A higher ACT score isn’t just a number—it’s leverage. It can expand your college list, increase scholarship potential, and build the kind of confidence that carries into college and beyond.
For Asha, a student at Beckman High School (Class of 2026), that leverage came from raising her ACT score from a 26 to a 34. For her mom, Angie, it meant relief, clarity, and a transformed admissions strategy.
If you’re a motivated student aiming for competitive colleges—or a parent wondering how to guide your child through ACT or SAT prep—this story offers a roadmap you can follow.
The Starting Point: Overwhelm and Uncertainty
Like many families, Angie felt buried under options.
So many test prep programs.
Online vs. in-person?
Would it fit her daughter’s demanding schedule?
Would it actually work?
For Asha, the fear was different.
Standardized testing felt intimidating because it was unknown. She had never taken the ACT before. She had never written a college essay. The idea of being evaluated on something unfamiliar was scary.
If that sounds like your household, you’re not alone.
The good news? Anxiety decreases when clarity increases.
Step 1: Establish a Baseline and Build a Plan
Asha began with a baseline ACT score of 26. That score reflected raw ability—but not strategy.
Through a structured ACT prep class, she learned:
Specific ACT test-taking strategies
Time management techniques
How to break down Math, Science, Reading, and English sections
How to analyze missed questions for targeted improvement
This wasn’t generic tutoring. It was test-specific preparation.
Within weeks, her practice scores climbed into the 30s. That measurable progress changed everything.
“If I’m moving forward, how much further can I go?” she asked.
That’s the mindset shift we want every student to experience.
Step 2: Target Weak Areas with 1-on-1 ACT Tutoring
After her first official test, Asha earned a 32 on the ACT—a six-point increase.
For many students, a 32 is a finish line. But for competitive schools, the difference between a 32 and a 34 can significantly impact admissions odds and merit scholarships.
So they made a strategic decision: focus on Math and Science through personalized one-on-one ACT tutoring.
This is where targeted improvement matters most:
Review official score breakdowns.
Identify lowest subsections.
Drill those concepts with expert feedback.
Simulate real test conditions.
The result? A 34 ACT score on her next exam.
At that level, the admissions landscape shifts.
What a 34 ACT Score Really Means
For families researching competitive colleges, here’s why a 34 matters:
Places students in the top percentile of test-takers.
Meets or exceeds score ranges at schools like University of Michigan, Emory, and many top-tier universities.
Strengthens merit scholarship consideration.
Signals academic readiness to admissions committees.
As Angie shared, they immediately began re-evaluating their college list.
“This changes where she can apply.”
For parents like Planner Paul, this is key: strong ACT or SAT scores don’t guarantee admission—but they open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
Beyond the Score: Confidence and Life Skills
The transformation wasn’t just academic.
Asha gained:
Greater confidence in the college admissions process
Stronger time management skills
The ability to balance test prep, school, sports, and volunteering
A belief that hard work produces results
Her words say it best:
“If I put in the time and effort, I will see progress. I can do hard things.”
That mindset carries into college, pre-med ambitions, research goals—and life.
A Clear Path Forward for Students and Parents
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here’s your next step:
1. Start with a Free Practice ACT or SAT
Know your baseline before guessing what you need.
2. Review Results with an Expert
Identify high-impact improvement areas.
3. Build a Structured Study Plan
Classes for foundation.
1-on-1 tutoring for targeted score gains.
4. Track Measurable Progress
Momentum builds motivation.
Raising your ACT score isn’t about perfection. It’s about positioning.
For Hopeful High-Achievers, it expands your college options.
For Concerned Parents, it provides reassurance and strategy.
For Late-Start Strivers, it proves meaningful growth is possible—fast.
A 26 became a 34.
Anxiety became confidence.
Uncertainty became opportunity.
If you’re ready to expand what’s possible, schedule a consultation or take a free practice test today. Your future colleges—and scholarships—are waiting.