Score improvement depends on your starting point and how actively you engage with the material. Students typically see gains of 2-4 points on the composite score, with some seeing larger improvements in specific sections where they focus their effort. The key is consistent practice with full-length tests, targeted review of weak areas, and applying the strategies taught in class to real practice questions.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on the ACT, and tutors help by teaching section-specific time management techniques. For example, the Reading section requires skimming strategies to maximize time on questions, while the Math section benefits from knowing when to skip difficult problems and return later. Regular timed practice tests during the 4-week program help you internalize these pacing strategies so they feel natural on test day.

Yes. A good 4-week prep class starts with a diagnostic to identify your strongest and weakest areas, then allocates more practice time to sections where you need it most. If Science or Reading is your challenge, you'll spend extra time on question formats, common traps, and targeted drills. Tutors can also recommend supplemental practice between sessions to accelerate improvement in specific sections.

Most 4-week programs include 2-3 full-length practice tests, typically one at the start (diagnostic), one mid-program, and one near the end. Between full tests, you'll do section-specific drills and timed practice on individual question types. After each test, tutors review your results to identify patterns in mistakes—whether they're content gaps, careless errors, or timing issues—so you can target your studying effectively.

Familiarity breeds confidence. By taking multiple practice tests under timed conditions and learning proven test-taking strategies, you'll feel more prepared and less anxious on test day. Tutors also teach stress-management techniques like pacing yourself, knowing when to move on from a hard question, and using breathing strategies during the exam. Knowing exactly what to expect—the format, timing, and question types—significantly reduces test-day anxiety.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors experienced in ACT prep who understand the specific challenges students face on this test. You can discuss your goals, current score, and target score, and get matched with a tutor who has a proven track record helping students in Columbia improve their composite scores. The first session is a great opportunity to assess your strengths and weaknesses and create a focused 4-week study plan.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and weaknesses across all four sections. The tutor will review your results, discuss your target score and test date, and outline a customized study plan for the next four weeks. You'll also learn foundational test-taking strategies and get clarity on which sections need the most focus, so you can hit the ground running in week two.