Score improvement depends on your starting point and current preparation level. Students who are already familiar with the test format typically see 2-4 point improvements, while those new to the ACT or with significant gaps may see larger gains. The key is consistent practice between sessions and focused work on your weakest sections—a 4-week program is most effective when you're actively engaged rather than treating it as a passive review.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges on the ACT, and 4-week prep classes dedicate substantial time to building speed without sacrificing accuracy. You'll practice timed sections, learn which questions to prioritize, and develop strategies for managing the clock in each section. Expert tutors help you identify whether you're rushing through easy questions or spending too long on difficult ones, then tailor strategies to your specific pacing patterns.

Yes—one of the advantages of personalized 4-week prep is the ability to allocate time based on your needs. If you're strong in Math but struggle with Reading, you can spend more class time on Reading strategies and practice passages while using Math sessions for advanced problem-solving. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who assess your diagnostic test results and customize the 4-week plan to target your lowest-scoring sections.

Most 4-week programs recommend taking 2-3 full practice tests during the course—typically one at the beginning to establish a baseline, one midway through to track progress, and one near the end to simulate test day. Between full tests, you'll work through timed sections and individual question sets to build skills. This balanced approach prevents test fatigue while giving you concrete data on improvement and areas needing more work.

Familiarity breeds confidence—taking multiple practice tests and working through hundreds of real ACT questions significantly reduces anxiety on test day. A 4-week class also teaches stress-management strategies like pacing yourself to avoid panic, recognizing which questions to skip, and maintaining focus through all four sections. Knowing exactly what to expect and having practiced under timed conditions helps you approach the actual test with calm confidence.

Varsity Tutors connects Richmond students with experienced ACT tutors who understand the test format and have a track record of helping students improve their scores. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll discuss your baseline score, target score, and specific challenges so the 4-week plan is tailored to your goals. The personalized 1-on-1 instruction means your tutor adapts to your learning style and paces the curriculum to fit your needs.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your strengths and weaknesses across all four sections, followed by a discussion of your target score and any specific concerns. Your tutor will review the test format, explain the 4-week curriculum outline, and establish a study schedule that fits your availability. This foundation ensures the remaining three weeks are strategically focused on the areas where you'll gain the most points.