ACT tests are given six times throughout the school year on Saturday mornings. Alternate test dates are offered for those who cannot test on Saturdays because of religious beliefs. For each test there is a registration window. If you miss the deadline, there is an extended registration that costs more money but assures you a seat on the test day. If all else fails, there is a standby registration, which costs more money but provides another option in emergency situations; you are not guaranteed a seat, but the test center will do its best to accommodate you.

It is recommended that you take an ACT test during the late spring of your junior year. If you are happy with your score, then you will be ready to start your college applications in the fall of your senior year. On the other hand, if you had a less than stellar score and hope to raise it, you’ll have plenty of time over the summer to study before re-taking the test in the fall.

For each test you take, you must register online at www.actstudent.org. You will also find a wealth of specific information regarding the ACT, test-taking strategies and sample questions. The more you practice, the better your results are likely to be.

In general, the ACT consists of four multiple-choice tests: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science with an optional Writing Test.

You should ask your college if you should take the ACT Plus Writing. Many departments of communications will want the writing score, while others will be satisfied without the writing.

All four sections are scored individually, with 36 being a perfect score. The composite score is the average of your four test scores, rounded up to the nearest whole number, with 36 being the highest possible score.