Is ACT Tutoring Worth It for New York Families? A Practical Look at Scores, Costs, and Real Outcomes

If you are a parent in New York trying to help your child navigate the college admissions process, you have probably asked yourself a very specific question: What’s the difference between the SAT and ACT? With test-optional policies still in flux and competition for selective colleges as intense as ever, it is not an easy call.

This blog is written for families who want clear, realistic information. We will look at recent data, talk honestly about what tutoring can and cannot do, and then explore when ACT tutoring makes sense, especially for students in New York.

Why the ACT Still Matters in 2025

Although many colleges remain test-optional, standardized test scores still play an important role in admissions and scholarships.

According to ACT, more than 1.38 million students in the graduating class of 2025 took the ACT nationwide (source). Even with fewer test takers than a decade ago, colleges continue to use ACT scores to evaluate academic readiness, particularly in competitive programs.

In New York specifically, ACT participation has grown slightly since 2021, especially among students applying to out-of-state colleges in the Midwest and South, where the ACT is often preferred.

Recent ACT Score Data and What It Means

Let us start with the numbers, because they provide helpful context (source).

Average ACT Scores in Recent Years

Year	National Average ACT Score
2023	19.5
2024	19.4
2025	19.4

The downward trend is not because students are less capable. Educators point to learning loss from the pandemic, increased test anxiety, and less formal test prep in high schools.

This is where many families begin to consider tutoring.

What ACT Tutoring Actually Helps With

ACT tutoring is not magic, and it is not simply about memorizing tricks. High-quality tutoring focuses on a few core areas.

1. Understanding the Test Format

The ACT is fast-paced. Many students know the content but struggle with timing. Tutors help students learn when to move on and how to prioritize questions.

2. English and Reading Strategy

The English and reading sections reward clarity and precision. Students who read well but slowly often benefit the most from guided practice.

3. Math Confidence

ACT math covers a wide range, from pre-algebra to trigonometry. Tutoring helps identify gaps and rebuild confidence without overwhelming the student.

4. Science Reasoning

This section is more about data interpretation than scientific knowledge. Tutors teach students how to read charts efficiently and avoid common traps.

Does Tutoring Actually Improve ACT Scores?

This is the question most parents care about.

Several studies suggest that tutoring can lead to measurable gains when it is consistent and personalized.

Students receiving one-on-one or small-group test prep improved their standardized test scores by an average of 0.20 to 0.30 standard deviations. That roughly translates to a 2- to 4-point gain on the ACT for many students.

However, the same research also notes that results vary widely depending on tutor quality, student motivation, and starting score.

When ACT Tutoring Is Worth It

So, is ACT tutoring worth it for every student? Not necessarily. Here are situations where it often makes sense.

1. Students Close to Scholarship Cutoffs

Many merit scholarships are tied to ACT scores. A jump from a 27 to a 29 can unlock thousands of dollars per year.

2. Students With Strong GPA but Lower Test Scores

Colleges like to see consistency. Tutoring helps align test performance with classroom success.

3. Students Who Struggle With English or Reading Speed

This is especially relevant for students in rigorous New York school districts where writing and analysis expectations are high.

4. Students Who Want Structure Without Pressure

Some families prefer tutoring that does not involve long contracts or large upfront costs. This reduces stress for both parents and students.

When Tutoring May Not Be Necessary

There are also cases where tutoring might not be the best investment.

• Students applying only to fully test optional colleges

• Students applying only to fully test-optional schools

• Students seeking help primarily in non-ACT academic areas

Honest tutors will say this upfront.

How ACT Tutoring Fits Into Busy New York Family Schedules

One of the biggest concerns for families is not money but time. Between schoolwork, extracurriculars, and family commitments, ACT preparation has to fit realistically into a student’s life.

This is where modern tutoring models have evolved. Instead of rigid schedules or one-size-fits-all programs, many families now look for tutoring that adapts to the student’s pace and academic calendar. Flexible scheduling allows students to focus more intensively before test dates and ease back during demanding school weeks.

For students in Albany, New York City, and surrounding areas, this adaptability often determines whether tutoring actually leads to progress or becomes another source of stress.

Online Tutoring and the Regional Advantage

For families across New York and New Jersey, online tutoring has moved from being a backup option to a preferred choice.

A survey found that parents favor online tutoring for standardized test preparation (source). The most cited reasons were scheduling flexibility, reduced travel time, and access to more experienced educators regardless of location.

Online tutoring works especially well for ACT prep because sessions can focus on timed practice, screen-based passages, and digital tools that closely resemble the actual testing experience. Students also tend to feel more comfortable asking questions in a familiar environment, which leads to more productive sessions.

What matters most is not whether tutoring happens online or in person, but whether instruction is personalized and responsive to the student’s needs.

What to Look for in an ACT Tutor

Not all ACT tutors deliver the same results. Parents should look beyond generic claims and focus on qualifications and teaching approach.

Key Qualities That Matter

Quality	Why It Matters
Individualized Curriculum	Students improve faster when lessons target specific gaps
Strong English and Writing Background	English and Reading sections heavily influence composite scores
Long-Term Teaching Experience	Experienced educators recognize test patterns and student behaviors
Clear Communication With Parents	Regular feedback keeps everyone aligned
Flexible, No-Pressure Structure	Students stay engaged without feeling locked in

Tutors with deep experience in English literature and writing instruction often provide an added advantage. Since the ACT emphasizes clarity, structure, and reading comprehension, students frequently see gains that extend beyond the test itself and into their schoolwork.

Why Families Trust Dr. Elizabeth Breau for ACT Preparation

Dr. Elizabeth Breau is a seasoned educator based in Albany, New York, with over 10 years of teaching experience. Holding a Ph.D. in English literature and recognized with awards for excellence in writing instruction, she specializes in helping students strengthen the skills that matter most for the ACT, especially reading, writing, and comprehension.

Her approach is fully individualized, focusing on each student’s needs rather than a fixed program. Dr. Breau works closely with both students and parents, offering clear guidance and flexible support without long-term commitments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should a student start ACT preparation?

Many students benefit from beginning ACT preparation in the spring or summer before junior year. Starting early allows time to build skills gradually without added pressure during the school year.

2. How many times can a student take the ACT?

Students are allowed to take the ACT up to 12 times. Most colleges allow students to choose which scores to submit, making retesting a common and strategic option.

3. Is the ACT harder than the SAT?

Neither exam is harder overall. The ACT is faster paced and includes a science section, while the SAT places more emphasis on evidence-based reading and reasoning.

Final Thoughts

So, is ACT tutoring worth it? For many families, the answer becomes clear when students gain confidence, sharpen their reading and writing skills, and feel more prepared on test day. With the right guidance, ACT prep can support both college goals and long-term academic growth.

Dr. Elizabeth Breau brings decades of teaching experience, individualized instruction, and a calm, supportive approach that helps students do their best without pressure.

Parents who want thoughtful, flexible ACT support are encouraged to explore working with Dr. Breau and take the next step toward college readiness.