Everything You Need To Know About The ACT
ACT or American College Testing, as the name suggests is a standardized exam for high school students to judge their readiness for college. Universities across the USA use ACT or SAT scores during their admission process. It is a multiple-choice test meant to measure high school students’ general educational development and their capability to survive college.
What are the different sections?
The ACT test is divided into five sections- English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional). The test scores range from 1-36. Each question is worth one point and there is no negative marking system. So, getting one incorrect answer won’t affect the score of correct ones.
| Section | Format | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| English | Mechanics Sentence Structure Rhetorical skills | 75 questions with five passages |
| Mathematics | Algebra Geometry Trigonometry | 60 questions |
| Reading | Key ideas and details Craft and Structure Integration of Knowledge and ideas | 40 questions consisting of one long prose passage and two shorter prose passages. |
| Science | Data Representation Research Summary Conflicting Viewpoints | 40 questions |
| Writing (optional) | Ideas and Analysis Development and Support Organization Language Use and Conventions | Essay in response to given prompts analyzing three different perspectives |
Why should you give the ACT?
Though it is not the most important factor in your admission process, it can definitely give you an edge over the other applicants. A good test score means a good first impression, especially when it comes to top schools.
When should you take it?
The ACT is offered five times a year internationally, that is in April, June, September, October and December. Give the exam only when you are sure of passing with great scores. And if you are not too happy with the results you can always re-appear for the exam. The result is valid for a period of five years.
What score should you aim for?
The highest score you can get is 36. A good ACT score is 21 or higher. But if you are planning on applying to top schools aspire for 30 or above. Harvard requires a score of 32-35 whereas Dartmouth’s average score is 30. The average ACT score at Yale is 35. So, keep your target school in mind and prepare accordingly.
And lastly, practice regularly, make a plan and stick to it!
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