What is the ACT?
The ACT is a standardized test designed to assess a student's likelihood of academic success, used in college admissions. A student can register for the ACT any time during their high school career, but most students take it during their Junior year.
How can my student take the ACT?
Each year, Grandview High School administers the ACT every Spring to Grandview Juniors at no charge to the student. We highly encourage all students who are considering college or trade school to take advantage of this opportunity.
High school students of all grades can take the ACT as often as they would like in an attempt to raise their score. There are several testing areas located in Jefferson County. Use the Grandview High School CEEB CODE 261-404 when registering for the ACT.
The ACT is offered nearly once each month during the school year. You can register for the ACT anytime here.
How much does the ACT cost?
The ACT is approximately $65, while the ACT plus Writing is approximately $90. Taking the writing test does not affect your subject area scores or your Composite score. However, without a writing test score, no English Language Arts (ELA) score will be reported.
Many students may qualify for a fee waiver based on income or other qualifications. Click here for more info. If your student qualifies, please reach out to the high school counselor to take advantage of this opportunity prior to registering.
Why does the ACT matter? Aren't all schools test optional?
Many schools are test-optional for admission in 2023. This was because of COVID-related closures... many seniors who would have taken the ACT these last couple of years may have not had that opportunity. Many college admission reps are now sharing that test-optional will be going away within the next two years. In addition, schools use ACT scores to determine what classes to start someone in (remedial math/english, versus College Algebra/English Comp). There are also minimum ACT scores required for students to earn or maintain some scholarships (including the A+ program). For those that submit their ACT scores during the admission process, many colleges and universities are offering automatic merit-based scholarships based on these scores. Finally, while a college or university may be currently "test optional" for admission, if you are wanting to be accepted into a competitive program within that school, they are often looking at a student's ACT scores to decide between candidates.
How can my student prepare for the ACT?
ACT.org has several free resources for students. They also have many resources available for purchase. Families may also choose to utilize an in-person ACT tutor. There are many tutoring services available in the St. Louis metro area. There are also an uncountable number of ACT prep videos and guides available on YouTube and other websites.
We also have a list of ACT/SAT Test Prep providers. Grandview does not endorse anyone specific on this list, choosing a test prep service or tutor is a personal choice.
SAT
Most colleges that Grandview students may be interested in applying will be accepting the ACT. However, if you are interested in going to schools on the east or west coast, you will likely need to complete the SAT. As of 2022, the cost for the SAT was $60. The SAT also offers fee waivers if you are eligible for free or reduced lunch. You can find more information on how to register for the SAT here.