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The ACT changed for 2026–2027: shorter, optional Science, 22% more time per question.  Read our full ACT vs. SAT guide

ACT Test Prep

Raise Your ACT Score.
With a Plan Built for You.

ConnectPrep's expert ACT tutoring deconstructs every section so students know exactly what to do on test day. Our programs are personalized, expert-led, and built for real score improvements.

Get a Free Diagnostic Test How It Works
Our Proven Results
5–7
Average ACT point increase per student
99th
Percentile scores achieved by top students
97%
Of students admitted to their top 3 schools
12+
Years of expert tutoring and results
See All Our Results
Why ConnectPrep

What Makes Our ACT Tutoring Unique

Most test prep companies push credentials and guarantees. We do something different — we actually teach. Our method deconstructs and simplifies every ACT question. Students learn what is asked — and how to answer it fast. The results speak for themselves. See them here

Quick Answer

ConnectPrep is an expert ACT tutoring company serving students in Westport CT, Fairfield County, Westchester NY, and New Jersey, plus online nationwide. Students average a 5–7 point ACT score increase through personalized one-on-one sessions and small group prep. Programs begin with a free ACT diagnostic test.

We Teach — Not Just Review
Our instructors are educators first. Rather than offering passive content review, we build genuine understanding of what each ACT question asks. Indeed, that focus on real teaching is what sets us apart.
Personalized From Day One
Every student starts with a diagnostic exam. From there, we identify exactly where points are being lost. We then build a custom program around those gaps — never a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
Evidence-Based Methodology
We train students to find and use evidence within the test itself. Consequently, accuracy improves dramatically on Reading, English, and Science — the sections where most students lose points.
Real ACT Tests, Real Conditions
We use official, proctored ACT practice tests to build pacing and stamina. As a result, students walk in knowing exactly what to expect — and how to handle it.
One-on-One or Small Group
We offer private one-on-one tutoring and small online group sessions. Both options are fully tailored to your schedule and goals. In short, you simply choose what fits best.
Continuous Progress Tracking
We assess, track, and adjust throughout the entire program. As a result, students and parents always know exactly where the score stands — and what's driving improvement.
Our Process

How ConnectPrep ACT Prep Works

A structured, five-step program designed to maximize score gains — whether you have 12 weeks or less.

Available in-person in Westport CT, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Wilton, Westchester NY, and NJ — and online across all 50 states.

Diagnostic exam
Step 01
Free Diagnostic Exam
First, we determine whether the ACT or SAT is the better fit. We then pinpoint strengths, weaknesses, and the highest-impact areas to target.
Personalized plan
Step 02
Build Your Timeline
Next, we map a prep schedule around your target score, test dates, and commitments. Summer before junior year is ideal — though any timeline works.
Strategy instruction
Step 03
Learn the Strategies
We then teach ACT patterns, question structures, and answer elimination strategies. You choose between one-on-one or small group instruction.
Progress tracking
Step 04
Track & Adjust
After each phase, we administer full-length tests. We then review results with both students and parents. The plan is refined as needed.
Test day simulation
Step 05
Simulate. Perform. Score.
Finally, proctored full-length exams simulate real test conditions. Students build stamina, manage anxiety, and walk in confident.
Start With a Free Diagnostic ACT vs. SAT Comparison
Student Results

Top Percentile ACT Scores — Real Students

These are actual score reports from ConnectPrep students. In other words, the results speak for themselves.

ConnectPrep student ACT score result
ConnectPrep student ACT 99th percentile score
ConnectPrep student high ACT score
ConnectPrep student ACT improvement
28 → 33 (+5 pts)

"Jeremy crafted personalized ACT materials for exactly what I needed. With his help I raised my score from a 28 to a 33. Because of Jeremy, I am attending my dream university."

MB
Mahiya B.
ConnectPrep Student
26 → 32 (+6 pts)

"I came looking for ACT practice and received so much more — a study schedule, improved test-taking, and college guidance. I got into Purdue, Arizona State, Auburn, NC State, and Texas A&M."

DP
Dhimitri P.
Electrical Engineering Auburn University
32 → 35 (+3 pts)

"I was amazed at the time Jeremy spent getting to know my daughter's learning style. Her score went from 32 to 35. He helped us navigate college applications seamlessly — she got into Emory."

DM
Deepika M.
ConnectPrep Parent Emory University
29 → 34 (+5 pts)

"ConnectPrep's approach completely changed how I tackle the ACT. Jeremy doesn't just teach content — he teaches you how to think through every question. My score jumped from a 29 to a 34 in just 8 weeks."

SR
Sofia R.
ConnectPrep Student  ·  University of Michigan
See All Our Results Read All Reviews
Our Methodology

ConnectPrep's Innovative ACT Curriculum

Most ACT prep teaches students what to study. We teach them how to think. Our evidence-based curriculum replaces guesswork with precision — so when an unfamiliar question appears, students know exactly what to do.

01Methodology
Evidence-Based Strategy
We train students to find and use evidence on every section. This approach eliminates guessing. As a result, accuracy improves dramatically on Reading, English, and Science.
02Focus
Laser Focus Development
The ACT rewards sustained concentration. However, most students slip late in a section due to mental fatigue. For that reason, we build the deep attention that prevents those costly careless errors.
03Recognition
Pattern Recognition
The ACT reuses the same structures and traps repeatedly. Once trained, students spot them instantly — turning unfamiliar questions into solved ones.
04Execution
Adaptive Pacing
Speed without strategy is noise. We teach students when to commit, when to triage, and how to bank time early — so they finish every section with answers on every question.

Mental Skills & Mindset

04Mindset
Cognitive Flexibility
Different sections demand different thinking modes. Specifically, moving from Math to Reading requires a mental reset. We teach students to switch quickly — essential for maintaining pace across all four sections.
05Composure
Stress & Time Management
Test anxiety destroys scores. For this reason, we equip students with concrete tools to manage pressure. They then learn to pace intelligently and stay composed — even when the questions get hard.
06Growth
Mindset Shift
Most students approach the ACT defensively. We flip that mindset. Instead, we train students to attack strategically — from a position of confidence rather than anxiety.
07Ownership
Self-Assessment & Growth
After every session, students review their errors systematically. We teach them to diagnose exactly where they broke down — so every practice test makes them sharper.

The ConnectPrep Difference

  • Curriculum specifically designed to train new thinking patterns for ACT and SAT demands
  • Tutors trained in cognitive and educational psychology — not merely subject-matter experts
  • Programs customized to each student's cognitive style, pace, and target score
  • Both one-on-one private and small online group formats available
● See It In Action

How ConnectPrep Works Through ACT Questions

Three sections. One systematic method — applied every time.

✏️EnglishSubject–Verb Agreement
📝ACT Question Stimulus
ACT English · Passage I
The researchers, who studies migratory patterns of monarch butterflies, have published their findings in three separate, peer-reviewed, journals this year.
Which choice most effectively corrects the underlined portion?
ANO CHANGE
Bwho study
Cwho studied
Dwho is studying
Error
Correct form
Comma question
📋ConnectPrep 3-Step Attack
1
Identify the error type
The underlined verb is “studies.” The subject is “who,” referring back to plural “researchers.” Subject–verb mismatch.
2
Pre-phrase the fix
Plural subject needs plural verb. Commit before reading choices: the answer must use “study.”
3
Eliminate & confirm
A = NO CHANGE (wrong). C = past tense. D = singular. Only B “who study” fixes the error. Verify it reads cleanly in the full sentence.
✓ Answer: B
“who study” matches the plural antecedent “researchers.” The existing commas are already correct (non-restrictive clause) — no further changes needed.
∑MathAlgebra — Systems of Equations
📝ACT Question Stimulus
ACT Math · No Calculator
If 2x + 3y = 12 and x − y = 1, what is the value of x?
Work shown
Step 1 From eq. 2: x = y + 1
Step 2 Sub into eq. 1: 2(y+1) + 3y = 12
Step 3 5y + 2 = 12 → y = 2
Step 4 x = 2 + 1 = x = 3
A1
B2  (trap — value of y)
C3
D4
E5
📋ConnectPrep Math Method
1
Classify & choose a strategy
Two equations, two unknowns. Fastest method: substitution, because equation 2 already isolates x in one step. Never default to elimination before checking substitution.
2
Isolate, substitute, solve
Write x = y + 1. Plug into equation 1. Reduce to one variable — that’s always the goal of substitution. Solve for y first, then go back and solve for x.
3
Back-check in both equations
The #1 ACT Math trap is finding y and choosing that. Always re-read the question: it asks for x. Verify: 2(3)+3(2)=12 ✓ and 3−2=1 ✓.
✓ Answer: C (x = 3)
Both equations check out. The most common wrong answer is B (2) — students solve for y and stop. Always re-read the question before marking your answer.
📖ReadingMain Idea & Author’s Argument
📝ACT Question Stimulus
ACT Reading · Social Science
The rapid expansion of urban food deserts has intensified inequality in public health outcomes. While policy interventions have targeted supply-side factors, demand-side behavioral barriers remain largely unaddressed, limiting the effectiveness of existing programs.
The passage primarily argues that current food desert policy:
Fhas effectively reduced urban health disparities
Gshould focus entirely on eliminating supply barriers
His incomplete because behavioral barriers are unaddressed
Jhas no impact on public health inequality
Topic
Concession
Author’s point
📋ConnectPrep 3-Pass Reading Method
1
Pass 1 — Map the structure
Don’t read every word. Find the topic, the author’s position, and the shift. “While” = concession. What follows it is the author’s real argument.
2
Pass 2 — Pre-phrase the answer
The question asks for the primary argument. Commit before reading choices: “Policy is incomplete — ignores behavioral side.” Match that, don’t search for it.
3
Pass 3 — Eliminate by evidence
F contradicts the passage. G is too extreme (“entirely”). J overreaches (“no impact”). H is the only choice with direct textual support — last sentence proves it.
✓ Answer: H
One sentence from the passage proves H: “demand-side barriers remain...limiting the effectiveness.” That’s direct proof. Never pick an answer you can’t locate in the text.
Sign Up for a Free Diagnostic Test Common ACT Myths
Our Instructors

Meet a Few of Our All-Star Teachers

Our tutors aren't just experts in their subjects. More importantly, they're exceptional educators who build real confidence. In addition, they communicate strategies that stick — long after the session ends.

Chris Agnew - ACT and Test Prep Instructor at ConnectPrep
Chris A.
ACT & Test Prep Instructor
10+ years of experience across math, economics, and test prep (K-12, GRE, GMAT, ACT, SAT, SSAT, SHSAT, ISEE). Known for his engaging, stress-free teaching style and many five-star ratings. B.A. in Economics, Pitzer College.
Ashwi B - Science and ACT Instructor at ConnectPrep
Ashwi B.
Science & Biology Instructor
37 years of teaching across India, Jamaica, and the U.S., including the University of West Indies Medical School. Specializes in AP Biology, anatomy, and ACT Science. Celebrated for creating "wow moments" through interactive methods.
Matthew M - PhD Mathematics Instructor at ConnectPrep
Matthew M.
Mathematics Instructor
Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, University of East Anglia. Degrees from NYU and Columbia. Leads the math department at Northeastern University-London. 8+ years teaching math at every level including ACT/SAT prep.
Meet the Full Team Our Instructor Standards
2026–2027 ACT Format

The New ACT — What Your Student Will Face

The ACT changed significantly for 2026–2027: it's shorter, Science is now optional, and students get 22% more time per question. Here is the full breakdown — and specifically how ConnectPrep prepares for each section.

Sources: ACT.org official test format  ·  ConnectPrep ACT vs. SAT 2026–2027 guide

 New ACT Core Format
English35 min 50 questions
Mathematics50 min 45 questions
Reading40 min 36 questions
Science (optional)40 min 40 questions
Total Questions171 (down from 215)
Total Core Time~2 hours
Paper or Online?Both options available
Adaptive Format?No — fixed for all students
Score Scale1–36 composite
 What ConnectPrep Covers
EnglishGrammar, punctuation, rhetoric
MathAlgebra through pre-calc + strategies
ReadingPacing, evidence extraction, inference
ScienceData interpretation, experiments
Practice TestsFull-length, proctored
Target ScoreCustomized per student
Program Length12 weeks recommended
Format1-on-1 or small group
ACT vs. SAT?Full comparison
60-Second Decision Tool

Not Sure SAT Is Right for You?

Answer 5 quick questions. Every answer shifts your recommendation based on how you actually think and work.

QUESTION 1 OF 5
How do you typically handle written passages?
Common Questions

ACT Prep Questions, Answered

ACT students say

Real scores. Real results.

★★★★★
Google

“My daughter achieved a composite score of 33 on the ACT and was accepted to every university she applied to with generous merit scholarships. Jeremy’s personalized approach was invaluable in identifying her strengths and weaknesses.”

YG
Yvonne Gasperino
Verified Review
★★★★★
Google

“Jeremy is fantastic. He spends time getting to know your child and individualizes learning. With his help my daughter’s ACT increased from 32 to 35! She would not have been able to get to Emory without his guidance. He is personable and is like family now.”

DM
Deepika Misra
Verified Review
★★★★★
Thumbtack

“My ACT rose by more than 5 points due to Mr. Fine’s guidance. Mr. Fine’s expertise helped me get into schools such as Dartmouth, Rice, WashU, Vanderbilt, and more.”

KT
Komal T.
Verified Review
When should my student start ACT prep?
We recommend starting the summer before junior year. At that point, pressure is lower. That said, we work with any timeline. Contact us — we'll map out what is realistic.
How many sessions will my student need?
We recommend at least 12 weeks. However, the exact number depends on your student's starting score and target score. Our diagnostic tells us what is needed — before you commit to anything.
Should my student take the ACT or the SAT?
This depends on your student's strengths and test-taking style. Our free diagnostic helps determine the better fit. Additionally, you can review the official ACT website, read our ACT vs. SAT 2026–2027 guide, or visit our SAT/ACT comparison page.
Do you offer online ACT tutoring?
Yes — we offer both one-on-one online sessions and small online group sessions. Both formats use the full ConnectPrep curriculum. In fact, most students outside Connecticut work with us entirely online and see excellent results.

About the Test Sections

Should my student take the optional ACT Science section?
For most students, yes — especially those targeting STEM or top universities. Some colleges still weigh the Science score. Therefore, our instructors advise you based on your student's target schools.

Score Improvement & Results

What ACT score improvement can we realistically expect?
Our students average a 5–7 point increase. Furthermore, some improve much more — we've helped students go from 26 to 32, and 32 to 35. Results depend on time committed and how well students apply what they learn. Learn how ACT scores work
What are common myths about ACT prep?
Many students believe prep can't improve ACT scores much. Others think every question must be answered. Both are myths. Read our myth-busting guide before you start.
How We Work

In-Person and Online Tutoring

Both formats deliver the same expert instruction and personalized attention. In either case, simply pick what fits your schedule, location, and learning style.

In-Person

In-Person Tutoring

We come to you. Our instructors meet students at home or at a convenient location. There's no commute and no hassle — just focused, effective sessions.

  • Private 1:1 sessions at your home
  • Flexible scheduling 7 days a week
  • Same instructor every session for consistency
  • Full printed materials and practice tests provided
Check Availability
Online

Live 1:1 Online Tutoring

Live, interactive sessions run through our virtual platform. The instruction is just as personalized as in-person. Moreover, students can join from anywhere in the country.

  • Live video with shared whiteboard & annotation
  • Digital practice tests & real-time scoring
  • Session recordings sent after every class
  • Available nationwide — no geographic limit
  • Parent progress updates after every session
Book Online
From the ConnectPrep Blog

Expert Guides, Free for Every Family

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ACT vs. SAT 2026–2027: Which Test Should Your Student Take?

With the ACT's major 2026 changes, the comparison has shifted. Our full breakdown covers every difference — format, scoring, timing, and which test favors which students.

March 2026 12 min read Read More
K-12 Reading List Academic Prep
The Ultimate K–12 Reading List: Best Books by Grade Level

The ACT Reading section rewards students who read widely. Start building the habit early with our grade-by-grade list.

Feb 2026 Read More
50+ Free ACT & College Prep Guides

Practice questions, score guides, test-date calendars, and expert strategy — all free, all written by ConnectPrep instructors.

Browse All Guides

Your Best ACT Score Starts Here.

Begin with a free diagnostic test. We'll pinpoint exactly where your student stands, identify the highest-impact areas, and build a plan to reach your target score.

Get Your Free Diagnostic Test Explore SAT Prep Instead