Act

ACT FAQs

COURSE FORMAT

What makes Test Preps courses different?

Our courses are comprised of small, ability-based groups which enable Test Preps instructors to tailor instruction and offer more personalized attention to each student. We teach our students strategies and tactics they can utilize to improve their ACT scores. While practicing these, students are also reviewing the high school Math and English content tested on the ACT. Compare our program with the competition. We truly are different!

What is a typical class like?

The first two classes are 2 hours in order to allow for a full hour to learn about each section and the tactics needed to get through this fast-paced test. The remaining three 1.5- hour classes include interactive strategy lessons followed by guided small group practice. Homework is assigned weekly and is thoroughly checked at the beginning of every class. Students conference regularly with the tutor to set goals and assess progress.

How much homework can I expect?

Weekly homework averages approximately 45 minutes most nights. Since we all know how busy high school students are, please be sure that your teen has the time to commit to this endeavor when you sign them up. The best time for them to take the ACT is when they are available to make it a priority. Missed classes must be made up before the following class at an additional fee of $125 for a 1.5-hour make-up session.

SCHEDULING

When should a student take an ACT course?

Our motto is to start early! Why wait until Spring which is the busiest time of their high school tenure? We realize how busy high school students are and believe that the ideal time to take the course is when their schedule allows time for the extra work involved in preparing for the ACT. Students should try an ACT in the fall to compare with their PSAT scores. If your school is offering a PACT (practice ACT) during sophomore or junior year, try it!

Math readiness is critical. Students who are a year ahead in Math are ready to try the SAT or ACT as they finish Algebra 2/Trigonometry their sophomore year. Also consider commitments to sports, music programs, extra-curricular activities (Mock Trial, DECA, dance, musicals, etc.) and family vacations. Keep in mind that April and May are busy months for students taking AP exams!

Additionally, we strongly recommend that students take the ACT immediately upon completion of the Test Preps course while the strategies and tactics are fresh in their minds.

When should we register for a Test Preps ACT course?

Because class sizes are limited to ensure our small group format, a student should register as soon as possible. Classes fill up quickly, and it is not unusual for registration to be closed several weeks in advance of the starting date.

To register for one of our classes, proceed to the Registration page of our website.

Can I enroll in a ACT course that has already started?

If spaces are available, a student may still enroll in a course after the first class. However, the session that was missed must be made up before the second class. A student who registers late must pay the full cost of the course, plus an additional fee of $125 for a 1.5-hour private make-up session.

Do you offer a guarantee that my score will increase?

It has been our experience that those students who actively participate in our 5-week course and conscientiously complete all assigned homework will gain the confidence and necessary skills that are the key ingredients to success on the ACT. We do not offer a money-back “guarantee” per se, but we believe strongly that a Test Preps course guarantees a well-prepared student, which results in improved ACT scores. Our incredible growth without advertising is indicative of the number of referrals we have received from very satisfied clients. Please check out our Testimonial page to hear why both parents and students are big fans of Test Preps!  Or ask us for a referral from someone in your school community.

ATTENDANCE

What is the attendance policy?

Since each class serves as the foundation for the one following it, all classes are mandatory. If one is missed, it must be made up prior to the next scheduled class with an additional fee of $125 for a 1.5-hour private make-up session.

ACT INFORMATION

What is a good score on the ACT?

Your college goals determine what is a “good” score. Checking the admissions guidelines for all the colleges you are interested in, as well as the average ACT scores for those particular schools, is very helpful.

How many times can a student take the ACT?

There is no limit to the number of times a student can take the ACT.  However, keep in mind that simply retaking the ACT will probably not significantly increase a student’s score. Preparation and diligent practice are essential in order to see an improvement. That said, many colleges will “superscore” the ACT which means they will combine scores from different sittings to obtain a higher composite score.

How do I register for the ACT?

The ACT Test Dates and registration deadlines can be found online at www.actstudent.org. In order to avoid late registration fees and increase your chances of taking the ACT at the testing center of your choice, it is recommended that a student register for the exam at least 8 to 10 weeks before the testing date. Registration can be completed online at www.actstudent.org.

2023-2024 ACT Test Dates

2023: July 15* • Sept. 9 • Oct. 28 • Dec. 9
2024:  Feb. 10 • April 13 • June 8 • July 13*

*Not offered in New York state. Visit ACT.org for more information.

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