Would it be beneficial to take the ACT around the end of 9th grade- just to get a feel for it? Or could that affect my chances later on when I apply to college? (I’ll be done with Geometry and Algebra 2 w/ trig by the the end of 9th grade.)
Get the red book and take a practice test. That’ll tell you everything you need to know.
Why can’t you just open a test prep book and take a practice test to “get a feel for it”? That would cost a lot less money.
There are always students who take these tests “for a baseline” early on, and they are posting anxiously as juniors or seniors asking “how many times is too many?” or “do I have to send all my test scores to colleges?” or “how much will this bad score on my record hurt me?”
Unless it is needed entrance into a special program, there is absolutely no reason or no benefit to taking the ACT in 9th grade.
I scored a 27 in 7th grade as part of John Hopkins CTY program. I didn’t do any prep for taking the ACT as a junior but felt fine because I already knew what was on it. I wouldn’t say it’s a bad plan.
For summer gifted program, you may need to take it at 7th or 8th grade. Son took 2 ACT tests before high school. He didn’t study for the real thing because of the early experiences and did quite well.
S scored a 33 in 8th grade but took it strictly for eligibility in the Duke TIP program…otherwise wait until junior year optimally.
Holy moly @moscot that is awesome!
You don’t have to report the scores if it’s taken middle school. In HS, you do.
Just take a mock test at a center or take a practice test in a book and time yourself under the testing parameters.
There is one more reason that would be beneficial for taking the ACT early other than for Duke TIP or JHU…if you are an athlete looking to play at the next level. Coaches love for kids to meet the standards of the school and know this asap for recruiting purposes.
@PetraMC, unlike the SAT, the ACT allows you to expunge scores even in high school. Is it honest when a school wants all scores? I’d say not… but the ACT allows it. But I see no reason for the OP to take it; as suggested above, get a prep book and take a practice test.
That said experts suggest the best time to take the ACT is right after finishing Algebra 2…at least for the math.
I’d definitely take it. Expect to take it 2 or 3 times for best score. My son took it in 7th grade, the 10th and finally 11th. Each time he improved 3-5 points. Any test anxiety he had was alleviated by the early testing. There is no downside to doing this except the $50 or so per test you lose.
@TooOld4School, I agree, I see no downside.
The actual test experience is NOT the same as a practice test. You are in a room with dozens (or even hundreds) of kids. You have to concentrate for 3-4 hours. You won’t be able to take breaks during each section. The actual test is a little different than a practice test.
What I would do is take the test on one of the dates where you can get copies of the questions and your answers. You should find it valuable for the future tests.
I agree that the test center experience may make some difference, but one should take each test as the last attempt. Do enough preparation before taking the first test. If you find there is room for improvement, then retake the test with the experience. Taking the test cold for a baseline score is just a waste of time and money.