Hey guys! I have to register for my ACT soon, and I am in a bit of a dilemma. Should I take the ACT with the writing test or without it? Is there any real benefit in opting for the writing portion? I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences and suggestions.
The answer to your question largely depends on the college(s) you're interested in, as different institutions have different requirements. Some colleges require the ACT writing section, others consider it optional, and yet others don't consider it at all.
To determine if you should take the writing version, I‘d advise researching the specific requirements of your target schools. For instance, if one of your reach schools requires or even recommends the writing portion of the ACT, it would be advantageous for you to take it. This extra effort shows your preparedness and commitment to getting into your desired school.
Taking the writing portion can also offer you an opportunity to showcase your argumentative and writing skills. So if you're confident in these areas, including the optional writing portion might be a good way to make your application stand out. However, if writing isn't your strong suit or if you're crunched for time, you can opt-out without it significantly impacting your application at schools where it's optional.
Just remember to look into the specific requirements of your desired institutions before making a decision. Reach out to their admissions offices for any clarifications. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your confidence, college requirements, and strategic plans. Good luck with your ACT and future college applications!
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