the ACT at a glanceInformation provided by Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions |
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What is the ACT?
The ACT is a nationally administered, standardized paper-and-pencil test that helps colleges evaluate candidates.
Who should take the ACT?
Juniors and Seniors. Most high school students take the ACT for the first time in the spring of their Junior year. This gives them enough time to re-take the test again during the fall of their Senior year if they aren't satisfied with their score.
How is the ACT structured and timed?
The ACT lasts 2 hours and 55 minutes (excluding the Writing Test) or 3 hours and 25 minutes (including the Writing Test). The order of test sections and the total number of questions covered in each test section never changes:
| Section | Length | Question Types | # of Questions |
| English Test | 45 minutes |
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| Mathematics Test | 60 minutes |
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| Reading Test | 35 minutes |
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| Science Test | 35 minutes |
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| Writing Test (optional Essay) |
30 minutes | You are asked to respond to a question about your position on the issue described in the writing prompt. | 1 |
How can I register for the ACT?
You can register online or by calling ACT, Inc. at 319-337-1270 (only if you've already registered for the ACT at least once before).
How much does it cost to take the ACT?
- Test Fee: $29.00, includes having your scores sent to 4 colleges
- Test Fee (with the Writing Test): $43.00, includes having your scores sent to 4 colleges
What is the range of possible ACT scores?
Each of the four multiple-choice ACT test sections (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science) is scored on a scale of 1-36. You will also receive a composite score, which is the average of your four test scores (1-36).
If you take the Writing Test, you will receive a Writing Test subscore (ranging from 0 to 12) and a combined English/Writing score (ranging from 1 to 36), along with comments about your essay. Keep in mind that you must take both the English and Writing Tests to receive Writing scores. The Combined English/Writing score is created by using a formula that weights the English Test score two-thirds and the Writing Test score one-third to form a combined score. This combined score is then reported on a 1-36 scale. Please note that taking the Writing Test does not affect your subject area scores or your Composite score.
What are average ACT scores?
| Test Section | Average Score | Year/Year Change 2005-2006 |
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| Class of 2006 | Class of 2007 | ||
| English Test | 20.6 | 20.4 | +0.2 |
| Mathematics Test | 20.8 | 20.7 | +0.1 |
| Reading Test | 21.4 | 21.3 | +0.1 |
| Science Test | 20.9 | 20.9 | no change |
| Writing Test (optional Essay) |
N/A | 7.7 | N/A |
| Total Composite | 21.1 | 20.9 | +0.2 |
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