ACT Prep
Mini-Courses ACT Preparation Class prepares 11th-12th graders for the official ACT test. Students gain direct instruction in the math, reading, English, and science reasoning as well as the writing section of the ACT test. Class instruction also covers test taking strategies so students become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter and learn a variety of strategies to answer those questions. Students participate in an unofficial pre- and post-test experience that familiarizes them with the ACT testing process.
Program Dates
Spring 2026
| Dates | Type | Time |
|---|---|---|
| January 10, 2026 | Pre-Test | 8:00 am – 11:30 am |
| January 17, 24, 31, February 7, 14, 2026 | Classes | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm |
| February 21, 2026 | Post-Test | 8:00 am – 11:30 am |
Information Session will be held online – January, 20th at 6:00 pm
Eligibility
Students must have a core GPA of 2.5 to be eligible for this class and must be in grades 11-12.
How to determine Your Core Grade Point Average (GPA)
Core classes are only used to determine the applicant’s core grade point average. Those classes include variations of reading, math, English, science, social studies and foreign languages. This does not include classes such as music, art, physical education, computers, etc. If you have any questions regarding your core GPA for eligibility (core GPA required for the ACT Preparation Class is 2.5), please call our office at 414-229-6236.
Students eligible for free or reduced lunch may apply for the DPI Precollege Scholarship that is included in the ACT Preparation Class brochure/application. You may receive a maximum of three DPI Precollege Scholarships per year.
Registration
We encourage you to use the online form for the quickest response. However, you’re also welcome to contact the Mini-Courses Program.
Spring 2026 session has reached full enrollment. We are no longer accepting registrations for the waitlist.
Policies & Fees
Cost
The cost for the Fall and Spring ACT Preparation Class is $210.
Scholarships
DPI Precollege Scholarships are available for students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch. The DPI Precollege Scholarship is included in the application. Students may receive a maximum of three DPI Precollege Scholarships per year.
Payments
Mini-Courses can only accept payments of cash or check/money order (made payable to UW-Milwaukee Mini-Course Program) by mail. Credit card/over the phone payments are not available. If you prefer to make payment in person, please contact Mini-Courses Staff.
Payment Address
UWM Mini-Courses
P.O. Box 413
Milwaukee, WI 53201
FAQ
If I’m registered for the ACT Preparation Class am I also registered for the official ACT test?
No. Registering for the ACT Preparation Class only enrolls you in the seven Saturday preparation course. To register for the official ACT test, please go to www.actstudent.org or see your school counselor.
Is the Writing test offered in the ACT Preparation Class?
No. The Writing Test is not a component of the ACT Preparation Class. However, the Writing Test is briefly covered in the Reading component of the class. We do provide extensive handouts and materials on the Writing test and are available to answer any questions students may have about the Writing Test.
What are the core classes that are factored into the Grade Point Average?
Core classes are only used to determine the applicant’s core grade point average. Those classes include variations of reading, math, English, science, social studies and foreign languages. This does not include classes such as music, art, physical education, computers, etc. If you have any questions regarding your core GPA for eligibility (core GPA required for the ACT Preparation Class is 2.5), please call our office at 414-229-6236.
Can I take the class more than one time?
Students who have already attended the ACT Preparation Class are not eligible to take the ACT Preparation Class a second time. If there is a medical or emergency situation involved, please contact the Program Coordinator of Mini-Courses at 414-229-6236 to discuss this circumstance.
Will my child’s score increase by taking this class?
Mini-Courses does not guarantee a student’s score will increase. Past statistics have shown that at least 75% of the students that take the pre- and post-test increase their score. When taking a standardized test, it is likely there will be a marginal variation in scores. Individual test scores have the ability to be hampered by the potential of “noise” that each student may experience or encounter during the ACT Post-test. Examples of “noise” could be a lack of sleep, emotional distress, lack of effort, anxiety, or any other situation, which would affect the student’s test taking ability.
If I sign up for the ACT Preparation Class, do I also need to sign up for the ACT Test Taking Experience?
No. Students who are registered for the ACT Preparation Class DO NOT need to apply for the ACT Test Taking Experience. The unofficial pre-test and post-test experiences are included in the ACT Preparation Class.