Purpose of the ACT test?

Hey guys! I'm new to college admissions, and I'm wondering what the ACT test is used for. How do colleges view it, and is it mandatory for all college applications? Any insights would be helpful!

Hello! Great question! The ACT is a standardized test that is used to assess a student's college readiness. It covers four main subjects: English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section. Colleges and universities in the United States use ACT scores (and/or SAT scores) to gauge a student's academic abilities and potential.

Standardized test scores like the ACT are just one component of your college application, alongside other factors such as your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Test scores give colleges an opportunity to compare students of different backgrounds, schools, and GPA scales on a more equal basis.

However, in recent years some colleges have shifted to a test-optional or test-flexible policy, meaning they no longer require test scores or give applicants options like submitting AP or IB scores instead. This change has been partly driven by concerns about access to testing opportunities and the equity of standardized testing. Be sure to check the specific testing policies for each college you're applying to, as they can vary greatly.

For some highly selective colleges, such as Columbia, Princeton, and Stanford, the test-optional policy is still in effect for their admissions cycle. On the other hand, other top schools like Dartmouth, Harvard, and Yale have reverted back to requiring either the SAT or ACT for applicants.

In conclusion, the ACT is a standardized test that helps colleges judge the academic capabilities of applicants, but it's not universally mandatory for all college applications. Be sure to research each school's specific testing requirements before submitting your college applications. Good luck!