ACT Test

To register for the ACT, go to www.actstudent.org

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized exam used for college admissions. It assesses skills in English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. It is scored on a scale of 1 to 36.

Who should take it:

  • Freshmen and Sophomores: While it's less common, some freshmen and sophomores take the ACT for practice or to qualify for advanced programs or scholarships. Early testing can help familiarize students with the format and identify areas for improvement.

  • Juniors and Seniors: The most typical time to take the ACT is during junior year (spring) or early senior year (fall). This timing allows for retakes and ensures scores are available for college applications.

When to take it:

  • Freshmen/Sophomores: Take the ACT if seeking early exposure, advanced academic opportunities, or scholarship programs.

  • Juniors: Spring is the ideal time, leaving enough time for retakes.

  • Seniors: While taking the ACT early in senior year is important for applications, seniors can continue retaking the test throughout the year to improve scores. Higher ACT scores can boost eligibility for scholarships, making it worthwhile to keep testing if aiming for financial aid opportunities.

Are You Eligible for a Fee Waiver?

To apply for the ACT fee waiver program, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be currently enrolled in high school in the 11th or 12th grade.

  • Be testing in the United States, US territories, or Puerto Rico.

  • Meet one or more of the indicators of economic need listed below:

    • Enrolled in a federal free or reduced-price lunch program at school, based on US Department of Agriculture (USDA) income levels.

    • Enrolled in a program for the economically disadvantaged (for example, a federally funded program such as GEAR UP or Upward Bound). Note: If the student participates in a program, but is not economically disadvantaged, they are not eligible for a fee waiver.

    • Resides in a foster home, is a ward of the state, or is homeless.

    • Family receives low-income public assistance or lives in federally subsidized public housing.

    • Family’s total annual income is at or below USDA levels for free or reduced-price lunches on the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.