Exam Date: August 17, 2025
Plan your ACT journey with clarity—know when to test, how to register, and what to expect for top college applications.
The ACT (American College Testing) exam is a standardized college entrance test that is widely accepted by colleges and universities across the United States and increasingly recognized by institutions in Canada and around the world. Designed to measure a high school student’s academic readiness for college, the ACT evaluates proficiency in four core subject areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Additionally, there is an optional Writing section that assesses essay-writing skills, which some colleges may require or recommend. The ACT provides colleges with a standardized measure to compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds and serves as a valuable component of the admissions process. It not only helps determine a student’s preparedness for college-level coursework but also plays a role in scholarship eligibility and course placement. The test is offered multiple times throughout the year, giving students the flexibility to choose a date that aligns with their college application timeline. For students aiming to apply for college in the 2025–2026 academic year, it is essential to stay informed about upcoming ACT test dates, registration deadlines, and any changes in testing policies. Registration is typically completed online through the official ACT website, where students can select their preferred test center, test date, and whether they wish to take the optional Writing section. Early planning and preparation are key to achieving a competitive score, and students are encouraged to utilize available study resources, take practice tests, and consider retesting if needed to improve their results.
ACT Test: Structure and Preparation Guide
The ACT (American College Testing) is one of the most popular standardized tests used for college admissions in the United States. It's designed to measure a high school student's readiness for college by testing core academic skills.
ACT Test Structure
The ACT includes four main sections, plus an optional writing test:
1.English
Time: 45 minutes
Questions: 75
Skills Tested: Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
2.Math
Time: 60 minutes
Questions: 60
Skills Tested: Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic math problem-solving.
3.Reading
Time: 35 minutes
Questions: 40
Skills Tested: Reading comprehension, analysis of short passages across different topics.
4.Science
Time: 35 minutes
Questions: 40
Skills Tested: Interpretation of data, scientific reasoning, analysis of experiments.
Writing (Optional)
Time: 40 minutes
Task: Write an essay analyzing an issue and presenting your viewpoint.
How to Prepare for the ACT
1.Know the Format
Familiarize yourself with each section's structure and question types.
2.Use Official Practice Tests
Practice with real ACT questions to get comfortable with the timing and pressure.
3.Strengthen Core Subjects
Review basic concepts in English, Math, and Science from your school syllabus.
4.Work on Time Management
Practice pacing yourself to ensure you complete each section within the allotted time.
5.Build Reading Stamina
Read newspapers, articles, and journals daily to improve comprehension speed and accuracy.
6.Take Mock Tests Regularly
Simulate real test conditions. It helps reduce anxiety and boosts confidence.
7.Consider ACT Prep Books and Courses
Use trusted preparation books or enroll in coaching if needed. Focus on your weaker areas.
ACT 2025–2026 Test Schedule
Below is a complete list of official ACT exam dates for 2025, including important deadlines for registration and photo submission.
June 2025 ACT
Test Dates: June 13–14, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline: May 16, 2025
Late Registration Deadline: May 30, 2025
Photo Upload Deadline: June 6, 2025
July 2025 ACT
Test Dates: July 11–12, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline: June 13, 2025
Late Registration Deadline: June 27, 2025
Photo Upload Deadline: July 4, 2025
September 2025 ACT
Test Dates: September 5–6, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline: August 8, 2025
Late Registration Deadline: August 22, 2025
Photo Upload Deadline: August 29, 2025
October 2025 ACT
Test Dates: October 17–18, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline: September 19, 2025
Late Registration Deadline: October 3, 2025
Photo Upload Deadline: October 10, 2025
December 2025 ACT
Test Dates: December 12–13, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline: November 14, 2025
Late Registration Deadline: November 28, 2025
Photo Upload Deadline: December 5, 2025
Step-by-Step Guide to ACT Registration
1. Create an ACT Account
Visit the official ACT website
Create your ACT Web Account using a valid email address
This account will help you track test dates, print tickets, and view scores
2. Choose Your Test Date & Location
Review the ACT test dates listed above
Pick a test center convenient for you
Be mindful of your college application deadlines—plan to take the test 2–3 months in advance
3. Complete Personal & Academic Details
Enter your full legal name as shown on your photo ID
Indicate your high school, future college interests, and whether you’ll take the optional ACT Writing test
4. Upload a Passport-Style Photo
Upload a recent, clear photograph before the deadline
The image should show your face and shoulders, with no hats or shadows
5. Pay the ACT Exam Fee
Standard ACT (No Writing): Approx. $63 (USD, domestic)
ACT with Writing: Approx. $88 (USD)
Late Registration Fee: Additional charges apply
Fee Waivers: Available for eligible low-income U.S. students—check ACT’s fee waiver policy
6. Print Your Admission Ticket
A few weeks before the exam, download and print your ACT Admission Ticket
Bring the ticket and a valid photo ID on test day
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the U.S. It assesses high school students' readiness for college in four core academic areas: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing (Essay) section.
As of 2025:
ACT (no Writing): $68
ACT (with Writing): $93
Additional fees may apply for late registration, test changes, or sending extra score reports.
Section (1): English
Number of Questions: 75
Duration: 45 minutes
Section (2): Math
Questions: 60
Duration: 60 minutes
Section (3): Reading
Questions: 40
Duration: 35 minutes
Section (4): Science
Questions: 40
Duration: 35 minutes
Section (5): Writing (optional)
Question: 1 essay
Duration: 40 minutes
Without Writing: 2 hours 55 minutes
With Writing: 3 hours 35 minutes
National average: around 20–21
Competitive for top schools: 30+
Perfect score: 36
Multiple-choice scores are usually available within 2 weeks
Writing scores may take up to 4 weeks
ACT Official Prep (free and paid options)
Prep books (e.g., Barron’s, Kaplan, Princeton Review)
Online platforms (e.g., ACT Academy, Khan Academy for general skills)
Valid photo ID
Printed admission ticket
Approved calculator (for Math)
Pencils (No. 2)
Snack and water (for break)