ACT Exam Handbook
What is the ACT?
ACT
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized exam used primarily for college admissions in the United States.
Who should take ACT?
The ACT is designed for students in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. Most students choose to take the ACT in their junior or senior year, after they’ve completed most of their core coursework. However, students who want to earn college credit in high school or enroll in honors classes often choose to take the ACT their sophomore year.
What is the Purpose of the ACT?
The purpose of the ACT is to give colleges and universities an idea of how prepared you are for college-level work. It measures a student's readiness for college by assessing their knowledge and skills in the following areas:
- English: Measures grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
- Math: Tests in areas such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
- Reading: Evaluates reading comprehension and the ability to analyze written passages.
- Science: Assesses critical thinking and problem-solving skills based on scientific reasoning.
The test consists of 215 questions, and students are given 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete the exam (an additional 40 minutes if they opt to take the Writing section). The ACT score ranges from 1 to 36, with each of the four main sections contributing to the composite score.
ACT vs. SAT
The ACT and SAT are the two most widely recognized standardized tests used in the college admissions process in the United States. The ACT is an assessment that tests students on their understanding of their high school curriculum and covers coursework in English, reading, math, and science. The SAT, on the other hand, has traditionally been considered more of an aptitude test that includes only English, reading, and math; it does not have a science section.
Difference
Both tests evaluate your skills in reading, writing, and math. However, the ACT goes a step further by offering an optional essay component that can highlight your writing skills to provide a more well-rounded assessment of your academic abilities. Additionally, the ACT also includes a science section, making it a go-to choice for those interested in STEM fields.
ACT is More Balanced!
Each test subject carries less weight in your score, making higher scores more attainable!
Which Test Is Longer – the ACT or the SAT?
The ACT test has a longer testing time; however, the test is broken up into four smaller sections: English, math, reading, and science*. Many students find it easier to maintain focus and attention with the shorter sections. The SAT has fewer but longer sections.
Note
Beginning in April 2025 for online testers and then in September 2025 for all testers, students will have the choice of taking the ACT with or without science. The length of the test will be reduced as well, and it will have a shorter testing time than the SAT.
Comparison
| ACT | SAT | |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted at all U.S. colleges and universities | YES | YES |
| Access to English learner supports at every national test date | YES | NO |
| The ACT mathematics section is 25% of the test and 25% of score | YES | NO |
| Purchase your test answer key to help you prepare for future tests (Test Information Release TIR) | YES | NO |
| Allows for paper/pencil testing as well as online | YES | NO |
| No penalty for guessing | YES | YES |
| Free daily practice questions | YES | YES |
| Free comprehensive practice test | YES | NO |
| Test fees waived for eligible students | YES | YES |
| Students registering with a fee waiver are eligible for college application fee waivers | YES | YES |
| Free score reports | YES | YES |
| All tests 1 hour or less | YES | NO |
| Measures what you learn in high school | YES | YES |
| You get a STEM score to provide to colleges | YES | NO |
| Optional writing | YES | NO |
| Testing time | 2 hours + 55 minutes + Optional 40-minute essay | 2 hours + 14 minutes |
| Structure | 4 tests + optional writing test | 2 tests |
| Longest test | 1 hour | 1 hour + 10 minutes |
| Shortest test | 35 minutes | 1 hour + 4 minutes |
| Score range |
Total Score = 1–36 Each section uses a scale of 1–36. Your total score is the average of your four section scores. The optional Writing section uses a scale of 2–12 and does not count toward your final score. |
Total Score = 400–1600 The Reading and Writing and Math sections each use a scale of 200–800 and are combined for a total score. |
Why taking ACT
Most students tend to take the ACT during their junior and senior years of high school, once they have covered the majority of their core coursework. Recognizing that many students take the ACT more than once, a typical path from your first test to getting your highest scores might look something like this:
- Fall of Junior Year: This is a popular time to take the ACT for the first time. It allows you to establish a baseline score, identify areas of improvement, and plan your subsequent preparation accordingly.
- Spring of Junior Year: By taking the ACT again in the spring, you’ve given yourself time to build on your initial score and continue to refine your skills. This is particularly beneficial if you feel you need more time for preparation after your first attempt.
- Fall of Senior Year: If you plan to apply early to colleges, taking the ACT in the fall of your senior year ensures your scores are available for submission.
Best time to take ACT
- The ACT caters to your preferences and testing style, and allows you to choose the test format that works best for you.
- Taking the ACT test can increase your chances of earning new or better scholarships.
- The ACT does not penalize you for guessing. If your answer is incorrect, it does not count against your score.
- The ACT covers all four subjects; English, math, reading, and science, giving colleges a good overall picture of your academic abilities.
Pricing
Prices
| Fee | Dollar | EGP | SAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| The ACT (no writing) | $69.00 | Depend on exchange rate | Depend on exchange rate |
| The ACT with writing | $94.00 | Depend on exchange rate | Depend on exchange rate |
| Test option change | $25.00 | Depend on exchange rate | Depend on exchange rate |
Additional Fees
| Fee | Dollar |
|---|---|
| Late registration | $38.00 |
| Standby testing | $69.00 |
| Change Fee | $44.00 |
| Score reports to 5th and 6th college choices | $19.00 |
| Additional Score Reports | $19.00 |
| Test Information Release | $32.00 (If the order is placed before the test begins.) $40.00 (If the order is placed after the test.) |
How to register
Registration is done through the official ACT.org website (from MyACT in the navigation-bar)
Steps
Choose to create account, if you have account you will sign in
Choose I’m new…
After fill up all the requirements and sign up
Email will sent to you to complete registration
After Sign in you will have the dashboard
Click on register for the ACT and you will have the next requirements you need
Choose the suitable date and place for you, or add test center code
After that you will be redirect to the payment page you will have 3 hours to pay
Don’t fotget to go with payment confirmantion and national Id or passport.
Scores
How the ACT is Scored
The ACT has four main sections: English (75 questions),Mathematics (60 questions),Reading (40 questions),Science (40 questions). Each section is scored as follows:
Raw Score
This is the number of questions you answer correctly. Every question is worth one point, and there’s no penalty for wrong answers, so you should answer every question, even if you’re guessing.
Scale score
Your raw score is converted into a scale score ranging from 1 to 36 using a conversion table. The conversion ensures fairness and consistency across different test versions.
Example
- If you get 70 correct answers in English, that could translate to a scale score of 34
- If you get 40 correct answers in Math, it might translate to a 36.
Composite Score
The Composite Score is the average of your four scale scores (English, Math, Reading, Science).
Example
- English = 28, Math = 30, Reading = 26, Science = 29. Composite = (28 + 30 + 26 + 29) ÷ 4 = 28.25, which rounds down to 28. Fractions less than 0.5 are rounded down, while fractions of 0.5 or more are rounded up.
Reporting Categories
Each section also provides sub-scores for specific skills. These help you see your strengths and weaknesses.
Example
- In English, your sub-scores might include “Grammar and Usage” and “Punctuation.” These don’t affect your Composite Score but give you insight into what to improve.
Optimal Writing Test
- The Writing section is optional and is scored separately on a scale of 2–12.
- Your essay is evaluated by two graders based on ideas, organization, and language use.
- The Writing score does not affect your Composite Score, but colleges may look at it.
Example: How to use the scoring table
- Suppose you’re taking practice tests. If you scored:
- 65 correct answers in English, your scale score might be 29.
- 50 correct answers in Math, your scale score might be 28.
- Use this table to predict your scale score and Composite Score before the real test.
| Scale Score | Raw Scores | Scale Score | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test 1 English |
Test 2 Mathematics |
Test 3 Reading |
Test 4 Science |
||
| 36 | 74-75 | 59-60 | 40 | 40 | 36 |
| 35 | 71-73 | 57-58 | 38-39 | 39 | 35 |
| 34 | 70 | 55-56 | 37 | 38 | 34 |
| 33 | 69 | 54 | 36 | — | 33 |
| 32 | 68 | 53 | 34-35 | 37 | 32 |
| 31 | 67 | 51-52 | 33 | 36 | 31 |
| 30 | 66 | 49-50 | 32 | 35 | 30 |
| 29 | 64-65 | 47-48 | 31 | 34 | 29 |
| 28 | 63 | 45-46 | 30 | 32-33 | 28 |
| 27 | 61-62 | 43-44 | — | 31 | 27 |
| 26 | 59-60 | 39-41 | 29 | 30 | 26 |
| 25 | 56-58 | 37-38 | 28 | 29-30 | 25 |
| 24 | 53-55 | 34-36 | 26-27 | 26-28 | 24 |
| 23 | 50-52 | 32-33 | 25 | 23-24 | 23 |
| 22 | 47-49 | 31 | 23-24 | 22 | 22 |
| 21 | 44-46 | 29-30 | 22 | 20-21 | 21 |
| 20 | 41-43 | 27-28 | 20-21 | 20 | 20 |
| 19 | 39-40 | 25-26 | 19 | 18-19 | 19 |
| 18 | 37-38 | 23-24 | 18 | 16-17 | 18 |
| 17 | 35-36 | 19-21 | 16-17 | 15 | 17 |
| 16 | 32-34 | 13-15 | 15 | 14 | 16 |
| 15 | 29-31 | 10-12 | 14 | 12-13 | 15 |
| 14 | 26-28 | 8-9 | 11 | 11 | 14 |
| 13 | 24-25 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 13 |
| 12 | 22-23 | 5-6 | 8-9 | 9 | 12 |
| 11 | 19-21 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 11 |
| 10 | 16-18 | — | 6 | 7 | 10 |
| 9 | 13-15 | — | 5 | 6 | 9 |
| 8 | 11-12 | — | 4 | 5 | 8 |
| 7 | 9-10 | — | 3 | 4 | 7 |
| 6 | 7-8 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 6 |
| 5 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 5 |
| 4 | 4-5 | 1 | — | 1 | 4 |
| 3 | 3 | — | — | 1 | 3 |
| 2 | 2 | — | — | — | 2 |
| 1 | 0-1 | 0 | — | 0 | 1 |
Statistics about score and trials
Many students who retake the ACT see score improvements, especially after their second or third attempt. Studies suggest that students often gain a point or two, but this improvement can plateau after multiple attempts. For instance, students who take the ACT a second time have about an 18% chance of gaining one point, 10% of gaining two points, and 8% of gaining three or more points. However, these numbers vary depending on several factors such as GPA, prior ACT score, and the grade when they first took the test.
The test consists of 215 questions, and students are given 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete the exam (an additional 40 minutes if they opt to take the Writing section). The ACT score ranges from 1 to 36, with each of the four main sections contributing to the composite score.
How Students Can Approach ACT Preparation
Preparing for the ACT requires a strategic approach that combines time management, consistent practice, and a solid understanding of the test format. Here are some key strategies to help you excel:
Start Early
Begin your preparation several months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to focus on all test sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Aim to dedicate time each day or week to study specific areas, ensuring a well-rounded approach.
Create a Study Schedule
Develop a structured study plan to keep your preparation organized. Allocate specific time blocks for each subject, including regular practice tests and reviews of past questions. This helps you stay on track and ensures comprehensive coverage of the material.
Understand the Exam Structure
Familiarize yourself with the ACT format. Know the number of questions in each section and the types of questions you will encounter. This knowledge will boost your confidence and help you strategize your approach during the exam.
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is key! Take timed practice tests to simulate real exam conditions. ExamWalk will help you through this.
Focus on Weak Areas
After each practice test, assess your performance to identify strengths and weaknesses. Prioritize your study efforts on areas where you struggle, whether it’s math problem-solving, reading comprehension, or scientific reasoning. Targeted practice can lead to significant improvement.
Manage Stress
Test anxiety is common, but it can be managed. Practice stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, positive visualization, and mindfulness. Staying calm and focused will enhance your performance. Remember, feeling prepared boosts your confidence!
ACT Exam Preparation (8-Week Plan)
| Week | Focus Area | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Understand the Test |
- Review the test format and timing for each section. - Familiarize yourself with the question types in Reading, English, Math, and Writing. |
| Week 2 | Build English Skills |
- Improve reading by engaging with articles and books in English. - Practice grammar and spelling using exercises and online resources. |
| Week 3 | Math Skills |
- Review basic math concepts like algebra and geometry. - Solve math problems daily to boost confidence and speed. |
| Week 4 | Writing Practice |
- Practice writing essays under timed conditions. - Learn essay structures and focus on clarity and coherence. |
| Week 5 | Practice Tests |
- Take full-length practice tests to simulate real conditions. - Review your answers to identify improvement areas. |
| Week 6 | Focus on Weak Areas |
- Revisit sections where you struggled in practice tests. - Use targeted exercises and resources to improve skills. |
| Week 7 | Final Practice Tests |
- Complete 1-2 full-length tests in a row. - Time your sections to refine pacing and time management. |
| Week 8 | Review and Refine |
- Go over incorrect answers to understand mistakes. - Rest and relax before the test to ensure mental readiness. |
How Exam Walk Can Help Students Achieve High Scores?
Exam Walk is an online platform designed to help students improve their test-taking skills. While originally created to aid students with exams in Saudi Arabia, its core features can be extremely useful for ACT preparation. Here’s how Exam Walk can help students succeed:
Realistic Practice Tests
Simulated Exam Experience: Exam Walk provides practice tests that mirror the actual exam format in terms of question types, timing, and content coverage. Students can take mock ACT tests to simulate real exam conditions.
Performance Analysis: After each practice test, Exam Walk gives students detailed feedback on their performance. This feedback highlights strengths and weaknesses, allowing students to focus their efforts on areas where they need the most improvement.
Time Management Tools
Effective Pacing: sOne of the most challenging aspects of the ACT is managing the time allotted for each section. Exam Walk provides tools that help students practice timing, ensuring they learn to pace themselves effectively during the exam.
Time Allocation Strategies: The platform helps students develop strategies for allocating time to different sections of the test. This is particularly useful for the ACT, where students must complete four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) within a limited timeframe as the real exam.
Detailed Analysis
Identify Weak Areas: After taking practice tests, Exam Walk provides in-depth analysis of performance, helping students pinpoint the areas where they need improvement. For example, if a student is struggling with algebra in the Math section or reading comprehension in the Reading section, they can focus their study efforts accordingly.
Monitor Progress: Students can track their improvement over time, making it easier to see where they have made gains and where additional work is required.
Expert Support
Access to Experts: Exam Walk connects students with educators and specialists who can help answer questions and clarify doubts. This access to expert guidance ensures that students get the support they need to succeed.
Affordable and Accessible
Cost-Effective Resources: Many students struggle with the costs of private tutoring or expensive test prep books. Exam Walk offers a range of free resources and reasonably priced subscription options, making it an affordable option for students preparing for the ACT.
Anytime, Anywhere: Exam Walk can be accessed from anywhere in the world, providing students with the flexibility to practice and study on their own schedule, whether at home or on the go.