The addition of a July ACT date opens new opportunities for high schoolers to focus on testing during summertime (when the living is easy.) In some parts of the country, school lets out by the end of May, which allows plenty of time to prep for this test date. In other areas, the July ACT isn’t even an option. Does taking the ACT in July make sense?
PROS
Fewer competing priorities than during the school year
Perfect follow-up for students who were close but not quite on target on the spring ACTs
The last chance to finish testing before senior year begins
Ideal opportunity for rising juniors to get a head start on testing
CONS
Fewer available testing centers than during the school year
Prep may be compromised in districts where school runs through most of June
No testing centers in New York or California
RECOMMENDED FOR
Rising 12th graders who have already been prepping or are able fit in summer prep
Rising 11th graders who got an early jump on summer prep
More than any other test administration, the July ACT depends on regional or state school policies. Students who finish school by the end of May have an excellent opportunity to sit for the ACT before the next academic year begins. Those whose schools run through June may find themselves too rushed to take good advantage of this test date, while students in New York or California will have to travel out of state to even sit for the July ACT. Anyone targeting this test date should plan ahead.
RELATED QUESTIONS
When are the SAT and ACT offered in a year?
During which month is the SAT or ACT easiest?
How much time is needed to prepare for the SAT or ACT?