New policies unveiled this week by ACT and The College Board will reduce the fees low-income students encounter in the college admission process.
Starting in September, students who use a fee waiver to register for the ACT will be able to send up to 20 free score reports to the institutions of their choosing. Previously, ACT test-takers were allotted only five free reports, with each additional transmission costing $13.
Under the new College Board policy — which goes into effect next spring — low-income students who take the SAT will be able to send unlimited score reports to colleges. Previously, low-income SAT test-takers were allotted up to eight free score reports, with additional transmissions costing $12 each.
The ACT will soon begin offering a summer test date for college-bound students.
The Iowa-based testing company announced this week that its first summer test will take place in July 2018. The addition will bring the total number of ACT test dates offered each year from six to seven.
A new process will make it easier for students to receive accommodations on College Board exams.
Starting Jan. 1, students who are approved for testing accommodations through an Individualized Education Program or 504 Plan will automatically be cleared to have those same accommodations on College Board tests, including the SAT and Advanced Placement exams.
Officials say the move will reduce approval time and help students receive the support they need to do their best on the tests.
