College and University Blog College and University Informations

The Scoop on the ACT Test

November 8th, 2009 by Thomas Burke

Getting into the college of your choice relies on many factors and the ACT test is certainly one of them. Admission boards also consider high school GPA, community service, extra curricular activities, your personal statement and letters of recommendation. A less than stellar representation in any of the categories can be offset by excellence in another. High ACT scores can render you exempt from certain core classes or earn you placement in honors programs. No matter how you look at it, it would behoove you to prepare as best you can when looking to lock in the best possible ACT score.

Set a goal for yourself with regards to the score. The best way to do so is to research your college of choice and find out the scores of other students who have been admitted. Once you know what is acceptable to them, shoot for it -- or better! Here are a few other things to consider:

1. There's an English, reading, math and science section. Each section has its own score (up to 36) and usually colleges reference the composite score which is the average of all four. Let's say that math has never been your strong suit but you are an ace at language arts. Your high English and reading scores will help offset a low math score. The nationwide average composite score is 20.

2. You can take the test more than once. In fact, it's encouraged because 55% of students improve their scores after the first time. Since there's a cost involved, it makes sense to prepare fully and not get carried away with retesting. Colleges can see when you've taken it more than 3 or 4 times and that isn't too impressive. A good recommendation is to take the ACT for the first time when you're a junior and once or twice when you're a senior. Then, submit your best score.

3. The ACT content is based on the things you learned in high school. The SAT is more closely related to problem-solving or reasoning skills. Students vary in their preference and some do quite well on one test and not so well on the other. Take both if you have the chance and find out which format leads you to a better score.

Visit the ACT website for a comprehensive look at everything having to do with the ACT test.

Thomas Burke assists working adults in selecting online colleges and online degree programs.

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