Score improvement depends on your starting point and how much you engage with the material. Students who start with a composite score around 20-24 often see gains of 3-5 points, while those starting higher may see smaller but still meaningful improvements. The key is consistent practice between sessions, targeted work on weak sections, and applying test-taking strategies to full-length practice tests. Your tutor will help identify which sections offer the biggest opportunity for growth.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges students face on the ACT, especially in the Reading and Math sections. An 8-week prep class teaches you how to allocate time strategically—knowing when to skip difficult questions and come back, how to quickly identify what a question is asking, and how to manage anxiety that slows you down. You'll practice these strategies on timed drills and full-length tests so they become automatic by test day.

This is exactly what personalized 1-on-1 instruction addresses. While an 8-week class covers all sections, tutors can spend more time on your weaker areas—whether that's Math concepts, Reading comprehension strategies, or Science passage analysis. You'll also get targeted practice materials and homework focused on the sections where you need the most help, so your study time is efficient.

Most 8-week prep programs include 4-6 full-length practice tests spaced throughout the course, plus numerous section-specific practice drills. These tests serve two purposes: they help you get comfortable with the test format and timing, and they give your tutor concrete data about where you need to focus. You'll review each practice test in detail to understand why you missed questions and what strategies would have helped.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format and uncertainty about your abilities. An 8-week prep class builds confidence through repeated exposure to real ACT questions and timed conditions, so the test feels less intimidating on exam day. Your tutor can also teach you specific techniques like strategic breathing, positive self-talk, and how to manage the mental challenge of staying focused for three hours. The more prepared you feel, the calmer you'll be.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors experienced in ACT prep who understand the format, content, and strategies that lead to score improvement. You can share your current score, target score, and schedule preferences, and we'll match you with a tutor who fits your needs. Many tutors serving students in Riverside have helped dozens of students navigate the ACT successfully.

Your first session is about establishing a baseline and creating a personalized plan. Your tutor will likely review your previous ACT scores (or have you take a diagnostic test), discuss your target score, and identify which sections need the most work. You'll also talk about your study habits, test anxiety, and timeline, so your tutor can tailor the 8-week curriculum to your specific situation and learning style.