This page prominently features a button at the top for immediate access to the ACT practice test. Just below, you’ll find a carefully designed practice test that efficiently boosts your exam preparation. Each test is precisely tailored to both highlight your strengths and pinpoint areas needing improvement. This strategic approach helps you create a personalized and effective study plan.

For those looking to concentrate on specific areas, we offer specialized quizzes. Each quiz targets a different segment of the ACT exam, ensuring a focused and intensive study experience. This method fosters a thorough and methodical approach to mastering the exam.

ACT Domain Quizzes

The American College Testing (ACT) exam is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It assesses high school students’ general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The test comprises four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each section is designed to measure academic skills in specific areas, with a different number of questions and time allocations. 

Here’s a breakdown of each section:

1. ACT English

  • Number of Questions: 45
  • Content: The English section tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.

2. ACT Math

  • Number of Questions: 36
  • Content: This section covers a wide range of math topics including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

3. ACT Reading

  • Number of Questions: 25
  • Content: The Reading section assesses reading comprehension typically expected of first-year college students.

4. ACT Science

  • Number of Questions: 30
  • Content: This section tests the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in the natural sciences.
ACT Exam Section# of QuestionsContent
ACT English45Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, rhetorical skills
ACT Math36Algebra, geometry, trigonometry
ACT Reading25Reading comprehension
ACT Science30Interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning in sciences

Additional Important Aspects

  • Writing Test (Optional): An optional writing test adds a 40-minute essay, which some colleges require for admission.
  • Scoring: Each of the four main sections is scored on a scale of 1-36. The composite score is the average of these four scores.
  • Test Dates and Locations: The ACT is offered multiple times a year at various locations, usually high schools and colleges.
  • Preparation: Students often prepare for the ACT by reviewing high school coursework, taking practice tests, and sometimes enrolling in prep courses.

American College Testing (ACT) Exam Breakdown

The American College Testing (ACT) exam is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It is designed to assess a high school student’s readiness for college and provides colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. 

Here’s a breakdown of the ACT Exam:

  1. Sections of the ACT:
    • English: This section includes questions on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
    • Math: It covers a broad range of mathematical topics, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
    • Reading: This part assesses reading comprehension, focusing on the ability to read and understand texts of varying complexities.
    • Science: This section tests the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in the natural sciences.
    • Writing (Optional): The writing test is an essay that measures writing skills emphasized in high school English classes and in entry-level college composition courses.
  2. Scoring:
    • Each of the four main sections (excluding the optional Writing section) is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The composite score is the average of these four scores.
    • The Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12.
  3. Administration:
    • The ACT is offered multiple times a year at designated testing locations.
    • It is a paper-based test, although an online version is being rolled out in some locations.
  4. Preparation and Resources:
    • Official practice materials and tests are available through the ACT website.
    • Many high schools and private companies offer preparation courses and tutoring.

How to Become ACT Certified

To become an ACT Certified Educator (ACE), you must first complete the ACT Certified Educator training program. This program is designed for educators who want to enhance their teaching skills and knowledge specifically for preparing students to take the ACT test. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get certified:

  1. Eligibility: You need to be an educator with a background in teaching or a related field. It’s beneficial if you have experience teaching high school students since the program is geared towards college and career readiness.
  2. Training Modules: The ACE program offers several modules, including ACT Basics, ACT English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing. You can choose to become certified in one or more of these modules depending on your interest and teaching needs.
  3. Registration and Training: You must register for the training through the ACT website. The program can be taken in-person or virtually, providing flexibility depending on your location and schedule.
  4. Assessment: After completing the training, you will have to pass an assessment that tests your knowledge and teaching strategies for the ACT.
  5. Certification: Upon passing the assessment, you will be certified as an ACT Certified Educator. This certification is a credential that you can list on your resume and use to demonstrate your specialized skills in ACT preparation.
  6. Continuing Education: To maintain your certification, you need to participate in ongoing professional development and possibly renew your certification periodically.

The ACT Certified Educator program is recognized and respected as it provides systematic ways of understanding, teaching, and evaluating students’ readiness for college through the ACT test framework. Educators have reported that the training provides valuable insights into the structure of the ACT and effective strategies for student success.

Our Experience Teaching American College Testing (ACT) Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, the development of the ACT practice tests has been a journey marked by significant achievements and valuable learning experiences. We have carefully refined our approach to encompass a wide range of exam topics and address the varied needs of our learners.

Every element of our strategy has been subjected to thorough evaluation, all with the goal of preparing every student for success on the exam. This dedication is evident in the comprehensive nature of our practice materials, which showcase our commitment to providing an educational experience that is not only extensive but also deeply enriching.

From a lecturer’s perspective, teaching the American College Testing (ACT) certification through the ACT Certified Educator program offers several benefits and challenges. This program is specifically designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach and prepare students effectively for the ACT test. The program focuses on pedagogical strategies tailored to understanding and teaching the logic and structure of the ACT, enhancing the educator’s ability to help students maximize their test performance.

  1. ACT Certified Educator Program:
    • Specifically designed to train educators in effective ACT test preparation.
    • Enhances teaching credentials and supports student readiness for college and career paths.
    • Provides systematic pedagogical strategies for teaching the ACT.
    • Certified educators are recognized for their expertise, offering reassurance to students and parents of their professionalism.
  2. Benefits for Educators:
    • Gain deeper insights into the ACT’s structure and student motivations.
    • Learn individualized strategies to improve student outcomes.
    • Training covers not only content but also the logic and value of the ACT, enhancing both teaching and administrative capabilities in educational settings.
  3. Advanced Certificate in Teaching (ACT) at NWU:
    • Offers specialized studies in education for teachers looking to enhance subject knowledge or switch teaching specialties.
    • Focuses on practical skills and in-depth knowledge applicable to various educational phases.
    • Supports teaching in specialized phases such as Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and Further Education and Training Phase​​.
  4. Program Details:
    • Includes both paper-based and online study options.
    • Provides a platform for educators to apply for different specializations based on the educational phase they are interested in.
    • Equips educators with the skills needed to handle new subjects or specialized content areas​.

The ACT certification practice test provided by Career Employer exemplifies our team’s unwavering commitment and extensive expertise. Our specialists, celebrated for their exceptional ability to guide candidates through the ACT exam successfully, have offered invaluable advice that has aided over 1000 high schoolers in excelling at the official ACT certification exam.

Our team is composed of esteemed high school educators, each boasting over ten years of dedicated experience in secondary school instruction. This deep reservoir of knowledge serves as the backbone of our effective training program, guaranteeing that each participant not only thoroughly grasps the subject matter but also gains confidence in their scientific abilities.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

To effectively prepare for the ACT exam, you should consider the following strategies based on a combination of expert recommendations:

  1. Take a Diagnostic Test: Begin by taking a diagnostic ACT test to establish a baseline of your current skills and identify your strengths and weaknesses. This step is crucial for setting specific, targeted goals for your study plan.
  2. Develop a Study Schedule: Create a structured study plan that allocates time for each section of the ACT, ensuring consistent practice. This should include both full-length practice tests and focused practice on specific areas. It’s recommended to study for an hour daily, which can be split into two sessions with a break in between if needed.
  3. Use Practice Tests and Questions: Regularly engage with practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and conditions. Practice tests also help in identifying areas that need more attention. Be sure to review and understand your mistakes to prevent them in the future.
  4. Review Content and Test Strategies: Use official prep materials like “The Official ACT Prep Guide” for the most accurate practice. Reviewing content-specific strategies, especially for challenging sections like Reading and Science, can be beneficial. Techniques such as skimming for main ideas, focusing on key details, and understanding graphs and data are vital.
  5. Engage with Different Learning Formats: Consider enrolling in an in-person class or an online course if you find that structured learning helps you stay on track. These courses can provide a solid foundation in ACT strategies and keep you motivated through interaction with peers and instructors.
  6. Get Adequate Rest and Manage Stress: Ensure you are well-rested before the test day and manage your stress through regular breaks and relaxation techniques during your study period.
  7. Simulate Test Day Conditions: To get accustomed to the pressure and the environment of the test day, practice under conditions that mimic the actual test. This includes timing your practice tests and using only allowed materials.

Cost

Fee TypeDetailsCost
ACT without writingIncludes reports for you, your high school, and up to four collegesUSD 68.00
ACT with writingIncludes the above plus a writing scoreUSD 93.00
Late registrationFee for registering during the late periodUSD 38.00
Standby testingFee refunded if denied admission on test dayUSD 68.00
Change feeTest date or center changeUSD 44.00
Score reports to additional colleges (5th and 6th choices)Per additional reportUSD 18.50
Test Information ReleaseOrder before or after the testUSD 32.00/USD 40.00
Score VerificationPer section or for bothUSD 58.00/USD 116.00

The costs associated with the American College Testing (ACT) board certification exam can vary based on several factors including registration, preparation, and additional services. Here’s a breakdown of the main fees involved:

Registration Fees:

  • ACT without writing: USD 68.00. This fee includes score reports for the student, their high school, and up to four colleges if codes are provided at registration.
  • ACT with writing: USD 93.00. Similar to the basic ACT, this includes additional score reporting for the writing section​​.

Additional Fees:

  • Late registration: USD 38.00 for registering during the late period for a national test date.
  • Standby testing: USD 68.00, which is refunded if you are denied admission on test day or if registration was cancelled due to no photo provided.
  • Change fee: USD 44.00 for making a test date or test center change.
  • Score reports to 5th and 6th college choices: USD 18.50 each.
  • Test Information Release: USD 32.00 if ordered before the test date, and USD 40.00 if ordered afterwards.
  • Score Verification: USD 58.00 for multiple-choice or writing test verification, and USD 116.00 for both​​.

Preparation Costs:

ACT offers several preparation resources, ranging from free online materials to more comprehensive, paid options provided by Kaplan:

  • Free ACT Official Online Practice Test: Available on the ACT website, this resource allows students to practice under real test conditions​​.
  • The Official ACT Live Online Class, Powered by Kaplan: A series of live classes taught by high-scoring instructors. The costs for these courses vary depending on the length and depth of the instruction.
  • The Official ACT Self-Paced Course, Powered by Kaplan: Offers flexible, on-demand tutorials suitable for anytime learning. Pricing for these courses can also vary​.
  • The Official ACT Prep and Subject Guides: These are comprehensive books available for purchase that include practice questions and full explanations. The costs for these guides will depend on the specific book or set purchased.

Post-Exam Costs:

These might include additional score reports beyond the initial free reports provided to up to four colleges. Each additional report costs USD 18.50. Also, if a student wishes to challenge their scores, score verification fees apply as mentioned above.

It’s important to consider all these potential costs when planning for the ACT to ensure you budget appropriately. For the most accurate and detailed information, it’s recommended to check the official ACT website or directly contact their support services for any specific inquiries or updated fees.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

To effectively prepare for the American College Testing (ACT) certification exam, you can access a variety of online resources that cater to different study needs and preferences.

  1. Official ACT Website: This site offers an array of free resources including full-length practice tests, a guide to understanding the ACT, and specific subject practice questions. They also host free online test prep events in partnership with Kaplan, which can be a good introduction to more structured prep courses​.
  2. Kaplan: Known for their comprehensive preparation tools, Kaplan offers both a self-paced course and live online classes. Their programs include practice tests and customized recommendations based on individual learning styles and performance.
  3. Magoosh: This is a great budget-friendly option with a variety of online tools including video lessons, a large bank of practice questions, and full-length tests. Magoosh also offers a score predictor to help gauge your progress as you prepare for the exam)​.
  4. YouTube Channels: There are numerous free YouTube channels dedicated to ACT preparation, where you can watch tutorials and get tips from experienced educators and test takers. These are particularly useful for visual learners who benefit from seeing concepts explained in video format.
  5. BWS Education Consulting: Offers a free full-length practice test that is slightly easier than the actual exam, making it a good starting point for initial practice.
  6. PrepScholar: Provides a range of free resources including guides on different sections of the ACT, practice questions, and diagnostic tests to identify areas where you need the most improvement. They emphasize a customized approach, allowing you to tailor your prep plan to your specific needs​.

Each of these resources offers unique benefits, so it may be helpful to combine a few different types to create a well-rounded preparation plan. Whether you prefer self-paced learning, interactive online classes, or accessing a multitude of practice questions, there’s something available to suit your needs.

Tips for Exam Day

To perform your best on the ACT exam, it’s crucial to combine both strategic preparation and smart tactics on the test day itself. 

Here’s a compilation of useful tips from various sources:

  1. Pacing and Time Management: One key strategy is to start with the easier questions to secure quick points and maintain your confidence. If you encounter tough questions, skip them initially and return to them after completing the easier ones. This helps prevent getting stuck and wasting valuable time​​.
  2. Answer Selection: Use the process of elimination actively. This approach involves discarding clearly incorrect answers first, which increases your chances of selecting the correct one. This is particularly useful in the Reading and Science sections, where answers can be verified against information provided in the passages or data​.
  3. Essay Writing: For the writing section, ensure your essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that support your thesis, and a conclusion that ties everything together. Increasing the length of your essay can positively correlate with a higher score, provided that the content remains relevant and well-structured​​.
  4. Scientific and Reading Sections: Focus on skimming for main ideas rather than getting bogged down by every detail. For the Science section, concentrate on interpreting graphs and tables rather than memorizing data. In the Reading section, look for direct evidence in the passage to support your answers​.
  5. Physical and Mental Preparation: Ensure you’re physically prepared by getting a good night’s sleep and eating a substantial breakfast. These factors play a significant role in your cognitive function and stamina throughout the exam​​.
  6. Calmness Under Pressure: Maintaining composure during the test is essential. If anxiety strikes, remember that it’s possible to return to tricky questions later, and keep in mind that there’s no penalty for guessing on the ACT, so it’s advantageous to answer every question​.

Combining these strategies should help you approach the ACT with greater confidence and improve your potential score.

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After completing the ACT exam, there are several strategies you can adopt to maximize your results and prepare for future opportunities, based on advice from multiple sources.

  1. Review Your Performance: Consider ordering the Test Information Release (TIR) if your test date qualifies. This allows you to receive a copy of the exam questions, your answers, and the correct answers for your specific test. This can be invaluable for understanding your performance and preparing better if you plan to retake the ACT​.
  2. Engage in Focused Test Prep: If you’re planning to retake the ACT, structured prep courses can be beneficial. The Official ACT website offers a range of resources, including self-paced courses, live online classes, and tutoring, all designed to help target your study efforts more effectively​.
  3. Manage Stress and Schedule Breaks: It’s important to manage your stress levels both during and after the exam preparation period. Engage in relaxing activities, get plenty of exercise, and ensure you have a healthy balance between studying and leisure. This approach not only helps maintain your mental health but can also improve your overall productivity and exam performance.
  4. Utilize Campus Resources: If you’re a student, make the most of your school’s resources. Many campuses offer tutoring services, study groups, and workshops on test-taking strategies and stress management​.
  5. Plan Ahead for College Applications: Use the time after your exam to focus on college applications if that’s your next step. Ensure your ACT scores are sent to prospective colleges and start preparing your applications well in advance.

References

  1. “ACT Practice Test | High School Test Prep.” Magoosh, https://magoosh.com/hs/act/act-practice-test/.
  2. “ACT Exam Prep | Practice Questions for the ACT.” Pocket Prep, https://www.pocketprep.com/exams/act/.
  3. “Online ACT Tutoring.” BWS Education Consulting, https://bwseducationconsulting.com/online-act-tutoring/.
  4. “ACT Certified Educator.” ACT, https://global.act.org/content/global/en/products-and-services/act-certified-educator.html.
  5. “Distance Learning – ACT.” North-West University, https://distance.nwu.ac.za/ACT.
  6. “Distance Learning.” North-West University, http://distance.nwu.ac.za/.
  7. “PrepScholar Blog.” PrepScholar, https://blog.prepscholar.com/.
  8. “Crimson Education US – Mentoring and Tutoring for Elite Universities.” Crimson Education, https://www.crimsoneducation.org/.
  9. “UWorld College Prep.” UWorld, https://collegeprep.uworld.com/.
  10. “PrepMaven – Premier Tutoring and Test Preparation.” PrepMaven, https://prepmaven.com/.
  11. “ACT Registration Fees.” ACT, https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/fees.html.
  12. “Free ACT Test Prep.” ACT, https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/free-act-test-prep.html.
  13. “ACT Test Preparation.” ACT, https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation.html.
  14. “Best ACT Prep Courses.” Test Guide, https://www.test-guide.com/best-act-prep-courses.html.
  15. “Best Online ACT Prep.” Magoosh, https://magoosh.com/hs/act/best-online-act-prep/.
  16. “The Best ACT Prep Websites You Should Be Using.” PrepScholar, https://blog.prepscholar.com/the-best-act-prep-websites-you-should-be-using.
  17. “Test Day Tips for the ACT Exam.” Test Prep Genie, https://www.testprepgenie.com/test-day-tips-act-exam/.
  18. “15 ACT Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Score.” PrepScholar, https://blog.prepscholar.com/15-act-tips-and-tricks-to-improve-your-act-score.
  19. “14 Last Minute ACT Tips You Should Use.” PrepScholar, https://blog.prepscholar.com/14-last-minute-act-tips-you-should-use.
  20. “ACT Test Review and Tips.” YouTube, uploaded by user, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Bu1FEJB0P0.
  21. “Do you think that 4 months is enough to ace the ACT?” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/ACT/comments/17dru4y/do_you_think_that_4_months_is_enough_to_ace_the/.
  22. “ACT Tips: How to Increase Your Score.” YouTube, uploaded by user, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhNeicXVh_o.
  23. “How to Deal with Exam Stress.” Times Higher Education, https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/how-deal-exam-stress.
  24. “Seven Final Exam Strategies for Success.” Baker College, https://www.baker.edu/about/get-to-know-us/blog/seven-final-exam-strategies-for-success/.
  25. “Am I just dumb or is the ACT test set up for…” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/ACT/comments/191046x/am_i_just_dumb_or_is_the_act_test_set_up_for/.
  26. “How to Score High on the ACT Exam.” YouTube, uploaded by user, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0sosImf9Ec.

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