ACT for Homeschool Students
Homeschooling gives you flexibility. The ACT helps you keep your options open for college, scholarships, and more. Whether you’re looking for how to register, where to test, or what to study, we’re here to help.
No Guidance Office? No Problem.
Homeschool students don’t always have access to a traditional school counselor, but that doesn’t mean you have to figure out college planning alone.
ACT is here to help you prepare, plan, and take the next step on your college journey. We’ve got you covered on everything from registering for the test, to getting familiar with your options, to finding the prep tools that fit your needs.
Explore the resources below and choose what’s most helpful for where you are now. We’re glad you found us.
A Major Step Toward College and Scholarships
The ACT helps homeschool students open doors to college, scholarships, and career pathways. It’s more than a test. It’s a trusted, curriculum-based measure of academic readiness that colleges across the country understand and respect.
Unlike other tests, the ACT gives equal weight to each section — so no single subject dominates your score. It's also the only test that lets you purchase your personal answer key after the test, helping you understand where you're excelling and what to work on next.
Even at test-optional schools, a strong ACT score can strengthen your application, help you qualify for merit aid, and make it easier to place into the right college courses without extra testing.
What Sets the ACT Apart
- Equally preferred by all universities, including the Ivy Leagues.
- Widely used to award scholarships and merit-based aid.
- Balanced scoring across more than just two subject areas.
- Detailed feedback to guide your learning and prep.
Registering for the ACT Is Simple — Here’s What to Know
You don’t need a counselor or school administrator to register for the ACT. Homeschool students can sign up directly by creating their own MyACT account and choosing the test date, location, and format that works best.
MyACT is your personalized ACT dashboard. It’s where you’ll register for the test, select your test center and format (paper or online), request accommodations, and later view your scores. You’ll also find free test prep resources and tools to help you explore colleges, majors, and career interests.
When you register, you’ll be asked for a high school code. Homeschoolers should use the universal code 969-999 so your results are sent directly to you.
If you need accommodations, you can request them as part of your registration. ACT has a process specifically for homeschooled or non-enrolled students — everything you need is explained clearly in our accommodations guide.
Quick Tips for Homeschool Registration
- Create your free MyACT account to begin.
- Use homeschool code 969-999 when prompted.
- Choose paper or online format based on what fits best.
- Review options for test center locations and accommodations.
- If you are eligible to test using a fee waiver, you should reach out to your local school to apply to receive the waiver. For additional assistance, contact ACT Customer Support.
Need accommodations? Check out our accommodations for homeschooled or non-enrolled students
Paper or Online — You Choose
Two Ways to Test, One Trusted Score
As a homeschool student, you can choose the test format that fits your preferences — whether that’s filling in bubbles by hand or working on a computer. No matter which you pick, your ACT score is the same widely accepted measure used by colleges across the country.
Some students feel more comfortable with paper-and-pencil testing. Others prefer the pace and tools available in the online format. The choice is yours.
Beginning in September 2025, students who test online or on paper will take the enhanced ACT: a shorter format with fewer questions, so you spend less time taking the test. You can also choose whether to include the science section.
Learn more about the ACT enhancements.
Feature |
Paper Format |
Online Format |
| Available Nationwide? | Yes | Yes (at select test centers) |
| Tools | Calculator, paper test booklet, scratch paper | Calculator, onscreen timer, annotation tools, scratch paper |
| Experience | Traditional format | Computer-based environment |
| Score Validity | Accepted everywhere | Accepted everywhere |
Note: Online testing requires access to a designated ACT test center that offers the online format.
Flexible Prep, Designed for the Way You Learn
Whether you're studying independently, with a parent, or using a structured curriculum, ACT offers prep tools that fit your pace and style.
Our resources are designed to help you get familiar with the test, build confidence, and focus your study time where it matters most. Getting started is free and you’ll find a wealth of additional resources in your free MyACT account.
Preparing for the ACT Booklet
A free PDF guide with test descriptions, sample questions, and strategies.
ACT Practice Tests and Prep Resources
Familiarize yourself with the ACT test format through sample questions and a full-length practice test.
ACT QuizMe Practice Quizzes
Challenge yourself with real practice test questions in English, math, reading, and science.
MyACT Dashboard
Access planning tools, register for the test, view scores, and find personalized prep options all in one place.
Test Day Tips
Navigate Your College Journey With Confidence
Embarking on the college planning process can feel overwhelming, but ACT offers a suite of resources tailored to guide you every step of the way. From organizing application materials to understanding financial aid, our tools are designed to simplify your journey.
Essential Planning Tools
College Planning Downloads
Access a collection of popular resources to help you organize and stay on top of your college applications and deadlines.
Applying to College Guide
Dive into comprehensive advice on crafting your applications, writing compelling essays, and making informed decisions about your future.
You’ve Got Questions — We’re Ready with Answers
Homeschool students often wonder how the ACT fits into their journey. Click on a question below to learn more.