Student Resources

ACT Gateway

Everything you need to install, set up, and prepare your device for the ACT online test.

Complete Device Readiness
 

Get to know ACT Gateway

What is ACT Gateway?

ACT Gateway is the secure testing application used to take the National online test. Using your MyACT Credentials, ACT Gateway also supports critical pre-test activities to ensure readiness to test.

When you register to take the ACT online, you'll have the option to either bring your own device (BYOD) — a personal or school-managed computer — or test on a test center provided computer. MyACT will display important readiness deadlines and information about your upcoming tests.

Get Ready to Test

Complete Device Readiness

Follow these three simple steps to complete device readiness before your test day.


STEP 01

Identify Supported Computers

Use a personal or school-managed computer.

  • Personal computer: Windows or Macbook you own and can install applications on.
  • Meet minimum technical requirements.

Note: Personal Chromebooks are not supported.

 


STEP 02

Install ACT Gateway
Download ACT Gateway
 


STEP 03

Perform Device Checks

Open ACT Gateway and log in with your MyACT credentials. Complete before the device readiness deadline.

  • Must be completed before cutoff date or your registration will be canceled.
  • Re-check if you update any software after passing.
 
 

2026-2027 Schedule

National Test Dates

Online Readiness opens for the 2026-2027 testing year on August 17, 2026.
Test Date
Readiness Deadline
September 19, 2026 September 14
October 17, 2026 October 12
December 12, 2026 December 7
February 27, 2027 February 22
April 10, 2027 April 5
June 12, 2027 June 7
July 10, 2027 July 5
 

BYOD

Run Device Check

See how to run a device check in this 30-second video.

Get Help Before Test Day

Request ACT Gateway Setup Support

Get Help Setting Up ACT Gateway
 

ACT Gateway & Byod

Frequently Asked Questions

Students testing online will have the option to bring their own computer or a school-managed computer to a test site to take the ACT test.

You may use your personal laptop if you have one, or you will be unable to test with the bring your own device (BYOD) option. You should make the change in MyACT or contact us as soon as you know your school is unable to assist with the installation so your registration can be updated if necessary.

NOTE: This may result in a date, location change or mode change if the site you were registered does not have any open seats available.

If you don't bring your laptop with you on test morning, you will likely be unable to test a Test Centers may not have additional computers and are not required to provide back-ups.

Test Centers are not explicitly required to provide a spare device. Most issues are resolvable on test morning, but if you have an issue that cannot be resolved, and a back up device is not available an irregularity will be logged and you will be dismissed.

iPads and tablets are not supported at this time. Stay tuned for more information about tablet in the future.

Once you have determined the type of laptop you will be using, personal or school-managed, you will need to install the ACT Gateway application and ensure the device meets all requirements. You will need support from your school if you are using a school-managed device.

No. If you are registered to bring your own device you must install the application and ensure the computer passes the device checks or you will not be able to test on test day.

No. On test day, you must be connected to the wifi network your test center provides.

Yes. A wired mouse is recommended as Bluetooth devices are not authorized. A wireless mouse with a USB receiver may not operate as expected if ACT Gateway identifies it as a storage device. 

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Touchscreen interaction is available if the device supports it. Laptops that have touch capabilities must also have a keyboard and trackpad or mouse to ensure a consistent experience. 

We recommend ensuring your computer is fully charged on test morning and bringing a charger in case it is needed. However, there is no guarantee the test center will be able to provide an outlet.

Learn More About Test Day

Know more about what to bring and what to expect on test day.

Test Day Info
Download Quick Tool Guide