Are you getting ready to take the ACT? Do you want to make sure that you’re as prepared as possible so that you can score well and get into the college of your dreams? If so, then it’s important to invest in a high-quality ACT prep course.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best ACT prep courses on the market today. We’ll discuss what makes each one unique, provide an overview of their features and benefits, and help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
What is the ACT?
Before we dive in, let’s take a brief look at what exactly the ACT is. The ACT (short for American College Testing) is a standardized test used by colleges and universities in the United States as part of their admissions process. It measures students’ knowledge and skills in areas such as English, math, reading, science, and writing.
The test itself consists of four main sections (English, math, reading, and science), each scored on a scale from 1 to 36. There is also an optional writing section that is scored separately. The total composite score (out of 36) is calculated by averaging the four main section scores.
Now that we have a better understanding of what the ACT entails let’s take a look at some of the best prep courses available to help you prepare.
1. Kaplan
Kaplan offers a range of different test preparation courses for students looking to improve their scores on various standardized tests including the ACT.
Their comprehensive ACT prep course includes over 20 hours of live instruction taught by expert teachers who have scored in the top percentile themselves. In addition to live instruction time students will get access to over 100 instructional videos covering every aspect of the test.
Kaplan also offers a range of study materials to help students prepare including official ACT practice tests, flashcards, and online quizzes. Students can take full-length practice tests under simulated testing conditions to identify areas where they need to improve.
Overall Kaplan is an excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive and personalized approach to test prep that is backed by years of experience.
Pros:
- Extensive live instruction time with experienced teachers
- Wide range of study materials available
- Customizable study plan based on student needs
- In-person or online course options
Cons:
- One of the pricier options on the market
2. Princeton Review
Princeton Review has been in the test preparation business for over 35 years and is known for its high-quality courses across multiple standardized tests.
Their ACT prep course includes both in-person and online options, as well as private tutoring sessions.
The program features over 25 hours of classroom instruction along with access to a wide range of study materials such as official ACT practice tests, online drills, and customized lesson plans. The Princeton Review also provides score reports and analytics so that students can track their progress throughout the course.
Additionally, Princeton Review offers their "Score Guarantee" program that guarantees students will see an improvement in their ACT score (or they can get their money back).
Pros:
- Personalized instruction tailored to individual student needs
- Access to a wide range of study materials
- Score Guarantee program for added assurance
Cons:
- Some students may find it difficult to schedule around the classroom-style courses
3. Magoosh
Magoosh is an online test prep company known for offering affordable courses across multiple standardized tests including the ACT.
Their ACT prep course features over 300 video lessons covering every section of the test as well as access to over 1300 practice questions. Additionally, Magoosh provides detailed explanations and video solutions for each practice question so that students can understand where they went wrong.
Magoosh also offers a customizable study schedule that adjusts based on the student’s target test date and preferred pace.
While Magoosh may not be as comprehensive as some of the other options on this list, it is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their ACT score without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Affordable compared to other courses
- Large number of video lessons available
- Customizable study plan
Cons:
- Lack of in-person instruction or tutoring options
4. PrepScholar
PrepScholar is an online test prep company known for its adaptive learning technology, which personalizes the course material to each student’s strengths and weaknesses.
Their ACT prep course includes over 60 hours of instructional videos taught by expert teachers, along with access to a wide range of study materials such as official ACT practice tests, flashcards, and quizzes. The adaptive learning technology uses data from practice tests and quizzes to identify areas where students need improvement and adjusts the curriculum accordingly.
PrepScholar also guarantees a minimum increase in a student’s ACT score or they will refund the entire cost of the course.
Overall, PrepScholar is an excellent choice for those looking for a personalized approach to test prep that takes advantage of cutting-edge technology.
Pros:
- Personalized curriculum that adapts to individual strengths and weaknesses
- Extensive library of instructional videos
- Money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Some students may find it difficult to learn exclusively through online instruction
Conclusion
Investing in an ACT prep course is one of the best things you can do if you want to excel on this important standardized test. Each of the courses we covered here has its own unique features and advantages, so it’s important to carefully consider your needs before making a final decision.
Whether you’re interested in comprehensive classroom-style instruction or an affordable online option, there’s sure to be an ACT prep course out there that’s the perfect fit for you. So take some time to explore the options and invest in your future success today!
FAQs
What are the top considerations when looking for the best ACT prep courses?
The most important factors include the quality of teaching, track record of success, availability of resources and materials, flexibility in scheduling, and affordability.
How much do the best ACT prep courses cost on average?
Prices vary depending on the course provider and level of support offered. However, expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1000 or more for a comprehensive course.
Can I take an online ACT prep course?
Yes! In fact, many students prefer online courses because they offer greater convenience and flexibility. Just make sure to choose a reputable provider with a proven track record.
Are there any free ACT prep options available?
Yes, there are several free resources available online such as Khan Academy’s official ACT prep program. Additionally, some libraries offer free test prep materials that you can borrow.
How much time should I spend preparing for the ACT exam?
You should give yourself at least 3 months to prepare for the exam if possible. This will allow you enough time to cover all the material adequately and fine-tune your test-taking strategies.
Will taking a prep course guarantee me a good score on the ACT?
While there are no guarantees when it comes to standardized tests like the ACT, taking a reputable prep course can significantly increase your chances of achieving your target score.
Can I retake an online ACT prep course if I did not perform well on my first attempt?
It depends on the policy of your chosen provider but most courses allow retakes or access to their materials even after you have completed the program once. Just be sure to check with them beforehand.
What types of techniques do good ACT prep courses use to help students improve their scores?
The best courses use a combination of test-taking strategies, content review, practice exams, and individualized feedback to help students identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop effective study habits.
Should I take an ACT prep course if I already have a good understanding of the test material?
Absolutely! Even if you are confident in your knowledge of the subject matter, a prep course can teach you valuable test-taking skills and strategies that can make all the difference on exam day.
Can I get one-on-one tutoring with a coach as part of a prep course package?
Many providers offer both group or private tutoring sessions as part of their packages. One-on-one coaching is often more expensive but can be highly effective for personalized support.