If you plan to attend college, most schools will request an ACT score. In fact, the score from the ACT is requested by colleges more often than from any other standardized test. This test, which is administered in all 50 states, includes 215 multiple-choice questions in the subjects or English, math, reading and science, as well as an optional writing section. Many schools can tell applicants the average score for their students. The national average ACT score tends to be around 20-22 out of a possible 36. Since most colleges, including all the Ivy League universities, accept ACT scores for admission purposes, it's a good idea to take this test even if you aren't sure which schools you wish to apply to. The test can be taken during your junior year, giving you plenty of time to retake the test if you want to try for a higher score.
ACT Prep Classes

Your high school might offer an optional ACT prep class, so check with your guidance counselor first to see if you can take this class. Often, classes offered through your high school are either free or more affordable than other options. Other prep classes may include a local tutoring center or testing facility. Several organizations are well-known for their test preparation classes. A few are listed below:
Kaplan (www.kaptest.com)
The Princeton Review (www.princetonreview.com)
Sylvan Tutoring (www.sylvanlearning.com)

While Sylvan focuses on one-on-one tutoring, Kaplan and the Princeton Review offer more options for ways to prepare for the ACT. Both offer courses that can be completed online, which allows students to complete the classes whenever it's convenient for them. Small group tutoring is another option for ACT preparation. It has a lower cost than one-on-one training, but offers more feedback and personal attention than a regular class.

What to Expect

While different classes have different benefits, you'll want to examine their offerings closely before signing up and paying the course fee. Make sure that the class includes the things you need to get a great score on the ACT. Classes many offer some or all of the folllowing:
Lesson books
Flashcards
Timed practice tests
Personalized feedback on practice tests
Small group work
Practice writing essays
Money-back guarantee

You should also pay attention to the number of in-class hours that are included in the price of a prep course. Even if two courses are priced similarly, one may offer 30 hours of class time while another offers only 20.

When to Take Prep Courses

By the beginning of your junior year, you should check out when ACT tests are scheduled in your area. Even if you don't plan to take the test until the spring, you will be able to schedule your classes for two or three months before the exam. This gives you time to learn about the test and acquire test-taking skills in your class and still have a few weeks of practice before the exam.