Introduction

When should your child start studying for the ACT?
And how much time do they really need to prepare?

The answer depends on your student’s goals, schedule, and starting point — but one thing is clear: a well-planned prep timeline makes all the difference.

In this post, I’ll help you figure out how long your child should study for the ACT and how to build a smart, realistic prep schedule.

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How Long Do Most Students Need to Prepare for the ACT?

Here’s a general rule of thumb:

Score Improvement Goal	Study Time Needed
2–3 point increase	20–40 hours
4–6 points	50–80 hours
7+ points	100+ hours

But remember: it’s not just how much you study — it’s how consistently and strategically you prep.

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When Should You Start Studying?

To avoid last-minute stress and give your child the best chance to improve, I recommend this basic timeline:

Ideal Prep Timeline:

Start 3–6 months before your test date.

That allows time to:

• Take a diagnostic test
• Identify strengths and weaknesses
• Learn strategies
• Practice under timed conditions
• Review and refine

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Sample ACT Study Timeline

Let’s say your child plans to take the ACT in September. Here’s what a smart prep plan might look like:

April–May

• Take a diagnostic ACT
• Set a target score
• Create a weekly study schedule
• Begin reviewing core concepts (especially math & grammar)

June–July

• Learn and apply test strategies
• Take practice sections
• Focus on weak areas
• Build endurance with timed tests
• Adjust based on progress

August

• Take 4–6 full-length timed practice tests
• Refine pacing and strategy
• Review any remaining content gaps
• Light review the week before the test

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How Many Hours per Week Should Your Child Study?

Here’s a quick guide:

Time Until Test	Weekly Study Goal
5–6 months	2–4 hours/week
3–4 months	4–6 hours/week
1–2 months	6–10 hours/week

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The Best Way to Start: Take a Diagnostic Test

Before diving into prep, take a full-length, timed ACT practice test.
That will reveal:

• Where your child is starting
• Which sections need the most work
• Whether the ACT is the right test (vs. the SAT)

From there, you can create a prep plan that’s targeted — not overwhelming.

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We Help Students Build Smarter Prep Schedules

Every student has a different starting point and set of priorities. That’s why we:

• Help set realistic goals
• Customize study plans
• Teach live strategies and review content in weekly classes

Whether your child is aiming for a top score or just needs a boost, I’ll help them prep the right way — without wasting time.

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Let’s build the right ACT timeline together.
Join my virtual ACT class to get personalized support, structure, and proven results.