So, I’ll be taking the ACT for the third time this Saturday. My scores are pretty decent when super scored (R:32 W:34 S:34 M:34), but as you can see, my reading score is bringing down the composite of my superscore. I’m applying Early Decision at Middlebury, and I know their 50% lies around a 32, and that they superscore, but I’d just like to boost my score as added support.
So, my main problem is that I’m not able to find very many practice tests that are tailored towards the new ACT design. All of the reading tests I’ve seen online have the 60 minute limit. My question is, should I just use the 60 minute Reading Tests, and simply set my own test taking time limit at 35 minutes? Or should I use the 60 minute limit when practicing?
Thanks to anyone who has any advice.
There’s no way that Reading’s bringing down your Superscore. Adding your scores together and dividing by 4 comes out to a 33.5 which rounds UP to a 34. To boost your Superscore you have to find 4 more points over your four subjects… so yes, a 36 on reading would boost your SS… but a 33, 34, or 35 does not.
As for Reading, the 60 minute tests are SAT not ACT, and there are some significant differences in the questions. The ACT Test has been 35 minutes for decades and has not changed. There is now a dual passage, but it didn’t change the number of questions or the timing required to finish.
Do NOT use any 60 minute SAT tests for practice as it will screw up your timing badly. Also, take a deep breath in and out and realize that you’re two points ahead of the average at Middlebury.