Preparing for the ACT® can be confusing and overwhelming. To help, we have gathered and answered a few questions we hear most often from our students and their parents.
If you don't see your question here, or require further clarification, please call us. (877) 738-7737.
What's on the ACT?The ACT is composed of four sections: Reading, English, Math, and Science. There is also an optional Writing section.
Reading: This multiple-choice section tests reading comprehension. This section takes 35 minutes and consists of 40 questions.
English: This multiple-choice section tests usage/mechanics and rhetorical skills. This section takes 45 minutes and consists of 75 questions.
Sample ACT english question
Math: This multiple-choice section tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry skills. This section takes 60 minutes and consists of 60 questions.
Sample ACT math question
Science: This multiple-choice section tests interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating science-based passages. This section takes 35 minutes and consists of 40 questions.
Writing: This section is optional. This section takes 30 minutes and consists of one essay question.
Sample ACT writing question
The total ACT score is 36. Each of the four sections is worth 36 points, and then the section scores are averaged together to find your total score.
Sample ACT score
| English | Math | Reading | Science | Essay | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | 26 | 32 | 30 | 12 | 30 |
ACT essays are graded on a scale of 0 to 12. While the essay is optional, some schools require that you write the essay, so be sure to check the policy of the schools you're applying to before you take the test.
A perfect score on the ACT is a 36. A "good" score depends upon which college you want to attend. We recommend looking at a school's admission page on their website to find out what score they require. This will help you set a goal score for the ACT.
On the ACT, you do not lose points for wrong answers, so it's always a good idea to guess. Of course, you should try your best to narrow down the answer choices, but you should definitely answer every question, even if that means guessing.
When you take the ACT, you get to choose the score you want colleges to see. This means that if you take the ACT more than once, you'll be able to send your best score to the colleges you're applying to, and they will not be able to see any of your other scores.
Generally, the best time to take the ACT is in the spring of your junior year. This gives you plenty of time to re-take the ACT, if necessary. Most students start preparing for the ACT by the fall of their junior year.
If you have any questions about your ACT testing timeline, please do not hesitate to contact us at (877) 738-7737. Our experienced and knowledgeable test prep counselors are always available to help you understand the college admissions process and plan your testing schedule.
Yes! We absolutely encourage you to take a Revolution ACT Practice Exam. We offer practice exams at local high schools, and we can also mail one directly to you. To give you the most accurate practice score possible, we mirror the grading of the actual ACT with our practice exams.
To sign up for a Revolution practice exam in your area, search for a course or just give us a call at (877) 738-7737.
