Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level, but most students see meaningful gains with consistent, focused preparation. Students typically improve 2-4 points on the composite score with dedicated study, though some see larger jumps if they've identified specific weak areas. The key is targeting your problem sections—whether that's pacing on the Reading test or understanding complex Math concepts—rather than trying to improve everything equally.

The Reading and Science sections are where many students lose points, often due to pacing issues rather than content knowledge. The Reading section requires processing dense passages quickly, while Science tests your ability to interpret data and graphs under time pressure. An 8-week prep class helps you develop strategies to manage these time constraints and recognize question patterns so you can work more efficiently on test day.

Most ACT 8-week prep classes include 4-6 full-length practice tests spaced throughout the program, plus section-specific practice drills. Taking real ACT practice tests under timed conditions is crucial—it helps you get comfortable with the test format, identify timing problems, and build confidence. Your instructor will review each practice test with you to pinpoint exactly where you're losing points and what strategies will help most.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges on the ACT, and it's something an 8-week prep class specifically addresses. You'll learn which questions to tackle first, how to skip strategically without losing time, and how to manage anxiety when the clock is running. Practice tests are the best tool here—they let you experiment with different pacing strategies in a low-stakes environment so you know exactly what works for you before test day.

Test anxiety often comes from feeling unprepared or uncertain about what to expect, which is where targeted prep makes a real difference. An 8-week class builds familiarity with the test format, question types, and timing so you walk in feeling confident rather than panicked. Your instructor can also share breathing techniques and mental strategies to stay calm under pressure, and practicing with timed tests helps you get used to working quickly without freezing up.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in New Orleans who specialize in ACT preparation and understand the specific challenges students face. When you reach out, we'll match you with an instructor whose teaching style fits your learning needs and whose schedule works for you. Your instructor will assess your current score, identify your weak areas, and create a customized 8-week plan to help you reach your target score.

Both approaches work, but they serve different needs. A structured 8-week class provides a set curriculum and keeps you on a fixed timeline, which works great if you need accountability and a clear study schedule. One-on-one tutoring is more flexible and personalized—your instructor can spend extra time on your specific weak areas and adjust the pace based on your progress. Many students find a combination of both works best, using a class for structure and adding tutoring for targeted help on their toughest sections.