ACT Fast Facts & FAQs

Your Ultimate Guide to the ACT: Key Facts and Expert Answers to Your Most Common Questions

The ACT (American College Testing) is another standardized test used during the college admissions process. The ACT offers a paper-based test or an online version with both tests only offered at testing centers.

Some upcoming changes to the ACT include: shorter time for the core test (Reading, Writing and Math), science section will be optional, reduced reading passages, and fewer questions. These will be implemented in April 2025, for the online version, and then in September for in-person testing.

There are a handful of schools that require the writing portion, like the United States Military Academy -West Point. Always confirm these requirements for any schools of interest.

The ACT is offered multiple times per year. Most students take it during their junior or senior year.

ACT scores range from 1-36 in each section. Students also receive a Composite score, the average of the three core sections test scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.

The average ACT Composite score is about 20. The average ACT Composite score for Harvard is 35.

The Enhanced ACT: What Students and Parents Need to Know

ACT FAQs

What is the ACT?

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized college admissions test that assesses a student’s academic readiness for college. It includes sections on English, Math, and Reading, with an optional Science section (April 2025: optional on digital, September 2025 for paper) and Writing (Essay) section.

What are the differences between the ACT and SAT?

Both are college entrance exams, but the ACT includes a Science section (April 2025: optional on digital, September 2025 for paper) and has a more straightforward structure. The SAT focuses more on reasoning and problem-solving, while the ACT tests specific content knowledge. Additionally, the SAT is strictly a digital exam whereas students can choose to take the ACT digitally or on paper.

What sections are on the ACT?

The ACT has three main sections: English, Math, and Reading. There’s also an optional Science section (April 2025: optional on digital, September 2025 for paper) and Writing (Essay) section.

How is the ACT scored?

The ACT is scored on a scale from 1 to 36, with each section (English, Math, and Reading) receiving a score between 1 and 36. Your composite score is the average of these three section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. Although the composite score will no longer include the Science section, the score scale remains unchanged: 1-36. Students who choose to take the Science section will receive a separate score for that section, and a STEM score that combines the math and science sections.

How long is the ACT?

The core sections of the ACT (English, Math, and Reading) are 2 hours, with the optional Science and Writing sections adding an additional 40 minutes each.

When can I take the ACT?

The ACT is offered several times a year, usually in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July.

How do I register for the ACT?

You can register for the ACT online through the official ACT website. You’ll need to create an account, select a test date and location, and pay the test fee.

What is the ACT Writing (Essay) section?

The ACT Writing section is optional. It asks students to write an essay based on a given prompt, in which they analyze and respond to an issue. Many colleges no longer require it, so check the requirements of the schools you’re applying to.

What are the best ways to prepare for the ACT?

The best ways to prepare include taking practice tests, working 1:1 with an expert tutor, studying with ACT prep books, using online resources, attending prep courses, and focusing on time management during the test.

Can I retake the ACT?

Yes, you can take the ACT as many times as you’d like. Many students take the test multiple times to improve their scores.

Do colleges look at all of my ACT scores?

Some colleges allow you to choose which ACT scores to send (superscoring), while others (like Georgetown) may require that you send all your test scores. Be sure to check each school’s policy.

Is the ACT required for college admissions?

While many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, some still require the ACT (or SAT). Check the admissions requirements for the specific schools you’re interested in.

Can I use a calculator on the ACT?

Yes, you can use a calculator on the Math section of the ACT, but you cannot use it on the Science section. Be sure to check the ACT’s list of approved calculators.

How do I send my ACT scores to colleges?

You can choose up to four colleges to receive your ACT scores for free when registering for the test. Additional score reports can be sent for a fee.

How can I improve my ACT score?

To improve your score, focus on understanding the test format, practicing each section, identifying your weaknesses, and working on time management strategies.