ACT: Junior or senior year?

Hello, I was wondering if it's better to take the ACT during my junior year or wait until senior year? I want to make sure I have ample time to prepare but also don't want to feel too overwhelmed. Any suggestions or tips would be really helpful. Thank you!

Hello there! It's great that you're planning ahead for your ACT testing schedule. Typically, I advise students to first plan to take the ACT in their junior year. This timing has a few advantages. First, by taking the test during your junior year, you leave yourself plenty of room to retake the exam if you want to improve your score. Secondly, having your scores by the end of junior year can help guide your college search process as you'll have a clearer idea of which schools might be within reach for you academically.

Another benefit is that, by the end of your junior year, you will generally have completed the necessary coursework in math and English, which the ACT is designed to test. Also, consider the possibility of taking a practice test early to determine where you might need additional preparation. When you do plan your study schedule, try to balance your preparations so that they don't interfere with your regular academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments. The summer before your junior year can be a good time to start this process.

Lastly, remember that registration deadlines typically fall about a month before the test dates, so keep track of those to avoid any last-minute stress. If you have a rigorous course load or other significant commitments your senior year, having the ACT out of the way can be a huge relief. Hoping this helps you make the best decision for your situation!