About ACT

WELCOME TO RAMANA LEARNING CENTER – WHERE YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PASSION.

The ACT remains a cornerstone of college admissions, and understanding its structure and requirements is key to your success. At Ramana Learning Center, we have prepared this comprehensive guide to help you confidently navigate the ACT, ensuring you are fully prepared for test day and beyond.

ACT Structure and Format

The ACT consists of four required multiple-choice sections—English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science—with an optional Writing (essay) section. Some colleges require or recommend the Writing test, so check your target schools' requirements before registering.

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allotted
English	75	45 minutes
Mathematics	60	60 minutes
Reading	40	35 minutes
Science	40	35 minutes
Writing*	1 essay	40 minutes

*Writing is optional and does not affect your composite score.

• Total test time (without Writing): 2 hours 55 minutes
• Total test time (with Writing): 3 hours 35 minutes

Section Details

• English: Tests your ability to revise and edit texts in different genres.
• Mathematics: Covers skills up to the beginning of grade 12; calculators are allowed (check approved models).
• Reading: Measures your ability to read closely, reason logically, and integrate information.
• Science: Assesses interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving in natural sciences.
• Writing (Optional): Evaluates your writing skills in response to a prompt.

Upcoming Changes (2025)

Starting in April 2025, students testing online will experience a shorter ACT with fewer questions and more time per question. Science will become optional for online testers in April 2025 and for paper testers in September 2025. The composite score will be based on English, Math, and Reading only. Students who take Science will receive a separate Science score and a STEM score.

Test-Day Essentials

• Admission Ticket: Print from your ACT account.
• Photo ID: Valid government or school-issued ID.
• No. 2 Pencils: For paper testing (mechanical pencils not allowed).
• Approved Calculator: For Mathematics section.
• Watch: Analog only (no alarms, smartwatches, or fitness trackers).
• Snacks and Water: For breaks only.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers for varying room temperatures.

Registration Process

• Create an ACT Account: Register at the official ACT website.
• Complete Registration: Enter accurate personal details and select your test date and center.
• Payment: Pay the registration fee (fee waivers available for eligible students).
• Confirmation: Receive a confirmation email with your test details.

After the Test

• Score Reporting: Scores are available online, typically within 2–8 weeks after the test date.
• Scoring Structure: The composite score (1–36) is the average of your English, Math, Reading, and Science scores (Science will be optional in the new format; Writing does not affect the composite).
• Detailed Feedback: Score reports provide insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

Effective Preparation

• Review content areas for each section.
• Take official ACT practice tests to build familiarity and confidence.
• Focus on time management and test-taking strategies.

Your Path to Success

Ramana Learning Center is committed to providing the best resources and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Take advantage of our ACT prep programs and schedule a free consultation with our experts.

Note: Students are encouraged to complete coursework in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry before enrolling in our ACT prep course.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good ACT composite score?

The ACT composite score ranges from 1 to 36 — the average of your English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science section scores. A score of 20 is the national average. Scores of 24+ are competitive for most colleges, while 30+ places students in the top 5% nationally. Our ACT prep program is designed to help your child reach their target score.

When should my child start ACT prep?

Most students begin ACT prep in 10th or 11th grade, with at least 3–6 months before their test date. Starting earlier gives more time to address weak areas and practice consistently. At RLC, we recommend completing Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry before enrolling in our ACT prep course.

How many times can a student take the ACT?

There is no official limit to how many times a student can take the ACT. Most students sit for it 2–3 times to achieve their target score. Many colleges accept the highest composite score or use superscoring — taking the best section scores across multiple attempts. Our instructors help students strategically plan their test dates.

Does the ACT Writing section affect the composite score?

No — the optional Writing (essay) section does not affect the composite score. It generates a separate Writing score. Some colleges require or recommend it, so check your target schools' requirements before registering. Our ACT prep team can advise you on whether to include it.

What changes are happening to the ACT in 2025?

Starting in 2025, online ACT testers will experience a shorter test with fewer questions and more time per question. Science will become optional for online testers in April 2025 and for paper testers in September 2025 — with the composite score then based on English, Math, and Reading only. RLC instructors stay current with all ACT changes and adjust our curriculum accordingly.

How does Ramana Learning Center's ACT prep differ from self-study?

Our ACT program offers structured, instructor-led preparation with personalized feedback — something self-study cannot provide. We cover all sections, teach time management and test-taking strategies, administer timed practice tests, and track each student's progress to target their specific weak areas. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.