Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level, but students typically see gains of 2-4 points with focused, consistent prep. If you identify specific weak sections early—like struggling with ACT Reading comprehension or Math pacing—targeted instruction in those areas often yields the biggest improvements. The 8-week timeline gives you enough time to learn strategies, practice extensively, and take full-length practice tests before test day.

Students typically struggle most with the Reading section due to its fast pace and dense passages, and the Math section when it covers advanced algebra and trigonometry. The Science section challenges many students because it requires quick data interpretation under time pressure, not just science knowledge. Understanding which section gives you the most trouble is the first step—your prep class should dedicate extra practice time to your specific weak points rather than treating all sections equally.

Timing is critical—the ACT is designed to be challenging partly because of its pace. Many students rush through questions and make careless errors, or run out of time before finishing. A good 8-week prep class teaches you pacing strategies for each section, like how many minutes to spend per passage on Reading or which Math questions to tackle first. Regular timed practice tests help you internalize these strategies so you can execute them confidently on test day.

Most students benefit from taking 4-6 full-length practice tests during an 8-week prep course—roughly one every 1-2 weeks. Early tests help identify your baseline and weak areas; later tests track improvement and build test-day confidence. Between full tests, you'll do targeted section practice and drill specific question types. The key is reviewing every practice test carefully to understand why you missed questions, not just counting how many you got right.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unfamiliar with the test format—both things an 8-week prep class directly addresses. Taking multiple timed practice tests in a structured setting helps desensitize you to test conditions and builds confidence through repeated success. Your prep instructor can also teach you specific techniques like strategic guessing, managing time pressure, and mental strategies to stay calm when you encounter a difficult question.

Plan for 5-10 hours of independent study per week outside of class sessions—this includes completing homework assignments, taking practice tests, and reviewing mistakes. The 8-week timeline works best when you're consistent with this commitment rather than cramming sporadically. Your prep instructor will assign targeted practice based on your weak areas, so the work you do outside class directly supports what you're learning in lessons.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Cleveland with experienced ACT prep instructors who understand the test inside and out and can tailor instruction to your specific needs. Whether you need intensive 8-week class prep or additional one-on-one support for your weakest sections, you can get matched with tutors who fit your schedule and learning style. Many students combine group class instruction with personalized tutoring to maximize their score improvement.