How and When to Register for the ACT Test

The ACT is a college entrance exam used by many colleges and universities as part of the application process. It is a multiple-choice, timed test offered throughout the year. Before registering (or not registering) for the ACT, double check the test requirements of the schools on your college list. Many schools are now test-blind, test-flexible, or test-optional so you should take the time to decide if adding a test score is required for, or would strengthen, your college application.

How to Register for the ACT

Students can register for the test on the ACT's website. We recommend registering as early as possible as the number of spots on each date and at each testing location is limited.If you're a high school senior planning on applying to college through Early Action or Early Decision, we recommend taking the ACT before December. If you're applying through Regular Decision, we recommend taking the ACT before January. If you are requesting accommodations for the ACT test, we recommend submitting them as soon as possible to ensure everything is processed, including any appeals, by the time you want to take the test.

What you need to register 

• Around 40 minutes of time 

• A computer, phone, or tablet with internet connection

• Credit/debit card or other form of payment

• General information about your high school courses

• 1 headshot photo for identification purposes

When to register for the ACT

National test dates for the United States, US territories, and Puerto Rico are released in September, April, and June for the following academic year. Using the test dates on the ACT website, find the one that works best for you - if you aren’t ready to register, you can set up a reminder so you don’t miss the deadline!

• The Regular Registration Deadline is 36 days before the test date

• If you miss your tests' registrationtests's registration deadline, you can register 1-2 weeks after the deadline date, but for an additional late fee

• The registration deadline is at midnight Central Time

• If you are unable to test on a Saturday for religious reasons there may be options available

ACT fee waivers

The ACT offers fee waivers, which allow eligible students to take the exam for free. Students that qualify for fee waivers will also receive access to the ACT's free study and learning resources. Fee waivers are available to 11th and 12th graders in the U.S. or U.S. territories who meet at least one of the following requirements:

• You are enrolled in a free or reduced-price lunch program at school

• You’re enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families (such as GEAR UP or Upward Bound)

• You reside in a foster home, are a ward of the state, or are homeless

• Your family receives low-income public assistance or lives in federally subsidized public housing

• Your family's total annual income is at or below USDA levels for free or reduced-price lunches

Not sure if you qualify for a fee waiver? Ask a counselor or educator at your school.

Studying for the ACT? 

Read here about our time management tips for the ACT. 

Any other questions about taking the ACT? Text us! Send #Hello to 33-55-77!