Registration is now open for the Feb. 6, 2010, ACT achievement test. Students who wish to take the college admission and placement exam must register before Jan. 5.

The ACT is a curriculumbased achievement exam. It tests what students have actually learned in school, not their aptitude for learning. The ACT also measures what students need to know to be ready for entry-level college-credit courses based on ACT College Readiness Standards™. Every student’s results can be tied directly to these consistent standards.

The cost for the ACT test without writing is $32. When combined with the optional ACT Writing Test, the total cost is $47. Students who qualify may apply for a test fee waiver through their high school counselor.

The ACT website, www.actstudent.org, has helpful information, free sample items, and more.

Most students register online at www.actstudent.org. Students may also pick up registration forms from their high school counseling offices; these forms must be postmarked by January 5, 2010. Late registration is available until January 15, 2010 for an extra $21 fee.