ACT Information
by Stacy Arellano
June 05, 2008
*ACT Practice Tests Click here to get a head start!
2008-09 ACT Test Dates
December 13 (register by Nov. 7)
February 7 (register by Jan. 6)
April 4 (register by Feb. 27)
** April Test is given at Osakis High School! **
June 13 (register by May 8)
~ Go to www.actstudent.org for all registration info ~
Osakis High School Code = 241-920
************************************************************************
The Scoop on the ACT Test
ACT is a college admissions test students take in order for post-secondary institutions to make admissions and/or scholarship decisions. The areas tested include English (Usage/Mechanics, Rhetorical Skills), Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry), Reading (Social Studies, Sciences, Art, Literature), and Science. New several years ago, the Writing portion was added to the ACT, and the only schools in Minnesota which require it to be taken include: University of Minnesota (Duluth, Twin Cities, Morris campuses), Carleton College, Crossroads College, and McNally Smith College of Music. Several other colleges recommend the writing portion be taken as well.
Scores: It is scored on a 1-36 scale: National average in 2008 was a 21.1, Minnesota average was a 22.6 (the highest average for any state in the U.S.), and Osakis High School average was 23.3. As a general rule for college admissions, the score of 18 is sufficient for some 2 and 4-year schools, 21 is sufficient for most 4-year schools. For scholarships, scores of 24 create good opportunities, and of course higher scores can capture even more. Remember, students’ GPA’s, participation and achievements in activities also play a role in these decisions. Students can retest as many times as they’d like (although they need to pay the $31 fee each time), and colleges only look at the highest score. Some colleges even combine different subscores from different tests, and will give the student the highest possible composite score.
Fees: ACT (no writing) $31 ACT Plus Writing $46
Register: Register online at www.actstudent.org or mail in a paper application from the counseling office. Osakis High School’s Code is 241-920. Alexandria test site is the closest (code 178280), except in April when the test will be administered at Osakis High School (code 162110).
Test Help: Many helpful tools are on the website listed above. Students can purchase online ACT Prep for about $20 as well as some test guides. Alexandria Community Ed. has offered "Zap the ACT" sessions in both the fall and spring. Check their website for updated offerings. See Mrs. Arellano in the counseling office for more ideas and the free practice test booklet.
