Reasons You Should Take the ACT
The ACT could help you save thousands on tuition.
Taking the ACT test can increase your chances of earning new or better scholarships. One counselor found that over 10 years, more of her students earned more scholarship dollars with ACT scores than SAT scores.
See below for a library of articles and resources to help you navigate the maze of paying for college
Understanding Your Financial Aid Package
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Federal Aid Programs
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Estimating the Cost of College
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Financial Aid Checklist
Tips to consider when saving for school.
Take classes at the right level to fall in love with them, not fall behind.
Colleges use ACT scores to place you in the right classes at the right level. And, your ACT score can help you place out of remedial coursework rather than sitting for additional placement tests on campus — saving time and money!
ACT recommends your high school coursework should include the following:
- English – 4 Years
- Math – 3 years (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II)
- Science – 3 years (including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics)
- Social Studies – 3 Years
Note that requirements may vary from college to college. Check with your counselor or look online for the specific requirements for any schools you’re interested in attending.
The ACT lets you use a calculator on the whole test, not just a fraction ; )
Students who take the ACT can use a calculator for the entire math section! The SAT does not allow this.
- STEM Readiness. The ACT® test is the only admissions test to measure science skills, includinga STEM score to let you know if you are ready for a STEM major.
- Scholarships. Taking the ACT test can increase your chances of earning new or better scholarships.
- You’ve already been studying for the ACT for years.The test is designed so by the end of your junior year, you’ve likely covered all the material that you will see on the test.
- More opportunity. Many colleges and universities require or consider college entrance scores as part of a holistic admissions process.
- English Learner Support. The ACT test is the only college entrance exam that provides support to English learners on national test dates.
- You can use your calculator for the whole math test—we don’t mind. ACT lets you use your calculator for the entire math section! That is not true on the SAT.
- Prep for all learning styles. ACT offers test prep programs with live video lessons, interactive practice questions, full-length practice tests, and on-demand tutorials.
- College and Career Planning. The ACT includes an education and career planning section to help you plan for life after high school.
The biggest surprise about the ACT? You’ve been studying for it for years.
Every question on the ACT is based on the high school curriculum you are already familiar with. While you’ve been studying for your classes, you’ve been preparing for the ACT.
- English – 4 Years
- Math – 3 years (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II)
- Science – 3 years (including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics)
- Social Studies – 3 Years
The ACT is a comprehensive test, including STEM.
The ACT gives you the chance to stand out with a unique STEM score, a measure of preparedness for courses in STEM related majors. From climate change to communication platforms, massive challenges mean massive opportunities for STEM careers.
ACT Pro-Tip: Sometimes your best guess is your best move.
Being able to make an educated guess is a skill, not something you should be punished for. On the ACT, when you’re not certain of an answer, taking your best guess is your best option – incorrect answers don’t count against your score.
