The ACT changed in 2025. Preparation should match the test your student will sit.
The enhanced ACT is shorter than the old version, the science section is now optional, and the composite score comes from English, math and reading. Some students score noticeably higher on it than on the SAT. A diagnostic of each test shows which one plays to your student's strengths.
SAT or ACT? Decided with data
Your student takes a diagnostic of each. I compare the results and recommend one test, so no time is wasted preparing for both.
Pacing is the skill
The ACT rewards speed more than the SAT does. Timed practice teaches your student when to move on and how to protect easy points.
Math through trigonometry
ACT math reaches further than many students expect. We close the algebra, geometry and trigonometry gaps that cost the most points.
Parents kept informed
Written goals at the start, a practice test every fourth session and a written report within 48 hours.
Questions first. Then answers that last.
Wonder
Begin with a real question. Curiosity is the engine, so every topic starts with why it matters.
Probe
Find the exact gap. Diagnostic questions show where understanding breaks, not just which answers were wrong.
Build
Connect each idea to the last one. Students explain the reasoning in their own words before moving on.
Prove
Apply it under test conditions. Timed practice shows what has truly stuck, and sets the next lesson.
ACT Premium packages, the same price in person or online.
Tune-Up
For a student close to the target who needs focused work on pacing and a few weak areas.
Core
The full program for most students, with all seven study guides, an extra full practice test with a written report, and a 30-minute college-funding call.
Complete
For a large score gain or a student preparing for both the ACT and school exams. Includes everything in Core.
In person or online
In person in Fairfield County on Saturdays and Sundays, 9am to 12pm. Online on Google Meet any day, with the private link sent to the parent.
Diagnostics, practice tests and parent reports are included. No score is guaranteed; the No-Surprises Promise explains what is. A brother or sister of an enrolled student pays $120 an hour. Founding-family rates until 7 November: see the offers. Need financial flexibility? Apply privately for an Access Seat.
Kristen Amendola
I grew up in Connecticut, graduated from Hopkins School, and studied Economics and Mathematics at Columbia and mathematics at City College, where I was a student researcher. I am now at Harvard Extension School in computer science, moving to the joint master's in Data Science and AI.
I am a three-time Connecticut state foil champion, and I spent 17 years running New York restaurants, nine as an owner. Both taught me what I teach students: preparation beats nerves. My Connecticut Department of Education background check is on file.
ACT Tutoring in Fairfield County, CT and Online: the details
What changed on the ACT in 2025?
The enhanced ACT is shorter and has fewer questions, the science section is optional, and the composite score is based on English, math and reading. Students can still take science if a college asks for it, and it is reported as a separate score.
Should my student take the SAT or the ACT?
Colleges accept both equally. I give your student a diagnostic of each test and compare the results, then recommend the one that suits them. Many students score noticeably better on one.
How much does ACT tutoring cost?
ACT Premium packages are $1,300 for 10 hours, $2,600 for 20 hours and $3,600 for 30 hours, the same price in person or online. A brother or sister of an enrolled student pays $120 an hour. You receive an exact quote after the free consultation.
Where do in-person ACT lessons take place?
In Fairfield County on Saturdays and Sundays between 9am and 12pm, in towns on the Metro-North New Haven Line from Bridgeport to Greenwich, plus New Canaan, Weston, Easton and Redding, at your home or a local library. Online lessons are available anywhere in the US and Europe.
When should my student start ACT prep?
Most students start three to four months before their first test date, often in the winter or spring of junior year. Starting early leaves room for a second attempt.
How will I know it is working?
Every student begins with a diagnostic and written goals. A timed practice test every fourth session comes with a written report to you within 48 hours.
Other ways I teach
Choose a time that suits you
Twenty minutes, no obligation. The calendar shows every slot in your own time zone.
Calendar not showing? Open the booking page in a new tab, or email hello@upperhandtutoring.com to join the waitlist.
Already had your consultation? Enroll here.
Start with a free consultation.
Twenty minutes to talk through your student's test date, starting point and goal. No obligation.
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