ACT Test Dates 2026-2027: Full Schedule, Deadlines & Scor...

The ACT is offered seven times a year across the United States. This guide covers every confirmed 2026-2027 test date, the remaining 2025-2026 dates, registration deadlines, fees, and how to choose the best date for your college application timeline.

ACT Test Dates 2026-2027 (Full Schedule)

The following dates and deadlines come from the official ACT schedule published at act.org. All deadlines occur at 11:59 PM Central Time.

*No test centers are scheduled in New York for July test dates.

Remaining 2025-2026 ACT Test Dates

If you need to test before the 2026-2027 cycle begins, here are the remaining dates for the current year:

*No test centers are scheduled in New York for July test dates.

How Much Does the ACT Cost in 2026?

ACT registration fees have changed since the test was last restructured. Here is the current fee breakdown:

Fee waivers are available for 11th and 12th graders who demonstrate financial need. Waivers cover the full registration fee and up to four free score reports. Ask your school counselor about eligibility.

ACT Test Sections and Format

The ACT has four required sections, plus an optional Writing section that some colleges still require. Here is the breakdown:

Total test time without Writing is 2 hours and 55 minutes. With breaks and check-in, plan for about 3.5 hours at the test center (or about 4 hours if you take the optional Writing section).

When Should You Take the ACT?

Most students take the ACT for the first time in the spring of junior year (April or June). This gives you time to retake it in the fall of senior year if needed while still meeting early application deadlines. Here are a few strategies:

• Early Decision/Early Action applicants: Take the ACT by October of senior year at the latest. The September date is ideal because scores release in early October.
• Regular Decision applicants: The December test date is typically the last one accepted for regular decision. Check each college's specific deadline.
• Rising juniors: Consider the February or April date to get a baseline score, then use the summer to study and retake in the fall.

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

Most colleges accept both the ACT and SAT equally. The ACT includes a Science section and moves faster, while the digital SAT is adaptive and allows a calculator on all math questions. Take a practice test of each to see which format suits you better. Read our full ACT vs. SAT comparison for a deeper breakdown.

How to Register for the ACT

Registration is done online through my.act.org. You will need to create a free account, upload a recent photo, and select your preferred test center and date. Scores are typically released within 2-4 weeks after your test date, and you can view them in your MyACT account.

For more tips on preparing for the ACT, check out our guides on what is a good ACT score and how to get the highest ACT score.

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