About PLAN

What is PLAN?
When should I take PLAN?
Why should I take PLAN?
What is covered on PLAN?

What is the PLAN?
As a "pre-ACT" test, PLAN is a powerful predictor of success on the ACT Assessment. At the same time, many schools recognize the importance of PLAN testing for all students, as it focuses attention on both career preparation and improving academic achievement. PLAN can help all students--those who are college-bound as well as those who are likely to enter the workforce directly after high school.

When should I take PLAN?
Typically, PLAN is administered in the fall of the sophomore year. There are no set testing dates. Beginning in Spring schools will receive order forms and can confirm their participation and order materials no later than August. The recommended dates for administering PLAN in the 2001-2002 school year are from September 22 through December 21, 2001. Testing can be done throughout the spring of 2002, though some important features (EOS and predicted ACT composite score range) are available only with fall testing.

Why should I take PLAN?
For students, PLAN can:

  • stimulate thinking and planning for life after high school
  • assess status of academic preparation for postsecondary education
  • support meaningful high school course selection for junior and senior years
  • relate personal characteristics to educational and career options
  • help focus test preparation to improve ACT scores
  • provide an estimated ACT Assessment Composite score

What is covered on PLAN?
The content of the PLAN test is closely tied to that of the achievement tests in the ACT Assessment, which is broadly used for college entrance and placement decisions. The 3-hour test covers the following areas:

  • English (50 items in 30 minutes)
  • Math (40 items in 40 minutes)
  • Reading (25 items in 20 minutes)
  • Science Reasoning (30 items in 25 minutes)
  • Other (65 minutes)
    • Needs Assessment collects information about students' perceived needs for help
    • High School Course Information gathers lists of courses completed or under way and planned for completion before graduation
    • UNIACT Interest Inventory helps students explore personally relevant career options
    • Educational Opportunity Service (EOS) provides relevant college and scholarship information at no cost to students based on their PLAN information

For additional information regarding PLAN testing, please contact your high school counselor or guidance office.


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