If you've registered for the ACT, you may have noticed that you'll need to enter a school code. But what code do you put if you're homeschooled? How can you make sure your scores get to you? We answer your questions in this guide!
What Is the ACT Homeschool Code?
The universal ACT Homeschool Code is 969-999. This code is applicable anywhere in the USA, and it's what you'll use when asked to provide a school code.
When you use this ACT homeschool code, it means that your score results will be sent directly to your home. You will have already provided your address in a different part of the registration process, and ACT will use that information to know where to send your scores.
Why Does the ACT Ask for School Codes?
There are two reasons why students are asked to provide a school code when they register for the ACT. The first is so their school can see how well they and other students are doing on standardized tests.
The second reason is that ACT uses this information itself to collect data on how well different groups of students do on the exam. This can include comparing scores of students within one local area, comparing scores of students in different states, and comparing scores of students in public schools vs home schools. Homeschooled students, on average, score higher on the SAT and the ACT than their public school counterparts.
When Should You Use Your Local High School's Code?
If you want to, you can use the local high school's code instead of a homeschool code, as long as you have permission from the high school. This could be a good option if you plan on attending the high school later on and want them to already have your ACT scores, or if you need to provide them your ACT scores to participate in their extracurriculars.
Conversely, this could mean less privacy for you, since the high school officials would then be able to view your ACT scores. If that bothers you, then it might be better to use the ACT homeschooler's code and send your scores directly to your residence.
Other Resources for Homeschoolers Taking the ACT
Need more information on registering for the ACT? We have a complete guide on how to register for the ACT as a homeschool student.
Are you wondering when you should sign up to take the ACT for the first time? This guide describes the most important considerations to help you choose the best test date for you.
What's a good ACT score for college? Check out our step-by-step guide to figure out your target score.
Want to improve your ACT score by 4+ points? Download our free guide to the top 5 strategies you need in your prep to improve your ACT score dramatically.
Have friends who also need help with test prep? Share this article!
Anna graduated from MIT where she honed her research interests in Earth Science and Social/Political Science. She has years of tutoring experience, loves watching students learn and grow, and strongly believes that education is the cornerstone of our society. She is passionate about science, books, and non-profit work.
Holly R.