FYI:   ACT   FAQs

When it comes to the ACT there are no stupid questions, very few easy answers, and several decisions for you to make as to what is best for you.

WHEN CAN I TAKE THE ACT?    You will take the ACT on April 25th here at school as part of the Prairie State Examination.  Here are some things you should know about the Prairie State ACT:  1.  It is accepted by colleges across the country.  2.  It is accepted by the NCAA Clearinghouse.  3. It will include the ACT Writing test.  4.  There is no fee for you.  The Prairie State ACT is a state test — there are also several NATIONAL test dates available to you this winter and spring: Feb. 10, April 14, June 9. For these dates you either need to pick up a registration packet from the Student Services Office (complete it and mail it with the fee) or register online at www.act.org, and pay by credit card.

 

What is the new Writing Test?

It is a new, optional part of the ACT. You will need to write a short essay in 30 minutes. It will probably be required by Big 10 schools (Universities of Indiana, Iowa, etc.) and by most other selective schools. A current list of schools requiring the test is on the ACT website.

HOW MANY TIMES CAN I TAKE THE ACT?  You can take it as many times as you can manage before college applications are due.  In addition to the dates listed above, there will be dates in September, October and December of next year.  Registration for those dates will not be available till August.

HOW MANY TIMES SHOULD I TAKE THE ACT?   The answer to this question varies depending  on your circumstances, but the correct answer for many of you is probably at least twice.     Many students take the test more than once to feel confident that they have achieved the best score possible before applying to colleges.

How do I sign up for the act?        

  For National test dates:

·          Register online at www.act.org

·          Register by mail.  Registration packets are available in the Student Services Office.

    (be complete —  include your fee before mailing).

National test dates are posted in the counseling office, and on the college and career web pages.

 

 

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY FIRST ACT?  Ultimately, that is up to you.  For most

juniors, the April dates are best.  Testing in April allows you to get through most of your
junior year coursework in math before taking the test.  You have two opportunities to test in April (some students take it both dates) and still have opportunities to test again in June, September, and October.  Some students like to take the test in February as a “warm-up” or practice — and that is fine, too.