The ACT, similar to the SAT, is a national exam used for college admissions.  Since 1959, 11th grade students from all over the country have taken this test to improve their chances of getting into the school of their choice.  Schools prepare their students for this exam by allowing 10th grade students to take the PLAN.

The ACT is optional, however, it is highly recommended that college-bound students take it because, according to the official ACT site, it is accepted “by all four-year colleges and universities in the United States.”  Although the ACT is optional, all juniors in Wake County must take the test because it is paid for by the schools.

“The best, simple way [to study] is to take practice tests. That includes grading it, scoring and learning from mistakes,” advises Christopher Remaley, math teacher.

There are several fees involved with the ACT and different versions of the test are available.  The ACT normally costs $36.50 per student.  This cost includes the ACT with no writing section and reports for the school, the student, and up to four colleges that the student is considering applying to.  To include the writing section would cost an additional $16.

Athens Drive juniors will be taking the ACT on March 4.  In order to be ready for this date, Remaley recommends taking the SAT class after school which prepares students for both the SAT and ACT.  During this class, students practice math and english for an hour and a half each with one break.

“A lot of people think that there’s a magical formula.  There ain’t no magic wand… You have to practice, practice, practice. You have to sit in a testing environment,” said Remaley.

Visit www.actstudent.org for more information about the ACT. On this site, there are practice questions for the English, Math, Reading, Writing, and Science sections. Students can view their scores, enter submissions, and applying/paying for the test.