The standardized test from American College Testing remains one of the most important tools in the college admissions process, and for good reason. A high score can open doors to top-tier universities, merit-based scholarships, and competitive academic programs.
Yet for many families, preparing for the ACT can feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right strategies and support system in place, your student can approach this test with clarity and confidence.
At The Enrichery, we provide insights, tools, and structured programs that parents need to play an active role in effective ACT test preparation for their students. In this guide, we’ll answer all of your questions, including:
- What is the ACT?
- Is the ACT format changing?
- What’s the new version of the ACT?
- What’s the best way to prepare for the ACT?
- When should your student start preparing?
- What challenges do students face during standardized testing?
- Does professional standardized test prep really help?
- What are the benefits of professional test prep?
- What do you look for in an ACT prep program?
- How do you support your student at home?
What is the ACT?
The ACT is a nationally administered standardized test that measures college readiness. It consists of four required sections:
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science
…plus an optional Writing section. Each section is scored individually and combined into a composite score out of 36.
Unlike the SAT®, the ACT includes a dedicated science reasoning section and allows less time per question. This makes time management a critical component of success.
Fortunately, most colleges and universities accept ACT scores or SAT scores, so your student can choose the test that best suits their strengths.
Is the ACT Format Changing?
Yes, the format of the ACT is changing in 2025. The online version was updated in April, while the paper-pencil version will be updated in September.
What’s the New Version of the ACT?
The new version of the ACT aims to reduce testing fatigue while keeping the test a strong indicator of college preparedness.
- There are 44 fewer questions on the new test.
- Students can now receive their college-reportable Composite score in 125 minutes.
- Students now have more time to answer each question.
- Test-takers will now see only four (4) answer choices in the Math section.
- Students may have the option to take the test with or without the Science section.
What hasn’t changed? The scoring scale (1–36), test benchmarks, and the ACT’s ability to predict college readiness remain the same. Additionally, students can still choose between paper-and-pencil or online formats.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare for the ACT?
The best way to prepare for the ACT combines strategic planning, consistent practice, and personalized support. Here’s a high-impact approach:
- Start Early: Give your student ample time to build skills, identify weaknesses, and reduce test-day pressure.
- Take a Diagnostic Test: A full-length practice exam enables you to identify your student’s strengths, target their improvement areas, and familiarize them with the format & pacing of the test.
- Use a Structured Study Plan: Break preparation into manageable goals with a timeline. Focus on one section at a time while reviewing past mistakes regularly to reinforce learning.
- Work with a Professional Tutor: Tutoring services provide expert guidance, accountability, and test-specific strategies.
- Incorporate Real Practice Tests: Simulate the test environment regularly using official ACT practice exams. This builds stamina, reduces anxiety, and improves timing.
- Focus on Strategy, Not Just Content: Learn how to approach each question type, eliminate wrong answers, and manage time effectively. Good college test prep teaches you how to think like the test-maker.
- Track Progress and Adjust: Use data from practice tests to refine the study plan. Focus more on weak areas and rotate through all four sections to maintain balance.
- Prioritize Wellness: Rest, nutrition, and mental breaks are just as important as study time. A calm, well-rested student will perform better than one who’s burnt out.
When Should Your Student Start Preparing?
Ideally, your student should start preparing for the ACT in their sophomore year. Waiting until junior year can compress the timeline, increasing stress and reducing flexibility.
Starting early gives your child time to build foundational skills, practice testing strategies, and schedule multiple test dates without pressure.
Even better, a long-term approach enables you to integrate standardized test prep naturally into your student’s academic routines and extracurricular commitments.
Read “Strategic Test Prep: The Impact of Repeat Mock Exams on ACT & SAT Performance” to learn more.
4 Common Challenges Students Face During Standardized Testing
Even high-achieving students can struggle with standardized testing. Common obstacles include:
- Time Pressure: The ACT requires students to work quickly and efficiently across all sections.
- Gaps in Knowledge: Some students haven’t yet mastered the algebra, grammar, or reading strategies the test expects.
- Test Anxiety: The pressure to perform well can impact focus and memory.
- Lack of Structure: Without a defined test prep plan, students often waste time on inefficient study habits.
Professional test preparation addresses these challenges by offering targeted strategies, expert guidance, and consistent accountability.
Does Professional Standardized Test Prep Really Help?
Yes, professional standardized test prep makes a measurable impact on performance. In fact, according to ACT, long-term preparation results in an average score increase of 2.5 to 5.8 points!
This is because effective test prep isn’t just about practicing questions. It’s about helping your child learn how to think, plan, and perform under pressure.
At The Enrichery, we integrate executive functioning coaching alongside test-specific strategies to build life-ready skills like time management, organization, and self-motivation. This development improves academic and test performance alike.
What are the Benefits of Professional Test Prep?
- Personalized learning plans that target your student’s specific strengths and weaknesses.
- Realistic practice tests that build familiarity and confidence.
- Supportive coaching that reinforces positive habits and reduces stress.
What to Look for in an ACT Prep Program
Not all college test preparation programs offer the same value. The right program empowers your student to take ownership of their learning and unlock their full potential. Look for a program that offers:
- Customized instruction tailored to individual needs.
- Experienced tutors who understand both the test and how students learn best.
- Integrated executive functioning support to reinforce effective habits.
- Transparent progress tracking so parents can stay informed.
- Flexible options so your student doesn’t lose momentum if life gets busy.
5 Ways to Support Your Student at Home
While expert tutoring is key, you also play a vital role in your child’s test prep success. Here are a few ways you can support your student:
- Set a consistent study schedule that balances academics, activities, and rest.
- Encourage a growth mindset to empower your child to view setbacks as learning opportunities.
- Create a distraction-free study space at home.
- Celebrate effort and milestones, not just scores.
- Monitor stress levels and allow for breaks & mental resets when needed.
Empower Their Future with the Right Test Preparation
The ACT is more than a test, it’s an opportunity. With thoughtful test preparation, strategic support, and a team like The Enrichery behind them, your student can approach this challenge with confidence and clarity.
Are you ready to give your student the tools to succeed on the ACT and beyond? To learn more about our bespoke standardized test prep and tutoring services, contact our team today.
