How to Sign Up to Take the ACT

The ACT is a standardized test, like the SAT, that is used for college admissions. But it's a little different, and some people prefer it to the SAT.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• College Catalogs
• College Guides
• Telephones
• Internet Access
• Computers
• ACT Prep Classes

1. Consider the ACT if you want a test that's more oriented toward actual classwork than to scholastic aptitude. In general, if you've done well in your math, science and English classes, you'll do well on the ACT.

2. Pick up a registration packet from your school's guidance counselor. If he or she doesn't have one, call [phone] to request one.

3. Choose a test date. Usually, there are six dates per academic year, all on Saturdays. The first is in September; the last one is in June. Register early so that you can have the widest choice of testing dates and test centers.

4. Consider registering online or by phone. You can generally register online if you're taking the test within the U.S., you don't require any special accommodations or waivers and you're paying with Visa or Master Card. You'll pay an extra fee of $10 to register by phone.

5. Find the test center nearest you, either by looking through your registration packet or by visiting ACT's registration site (actstudent.org).

6. Choose four colleges where you'd like the official score reports sent.

7. Send in your registration form along with a check for the appropriate amount.

8. Contact the ACT if you're still waiting for confirmation of your registration six weeks after you signed up.

9. Remember that you can take the ACT as often as you like. One good strategy is to take it first during your junior year and then re-test your senior year if you're not happy with your scores.

Tips & Warnings

• If you aren't confident you'll score high, consider not listing any colleges to send scores to; you can always send the scores later (though it will cost a little money).

• If you can't afford the registration fee, you may be eligible for a waiver. See your registration packet for instructions.

• Special accommodations are possible for home-bound or otherwise confined students. Special arrangements can also be made for students whose religious beliefs or extremely remote locations keeps them from taking the test on a Saturday.