For high school students, taking standardized tests like the ACT can evoke a mixture of emotions—excitement, anxiety, and maybe even a touch of dread. But fear not! We can school you on the ins and outs of the ACT while shedding light on its significance in securing scholarships and uncovering exciting opportunities – one of which is the new full-ride President’s Scholarship at the University of Nebraska for those who ace the exam with a perfect score of 36.
What is the ACT?
Let’s start with the basics. The ACT is a standardized test colleges and universities across the United States use to assess a student’s readiness for higher education. It consists of four sections: English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. Each section is designed to measure various skills and knowledge acquired throughout your high school education.
How to Prep for the ACT
Now, the million-dollar question: How can you conquer the ACT and secure those coveted scholarships? Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you ace your exam:
- Practice Makes Perfect: Use ACT prep books, online resources, and practice tests to get familiar with the format, timing, and types of questions you’ll encounter.
- Pace Yourself: With a limited amount of time for each section, time management is crucial. Pace yourself during practice tests to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your areas of weakness and dedicate extra time to improving them. Whether brushing up on algebraic equations or refining your grammar skills, practice can significantly improve your score.
- Practice Self-Care: Leading up to the exam, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and nourish your body with healthy foods to ensure you perform at your best on test day.
Why the ACT Matters
Many colleges consider ACT scores as a crucial component of their admission process. While some schools have adopted test-optional policies, meaning they don’t require ACT or SAT scores for admission, many others still weigh these scores heavily in their decision-making process.
The ACT can be a game-changer for those dreaming of earning scholarships to help offset the cost of college. Some scholarships reward high-achieving students who earned big scores on the ACT, like these Nebraska students who earned big money for college, including the Regent’s Scholarship.
You Got This!
While the ACT may seem daunting, you can conquer this challenge with the right mindset, preparation, and strategies! The ACT is a way to open doors to exciting opportunities, including scholarships and admission to your dream colleges. So, dive into your prep materials and remember that the effort you invest in mastering the ACT today can pay dividends for your future tomorrow.
By Jeannine Phelan