ACT® Exam

This overview includes information to help you prepare for the ACT® exam. You’ll find details about the test format, registration, costs, test-day expectations, scoring, retakes, and study resources.

Exam Background and Purpose

The ACT is a college admissions exam taken by many U.S. high school students as part of the college application process.

Test Overview

The ACT includes three main multiple-choice sections: English, Mathematics, and Reading. Students may also choose to take the optional Science section and/or the optional Writing section.

  • English (50 Questions/35 Minutes) — This section measures your ability to revise and edit short texts and essays in different genres. You’ll answer questions about grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, word choice, organization, clarity, and rhetorical skills.
  • Mathematics (45 Questions/50 Minutes) — This section reviews your math proficiency, including the skills students typically learn by the beginning of grade 12. You’ll be assessed on topics such as algebra, functions, geometry, statistics, probability, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving.
  • Reading (36 Questions/40 Minutes) — This section measures your ability to understand written passages, identify main ideas, find important details, understand sequences, draw comparisons, analyze cause-and-effect relationships, determine word meanings, draw conclusions, and interpret information from multiple texts.
  • Optional – Science (40 Questions/40 Minutes) — This section covers scientific reasoning skills in areas such as biology, chemistry, Earth/space science, and physics. You’ll be asked to interpret data in charts or graphs, review examples of experiments, draw conclusions, and evaluate scientific findings.
  • Optional – Writing (1 Essay/40 Minutes) — Some colleges or universities may require or accept Writing scores. This section looks at your ability to develop and support a position on a complex issue, organize your ideas effectively, and use clear language and standard grammar.


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Costs and Payment Options

The ACT registration fee is $70. If you choose to add the optional Science section, you will pay an additional $5, and if you choose to take the Writing section, you will pay another $25. Payment can be made online using a credit card or debit card. Fees are subject to change, so check the ACT website for current pricing.

Registration/Times/Locations

You can register for the ACT online through the official ACT website. During registration, you will create or log in to your MyACT account, choose your test date, select a test center, and choose any optional sections you want to take. Your admission ticket will include important test-day information, including your test location and reporting instructions.
Checklist of required and optional items for the ACT test, including admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, erasers, electronics for online testing, calculator, and snacks.Infographic listing prohibited items on test day, including books, notes, non-approved pencils, electronics, reading materials, unapproved calculators, and tobacco products.

Test Scores

Your ACT scores are usually posted online within a few weeks after your test date. Most scores are available in your MyACT account within 1 to 4 weeks. Your Composite score ranges from 1 to 36 and is based on your English, Math, and Reading scores. If you take the optional Science or Writing sections, those scores are reported separately and do not affect your Composite score.

Retaking the ACT

You may retake the ACT as many times as you want. Many students take the ACT more than once, and many colleges consider a student’s highest score or ACT Superscore when reviewing applications. Score-use policies vary by college, so check the requirements for each school before sending scores.

How Can I Prepare for the ACT Test?

Preparing for the ACT is much easier when you have the right study tools in front of you. A good ACT study guide can help you review the skills tested on the exam, flashcards can help you memorize key concepts quickly, and practice tests can show you exactly where you need more work. Below, you’ll find ACT prep resources designed to help you study more efficiently, build confidence, and feel more prepared on test day.

Top Study Guides:

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ACT® is a registered trademark belonging to ACT Education Corp. (“ACT”). ACT is not involved with or affiliated with Mometrix Media LLC, nor does ACT endorse or sponsor any of the products or services offered by Mometrix Media LLC.

 

Last Updated: June 18, 2026