ACT test dates & registration deadlines.

2025-2026 ACT Test Dates and Deadlines

The 2025-2026 ACT testing year includes seven national test dates running from September 2025 through July 2026. Registration deadlines typically fall about five weeks before the test date, and deadlines close at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. These dates are historical.

Complete 2025-2026 Test Date Schedule

This historical table distinguishes regular registration, late registration, and photo upload deadlines for the 2025–2026 testing year.

Score Release Timeline

ACT reports that over 97% of scores are released within about 2–4 weeks. The current-year table below lists initial paper releases; your score may arrive later, particularly with Writing. A student release is not a college receipt date.

2026-2027 ACT Test Dates and Deadlines

The 2026–2027 testing year includes the seven national administrations below. Past dates remain for reference. Register by the regular or late deadline; the later photo upload / standby deadline does not extend late registration.

Complete 2026-2027 Test Date Schedule

Last verified September 29, 2026 against ACT’s official calendar. Check MyACT for available test centers.

Planning Ahead for Next Year

If you are a sophomore or an early-planning junior, use the 2026-2027 schedule to map out your testing strategy. Registration deadlines follow the same roughly five-week-before pattern, so mark both your target test date and its registration deadline on your calendar now. Students who plan for 2-3 total attempts across junior and senior year give themselves the best chance to reach their target score.

ACT Registration Fees and Costs

Understanding ACT registration fees upfront helps you budget and avoid surprise charges. Here is a complete breakdown of every fee associated with the ACT.

Base Registration and Add-On Fees

The base ACT registration fee is $70 for English, Math, and Reading, the three sections used in the Composite score. Optional Science costs $5 and Writing costs $25. Neither changes the Composite. Check the requirements of your intended colleges and programs before selecting options.

Source: ACT’s current fee schedule, verified September 29, 2026. Check that schedule and MyACT when paying.

Late Registration, Standby, and Change Fees

Late registration adds $42. After late registration closes, request standby testing through MyACT by the published standby deadline for $75; admission is not guaranteed. ACT’s current fee schedule lists a $49 change fee. Request a date or center change by the applicable late deadline; other fees can also apply.

Fee Waivers and Financial Assistance

ACT fee waivers are available for eligible 11th and 12th grade students who demonstrate financial need. A fee waiver covers two complete test registrations, including the Science and Writing sections, plus score reports to colleges. Ask your school counselor whether you qualify — the application process is straightforward and handled through your school.

How to Register for the ACT Online

Registering for the ACT is done entirely online through the MyACT portal at act.org. The process takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, so set aside enough time to complete it in one sitting.

What You Need Before Registering

• Your legal name, date of birth, and mailing address
• High school name and expected graduation year
• A qualifying headshot photo (clear, recent, meets ACT guidelines)
• A credit or debit card for payment (or a fee waiver code from your counselor)
• A list of colleges you want to receive your scores (optional, up to 4 free reports)

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Create a MyACT account at act.org with your personal information, email address, and high school details.
2. Click "Register Now" and select your preferred test date from the available options.
3. Search for test centers near your zip code and choose your preferred location. Popular centers fill up fast, so register early.
4. Select your test options — Science ($5) and Writing ($25) are optional and do not affect the Composite. Choose based on your intended programs’ requirements.
5. Upload your photo — your headshot must meet ACT's photo guidelines. This photo will appear on your admission ticket and be verified on test day.
6. Complete payment and review your registration summary for accuracy.

School-Day ACT Testing

What Is School-Day ACT Testing?

School-day ACT testing allows students to take the official ACT during regular school hours, typically in the spring. Currently, 21 states provide this option to some or all public school juniors, and in many cases the test is completely free. The exam administered on school days is the same scored ACT as the national Saturday test dates — colleges treat the scores identically.

Unlike national test dates where you register individually through MyACT, school-day testing registration is handled by your school or district coordinator. You do not need to create an account or pay a fee if your school covers the cost.

How to Find Out If Your School Participates

The easiest way to find out is to ask your school counselor directly. You can also check with your state's department of education, as school-day testing participation is determined at the state or district level. Ask your counselor for your school’s current testing window, registration instructions, and optional-section policy.

Best Month to Take the ACT

Choosing the right ACT test date matters more than most students realize. Your test date determines how much prep time you have, whether your scores arrive before application deadlines, and how many retake opportunities remain.

Recommended Test Dates by Grade Level

Juniors: April of junior year is the most recommended date for a first attempt. By spring, you have covered most of the math and science curriculum tested on the ACT, and you still have summer and early fall to retake if needed. February is the earliest realistic option for juniors who want maximum retake flexibility.

Seniors: September or October of senior year works best for retakes, especially if you are applying Early Action or Early Decision. Allow at least 8-12 weeks of dedicated prep time before any attempt, and plan for 2-3 total attempts across your junior and senior year.

Aligning Test Dates with College Deadlines

Allow a buffer for score release, sending, and college processing, and confirm each college’s last accepted test date. October 17, 2026 has an initial paper score release of October 27, close to November 1; December 12 has an initial release of December 22, close to January 1. Neither guarantees that an official report will arrive by an application deadline. Check whether the college permits self-reporting or has a separate score receipt deadline.

Want to see ACT dates alongside SAT, AP, and LSAT schedules? Check out our Exam Date Calendar for a unified view of all upcoming test dates.

Frequently Asked Questions