Are You Looking to Take the ACT?
General Test Information
ACT, Inc. is a non-profit organization involved in testing and assessment for educational and business demands. Their services are utilized in all school grade levels, all college levels, government agencies, and businesses all over the world.
Their most popular test is The ACT, a college entry exam which is the most accepted in America.
For Students
The ACT is available for students in all grade levels. Most choose to take it as a junior or senior in high school. A fee is required to take the test, but you can apply for a waiver if you demonstrate and economic need. It's not guaranteed that you will receive a waiver since the funds are limited. All requests are done through your school guidance office.
You can prepare for The ACT by taking the online prep test, which costs a small fee for personal use. Your school district might have already purchased a license for all students to use it free. For to get a quick overview, there are some free sample test questions on the ACT student website.
Going Back to College
The combined subjects of the test are graded on a scale of 1 to 36, with a lower number being a higher score.
Scholarships and grants from the Federal government use your scores along with other details of your previous educational scores, extracurricular activities, community work, and economic situation among others.
For colleges and universities, it's used as a factor in determining your admission, course levels, and advising. If you receive a score lower than you expect, wait to take the test again. It shouldn't hurt your college eligibility if you take the test again and miss one semester.
Continuing Education
When going back to college, your previous ACT score may be acceptable. Check with the college admissions office to find out. If you have to take it again, these scores will be used as an admission and course placement guideline.
Community colleges, vocational/technical schools, and other centers of education with a large percentage of adult learners may use some of ACT's other tests. The WorkKeys System and DISCOVER Career Planning Software can be used by anyone looking for a way to match their skills, wants, and interests to a particular career. Check to see if any are available from your college, public library, high school, or military base.
Comparing to the SAT
Both tests are generally acceptable for admission to college, but the SAT requires an essay section that is added into your total score. If you don't like writing, the ACT is preferable. The ACT does have a section on science, where the SAT only deals with reading, writing, and mathematics. When it comes to the SAT vs. ACT, it's your personal preferences that make a difference.
