Question 1

What is the ACET passing percentile for competitive Ateneo programs?

Accepted Answer

ACET percentile requirements vary by program at Ateneo de Manila University. Highly competitive programs like BS Management Engineering, BS Applied Mathematics-Computer Science, AB/BS Economics (Honors), and BS Management (Honors) typically require 99th percentile (top 1%) along with GPA ≥95%, strong interview performance, leadership experience, and excellent essays. Competitive programs like BS Computer Science, BS Electronics Engineering, BS Management, BS Economics, BS Legal Management, and BS Applied Mathematics require 95-98th percentile (top 5%) with GPA ≥92% and good interview performance. Most ADMU undergraduate programs like BS Biology, BS Chemistry, BS Mathematics, and AB programs accept 85-94th percentile (top 15%) with GPA ≥88%. Ateneo evaluates applications holistically: ACET (40-50%), high school GPA (30-35%), interview (15-20%), essays, extracurricular activities, and leadership.

Question 2

How many items are in the ACET and what is the time limit?

Accepted Answer

The ACET consists of approximately 200-240 items across 4 parts: Part I Language Proficiency (50-60 items in 35-40 minutes), Part II Mathematics (50-60 items in 40-45 minutes), Part III Abstract Reasoning (40-50 items in 30-35 minutes), and Part IV Reading Comprehension (50-60 items in 35-40 minutes). The total exam time is typically 140-160 minutes (2.5-3 hours), averaging 40-45 seconds per item. Strategic time management is critical - practice timed mock exams to build speed and accuracy. ACET format may vary yearly, so check the official Ateneo admissions website for the latest structure. Allocate time proportionally: answer easy questions first (30 sec/item), complex questions later (60-90 sec/item), and reserve 5-10 minutes for reviewing flagged items and checking answer sheet alignment.

Question 3

What academic vocabulary should I study for ACET Language Proficiency?

Accepted Answer

Essential academic vocabulary for ACET includes SAT/GRE-level words like: Eloquent (fluent or persuasive in speaking; synonyms: articulate, fluent), Prudent (acting with care and thought for the future; synonyms: cautious, judicious), Ambiguous (open to more than one interpretation; synonyms: equivocal, vague), Tenacious (persistent in maintaining position; synonyms: persistent, resolute), Candid (truthful and straightforward; synonyms: frank, forthright), Benevolent (well-meaning and kindly; synonyms: kind, charitable), Placate (make someone less angry; synonyms: appease, pacify), Vindicate (clear of blame or suspicion; synonyms: exonerate, absolve), Ubiquitous (present everywhere; synonyms: omnipresent, pervasive), and Meticulous (showing great attention to detail; synonyms: scrupulous, thorough). Learn 150 advanced words per week using the root-prefix-suffix method. Focus on Latin & Greek roots (e.g., bene- = good, mal- = bad, -ology = study of). Use Quizlet or Anki flashcards with spaced repetition (review after 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days). Practice using new words in sentences daily to master context and usage.

Question 4

What is the best 5-month preparation timeline for ACET?

Accepted Answer

Month 1: Build Language Proficiency & Mathematics Foundations - memorize 150 vocabulary words/week using Latin/Greek roots, review grammar rules (subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, modifiers), algebra fundamentals (linear & quadratic equations), geometry basics (area, perimeter, volume formulas), diagnostic tests to identify weak areas (20-25 hrs/week, 3-4 hrs/day). Month 2: Develop Abstract Reasoning & Reading Comprehension - pattern recognition drills (number/shape sequences), series completion practice (50 items/week), figure analogies, spatial relations exercises, read diverse texts (literary, scientific, argumentative), main idea identification, inference practice, vocabulary in context training (25-30 hrs/week, 4-5 hrs/day). Month 3: Master Advanced Mathematics & Critical Reading Integration - trigonometry mastery (SOH-CAH-TOA, unit circle, special angles), word problems (age, work, mixture, distance-rate-time), number theory (primes, divisibility), author's purpose & tone analysis, supporting details identification, critical analysis of argumentative texts, mixed practice sets combining all 4 areas (30-35 hrs/week, 5-6 hrs/day). Month 4: Full-Length Mock Exams & Weak Area Intensification - take complete ACET simulations weekly (minimum 4 full tests), time management drills (30-40 sec/item target), review all mistakes thoroughly with detailed explanations, intensive review of consistently weak areas, speed drills for abstract reasoning (35-40 hrs/week, 6-7 hrs/day). Month 5: Final Review & Test-Taking Optimization - daily full-length mock exams (6-8 total), master time allocation per part (Language 35 min, Math 40 min, Abstract 30 min, Reading 35 min), develop personal test-taking strategies, mental preparation techniques, stress management exercises, final vocabulary review (master 500-750 academic words), review only high-level concepts in final week (40-45 hrs/week, 7-8 hrs/day, taper in final week).

Question 5

How should I prepare for ACET Abstract Reasoning and Reading Comprehension?

Accepted Answer

For Abstract Reasoning: Practice pattern types (number sequences - arithmetic, geometric, Fibonacci; shape sequences - rotation, reflection, size change; alternating patterns). Master series completion rules: add/subtract constant (e.g., 2, 5, 8, 11 → add 3), multiply/divide (e.g., 3, 6, 12, 24 → ×2), square/cube patterns (e.g., 1, 4, 9, 16 → n²). Practice 50 series items weekly. Study figure analogies (A:B :: C:? relationships) looking for transformations: rotation (90°, 180°), reflection (horizontal, vertical), shading changes, size changes. Practice Ravens Progressive Matrices (20 items/week). Develop mental rotation ability (visualize objects rotating in 3D space) using paper folding, cube nets, mirror images. Use IQ test apps (Mensa Brain Training, Peak, Elevate) daily (30 min). For Reading Comprehension: Practice finding central theme in first/last paragraph. Read diverse texts daily: news articles (Inquirer, Rappler), scientific articles (Scientific American), literary essays (The Atlantic, New Yorker). Practice identifying specific facts, examples, statistics that support main idea. Learn to draw logical conclusions from stated facts. Identify author's purpose (inform, persuade, entertain, criticize) and tone (objective/neutral, critical/disapproving, enthusiastic/positive, ironic/sarcastic). Practice with editorial articles & opinion pieces. Use context clues (surrounding words, sentence structure) to determine word meaning. Practice identifying author's assumptions, biases, and underlying arguments. Recognize logical fallacies (ad hominem, slippery slope, false dichotomy).

Question 6

What review centers and study materials are recommended for ACET preparation?

Accepted Answer

Recommended review centers: Review Masters (comprehensive ACET review, mock exams, ₱10,000-₱15,000), AHEAD Tutorial & Review (small class sizes, personalized coaching, ₱12,000-₱18,000), MSA Review Center (proven track record, extensive question banks, ₱8,000-₱12,000), and Brainbox PH (flexible online ACET review, ₱4,000-₱6,000). Recommended books: Barron's GRE Verbal Workbook (vocabulary & analogies), Elements of Style by Strunk & White (grammar), Saxon Math (Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry), Barron's SAT Math Workbook, Schaum's Outline Series, IQ & Aptitude Tests by How2Become, Ravens Progressive Matrices Practice Tests, The Best American Essays series. Free online resources: Khan Academy (math & reading comprehension videos with practice exercises at khanacademy.org), Quizlet (ACET vocabulary flashcards created by previous test-takers), IXL Math (comprehensive math practice aligned with curriculum at ixl.com), Lumosity/Peak (brain training apps for abstract reasoning, pattern recognition, mental agility), and Pinoy Reviewer (free ACET practice questions with detailed explanations at pinoyreviewer.com/review/acet). Read quality newspapers and magazines: Scientific American, The Atlantic, New Yorker for reading comprehension practice.

Question 7

What are the best test day strategies for ACET success?

Accepted Answer

Day before ACET: Review only high-level concepts (avoid cramming new material), prepare exam essentials (school ID + 1 valid gov't ID, pencils 2B, eraser, sharpener, ACET permit, non-smartwatch), get 8 hours of quality sleep, eat balanced dinner with protein & complex carbs, plan route to Ateneo Quezon City campus (arrive 45-60 minutes early). Morning of exam: Eat nutritious breakfast (oatmeal, eggs, fruits - avoid heavy/greasy food), arrive at test center 45-60 minutes early to acclimate, use bathroom before exam starts, do light physical activity (stretching, walking increases alertness), practice deep breathing (4-7-8 technique: inhale 4 sec, hold 7 sec, exhale 8 sec), visualize success & positive self-talk ("I am prepared and capable"). During ACET: Read instructions carefully for each part, answer easy questions first (build confidence & secure points), mark difficult items with asterisk (*) to revisit later, use process of elimination (cross out obviously wrong answers - increases guessing accuracy from 25% to 33-50%), don't spend >60-90 seconds on any single question (if stuck, make educated guess & move on), manage time per part proportionally (check watch every 15-20 minutes, adjust pace if behind/ahead), trust your first instinct for abstract reasoning & vocabulary questions (research shows first instinct is correct 60-70% of time), stay calm if others finish early (use all allocated time, don't rush), check answer sheet alignment every 10-15 items (ensure question number matches answer sheet number to prevent costly errors), if time permits (final 5-10 min) review flagged questions, check for careless errors, verify calculations, stay hydrated & maintain focus (take 10-second mental breaks between parts - close eyes, deep breath).

Question 8

What mathematics topics are most important for ACET Part II?

Accepted Answer

Critical math topics for ACET include: Algebra Fundamentals (linear equations - solving for x, quadratic equations - factoring & quadratic formula, systems of equations - substitution & elimination, inequalities, functions & relations - practice 20 problems daily), Geometry & Mensuration (memorize all area/perimeter/volume formulas: rectangles, triangles, circles, cylinders, cones, spheres, pyramids; master Pythagorean theorem, triangle properties - sum of angles = 180°, circle theorems - inscribed angles, tangent-radius perpendicularity), Trigonometry (master SOH-CAH-TOA: sine = opposite/hypotenuse, cosine = adjacent/hypotenuse, tangent = opposite/adjacent; memorize unit circle values for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°; practice angle of elevation/depression problems), Word Problems (develop systematic approach: 1. Read carefully, 2. Identify unknowns, 3. Set up equation, 4. Solve, 5. Check answer; practice age problems, work problems, mixture problems, distance-rate-time problems - 15 problems/week), and Number Theory (understand prime numbers, divisibility rules for 2, 3, 5, 9, 10; GCD/LCM calculations, even/odd properties; practice mental math techniques: squaring numbers ending in 5 - e.g., 35² = 3×4×100 + 25 = 1225, multiplying by 11 - e.g., 23×11 = 253). Use Khan Academy Math, Saxon Math (Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry), Barron's SAT Math Workbook, IXL Math Practice, and Schaum's Outline Series for comprehensive preparation. Target 85%+ accuracy through daily practice (2 hours math practice when mind is fresh).

Question 9

How does ACET differ from other college entrance tests like USTET and UPCAT?

Accepted Answer

ACET (Ateneo College Entrance Test) differs from USTET and UPCAT in several key ways: Test Structure - ACET has 4 parts (Language Proficiency, Mathematics, Abstract Reasoning, Reading Comprehension) with ~200-240 items, while USTET has 5 parts (adds Science and Mental Ability) with ~250 items, and UPCAT has 4 subtests (Language Proficiency, Science, Math, Reading Comprehension) with ~240 items. Difficulty Level - ACET is considered highly competitive with emphasis on advanced vocabulary (SAT/GRE-level) and critical reading skills, requiring strong analytical abilities. USTET emphasizes broader academic coverage including natural sciences, while UPCAT focuses more on problem-solving and practical application. Scoring System - ACET uses percentile-based scoring (competitive programs require 95th-99th percentile), USTET also uses percentile ranking (top programs need 90th-99th percentile), while UPCAT uses University Predicted Grade (UPG) with passing grade varying by campus and program (Diliman most competitive at ≤2.5 UPG). Time Pressure - ACET averages 40-45 seconds per item (total 2.5-3 hours), USTET averages 43-50 seconds per item (total 2.5-3 hours), while UPCAT has tighter time constraints averaging 36-40 seconds per item. Preparation Strategy - ACET requires extensive vocabulary building (150 words/week), advanced grammar mastery, and critical reading practice with literary/academic texts. USTET requires broader science review (biology, chemistry, physics) plus abstract reasoning drills. UPCAT emphasizes speed, accuracy, and practical problem-solving across all subjects. All three exams are highly competitive and require 4-6 months of dedicated preparation.

Month	Focus Areas	Key Activities & Milestones	Weekly Study Hours
Month 1	Language Proficiency & Mathematics Foundations	Build core vocabulary (150 words/week using Latin/Greek roots), review grammar rules (subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, modifiers), algebra fundamentals (linear & quadratic equations), geometry basics (area, perimeter, volume formulas), diagnostic tests to identify weak areas	20-25 hrs (3-4 hrs/day)
Month 2	Abstract Reasoning & Reading Comprehension Expansion	Pattern recognition drills (number/shape sequences), series completion practice (50 items/week), figure analogies, spatial relations exercises, reading diverse texts (literary, scientific, argumentative), main idea identification, inference practice, vocabulary in context training	25-30 hrs (4-5 hrs/day)
Month 3	Advanced Mathematics & Critical Reading Integration	Trigonometry mastery (SOH-CAH-TOA, unit circle, special angles), word problems (age, work, mixture, distance-rate-time), number theory (primes, divisibility), author's purpose & tone analysis, supporting details identification, critical analysis of argumentative texts, mixed practice sets combining all 4 areas	30-35 hrs (5-6 hrs/day)
Month 4	Full-Length Mock Exams & Weak Area Intensification	Take complete ACET simulations weekly (minimum 4 full tests), time management drills (30-40 sec/item target), review all mistakes thoroughly with detailed explanations, intensive review of consistently weak areas, speed drills for abstract reasoning (increase from 60 sec/item to 30-40 sec/item)	35-40 hrs (6-7 hrs/day)
Month 5	Final Review & Test-Taking Optimization	Daily full-length mock exams (6-8 total), master time allocation per part (Language 35 min, Math 40 min, Abstract 30 min, Reading 35 min), develop personal test-taking strategies, mental preparation techniques, stress management exercises, final vocabulary review (master 500-750 academic words), review only high-level concepts in final week	40-45 hrs (7-8 hrs/day, taper in final week)

Test Part	Number of Items	Recommended Time	Time Per Item	Strategic Approach
Part I: Language Proficiency	50-60 items	35-40 minutes	40-45 seconds	Answer vocabulary & grammar quickly (30 sec/item), spend more time on sentence correction & analogies (60 sec/item)
Part II: Mathematics	50-60 items	40-45 minutes	45-50 seconds	Solve easy computation first (30 sec/item), complex word problems last (90 sec/item), use mental math shortcuts
Part III: Abstract Reasoning	40-50 items	30-35 minutes	35-40 seconds	Identify pattern type quickly (addition, rotation, alternation), use elimination for difficult items, trust first instinct on time-consuming patterns
Part IV: Reading Comprehension	50-60 items	35-40 minutes	40-45 seconds	Read passage once (2-3 min), answer factual questions first (30 sec), inference questions last (60 sec), avoid re-reading entire passage
Total ACET Exam	~200-240 items	140-160 minutes (2.5-3 hrs)	40-45 seconds avg	Reserve 5-10 min buffer time for reviewing flagged items & checking answer sheet alignment

Word	Definition	Synonym	Antonym	Usage Example
Eloquent	Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing	Articulate, fluent	Inarticulate, ineloquent	The speaker delivered an eloquent defense of the proposal.
Prudent	Acting with or showing care and thought for the future	Cautious, judicious	Reckless, imprudent	It would be prudent to save money for emergencies.
Ambiguous	Open to more than one interpretation; unclear	Equivocal, vague	Clear, unambiguous	The politician's ambiguous statement confused voters.
Tenacious	Persistent in maintaining position or opinion; determined	Persistent, resolute	Irresolute, yielding	Her tenacious efforts led to scientific breakthroughs.
Candid	Truthful and straightforward; frank	Frank, forthright	Evasive, deceptive	The candidate gave a candid response during the interview.
Benevolent	Well-meaning and kindly; charitable	Kind, charitable	Malevolent, cruel	The benevolent donor funded scholarships for students.
Placate	Make someone less angry or hostile; appease	Appease, pacify	Aggravate, provoke	The manager tried to placate the dissatisfied customers.
Vindicate	Clear of blame or suspicion; prove right	Exonerate, absolve	Incriminate, blame	New evidence vindicated the accused scientist.
Ubiquitous	Present, appearing, or found everywhere	Omnipresent, pervasive	Rare, scarce	Smartphones have become ubiquitous in modern society.
Meticulous	Showing great attention to detail; very careful	Scrupulous, thorough	Careless, sloppy	The architect was meticulous in designing the building.

Percentile Range	Performance Level	Target Courses	Additional Requirements
99th Percentile (Top 1%)	Exceptional	BS Management Engineering, BS Applied Mathematics-Computer Science, AB/BS Economics (Honors), BS Management (Honors), all competitive programs with honors track eligibility	GPA ≥ 95%, strong interview, leadership experience, excellent essays
95-98th Percentile (Top 5%)	Outstanding	BS Computer Science, BS Electronics Engineering, BS Management, BS Economics, BS Legal Management, BS Applied Mathematics, all AB programs (Communication, Political Science, Psychology, etc.)	GPA ≥ 92%, good interview performance, co-curricular involvement
85-94th Percentile (Top 15%)	Very Good	BS Biology, BS Chemistry, BS Mathematics, AB programs (Literature, Philosophy, Sociology), BS Environmental Science, most ADMU undergraduate programs	GPA ≥ 88%, satisfactory interview, balanced application
75-84th Percentile (Top 25%)	Good	Less competitive AB programs, interdisciplinary programs, specific tracks with lower demand	GPA ≥ 85%, interview performance evaluated holistically
< 75th Percentile	Below Target	Admission unlikely for most programs	Consider retaking ACET, explore other universities, or pursue alternative pathways

ACET Reviewer

About the ACET

Exam Overview

Test Structure

Fresh Questions Every Time

Language Proficiency

Mathematics

Abstract Reasoning

Reading Comprehension

ACET Comprehensive Study Guide & Preparation Strategies

📅 5-Month ACET Preparation Timeline (Optimized for Excellence)

⏱️ ACET Test Structure & Strategic Time Allocation

📖 Essential Academic Vocabulary for ACET Language Proficiency Excellence

📊 ACET Percentile Scoring Guide & Ateneo Course Competitiveness

🎯 Part-Specific Study Strategies for ACET Excellence

Part I: Language Proficiency Mastery (Target: 90%+ accuracy)

Part II: Mathematics Strategic Preparation (Target: 85%+ accuracy)

Part III: Abstract Reasoning Excellence (Target: 80%+ accuracy)

Part IV: Reading Comprehension Optimization (Target: 85%+ accuracy)

📚 Recommended Study Materials for ACET Preparation

📖 Books & Printed Materials

💻 Online Resources & Apps

🎓 Review Centers (Optional)

🏆 Test Day Success: Strategic Tips & Optimal Mindset

📅 Day Before ACET

🌅 Morning of ACET

⚡ During the ACET: Execution Strategies

💡 Effective Daily Study Routine

📈 Progress Tracking & Improvement

Complete ACET Coverage