Most tips imply that you should prepare for the ACT like it’s a one-time thing. But it helps to know that you can retest whenever necessary.
The ACT gives you the option to retake the test, regardless of the reason. Even so, it’s important to note there’s a limit to how much you can do this.
So, how many times can you retake ACT exams? Here’s what you need to know about it and how to reduce the number of times you do it.
Can You Retake ACT Tests?
Generally, you’re allowed to take the ACT up to twelve times. But since you’re limited to time and dates, it means you can only do so within a certain period.
Not everyone feels satisfied with their scores after taking the ACT for the first time. Because of this, a lot of people recommend planning for the ACT under the assumption that you might retest. This way, you have enough time to actually do so while considering other factors that affect your choice.
Note that you can only retake the test as a whole and not in parts. Moreover, you can earn a superscore from it, allowing you to get the average of the best subject scores of each of your ACT attempts to count in your official score.
The Cost
The cost to retake ACT exams is the same as the price you pay for the regular test. The price of the regular test is $68 and $93 with the optional writing exam.
Because you’re not exactly free from paying when you retake it, you want to be strategic with how you take the next test to keep the cost as low as possible.
The Timeline
You can use the same MyACT account to retake the exam to get your superscore. You only have to choose based on the provided schedules.
Keep in mind that the ACT offers a chance to take the test seven times a year. So, you can retest multiple times a year, depending on when you took your previous attempt.
How to Decide if You Should Retest
Although you can take the ACT again a few more times, it doesn’t exactly mean you should. The ACT isn’t necessarily free, so it’s best to be smart about your approach.
The following are a few ways to help you decide if a retest is worth the shot.
Your Score Doesn’t Align with Your Goals
One of the common reasons students retake the ACT is because they want to increase their scores. If it doesn’t meet your goals, you can do the same.
Evidence shows that those who took the exam more than once successfully improved their composite scores. A quick tip is to review your results on each portion to determine where you should focus next.
You Have Enough Time
If you have enough spare time to prepare and retest, you can consider doing so. The higher your composite score, the more colleges you can apply to.
It’s important to have a clear ACT study plan focused on boosting your final results. This helps you make sure you put your time to good use.
You Can Afford a Retest
Even if you can retest up to twelve times, it’s important to remember you have to pay twelve times as well. If you’re on a budget, you want to be strategic with how you take the test. This way, you won’t have to spend too much money for a good result.
In Summary
Although there’s a limit to how many times you can retake ACT tests, it gives you enough opportunities to boost your composite score. Moreover, it follows a superscore system that allows you to get the best attempts.
Even so, whether you take the test can vary based on different factors. So, it’s good to take a smart approach and ensure you give your all with every attempt.
