ACT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines: 2025-2026 & 2026-2027 Complete Schedule

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 all deadlines close at midnight Central Time.

Complete 2025-2026 Test Date Schedule

The table below shows every ACT test date for the current testing year with exact registration deadlines, late registration cutoffs, and expected score release dates.

Score Release Timeline

ACT multiple-choice scores are typically available online within two weeks after the test date, and over 97% of scores arrive within 2-4 weeks. Writing section scores take an additional two weeks beyond the multiple-choice release. Score release dates in the table above represent the earliest expected availability — some students may receive scores a few days later.

2026-2027 ACT Test Dates and Deadlines

Planning ahead? The 2026-2027 testing year follows the same seven-date structure. Sophomores and early-planning juniors should bookmark these dates to build their prep timeline well in advance.

Complete 2026-2027 Test Date Schedule

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 $68, which covers the English, Math, and Reading sections. The Science section is an additional $4 and is strongly recommended — nearly all students add it because the ACT composite score (1-36) includes Science, and virtually all colleges expect it. The Writing (essay) section adds $25 and is genuinely optional, as most colleges no longer require it. Most students pay $72 total for the four core sections.

Late Registration, Standby, and Change Fees

If you miss the regular registration deadline, ACT offers a late registration window for an additional $40 surcharge on top of your base fee. Miss that too? Standby testing is available on test day for $72, but seats are not guaranteed — it is first-come, first-served at the test center. Changing your test date or test center after registering costs $48, and changes must be submitted before the late registration deadline for your new date.

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 — the Science section ($4) is strongly recommended for your composite score. Decide whether to add the Writing section ($25) based on your target colleges' 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. Spring 2026 testing windows are available now, so ask sooner rather than later — especially if you are a junior who has not yet taken the ACT.

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

Always take the ACT at least four weeks before your earliest college application deadline. This buffer ensures your scores are available when applications are due. For Early Decision and Early Action applicants with November 1 deadlines, the September test date is typically the last safe option — October scores may not arrive in time.

Frequently Asked Questions