Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of research supports the use of PLAN?
When should I administer PLAN?
PLAN can be administered anytime during the school year that is convenient for the school/district. PLAN 2011–12 answer folders must arrive at ACT by no later than June 15, 2012 in order to be scored. Norms are provided on the score report.
What should I consider when implementing PLAN?
- When and how you would administer PLAN
- What data you need for your school
- How you will share this information with students, parents, and teachers
- Will you share this information at school board meetings, back-to-school night, parent/teacher conferences, and other occasions?
What kind of test prep should students do for PLAN?
PLAN is a curriculum-based achievement test that assesses students in four core areas of their studies. As a result, the best test prep for a student is to take a rigorous curriculum and to understand the content and format of the test. Prior to test day, refer your students to the PLAN student website at for test prep information and distribute Why Take PLAN? (PDF; 2 pages, 143KB).
Are PLAN standards aligned to Common Core?
ACT college readiness standards are aligned to Common Core. Our longitudinal data and long-standing commitment to all students becoming college and career ready uniquely established ACT as a valuable partner in—and advocate for—the Common Core State Standards Initiative. ACT's College Readiness Standards, upon which PLAN is based, are aligned with the Common Core State Standards. ACT data were used to develop the Common Core State Standards, which reflect a shared goal of preparing students for credit-bearing college courses and for careers and are consistent with international standards that promote high student performance.
Who can access PLAN data, and what should we do when we receive the results?
Student reports are provided to students and families. District and school reports are available to principals and district administrators. Share and USE the data with these resources:
For School/District Faculty and Counselors
- Student Report (PDF; 2 pages, 655KB)
- Student List Report
- Profile Summary Report (PDF; 12 pages, 414KB)
- Guide for Interpreting Your PLAN Item Response Summary Report (PDF; 4 pages, 96KB)
- School electronic data file with school norms
- Interpretive Guide for Student and School Reports (PDF; 24 pages, 430KB)
For Parents and Students
- Using Your PLAN Results (PDF; 16 pages, 840KB)
- PLAN Interpretive PowerPoint Presentation (1,884KB)
Can PLAN data feed into my local student data system?
Yes. PLAN data files are currently delivered on a CD that can be easily uploaded to your local student data system.