ACT

American College Test

The ACT (American College Test) is often referred to as the "American college entrance exam." As a comprehensive assessment of a student's abilities, it serves as one of the admission requirements for U.S. universities and is also a major factor in determining eligibility for scholarships. Many U.S. colleges accept the ACT, with the majority of them located in the Midwest and West regions.

The ACT differs from the SAT in that it is more subject-focused, emphasizing a student's mastery of course content. It also tests the ability to think critically and make judgments. In terms of difficulty, the ACT is generally considered a bit easier than the SAT, especially for Chinese students. For many, taking the ACT may offer a better chance of achieving a relatively satisfactory score in a shorter amount of time.

Main Subjects

  • English

    Grammar、sentence structure、punctuation、use of language、rhetorical skills

  • Mathematics

    Algebra、geometry、trigonometry、basic statistics

  • Reading

    Literature、Social Sciences、Natural Sciences、Humanities

  • Science Reasoning

    Diagrams、data sheets、experimental designs、hypothesis testing

  • Essay

    Issues of a social or political nature

College Readiness

  • Subject Knowledge

    The ACT emphasizes mastery of subjects like math, science, and English, making it a good fit for students strong in these areas.

  • Faster Pace

    The ACT has a more straightforward format and better time management, which many students find easier to handle than the
    SAT.

  • Acceptance & Scholarship

    The ACT is accepted by most U.S. colleges, especially in the Midwest and West, and many schools offer scholarships based on ACT scores.

Additional Assessments for ACT Students

To get into a TOP 30 U.S. university with the ACT, you’ll typically need a score between 30-36. A score of 33 or higher will increase your competitiveness. In addition to your ACT score, universities will also consider your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and personal statement. Make sure these areas highlight your academic strengths, leadership, and personal qualities.

To strengthen your ACT resume, you can participate in subject-related competitions such as AMC and MATHCOUNTS for math, USAPhO and Physics Bowl for physics, and USNCO for chemistry. Additionally, interdisciplinary competitions like ISEF and JSHS provide great opportunities to showcase research skills.Joining subject clubs or participating in summer academic programs (e.g., MIT, Stanford) can also highlight your interests and leadership.