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Why Should Your Teen Take the ACT?

While some people may believe that the ACT is just a college admissions test, it is so much more. ACT research shows that everyone needs a strong academic foundation to succeed in college and the workforce. The ACT clearly shows strengths and weaknesses in overall academic preparation. Using the score report data, your student can modify his or her remaining high school course schedule to address areas of weakness and improve academic readiness.

That's because the ACT is curriculum-based. The test is not an IQ test; it is not an aptitude test. All ACT test questions are directly related to the skills and knowledge students are taught during classes in English, mathematics, social studies and science.

Is your teen college bound? ACT scores are accepted by all 4-year colleges and universities across the U.S. And even if college isn't on your teen's radar, the ACT test offers benefits. A student interest inventory provides valuable information for career and educational planning. And ACT research shows that many of the same skills needed for success in college are also needed in today's workforce training programs.

Not only is the ACT a helpful tool, it's also an affordable resource. As a private, not-for-profit organization, ACT is committed to providing services at the lowest possible cost. And fee waivers are available for low-income students. For more information about the ACT, please visit the ACT Test FAQs.

ACT Resources

ACT Advantage 

Programs for homeschool students to enhance their education and prepare them for high school and beyond. Offering online career planning, assessment programs for 8-10 grade level children, and ACT test prep programs. ACT Advantage also offers an educational multimedia rental library with over 2,000 titles; delivery is free.

ACT Store
You can purchase official ACT test preparation materials online.

College Search
A college search engine that lets you search by type of institution, location, majors, and more.

Financial Aid Need Estimator
Use this calculator to figure out your Estimated Family Contribution (EFC).

Resources from Other Organizations

The links below will open a new browser window.

Adventures in Education
Resources on career planning, selecting a college, and financial aid information for middle school, high school, and college students.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute: Education Resources
A national Hispanic educational organization that offers information for Latino youth on topics ranging from high school through college, graduate school, and on to the workforce.

Mapping Your Future
Information for parents on college and career planning information.

 

National Assessment of Educational Progress: Information for Parents
Answers to questions commonly asked by parents of students who have been selected to participate in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).

U.S. Department of Education

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The Student Guide: Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education

USAJOBS
The United States Federal Government's official job site