Online Course | Coming Fall 2026
Tide to Success is for current high school students in grades 9-12. This six-hour, online course can be completed at the student’s own pace and must be completed within 30 days of the course opening. All students and parents must attend a required, virtual orientation on Day 1 of each session. After the virtual orientation, students will receive the e-book version of The Official ACT Prep Guide and be fully enrolled in the course. If parents and students are unable to attend the virtual orientation for a particular session, they may register for another course at a later date that best fits their schedule.
You’ll learn how to:
- Navigate the enhanced ACT with confidence
- Explore different majors to see which ones are the best fit
- Start planning next steps toward your collegiate future
- Discover the connection between ACT and scholarships
- Answer common questions such as, "Should I take the writing section of the ACT?"
Upon completion of the course, students will:
- Receive access to the course material for two years
- Earn a digital badge for a job well done
You’ll be equipped with the tools to start strong and make informed decisions, all before you set foot on campus! Tide to Success empowers you to confidently prepare for standardized tests, navigate college admissions and explore degree pathways aligned with your interests and future goals.
Registration for Tide to Success opens July 1, 2026. Two sessions will be held during the Fall 2026 semester, and also during the Spring 2027 semester. Out-of-state students must pay a fee of $200.
| Registration Deadline | Course Start Date | Mandatory Orientation | Course End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 8, 2026 | Sept. 15, 2026 | Sept. 15 (6-8 p.m.) | Oct. 15, 2026 |
| Oct. 13, 2026 | Oct. 20, 2026 | Oct. 20 (6-8 p.m.) | Nov. 19, 2026 |
| Jan. 19, 2027 | Jan. 26, 2027 | Jan. 26 (6-8 p.m.) | Feb. 25, 2027 |
| March 30, 2027 | April 6, 2027 | April 6 (6-8 p.m.) | May 6, 2027 |
| May 25, 2027 | June 1, 2027 | June 1 (6-8 p.m.) | July 1, 2027 |
Tide to Success Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tide to Success guarantee an increase in my ACT score?
No. While our online course provides proven test-taking strategies, content review, and tips for success on the ACT, Tide to Success does not guarantee a score increase.
Does the Tide to Success course count toward college credit?
No. Although Tide to Success does not provide college credit, participants do receive a digital completion badge once all coursework and assignments are completed. This unique badge can be added to your email signature, and we encourage students to list Tide to Success on college resumés.
Should I use my school-provided email address or a personal email address when registering for Tide to Success?
We recommend students use a personal email account to register for Tide to Success and to make sure notifications are turned on.
May I choose more than one session?
We ask that you register for only one session since the coursework and materials will be the same for the 2026-2027 academic year. During the course, make sure to take plenty of notes, as you will want to continue to practice what you learn after the course is completed. If you miss the required orientation hosted via Zoom on the first night of class, simply register for the next session that fits your schedule.
Is there an age limit for Tide to Success?
Yes. Tide to Success is created for 9th-12th-grade level students.
Is the program focused solely on ACT preparation?
No. Although ACT instruction and the practice test account for the majority of the Tide to Success coursework, students will also learn about career choices and degree offerings to provide them with a broader introduction to college readiness.
Does participation in Tide to Success guarantee admission to The University of Alabama?
No. Completion of Tide to Success does not influence admission decisions. Admission to The University of Alabama is determined through the university’s standard admissions process and is independent of enrollment in this program.
Is the required orientation on the first night of class hosted virtually?
Yes. Both students and parents/guardians are required to attend an orientation via Zoom on the first night of class from 6-8 p.m. CT.
Do I get to keep the materials from Tide to Success?
Yes. You will receive “The Official ACT Prep Guide 2026-2027” e-book from Wiley Press, to which you will have access for up to two years post-course. You will only receive the e-book code once both the student and parent/guardian have attended the required orientation on the first day of class.
How often should I expect communication from Tide to Success?
Once you have registered for a course session, you will receive an immediate email confirming enrollment, followed by emails with further instructions 7 days and 3 days from the start of the course, along with an email reminder the day the course begins.
Want to learn more about Tide to Success? Contact us at crimsoncompass@ua.edu or 205-348-5275.