Show What You Already Know With the ACT
The straightforward, no-tricks test that helps you stand out to colleges and earn scholarships.

2M+

students take the ACT every year

100%

U.S. colleges accept ACT

$240M+

in scholarships unlocked

60+

years of trust

The ACT Advantage

A Test Built Around You

Built around you at every step, so you can put your best score in front of colleges.


Show what you already know.

The straightforward test, built on what you learned in class. No tricks, no traps.

 

Test the way you test best.

Digital or paper, science and writing optional. Lean into your strengths.

 

Get the score you studied for.

Know exactly what to expect on test day. Same test, every student, no adaptive surprises.

 

Your first score is just the start.

See answers with My Answer Key, practice with free tests, and superscore your best sections.

Upcoming Dates

Choose Your Test Date

Up Next
OCT 17
Early Reg:   September 11
Late Reg:   September 29*
Initial Score Release:   October 27
DEC 12
Early Reg:   November 6
Late Reg:   November 29*
Initial Score Release:   December 22
Feb 27
Early Reg:   January 22
Late Reg:   February 9*
Initial Score Release:   March 16


*Late fee applies.
**No test centers are scheduled in New York for the July test date.

How it Works

Four Steps to a Stronger Application

Prepare For Free

Use official ACT practice tools to build confidence and improve your score.

 
Choose Your Date


Select a test date, location, and format that suits you best.

 
Perform at Your Best


More time and flexible sections help you maximize your scoring potential.

 
Send & Stand Out

Submit your score to colleges and unlock scholarship opportunities.

 

Student Stories

Real Students, Real Results

Hear from students who took the new ACT and felt the difference.

 

“When I signed up, I was a little nervous, so when I saw that I had the option [to choose sections], I loved it because I didn't have to be forced to take something that I didn't want to.” 

Brooklyn Dismuke 

Grade 11 • Dallas, TX

“I just kind of wanted to take the science because if I didn't it'd be like the same thing as taking the SAT. I want to go into medicine.” 

Addison Barnes
Grade 11 • Mansfield, TX

“I feel like [having more time] significantly helped. When I would do practice tests, I was getting on the edge of the time every single time. This time I had time to review almost every section.”

Noah Clements
Grade 11 • North Caldwell, NJ

Scholarships

Your Score Could Be Worth Thousands in Scholarships

 

50%+

Average 1 pt increase in composite score with retest
 

 

2.4 pts

Average superscore increase with retest

 

$5B

Dollars in scholarships; increase your eligibility with the ACT

 

$6,000

Estimated difference from a 2-point increase*

*Illustrative example based on published institutional merit grids; actual awards vary by college and year.

 

Get Started

Ready to Own Your Future?

Join 2 million+ students who take the ACT every year. Register today and take the first step.