What is ACT?

Complete guide to American College Testing (ACT). Exam format, content, application process and preparation tips.

What is ACT?

ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. ACT evaluates students' potential for academic success at the college level and is one of the most common college entrance exams in America.

Standardized test used for college admissions in the United States
National exam organized by ACT Inc.
Held several times a year (February, April, June, July, September, October, December)
4 main sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science
Optional Writing section available
Scored on a scale of 1-36
Conducted at multiple centers worldwide

Exam Format and Content

Total Questions

215 questions (without Writing)

Total Duration

2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing)

With Writing

3 hours 35 minutes

English

75 Questions45 minutes

Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills

Mathematics

60 Questions60 minutes

Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic math concepts

Reading

40 Questions35 minutes

Reading comprehension, analysis, and interpretation skills

Science

40 Questions35 minutes

Biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences topics

Writing (Optional)

1 Questions40 minutes

Analytical writing and argument development skills

Scoring System

1-36 points

Composite Score

1-36 points (each section)

Section Scores

2-12 points (optional)

Writing Score

Important Note:

ACT exam does not have a negative marking system. Incorrect answers do not reduce your score, so try to answer all questions. Maximum score is 36 points, minimum score is 1 point. The 2023 average is 20.8 points (2023 average).

Exam Dates

2024

Exam Dates:
February 10
April 13
June 8
July 13
September 14
October 26
December 14
Registration Period: 5-6 weeks before exam date

2025

Exam Dates:
February 8
April 12
June 7
July 12
September 13
October 25
December 13
Registration Period: 5-6 weeks before exam date

Universities Accepting Students via ACT

Harvard University
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Stanford University
Yale University
Princeton University
Columbia University
University of Chicago
University of Pennsylvania
California Institute of Technology
Duke University

Application Process

01
5-6 weeks before exam date

Online Application

Apply online through the official ACT website

02
During application

Exam Fee

Pay the exam fee (ACT: $68, ACT + Writing: $93)

03
During application

Select Exam Center

Choose the exam center closest to you

04
7 times a year

Exam Day

Take the exam on your selected date

05
2-8 weeks

Results

Exam results are announced within 2-8 weeks. Apply to universities based on your results

ACT Preparation Tips

Start Early

Begin ACT preparation at least 3-6 months in advance. Create a systematic study plan for all sections.

Solve Past Papers

Learn the exam format and question types by solving ACT questions from previous years.

Time Management

Each section has a time limit. Practice fast and accurate reading.

English Preparation

Improve your English level as the exam is conducted in English. Expand your academic vocabulary.

Practice Tests

Take practice tests regularly and evaluate yourself. Focus on topics where you are weak.

Professional Support

Join ACT preparation courses or take private lessons from experienced teachers.

Need Help with ACT Preparation?

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