all other sections of the ACT, including the Science section, even for basic calculations like addition or division.