The ACT is a standardized college admissions test measuring English, math, reading, and science reasoning skills, with homeschool students registering the same way as traditional students using the universal homeschool code.
What is ACT?
The ACT (originally American College Testing) serves as one of two major standardized tests for college admissions alongside the SAT. The test assesses readiness for college-level work across English, mathematics, reading, and science. An optional writing section allows students to demonstrate essay skills. For homeschooled students, ACT scores provide colleges with standardized data points to complement transcripts that lack external validation. Since homeschool grades come from parents, strong ACT scores offer third-party verification of academic preparation.
Key Takeaways
- Base test covers English, Math, Reading, and Science (Science becomes optional September 2025)
- Test fee: $68 without writing, $93 with writing section
- Homeschoolers register online using universal code 969-999
- Enhanced shorter format launches September 2025
- Offered seven times yearly at testing centers nationwide
Registration for Homeschoolers
Homeschool students register for the ACT exactly like everyone else—online through act.org. The only difference: when entering your high school code, use 969-999, the universal homeschool code that works in all states. This routes your scores directly to you rather than through a school. Create a free MyACT account to begin registration, select your test date and location, and complete payment. Register early for your preferred test center—popular locations fill quickly.
2025 Test Changes
Significant changes arrive in 2025. Starting September 2025, the enhanced ACT launches with a shorter format featuring fewer questions and reduced testing time. Most notably, the Science section becomes optional—students can choose whether to include it. The composite score calculation will adjust accordingly. Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) testing also launches, allowing students to test on personal laptops at participating centers. These changes apply to both online and paper testing formats.
Test Dates and Costs
Accommodations for Homeschoolers
Students with documented disabilities can request testing accommodations. Homeschoolers follow the same process as traditional students but may need additional documentation since you lack a school-based 504 plan or IEP. Start the accommodation request process well before registration deadlines—approval takes time. You'll need professional documentation of the disability and evidence of an accommodation history. ACT provides specific guidance for non-enrolled students through their accommodations portal.
Why ACT Scores Matter for Homeschoolers
Colleges reviewing homeschool applications face a validation challenge: how do they know your transcript reflects genuine learning? Standardized test scores provide one answer. A student whose homeschool transcript shows strong grades and whose ACT confirms those skills presents a coherent application. Some colleges actually require test scores from homeschooled applicants even when test-optional for traditional students. Even where not required, solid scores strengthen applications.
The Bottom Line
For homeschooled students pursuing college, the ACT offers a straightforward path to demonstrating academic readiness. Registration is simple, and the test itself assesses foundational skills your homeschool education should have developed. The upcoming 2025 changes make the test shorter and more flexible. Prepare seriously, register early, and treat your ACT score as one component of a compelling college application—not the whole story, but an important chapter.
