
ACT Test Dates
ACT Test Dates
View upcoming ACT dates and choose the right test date for you.
To register for the ACT, visit ACT’s website or call 319.337.1270.
Students with testing accommodations should call 319.337.1851.
2025-2026 Test Date | Registration Deadline | Multiple Choice Scores First Posted* | Suggested Prep Dates |
---|---|---|---|
September 6, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | September 16, 2025 | June – August |
October 18, 2025 | September 12, 2025 | October 28, 2025 | August – October |
December 13, 2025 | November 7, 2025 | December 23, 2025 | September – November |
February 14, 2026 | January 9, 2026 | February 24, 2026 | November – January |
April 11, 2026 | March 6, 2026 | April 21, 2026 | January – March |
June 13, 2026 | May 8, 2026 | June 23, 2026 | March – May |
July 11, 2026** | June 5, 2026 | July 21, 2026 | April – June |
* Multiple choice scores are normally available within two weeks of each test date, but it can sometimes take up to eight weeks. Scores are processed and added each week, so keep checking if your scores didn’t post on the initial release day. Writing scores are normally available about two weeks after the multiple-choice scores post.
** No test centers are scheduled in New York for the July test date.
Registering for the ACT
To register for the ACT, you must sign up for an ACT student web account and upload a photo of yourself during registration. You’ll need to bring a photo ID and a copy of your registration ticket with you on test day, or you won’t be allowed to take the exam.
11th and 12th graders who meet income-based eligibility criteria are able to apply for a fee waiver and take the ACT for free. See ACT’s website for more information.
ACT Testing Policies & Fees
ACT Testing Policies and Fees | |
---|---|
Months Offered | February, April, June, July, September, October, December* |
Copy of test available | October, April, June |
Fee for copy of test | $34.00 for “ACT My Answer Key” (formerly Test Information Release) |
Fees | $68.00 for core exam; $4.00 to add optional Science; $25 to add optional Writing |
Late Registration | Additional $40.00 |
Change test date or testing center | Additional $48.00 |
Switching test type | Additional $48.00 |
Standby or waitlist** | ACT Standby is an additional $72.00 |
Scores released | 2 weeks – without writing |
Calculator | TI-89 allowed |
Score Verification Service | $61.00 to verify the key used for multiple choice $61.00 to double check the essay grading |
Cancellation deadline*** | 12:00pm (Central Time) the Thursday after the exam |
*No test centers are scheduled in New York for the July test date.
**ACT Standby requests must be submitted eight days before the test. Those on the ACT standby list are not guaranteed a seat. They should arrive early the morning of the exam and be prepared to wait until all registered test-takers have been seated. Only then will waitlisted or standby students be allowed to test if sufficient materials and seats are available.
***Students with disabilities may have different cancellation deadlines
Test Day Tips
Be sure to follow these important guidelines!






