About ACT
ACT is an admissions exam used by universities to evaluate undergraduate applicants. All four-year undergraduate programs in universities across the US, and more than 200 universities outside of the US, accept and honor the ACT.
What is changing in 2026
Changes to the number of questions and timing of the papers, known as ACT enhancements, will be implemented beginning February 2026 for international students.
What is NOT changing:
- The scheduled 15-minute break between Tests 2 and 3
- Each test taker must take the test in the following order: English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing based on the selection of the test taker
- Special accommodation (as approved for the test taker according to ACT policy)
- The exam session start time is 08:00 AM (local time) and it will remain the same
The ACT Test Overview
The ACT contains tests in five subject areas. Multiple-choice tests in three areas (English, mathematics and reading) are compulsory and make up the ACT composite score. ACT’s Science and writing tests are optional and do not affect your composite score.
English practice test questions measure your ability to make decisions to revise and edit short texts and essays in different genres.
Math practice test questions measure your ability to read closely, reason logically about texts using evidence, and integrate information from multiple sources.
Reading practice test questions measure reading comprehension commonly encountered in first-year college curricula.
Science practice test questions measure the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning and problem-solving skills required in biology, chemistry, Earth/space sciences and physics.
Writing section measures writing skills taught in high school English classes and in entry-level college composition courses.
|
Test |
Number of Questions |
Minutes per Test |
|
50 |
35 |
|
|
45 |
50 |
|
|
36 |
40 |
|
|
Science (optional) |
40 |
40 |
|
Writing (optional) |
1 prompt |
40 |
Taking a Break
- A short break is scheduled after the second test. Using cell phones or any electronic devices is prohibited at all times, including during the break
- You may eat or drink outside the test room during the break
- If you take the ACT with writing, you will have time before the writing test to relax
Your scores will be based only on the number of questions that you answer correctly; there is no penalty for incorrect answers. You must try to answer every question within the time allowed for each section.
Dates, Locations, and Fees
Test Day
Your Scores in MyACT
Log-in to MyACT to view and send scores.
To learn more about ACT for non-US Students click this link
