Submitted by: Linda Hinkle(318) Log in to become a member of Linda Hinkle's Fan Club!
Getting through the ACT test registration process the first time can be a bit intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you familiarize yourself with the details well in advance, you can avoid that overwhelmed feeling of drowning in paperwork.
As a high school mathematics teacher for many years, I would watch as students got caught up in a frenzy every time the deadline for ACT test registration rolled around. They would rush to the counselor’s office, grab the packet, and hurriedly fill out the forms so that they could get it to the post office to be postmarked just in time to meet the deadline!
Plan now not to wait until the last minute to register. Some basic information you need to know about the registration process follows.
Options for registering:
You may register online or by using a registration packet. The cost is the same for each option, and online registration is quicker and easier. However, there are some circumstances under which you must use the registration packet. You must use the packet if you:
need disability accommodations
need to change your test center or test date
are testing outside the United States
are using a state-funded voucher or fee-waiver
are enrolled in grade 6, 7, 8, or 9
do not have a Visa or Mastercard
A third option for registration is by telephone, but only if you have registered for a national test date within the last two years. There is an additional $10 charge added to the basic fee for this option.
Registration Fees:
The basic fee for the ACT (No Writing) is $29. The fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $43. The basic fee includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four colleges.
Requesting Arranged Testing:
You must request arranged testing if:
you are a homebound or confined student
there is no testing center within 50 miles
your religious beliefs prohibit Saturday testing
Additional Fees That May Apply:
There are various additional fees that can apply which include late registration, changing your testing date or testing center, requesting reports be sent to more that four colleges, as well as some other circumstances.
This is a brief overview of the ACT test registration process for those who have no extenuating circumstances. Remember also that your high school guidance counselor's office can answer any questions you might have about the entire testing process.
Linda Hinkle is an educator and advocate for parents of high school students. For more helpful articles and information about the ACT, SAT, and other high school topics visit her website http://www.highschoolstuff.com
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
