The ACT, SAT, and other standardized tests can feel daunting, so keep in mind the following facts. Having all the information will help everyone be successful!

Myth: I thought ACT scores aren’t required for colleges any more.
Fact: The scores were scaled back during COVID, but standardized tests are still very much relevant.

Myth: All juniors must take the test at the end of the school year. That’s my one chance to succeed!
Fact: All juniors take the ACT at the end of the school year, but students are able to take the test as many time as they want! Freshman in a high level math class and some sophomores might be ready for the test. Did you know that some colleges allow high school seniors to resubmit higher scores (*even after acceptance*) to receive a better academic scholarship or financial aid package?

Myth: Since the test is free junior year, there’s no risk in not preparing.
Fact: The ACT test junior year is free, but most students benefit from taking the test twice. The highest score is always reported and most schools accept a SuperScore, which combines the highest score per section from each ACT test taken. EXAMPLE: Scores from June testing: Eng – 25, Reading – 28, Science – 23, Math – 20; Scores from Dec. testing: Eng – 29, Reading – 25, Science – 21, Math – 25. Schools that accept SuperScores would only see: Eng – 29, Reading – 28, Science – 23, Math – 25. No matter how many times the tests is attempted, only the highest scores will be viewed by colleges.

Myth: If I score higher in the section of math, which is my strength, it will counter any low scores on the other sections.
Fact: All sections are equally weighed so any deficiency could bring your cumulative score down. I’ll discuss how to manage time/energy to optimize all scores based on strengths.

Myth: Students can study ACT Vocab/workbook.
Fact: First, there is no set list of words to know and no magic list of words that might appear. This thought came from SAT many years ago. Secondly, your child could look through the entire book and take online practice assessments, but a live, expert tutor is a far more efficient use of time to have questions answered.

Myth: Students learn the skills in a regular class.
Fact: If your student thrives in a traditional classroom setting, maybe! Many classrooms are guided by general curriculum that focuses on memorization of content. ACT focuses on application of knowledge. As an example: many English classrooms focus on simile, metaphor, allusion, etc., but NONE of those phrases will appear on the ACT.

Myth: My child’s GPA is more important than their ACT score on college applications.
Fact: With grade inflation a constant concern among college admissions, ACT remains a standard measure to determine a student’s ability to be successful in college. The cumulative and sub-scores are still very important factors on any college application!

Myth: I can’t afford tutoring.
Fact: While I am admittedly bias, I think you can’t afford not to have a competent tutor. I saw too many students not meet their potential because of various factors. Reach out to discuss the best way to meet a higher standard for your child.