The ACT, Explained

The ACT is a standardized college admissions test that measures academic readiness for college. Its core sections are English, Math, and Reading, with an optional Science section and an optional Writing section.

Three core sections: English, Math, and Reading. There is also an optional Science section and an optional Writing section.

Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Your Composite score is the average of English, Math, and Reading, rounded to the nearest whole number. Science is no longer part of the Composite. Students who take it receive a separate Science score and a STEM score that averages Math and Science.

In 2025 the ACT was redesigned. The Science section became optional, the Composite is now based on English, Math, and Reading, the test is shorter with more time per question, Math questions have four answer choices instead of five, and passages are shorter. As of 2026 this format applies to all national and school-day testing.

For national ACT testing, students can choose whether to add the Science section. In state- and district-administered testing, the school or testing program determines whether Science is included. Science does not factor into the current Composite score, but students who take it receive separate Science and STEM scores. Students should also review the current policies of the colleges they are considering.

The core sections, English, Math, and Reading, take about two hours. The optional Science and Writing sections add roughly 40 minutes each.

Both are widely accepted college-admissions tests, but their structures differ. The SAT is fully digital and adapts between modules based on a student’s performance. The ACT is linear, may be offered on paper or online depending on the administration, and includes optional Science and Writing sections. Many students complete a practice version of each before deciding where to focus.

The U.S. national ACT is generally offered seven times each year, typically in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July. Many students first test during junior year, leaving time for another sitting if appropriate. Always consult ACT’s current calendar when planning.

Register online through the official ACT website. Create an account, choose a test date and location, select whether to add the optional Science and Writing sections, and pay the fee.

Yes. There is no overall limit on how many times a student may take the ACT, although retesting should be purposeful. Another sitting is most valuable when there is time for targeted preparation and a reasonable opportunity for improvement.

It depends on the college. Many superscore the ACT, taking your best section scores across test dates. Others ask you to send all your scores. Policies vary, so confirm for each school on your list.

Testing policies vary by college and can change from one admissions cycle to the next. Some institutions require test scores, others are test-optional, and some do not consider them. Always confirm the current policy directly with every college on your list.

Yes on the Math section, using a calculator from the ACT’s approved list. Calculators are not permitted on the Science section.

The optional Writing section is a 40-minute essay in which students develop a position on a complex issue and respond to multiple perspectives. It does not affect the Composite score. Requirements vary, so students should check the policies of their schools and testing programs before registering.

You can send scores to up to four colleges for free when you register. Additional score reports can be sent later for a fee.

Meaningful improvement begins with understanding the current format, practicing under realistic timing, and focusing on the skills and question types that need the most attention. One-on-one tutoring can provide individualized feedback, structure, and accountability. Our tutors build each preparation plan around the student’s existing scores, practice work, goals, and areas for growth.