Hi guys, I'm a bit confused about ACT testing. When should I consider taking my first ACT? And are there any benefits to taking it early? Really want to get a jump on this
Hello!
Starting your ACT journey early can definitely have some benefits. Firstly, by taking the ACT early, you're giving yourself ample time to retake the test if you're not happy with your initial score. Retaking the test allows you to aim for a higher score and thus be more competitive in your college applications.
As to when is a good time to start, many students begin with the ACT towards the spring of their sophomore year (10th grade). This allows you to have a solid level of high school coursework under your belt before heading into the test.
If you feel you're ready earlier, keep in mind that you'll want to be grasping topics covered in the test, such as algebra and geometry for Math, and have strong reading comprehension skills for the Reading section.
After that, depending on your first score and your target score, you might opt to retake it in the fall of your junior year (11th grade), and possibly again in the spring. This timeline still gives you a chance to retake it in the fall of your senior year (12th grade), prior to college application deadlines if you need.
Just remember, preparation is key in performing well on the ACT. So try to begin your studying well before your test date.
Good luck on your exam!
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