
At VisaCandy, we provide specialized ACT training to help students excel in their college applications. Our program covers all sections of the test—English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional). We offer practice tests, targeted lessons, and time management strategies to ensure students are fully prepared.
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It measures students' knowledge and skills in English, Math, Reading, and Science, and optionally in Writing. The ACT is accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the United States, as well as by institutions in other countries.
- Purpose: Assesses a student's academic readiness for college, testing skills and knowledge in core subject areas.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours (4 hours with the optional Writing section).
- Scoring: Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the composite score being the average of the four section scores. The optional Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12.
The ACT consists of four mandatory sections and one optional section:
- Purpose: Tests understanding of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
- Format: 75 questions focusing on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and writing style.
- Skills Assessed: Grammar and usage, punctuation, sentence structure and formation, rhetorical skills (organization and style).
- Purpose: Assesses mathematical problem-solving skills, focusing on algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
- Format: 60 questions covering pre-algebra, algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, and trigonometry.
- Purpose: Measures ability to understand and interpret reading material.
- Format: 40 questions based on reading passages.
- Skills Assessed: Comprehension, inference, analysis of text structure and themes.
- Purpose: Tests ability to interpret, analyze, and evaluate scientific information.
- Format: 40 questions covering biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space sciences.
- Skills Assessed: Data interpretation, experimental analysis, scientific reasoning.
- Purpose: Measures ability to write an essay in response to a given prompt.
- Format: One essay question asking to analyze an issue and present a perspective, supported by reasoning and examples.
- Skills Assessed: Organizing thoughts coherently, providing arguments and examples, clear writing style.
English (45 minutes)
Mathematics (60 minutes)
Reading (35 minutes)
Science (35 minutes)
Writing (Optional, 40 minutes)
- Composite Score: The average of the four mandatory sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science), rounded to the nearest whole number, ranging from 1 to 36.
- Section Scores: Each of the four sections is scored individually on a scale of 1 to 36.
- Writing Score: The optional Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12.
- Age: Students typically take the ACT during their junior or senior year of high school (around ages 16-18), although there are no age restrictions.
- No Prerequisites: The ACT does not have formal eligibility requirements, but it is primarily aimed at high school students preparing for college.
The ACT is most widely recognized in the United States but is also accepted by universities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Asia, and other regions.
- United States: Accepted by all accredited four-year colleges and universities, including Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, and top public universities like University of California, University of Michigan, and University of Texas.
- Canada: Accepted by many universities, such as University of Toronto, McGill University, and University of British Columbia, though some may prefer the SAT.
- United Kingdom: Accepted by many universities, especially for applicants from the U.S., though UCAS often encourages SAT or A-level results.
- Australia: Accepted by top universities like University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, and Australian National University.
- Europe: Accepted by universities like IE Business School (Spain), INSEAD (France), and University of Amsterdam (Netherlands).
- Asia: Recognized by universities in Japan, China, and Singapore, particularly those with American partnerships.
- Latin America: Accepted by some universities in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina.
- Middle East: Accepted by top universities in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, especially for North American or international applicants.
- Test Dates: Offered seven times a year (typically in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July).
- Registration: Students can register online via the official ACT website or through their high school.
- Fees: The basic registration fee is approximately $60, with additional fees for the Writing section and sending scores to colleges.
- Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions and timing for each section.
- Take Practice Tests: Regularly take full-length practice tests to build stamina and improve time management.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Review practice test results to identify weak areas and devote more time to improving them.
- Use Official ACT Prep Resources: Use materials like the ACT Official Guide and ACT Academy for accurate practice questions and strategies.
- Plan Your Study Schedule: Develop a study schedule that allows time for review, practice, and rest.
The ACT is widely accepted by universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, and many countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It is a key tool for students seeking undergraduate admission, especially to U.S. colleges. By understanding the test format, preparing well, and focusing on your strengths and weaknesses, you can achieve a competitive ACT score and enhance your college application.
If you need support with ACT preparation, VisaCandy is here to guide you through every step of the process! Contact us to enroll in our comprehensive ACT training program.