The ACT Test

From registration to test day and scores, get what you need to prepare, plan, and do your best on the ACT.
 

ACT Resources & Tools

Everything you need to prepare, plan, and succeed on the ACT. Explore practice test, study guides, test day checklists, score information, and fee waiver eligibility.

 
 

Fee Waivers

You may be eligible for the ACT Fee Waiver Program based on your location and household income.

Upcoming Test Dates

Choose the ACT test date that fits your schedule or sign up for Registration Reminders and get alerts by email or text.
 

FEBRUARY

14

February ACT

Register by January 9

Late registration*: January 23

Initial scores released: March 3

 

APRIL

11

April ACT

Register by March 6

Late registration*: March 24

Initial scores released: April 21

 

JUNE

13

June ACT

Register by May 8

Late registration*: May 29

Initial scores released: June 23

 

JULY

11

July ACT

Register by June 5

Late registration*: June 24

Initial scores released: July 21

 

The ACT Test Overview

The ACT includes tests in English, math, reading, and science. The science and writing sections are optional and do not affect your Composite score.

English Test

35 Minutes
50 Questions


Measures your ability to make decisons to revise and edit short texts and essays in different genres.

Math Test

50 Minutes
45 Questions


Measures the mathematical skills you have typically acquired in courses up to the beginning of grade 12.

Reading Test

40 Minutes
36 Questions


Measures your ability to read closely, reason logically, and integrate information from multiple sources.

 

Science Test

40 Minutes
40 Questions
Optional Add-On


Measures interpretation, analysis, reasoning, and problem-solving in biology, chemistry, and Earth & space sciences.

Writing Test

40 Minutes
1 Prompt
Optional Add-On


Measures writing skills taught in high school English classes and iin entry-level college composition courses.
 

Get Ready to Succeed on the ACT

Preparing for the ACT can make a big difference in your score and college opportunities.

Our resources are designed to help you practice, build confidence, and achieve your best performance on test day. We offer free practice tests and quizzes, live online classes, virtual and in-person tutoring, guides, and much more!

 


High school students from Hauppauge High School in New York share their experiences with ACT test prep prior to taking the ACT.

What to Bring on Test Day

Ensure a smooth testing experience by bringing all required items and optional tools to help you succeed.
 

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Admission Ticket
  Print your admission ticket from MyACT after uploading your photo; it includes your registration info or launch code.
   
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Photo ID
  Bring an acceptable photo ID to enter the test center.
   
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Pencils
  Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers (no pens or mechanical pencils).
   
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Testing Device
  If using BYOD, bring a fully charged laptop and charger.
   
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Watch/Timing Device
  Allowed for pacing, must have no alarm and stay on your desk.
   
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Bilingual Dictionary
  Bring an ACT-approved bilingual dictionary if needed; staff will inspect it.
   
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Calculator
  Bring a permitted calculator for the math test only (optional).
   
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Snacks
  Allowed during breaks; outside the testing room.
   

Register for the ACT Today

Secure your test date and start your path to college success!
It's easy, fast, and the first step toward achieving your best score.