Score improvement depends on your starting point and study effort, but most students see meaningful gains with focused, structured prep. The national average ACT score is around 21 out of 36, and students who engage actively in an 8-week program typically improve by 2-4 points. Your improvement will be most noticeable in sections where you have specific weak areas that can be targeted with strategic practice.

Time management is a critical component of ACT success, and 8-week prep classes dedicate significant time to pacing strategies for each section. You'll learn how to allocate your time effectively across different question types, practice working under timed conditions, and develop techniques to avoid spending too long on difficult questions. Regular timed practice tests throughout the eight weeks help you internalize these strategies so they feel natural on test day.

One advantage of working with expert tutors through Varsity Tutors is personalized focus on your specific needs. While an 8-week class provides comprehensive coverage of all sections, you can identify which areas need the most attention early on and adjust your study plan accordingly. Many students find that the Reading and Science sections require different strategies than English and Math, so targeted practice in your weaker areas will yield the biggest score improvements.

A solid 8-week prep program typically includes 4-6 full-length practice tests, spaced throughout the course to track your progress and identify remaining weak areas. Taking practice tests under timed, test-like conditions is one of the most effective ways to prepare—it helps you understand your pacing, reveals which question types trip you up, and builds test-day confidence. Between full tests, you'll also do targeted practice on individual sections and question types.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about what to expect and lack of confidence in your abilities. An 8-week prep class builds confidence through repeated exposure to real question formats, timed practice, and proven test-taking strategies. By the time you sit for the actual ACT, you'll have practiced extensively, know exactly what to expect, and have concrete strategies to manage stress. Many students find that this familiarity and preparation significantly reduce anxiety on test day.

If you're planning to take the ACT within 2-3 months, an 8-week prep class is well-timed to fit your schedule. Starting prep 8-10 weeks before your test date gives you structured instruction, time to identify weak areas, and enough practice tests to track improvement. For students in Staten Island with access to personalized 1-on-1 instruction, you can also supplement group classes with additional tutoring to address specific challenges more quickly.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Staten Island with experienced ACT tutors who understand the test format, common student challenges, and effective preparation strategies. You can get matched with tutors who offer 8-week prep classes, group sessions, or personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your schedule and learning style. Whether you need comprehensive test prep or focused help with specific sections, tutors can work with you to build a study plan that fits your goals and timeline.