The Ateneo College Entrance Test (ACET) is one of the requirements that could possibly determine your entry to Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU). Although your high school academic performance, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters are also big factors in the admission process, your ACET score will have a big weight on your chances too. That said, the biggest mistake you can make is to neglect the entrance exams and forget to prepare for it.
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To help you ease your worries, here are answers to six FAQs that you might have about the ACET:
- What is the coverage of the exam?
The number of questions and the topics covered in the ACET change every year, but generally, the test consists of multiple-choice questions about Mathematics, English, general knowledge, and abstract reasoning. Yes, you read that right: There is no exam for Filipino. There is, however, an essay segment at the end of the English proficiency exam for you to showcase your writing and reasoning skills.
- Who can I bring with me?
Good news, you can bring anyone! Of course, you and the other examinees will be the only ones allowed to enter the testing area. So, bringing some of your friends or family members to wish you good luck and give you a pat on the back would make the ACET more bearable for you. Do note though that companions can only go as far as the parking lot closest to the testing centers.
- What will I need to bring?
Bring your own pencils, erasers, and ballpens. You’ll also be allowed to bring calculators, while scratch papers will be provided. Bring extra supplies just in case!Â
Another thing you should triple-check in your bag before heading to the venue is the exam permit given to you upon registration. This will be your entry ticket to the testing area. No permit, no exam!
- Can I bring snacks?
Yes, you may! There will be a break during the ACET and it will be the only time to munch on your snacks. Since the ACET could be really draining—both mentally and physically—bringing food that will keep you awake or relaxed is recommended. You may bring your favorite childhood snacks or some sweets to keep you energized.
- Where is my test center?
Your test permit is not just a piece of paper. It's also where your testing venue is indicated, alongside the schedule of your exam. Usually, the Ateneo Junior High School and the Ateneo Grade School areas are the common venues used for facilitating the ACET. Find a map online and be guided accordingly! A pro-tip you may consider is to visit the campus a day before just to avoid getting lost. On the day of the test, make sure to be there 20 to 30 minutes early so you’d still have time to ease your mind and prepare yourself.
- What is the cut-off grade for admission?
For ACET, there is actually no cut-off grade for admission. Since the test results will be arranged into percentiles, your chances will also be dependent on the test performance of the whole batch of examinees. This is why your high school grades are still very crucial because it can effectively tip the odds in your favor.
- What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
It’s not the end of the world! If you get waitlisted, simply follow the instructions indicated in the email and wait for the final decision. But if you don’t get accepted, there is always the option to transfer to ADMU after spending a year in another school. At the end of the day, ADMU is just one among many other universities where you can get the quality education and unforgettable college life you are aspiring for.