ACT prep course
Course Overview
IvyMax’s ACT prep course is fully updated for the 2026 Enhanced Format. The program consists of 10 structured sessions, taught by expert instructors who understand the shift from “speed” to “precision.”
The curriculum is divided into English/Reading and Math/Science tracks. We focus on mastering the core academic skills for the new shorter test, while providing targeted Science Strategy for students aiming for STEM majors who choose to take the optional section. All practice exams simulate the new timing conditions.
Our English and Reading prep shifts the focus from “speed reading” to precision and deep analysis. With ~22% more time per question in the new format, we teach students how to slow down and eliminate careless errors. This track covers:
Advanced Grammar & Punctuation: Mastering rules for the 50-question format.
Rhetorical Strategy: Analyzing tone, flow, and logical transitions.
Deep Reading Comprehension: Identifying subtle details in literary and informational texts.
Error Elimination: Strategies to spot “trap” answers that look right but aren’t.
English & Reading
IvyMax’s Math and Science prep prioritizes content mastery over shortcuts. Since the ACT provides no formula sheet, we drill essential geometry and trig concepts. For Science, we help students decide if they should take it and how to ace it for STEM applications. This track covers:
Essential Math Formulas: Memorizing Geometry and Trigonometry rules (No reference sheet provided!).
4-Choice Strategy: Leveraging the new A/B/C/D format to increase guessing accuracy.
Calculator Proficiency: Optimizing use for complex Algebra.
Science (Optional Module): Data interpretation strategies for Engineering/Pre-Med applicants.
Math & Science
At IvyMax’s physical centers, students complete full-length ACT mock exams using the new 2026 Enhanced Format. Whether you are taking the Digital ACT or the traditional Paper version, our simulations mirror the exact timing, transition breaks, and proctoring guidelines you will face on test day. This is the only way to build the “mental endurance” required for the new 2-hour exam.
- Simulate the New Duration: Practice with the updated ~2-hour timeline (shorter than the old 3-hour test).
Customizable Structure: Choose to take the Core Exam (English/Math/Reading) or add the Optional Science Section to match your real test registration.
Format Flexibility: Practice on Paper (bubble sheets) or Digital (computer-based) depending on your testing preference.
Detailed Score Reports: Receive a breakdown of accuracy vs. speed to identify careless errors.
📍Available at IvyMax centers in: Arcadia, Cupertino, Fremont, Pleasanton, Irvine, and San Diego
In-Center: Realistic ACT Mock Exams
IvyMax ACT students improve by 5–8 points on average
Why IvyMax ACT Prep Course?
Customized Instruction by Subject
Our program features expert-led instruction in the three core sections (English, Math, Reading) with specialized modules for the optional Science section. This ensures students maximize their Composite Score while customizing their prep based on their intended major (STEM vs. Humanities).
Score-Backed Curriculum
Students typically see noticeable score improvements thanks to our curriculum fully updated for the 2026 Enhanced ACT. We use data analytics to track performance based on the new question counts (50/45/36), ensuring your study plan aligns with the latest scoring algorithms.
Real ACT Practice Tests
Students practice using full-length 2026-format simulations (Digital or Paper). Instead of just drilling for speed, our mock exams teach students how to utilize the extra time per question to double-check work and achieve the precision required for top scores.
Small-Group Focus
Taught in small, interactive groups, allowing instructors to give individualized attention. We help each student develop a personalized testing strategy—including whether to take the optional Science section—and identify specific content gaps to fix before test day.
ACT Prep Course Timeline
| Grade Level | Best Action |
|---|---|
| 10th Grade | Take a baseline 2026-Format Diagnostic to gauge strengths. Crucial: Avoid using old 3-hour practice tests, as they will provide inaccurate pacing data for the new shorter exam. |
| 11th Grade (Fall) | Begin foundational prep. Decision Point: Decide early whether to prepare for the Optional Science Section based on your intended major (STEM vs. Humanities). |
| 11th Grade (Spring) | Target the February or April exams as your first official attempt. Focus on "precision" over speed. Plan for a June retake to maximize Superscoring opportunities. |
| 12th Grade | Final Sprint. If your score is plateauing, analyze your "Error Log" to fix specific content gaps. Target the September test date to meet Early Action/Early Decision deadlines. |
A 17 is below the national average (which is ~19–21) and may limit your college options. However, with the new shorter 2026 format, many students find it easier to stay focused. IvyMax students typically improve by 5–8 points after mastering the new pacing strategies, opening doors to top-tier universities.
Yes. Since the new ACT is shorter (~2 hours), you don’t need months of “marathon training” for endurance. A focused 8-week plan is perfect for mastering the new question counts (50 English / 45 Math / 36 Reading) and memorizing the required math formulas.
It depends on your brain type. In 2026, both tests are roughly 2 hours long, so the “speed gap” is gone.
Choose ACT if: You prefer a linear test (difficulty doesn’t change as you go), you are strong in Geometry, and you want the option to use Paper & Pencil.
Choose Digital SAT if: You prefer Algebra, want to use the built-in Desmos calculator, and don’t mind an adaptive format where modules get harder.
The 2026 Enhanced ACT consists of three required sections—English, Math, and Reading—and one optional Science section.
Major Changes:
More Time: You now have ~22% more time per question, reducing the “rush.”
Math: Questions now have only 4 answer choices (A-D).
Science: It is now optional and not included in your main Composite Score.
For a detailed breakdown of the ACT exam format, section timing, scoring system, 2026–2027 test dates, and prep tips:
👉 Check out our Ultimate Guide to the ACT Exam (2025–2026)
常见问题解答
学生及家长感言
Eaton C.
10th Grade
“I started with a 24 and really struggled with timing, especially on the Reading section. IvyMax helped me understand how to approach each passage and manage my pace. I ended up scoring a 32 on my second test.”
Brian O.
11th Grade
“I liked that the ACT classes split English/Reading and Math/Science. It made it easier to focus on one thing at a time. The strategies for Science were super useful—I went from guessing to actually understanding the graphs.”
Ember Q.
11th Grade
“The mock exams were very realistic. I was able to see my mistakes under pressure and fix them before the real test. The score reports and review helped me jump from a 28 to a 34.”
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