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High school students all over Chicago are looking for a way to start their Chicago ACT prep, and Varsity Tutors can help them out. It doesn't really matter whether you are in your last year of high school or a year or two before that. It is crucial that you start preparing for the ACT exam, as many colleges will look at your score on the ACT when considering your admission. Many students attending high schools in the college area, such as Walter Payton College Prep or Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, choose to take the ACT as their college preparation test of choice.
If you want to get started with private mentoring sessions to help you in your test preparation, we can connect you to the right private instructor for you. Or, if you want to take an educational class instead, we can help you enroll in it.
What is involved in ACT test preparation?
There are four sections on the ACT. In addition, there is a Writing section that is optional. Each section, including the Writing section, will have a time limit imposed on it. During your preparation, you should make sure that you are ready for all four or five sections.
First, there will be the English section. This section will test you on your knowledge and comprehension of the English language. You will be presented with short passages. You will have to read these passages and spot any errors that may be in them with regards to grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. There will be 75 questions on this section, and you will have 45 minutes to complete all of them.
The next section will be the Math section. You will be tested on everything that is expected to be covered in high school math classes. There will be a total of 60 questions on this section. You will have one minute, on average, for each question, as there will be one hour to complete this section.
The next section will be the Reading section. As with the English section, you will be presented with passages that you will have to read through. However, unlike the English section, you will be tested on your reading comprehension skills rather than your knowledge of English language rules. You will be asked questions that will test your ability to understand what you are reading. There will be 40 questions, and you will have 35 minutes to complete this section.
Next will be the Science section. This section will test you on what you studied during your science classes. Various scientific topics will be touched on, such as chemistry, biology, and physics. You will be presented with multiple choice questions and be expected to choose the right answers. Again, you will have 35 minutes to answer 40 questions.
Finally, there will be the Writing section. As mentioned, this section is optional. Taking it can show schools that you are applying to that you are serious about all of your studies. If you do complete this section, make sure that you write a well-crafted essay that presents your arguments in an organized fashion. Back up your arguments with supporting details.
What kinds of Chicago ACT prep are available for me to take?
You have a few different options when it comes to preparing for the ACT test. You do not have to do it alone, which can be a struggle.
The first option you have is taking a Chicago ACT prep course. These courses are taught by educated instructors over the internet. They can be taken from wherever you are. One of the problems with taking a course is that it can be hard for some students to find time for the commute, especially in hectic Chicago traffic. However, these courses are all done on the computer.
There is a new Chicago ACT prep class starting every week, so you will not have to wait long after enrolling to start. Classes go on for either two or four weeks, depending on your needs. You can interact with both the instructor and other students. You can discuss topics that will be covered on the test as well as general test-taking strategies. You can also have private time with the instructor to ask some questions that may be bothering you and get clarification about things that were discussed during the class.
Other students may find that reviewing their studies with a private Chicago ACT tutor fits their needs better. With a private educator, you can go over your studies at your own pace, without worrying about holding up other students. Your private educational mentor can create study plans for your sessions that are based on your own specific needs. For example, some students may find that they need to focus on math more than reading comprehension. A class may go too fast or too slow for you.
With a private instructor, you can also ask any questions that you may have. You can establish a rapport with your tutor. It is always rewarding to study with someone who understands you and knows what kind of learning style fits you the best.
Some students may find that a combination of the two makes for the best test preparation strategy. For example, you can take the classes to get a general review before the test and then take private mentoring sessions to go deeper into specific topics that you are having difficulty with. A private mentor can also give you some tips for meeting the time limits you will face on the test.
What should I do to get started with my Chicago ACT prep?
If you are unsure of which kind of ACT preparation to take, Varsity Tutors can help you decide. It doesn't matter what your current skills are; professional Chicago ACT preparation and instruction can help everyone at any level. Get in touch with Varsity Tutors today to get started. We are looking forward to hearing from you and getting you set on the right track.

Rebecca: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...Religious Studies. I am currently pursuing a masters degree in social work at the University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration. I am passionate about tutoring because I want everyone to be able to perform academically at their highest possible level. I also think it is important that learning is not just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SAT
- +53 subjects

Max: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...a Concentration in Chemical Principles. I am also minoring in Creative Writing. Throughout my schooling, I have thrived in all subjects. However, my favorites are Science and Writing/English. I find that the two have similar way in promoting creativity. Not surprisingly, I will be tutoring Physics, Chemistry and Writing. Additionally, I will be tutoring for ACT prep. I took the test officially three times and was successful each time and believe that I can share...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Current Undergrad, Physics with Concentration in Chemical Principles
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- College Physics
- Chemistry
- College Essays
- +18 subjects

Samantha: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their reading and writing skills, and I really enjoy helping students with Critical Reading and Writing portions of Standardized Tests. I love working with students and helping them realize their full academic potential. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, exploring Chicago, reading, and cooking.
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +36 subjects

Ben: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...the Phi Beta Kappa Academic Honors Society. Throughout my time in school I was a teaching assistant and grader for many economics classes where I tutored students in groups and one on one in both mathematic and theoretical concepts. I also have experience teaching musical lessons such as jazz bass, piano, and music theory to younger students. Experience in these different teaching environments has helped me cultivate a teaching style that identifies how to teach...
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- Advanced Placement
- SAT Subject Tests
- +52 subjects

Lee: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...truly love the city and envision staying here for a long time. As a tutor, I have had students ranging from sophomores in high school to adults transitioning into a new career. My Engineering curriculum at Northwestern was heavily centered around Math, Chemistry, Biology and Physics, so I can work with a student on more than one class at a time. I also have a lot of experience with test prep and love working with...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
- Northwestern University - Master of Science, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ASPIRE
- +41 subjects

Karishma: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...work best for them and that will serve them throughout school. I previously tutored with Boys Hope Girls Hope in Evanston, IL. I tutored middle and high school students in Spanish and English, and I was able to help them develop study strategies such as using flashcards or translating a sentence they had spoken aloud that day in their heads for extra language practice. I am very excited to be able to tutor again and...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor in Arts, English/Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- +58 subjects

Steve: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...in Biomolecular Engineering. I held a wide range of tutoring positions during my undergraduate experience including: an English Literacy tutor for grammar school students, an SAT Math instructor, and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) tutor for college students. I believe my strongest subject to tutor is Standardized Test Prep (SAT, ACT, and GRE). Performing well on these tests can truly bolster a student???s application for undergraduate or graduate education, and I truly enjoy...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelors, Chemical and Biomolecular
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- Organic Chemistry
- +24 subjects

Zach: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...University with a Bachelors in Music, and although I now sing and play flute around the Chicagoland area, I simply couldn't resist also enrolling at Columbia College Chicago to pursue studies in Acoustics. At Northern, I tutored various subjects for two years and grew to love the act of teaching and sharing knowledge. I especially enjoy working on test prep, mathematics and writing as these are, from my point of view, the essential skills towards...
Education & Certification
- Northern Illinois University - Unknown, Music Performance
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- Public Speaking
- ACT Math
- +36 subjects

Ruthie: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...teacher, who can adapt lessons to a range of ability levels and content areas, which contributes to the success my students have achieved on their state tests, ACT, and AP Biology exam. It is important to me that my students are engaged because from that engagement, we can build investment in the material and skills they need to learn. I like to incorporate labs, hands-on experience, competitions, games, videos, and compelling activities (for example, writing...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, Biological Basis of Behavior
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- High School Biology
- Test Prep
- +22 subjects

Luke: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...and writing (which was reflected in high TOEFL scores). I've got a knack for identifying an essay's strengths and weaknesses, and for giving specific feedback to make written ideas come to life. In addition, I have a passion for helping students improve their performance in ACT Reading, Writing, and Science. Whatever the subject, I thrive on leading students to moments of clarity and a sense of accomplishment. When I'm not tutoring, I enjoy exploring nature,...
Education & Certification
- Wheaton College (Illinois) - Bachelor in Arts, Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- TOEFL
- Biology
- Public Speaking
- +31 subjects

Katie: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...of Connecticut in 2013. I have spent the past six years in education: teaching English in Japan for two years, coordinating a mentor program for first year college students, working as an academic advisor, and teaching first year experience courses to new college students, focusing on topics like time management and study skills. I understand firsthand the importance of standardized tests as students make goals for their next level of education; I am happy to...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelor in Arts, American Studies, Gender Studies
- University of Connecticut - Master of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affaris
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- HSPT
- GED
- PSAT
- +40 subjects

Michael: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...at Washington University particularly interested in biotechnology. This past summer, I interned at Roche, a large multinational biotech firm, in San Francisco. I am originally from the Chicagoland area. I love to cook, play piano and run long distance. Survivor and Game of Thrones are my favorite TV shows, but I normally watch content on YouTube. Looking forward to getting to meet and work together to get you where you want to be!
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Economics
- +40 subjects

Sresht: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...of Illinois at Chicago in 2 years as part of the GPPA Medicine program, where I majored in Biological Sciences. I have also obtained a perfect score on the Psychology/Sociology section of the MCAT with a 97th percentile score overall. I am currently obtaining my MBA before going to medical school. I have been tutoring since high school and enjoy helping students by giving them a unique perspective on how to master comprehension and logical...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- AP English Literature and Composition
- Biostatistics
- Psychology
- +48 subjects

Jonathan: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...part of my schooling, I have a diverse background and wide spectrum of interests which helps me connect with students from all walks of life. I'm hard working, approachable, and committed to my craft. Developing my tutoring techniques over years, I continue to edit and alter my presentation of the material to best fit my student's individual learning style. In addition to my drive, experience, and personality, I will use my knowledge of mathematics to...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelors, Math
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Current Grad Student, Math
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Calculus
- 10th Grade Math
- Geometry
- +31 subjects

Davis: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...received his Undergraduate Degree in 2018 from Drake University, where he studied Finance and Economics, graduating with University Honors. After graduation, Davis worked as an Underwriter and as a Financial Analyst. While working he also received a Certification in Data Analysis and Visualization from the University of Minnesota. He has received an overall score in the 99th percentile on the GMAT. This includes a high score on the Quantitative section, a perfect score on the...
Education & Certification
- Drake University - Bachelor in Arts, Finance
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment
- GMAT
- +18 subjects

Jack: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
I'm a recent grad from Northwestern (B.A. in Theatre and Economics) who loves teaching and learning. I love helping other people achieve their goals and helping students find ways to be their best selves. Excited to meet and work with Chicagoland's students!... First sessions always start with discussion of a subject's foundations. If we nail these, the rest of the learning becomes ten times easier.... I'm big on listening. It's my job to hear what a client needs instead of jumping right into practice problems or revisions. First, we talk about goals. Then, we set up a timeline and steps for how to achieve those goals.
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Economics/Theatre
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Advanced Placement
- PSAT
- College Essays
- +67 subjects

Thomas: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...graduate who loves teaching and helping students learn. I have experience teaching English in Argentina, as well as experience as a teaching assistant for various subjects at the Summer Institute for the Gifted. Exploration drives much of what I do, and I believe that learning is a form of exploration - and I hope to share that mindset with my students. As a tutor, I will be very patient, understanding, and thoughtful in my approach.
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT English
- +45 subjects

Levente: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, I held a few roles in academia. I was a class assistant for Differential Equations for 3 semesters, where I organized and led study sessions, graded assignments, etc. At different points in my college career, I also worked as a mentor for Calculus 1-3 and a project manager for a higher level engineering course. Currently, I work as a derivatives trader in Chicago, so I'm constantly using and refining my knowledge of...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelor of Science, Industrial Engineering
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Algebra
- AP Calculus AB
- Algebra 3/4
- +30 subjects

Rachel: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...can learn anything as long as they have 1) the right mentality, and 2) a good teacher. I hope to be the latter. For test prep, I am eligible to tutor all the tests I myself have taken: SAT, ACT, GMAT, and GRE. Most of my tips will come from my own personal experience taking these tests or studying these subjects. I actually tutored a friend in GMAT prep this way, and he went from...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Economics
- University of Chicago Booth School of Business - Masters, MBA (Masters in Business Administration)
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- SAT
- GMAT Quantitative
- GRE Analytical Writing
- +32 subjects

Jamila: Chicago ACT test prep instructor
...as well as the confidence level and understand to tackle the most difficult of questions with ease. My favorite subject to tutor is writing. I find that a large portion of students struggle with feeling that they aren't very skilled at writing. I firmly believe that is untrue, and that everyone has their own unique style and skillset to bring to the table. My goal is to discover that style, and make sure they have...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelors, Theater Studies
Subject Expertise
- ACT
- Writing
- Middle School Reading
- ACT English
- +22 subjects