Technical Requirements

Device requirements

ACT online testing requires test-taking devices, sufficient bandwidth, and a reliable network connection throughout the entire test. Supported computers may be either Chromebook or Windows devices that meet the following specifications:

Chromebook Test-Taking Devices

  • Operating System: Chrome OS - 112.0.5615.62
  • Management: Must be managed by the institution through Google Admin.
  • Security: Must be able to deploy an ACT test-taking application (ACT Gateway) in Kiosk mode and must allow ACT Gateway to manage power.
  • Processor: Chromebook with ARM or Intel processor
  • Memory: 2 GB
  • Disk Space: 100 MB available
  • Screen size: Minimum 9.5”
  • Screen resolution: Minimum 1024x768

Windows Test-Taking Devices

  • Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise or Education - Version 22H2 (OS build 19045)
  • Management: Administrative rights must be managed by the institution for school-managed computers. This is not required for personal computers owned by the examinee.
  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster processor
  • Memory: 1 GB
  • Disk Space: 100 MB available
  • Screen size: Minimum 9.5”
  • Screen resolution: Minimum 1024x768

Device Readiness

ACT recommends performing readiness checks 2 to 4 weeks prior to the test. It is required that device checks be completed no later than the Thursday prior to the test. You can start readiness checks up to 30 days in advance. It is important to perform these checks to ensure devices meet all technical requirements and are prepared for test day?

How to Check Device Readiness if I'm a Student

How to Check Device Readiness if I'm a Test Center

ACT Gateway conducts device readiness checks at three different points in time:

  • The pre-test checks that are invoked by the Run Device Check button.
  • The just-in-time check that occurs at the time the test is launched
  • During the exam

ACT Gateway will look at the following items:

  • Secure connection
  • Screen size
  • Battery level
  • ACT Unity version
  • OS version
  • Kiosk mode
  • Ability to connect to PSI services
  • Ability to connect to ACT domains and services
  • External mass storage devices

Network Requirements

The test center will need at least 1MBps of bandwidth per tester. For example:test center will need at least 1MBps

  • A 10 Mbps connection can support 10 testers
  • You can find resources here if you need help evaluating your networks bandwidth

Devices must be able to access the following domains:

NOTE: Your network must be consistently available throughout the test event. Small, intermittent outages during the event can be tolerated, but extended outages will impact the ability to test successfully.

What's Next?

Find up-to-date test ACT Test Enhancement information and FAQs.