When to take the ACT?

Hey! I'm trying to plan ahead. In what year of high school do students typically take the ACT? Sophomore or junior year or any other time?

Hey there! It's great that you're planning ahead for the ACT. Students usually take the ACT during their junior year of high school. That said, some students might choose to take the test earlier or later, depending on their individual circumstances.

Taking the ACT during your junior year has a couple of advantages. First, by that time, you'll have completed most of the coursework that the test covers. This helps you be better prepared since you're likely to have learned the relevant material in your classes. Second, taking the test in your junior year gives you time to retake it if you're not satisfied with your initial score. Many students take the ACT multiple times to try and improve their scores before submitting their college applications.

Some students do take the ACT during their sophomore year or earlier to gauge their current skill level and identify areas they need to work on. However, this approach requires some extra self-study, especially if you haven't yet covered all the material in your classes. If you're considering taking the ACT earlier, ensure you're prepared and familiar with the various topics on the test.

Ultimately, the best time to take the ACT depends on your personal circumstances and preparedness. But generally, the spring of junior year or the fall of senior year are ideal times. Just make sure to leave enough time for additional attempts, if desired, and for submitting your scores to colleges ahead of application deadlines. Good luck!