Prep for ACT® Test - In-Person or Online Courses

We offer personalized test prep programs for the ACT^® test taught by passionate and experienced instructors. Choose to attend classes in person at one of our four tutoring centers located throughout Dallas-Fort Worth or live online across the country.

Why Take the ACT Test?

The ACT test is used for admission and scholarships decisions by colleges around the country. The test has English, Math, Reading, and Science sections, along with an optional essay. The test is scored from 1-36. Students should generally begin taking the ACT test in the winter and spring of 11th grade.

KD College Prep offers three options for students looking for online or in-person preparation for the ACT test: test prep courses, one-on-one tutoring, or a combination of the two. To find the best fit for your teen, sign up for a free consultation with our college prep experts.

What Is a Good ACT Score?

A perfect score on the ACT test is a 36 composite score, but you don’t have to be perfect to get into your dream college. Your score goal will depend on where you want to apply to college. The national average composite score is about 21. But if you want to go to a highly competitive school like Harvard, you will need a score in the 33-35 range. Read more about what is considered a good ACT score.

Test Prep Courses for the ACT Test

Since 1992, KD College Prep has helped students prepare for the ACT test. We offer a variety of in-person and live online test prep programs for 7th-12th grade students.

Lessons

Core Lessons

The journey to mastering the ACT test begins with the instructor-led 14 core lessons, which include strategic reading, passage analysis, grammar and usage, algebra, data analysis, geometry, trigonometry, and more. These lessons cover approximately 80% of the content found on the ACT test. Our degreed, experienced instructors will use our proprietary curriculum to coach students to their highest possible ACT scores.

Intro Lessons

Students in 9th grade have access to on-demand Intro Lessons (English/Reading and Math/Science). These two lessons build upon the core lessons by introducing the basic content and format of the ACT test.

Bonus Lessons

As they progress through the program, 10th-12th grade students also attend two sets of six additional lessons (English, Math A, Math B, Reading, Science A, and Science B), all of which provide in-depth instruction for the unique content found on the ACT test.

Ongoing Practice

Practice Workshops

Get extra practice, gain confidence, and work toward mastery in instructor-led workshops. Verbal and Math Workshops are offered weekly with new material introduced each Saturday. We recommend four hours of practice workshops per month.

Bonus Workshops

Bonus Workshops specifically formatted for the ACT Test are scheduled at critical times of the year when students have greater availability or a greater need for practice. These workshops provide additional practice for the question types and pacing found on the ACT test. These sessions are in a “quiz-and-review” format and are offered before each national ACT test date and during spring break holidays.

Note: Students do not have to complete the Bonus Lessons for the ACT test before attending the Bonus Workshops.

Practice Tests with Instructor-Led Reviews

Maximize improvement by taking full-length practice tests and reviewing each test in an instructor-led, small-group session.

By analyzing performance and missed questions, students are able to learn from their mistakes and improve performance on future tests.

Test Prep Programs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When should I take the ACT test?

It’s usually best for students to wait until the 11th grade to start taking the official ACT test. Preparing for the test often begins in the 11th grade, although some high-performing students may be ready to start the test prep process as early as 7th or 8th grade. At KD, our goal is for students to have finished their national testing by the end of the 11th grade, allowing them to focus on the college application process in 12th grade. In some cases, a student may need to continue testing in 12th grade for a variety of reasons. At KD, we continue to serve all students until they reach their testing goals or until high school graduation.

How many times can I take the ACT test?

There is no limit to the number of times you can take the ACT test, but we recommend students plan to take the official test at least twice. We also offer full-length practice tests to our students to simulate the testing experience, help build endurance, and give a good estimate of how they will perform on test day.

How are ACT scores calculated?

The highest possible score on the ACT test is a composite score of 36, and the lowest score is 1. The test consists of four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each main section is scored based on the number of correct answers (there is no penalty for wrong answers). Section scores are then converted to an overall composite score. There is also an optional essay section. Essays are scored on a scale of 2 to 12 and do not contribute to your composite score. Read more about how to interpret an ACT score report.

How long is the ACT test?

The ACT test is about two hours and 55 minutes long and consists of a total of 215 questions. Here’s a breakdown of length by each section:

English: 45 minutes, 75 questions
Math: 60 minutes, 60 questions
Reading: 35 minutes, 40 questions
Science: 35 minutes, 40 questions
Essay (optional): 40 minutes, 1 writing prompt

How do I improve my ACT score?

One of the best ways to raise your ACT score is to sign up for a test prep program that will meet your needs. For nearly 30 years, KD College Prep has helped students reach their ACT test score goals. We’ve built a proprietary curriculum from extensive knowledge of what to expect on the test. Students can attend test prep activities in person or live online. We also offer self-paced or one-on-one tutoring options to best meet each student’s needs. Want to learn more about our test prep programs? Sign up for a free consultation to meet with a college prep advisor.

What is the difference between the SAT and ACT test?

The SAT and ACT tests are both widely accepted by most colleges, and the major differences between the two tests are their scoring methods, test format and content, and timing. Below is a general overall comparison of the two tests.

Overall, the tests have more similarities than differences, and we typically recommend that a student take both tests to find out which one best aligns with his or her strengths.

Different Scoring Methods

ACT Score Range: 1 to 36 points
SAT Score Range: 400 to 1600 points

Different Test Sections

ACT Test Sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science (plus an Optional Writing section)
SAT Test Sections: Reading, Writing & Language, Math – No Calculator and Calculator (Please Note: Optional Essay section is no longer offered)

Differences in Timing & Content

In terms of overall timing, the SAT test is about five minutes longer than the ACT test. However, there are some important differences in terms of section timing and the different content you’ll find on each the test. To learn more specific information about these differences, read our post, “The Differences Between the SAT and ACT Tests.”

How many hours per day should I study for the ACT test?

The amount of time you decide to study for the ACT test will depend on your availability and overall schedule. Some students can dedicate time weekly throughout the school year to prepare for tests, while others decide to prepare on the weekends, during summer break, or during extracurricular off-seasons. Our flexible class schedules make it easier to find time to prepare. Can’t find a schedule that works? Schedule a consultation with an advisor to create your own test prep plan.

Is one month enough time to prepare for the ACT test?

If you only spend a few weeks studying for the ACT test, it is not likely that you’ll see a significant score improvement. Our highest scoring students dedicate several months (and even years) to preparing for the ACT test. That’s why we recommend that students begin preparing for tests as early as possible to maximize their chances of reaching their test score goals. Remember, a good test score may be the ticket to get into your dream college or receive scholarships. Planning early usually leads to the best results.

WE’RE ALWAYS READY TO CHAT

Reach out to schedule your free consultation today.

TESTIMONIALS

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped me with the various steps required for college admissions. At KD I enjoyed learning from amazing teachers, who cared for each of their students individually and were ready to help wherever it was needed. Being a student at KD has also helped me figure out which learning techniques work best for me. The opportunity to engage in different learning methods such as small group interactive learning, larger group discussions, or individual practice are all ways that helped me come up with a learning... Read more...

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped... Read more...

Tanisha P. – Class of 2020

“My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into helping me write the best essay possible, especially reviewing my essays twice to polish them completely. In addition, I have noticed that writing my resume has released a lot of stress off my shoulder when it comes to making sure I have all the things necessary to apply to schools.”

“My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into... Read more...

Claudia A. – Class of 2020

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of learning easier. I think that after you started going to a good amount of classes and the workshops, you knew every teacher, and they were always available to answer any questions that you had...Everyone was just so welcoming and made learning more engaging for the students, especially with the workshops. All of had their own unique style of teaching which never made a class boring.”

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of... Read more...

Rishab P. – Class of 2021

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or above... So many people told me it would be impossible to reach my desired score. After months of using KD's methods my scores definitely improved but hovered around 1350—still not near the score I needed but closer. After finally working with both of you during one on ones, my scores started to see heavy improvement and while I didn't get a score of 1520 or above as a single score, I got it as a superscore... Read more...

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or... Read more...

David P. – Class of 2022

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in awe at the consistent level of professionalism yet genuine concern for each and every person that walks through their doors. Thank you KD staff for being great mentors for our children!”

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in... Read more...

Gloria D. – Daughter, Class of 2021

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT^® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I have finished college applications, and I would love to thank all the teachers and aides at KD for giving me the score that I got on the test. Without the extra practice, I wouldn't have been able to get through to the score I got. These past 3 years went by so fast, and it is so fun to look back at where I started and how much I have come out with flying colors. Thank you so much!”

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT^® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I... Read more...

Kareena A. – Class of 2021

“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT^®, and ACT^® tests. The resources were very helpful, and the individualized assistance I received from teachers were what really supported my learning. Special thanks to Ms. Barwick and Mr. Hoffman!”

“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT^®, and ACT^® tests. The resources were... Read more...

Advika R. – Class of 2022

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in class. In conjunction, those two things helped me raise my score a lot because I was not a math kid before KD or high school. The repetition and being able to practice in a non-stressful environment and simulating that testing experience is something that was very beneficial for me... “The college counseling team was super patient and honest about the work I was submitting. I know for a lot of kids, it’s hard to articulate who you are through 250-300 words. It was definitely... Read more...

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in... Read more...

Blaine W. – Class of 2021

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a rising junior at the University of Miami, and my youngest son is an incoming freshman at Vanderbilt University. Steve’s help in navigating the complicated college landscape and finding the BEST FIT for my two sons is what has made this resource invaluable. “What made the biggest difference for my two sons was the depth and breadth of knowledge Steve has of the many universities and colleges in the U.S. First, by getting to know my kids on a one-on-one basis, he was able to... Read more...

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a... Read more...

Julio M. – Parent

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the summer. She liked being challenged academically, and she loved taking classes with high school students who were focused on their college goals. These students were also excellent role models! The lessons were especially important during the pandemic when it wasn’t a typical middle school experience.”

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the... Read more...

Beth L. – Advanced Start™ Parent

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT^® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got a 1530 on the December 5th SAT test. KD played a huge role in this, and I just wanted to say thanks to everyone there for helping me achieve this.”

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT^® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got... Read more...

Vyom S. – Class of 2022

"Our twin 16-year-old boys used KD College Prep to study/practice for the PSAT test, and we believe the classes and coaching were invaluable. Very professional and concise. Worth every penny!"

Jerry – Sons, Class of 2022

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT, SAT^®, and ACT^® tests (1520, 1580, and 34). I really appreciate everyone's willingness to be flexible and accommodate my requests!”

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT,... Read more...

Mithra A. – Class of 2022

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT^® test (third time) and a 35 on my ACT® test (first time). I remember the first ever practice test I took for the SAT test was a 1230 (about 1.5 yrs ago) and the first ever practice test I took for the ACT test was a 31 or 32 (about 6 months ago)."

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT^® test... Read more...

Elise P. – Class of 2022

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT^® and ACT^® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents very informative and helpful during the process as well. My son (Jacob) graduated in 2018 and got a 32 on the ACT test. got accepted into Texas A&M but chose Baylor for Health Sciences. My daughter (Morgan) graduated in 2020 and got a 1450 on the SAT test and a 32 on the ACT test. got into an Ivy League school (Cornell) for Engineering. Both my kids say that they apply the test taking skills they learned at KD Prep to... Read more...

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT^® and ACT^® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents... Read more...

Jon D. – Parent

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard and other schools, but I've really started to immerse into the Emory culture, especially their debate team. Not having to pay for college and still attend a private institution is really a dream come true, and it wouldn't be possible if it were not for you.”

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard... Read more...

Shreyas R. – Class of 2020

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a good school will help me find my path. Also, Steve's knowledge about what colleges were wanting to see in potential admissions candidates was a huge help... “There was not one specific beneficial moment or turning point in my time working with Steve, there were many. He encouraged me during the entire application process and brought to my attention many colleges I wouldn't have considered or heard about without his help.”

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a... Read more...

Jake W. – Class of 2020

"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."

Zarni, Daughter – Class of 2021

"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT^® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit^® Finalist."

Claire I. – Class of 2020

"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT^®/ACT^® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."

Gopi C. – Class of 2021

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made sure that I would be successful in whichever college I picked, and I am eternally grateful for all their help and hard work!"

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made... Read more...

Omar S. – Class of 2020

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by far the most concerned about. I didn’t know how exactly I should go about choosing which places to apply to and if I were to be accepted, if they would fit me. The team did a wonderful job considering my likes and dislikes and helped me compile a list of colleges that suited my tastes and would further my academic career. "After this integral first step, my focus turned towards time management and writing quality essays that would stand out to colleges. I got... Read more...

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by... Read more...

Nina H. – Class of 2020

"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT^® and ACT^® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."

Morgan D. – Class of 2020

"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT^®/SAT^® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."

Tiffany – Son, Class of 2021

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students wanting an edge on their national test scores!"

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students... Read more...

Daniel J. – Class of 2020

"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."

Sam H. – Class of 2020

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the help from amazing teachers and staff. I am so grateful for KD!"

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the... Read more...

Matt K. – Class of 2020

"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit^® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT^® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."

Thomas D. – Class of 2019

"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."

Piper F. – Class of 2020

"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."

Kathy – Son attends Mizzou

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure out a personal plan that would work for her and were always available for our questions and helping her reach her goals. Every employee from the managers to the students working at their locations are top notch.”

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure... Read more...

Tracy – Daughter, Class of 2020

"The KD College Prep course not only provided test practice but also motivated her to work hard for her college applications. It gave her the confidence to dream big!"

Prema – Daughter attends Rice

Prep for the ACT® Test