ACT Test Dates, Registration Process, and Deadlines for 2025-2026

The upcoming ACT 2025 exam will be held on June 14, 2025. The Regular Registration Deadline for this test is May 9, 2025, and the Late Registration Deadline is May 27, 2025, for which a $38.00 late registration fee will be charged. In line with the ACT dates, the next test will be in spring 2025, on July 12. The regular registration deadline is on June 6, 2025. Students should prepare early for the ACT testing by registering well in advance. They need to book their preferred center and be ready to prove their college readiness.

As students know, the ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test administered by the nonprofit ACT organization. Supposedly, it assesses students' college readiness when applying to higher education institutions. There is great flexibility in the various ACT testing dates, with the best timing chosen according to the academic calendar, preparation schedule, and desired college admission. Taking the ACT even earlier allows for time to reschedule for another retake to improve the score.

Ace Your Upcoming ACT Test Preparation with our detailed preparation Guide!

Do you know the facts about ACT Test Dates?

• There are multiple ACT testing dates each year, offering flexibility to suit students' academic and personal schedules.
• A $38 late fee applies after the regular registration deadline; standby testing is available at $69 if registration is missed.
• ACT Test: $65; Writing add-on: $25; Science add-on: $4.
• Students requiring accommodations must apply through Test Accessibility and Accommodations before the late registration deadline.
• ACT test centers are widespread across high schools, colleges, and universities for convenience.
• No test centers in New York are available for the July ACT test date.
• In February, the Science section is mandatory for the composite score; in April, June, and July, it is optional for online tests only.

Also, Get to Know Which Colleges Take the Superscore ACT?

ACT Test Dates & Registration for 2025–26

The ACT test dates for 2025 offer students multiple chances to take the exam throughout the academic year. Staying informed on ACT testing dates ensures you're well-prepared and aligned with college deadlines.

ACT Test Dates Schedule 2025

ACT can change test dates and registration deadlines, so it's best to check the official ACT website regularly for the most current and correct information. Not all test centers have all test dates. Make sure to check availability in your area before choosing a date.

Note: In February, the Science section is required; in April, June, and July, it’s optional (online only). No test centers are available in New York for the July ACT test date.

Also, get to Know When you should take the ACT

ACT Test Dates Schedule 2026

The following table lists the ACT dates 2025 2026 testing cycle, as well as major registration and photo upload deadlines. Be sure to sign up early and post your photo by the deadline to prevent any troubles on test day as per the ACT schedule. These National Test dates are for the United States, U.S. territories and Puerto Rico. Refer er the table below to not miss out on the exam schedule and be prepared: 

ACT Registration Process 2025

The ACT Registration process. International students based out of the USA, its territories, and Puerto Rico need to access the non-US ACT dates. To begin registration for the ACT exam test dates 2025, one must set up a free My ACT account. 

• First, register for a MyACT account on the official ACT website. 
• Create a profile by registering with your information. You will receive ACT registration details via email after registering. 
• To register for the ACT, log into your MyACT account and choose the appropriate option. 
• To continue with the application procedure, adhere to the on-screen directions.
• Gather the required materials for registration and carefully read the instructions that have been supplied. 
• Choose your preferred test settings, including the time and place of the exam. Specific options may already be pre-selected for Indian students. 
• Select a test day and center that works for you. Make sure you register by the deadline, which is usually three or four weeks prior to the exam date. 
• Recheck your selections to be sure you don't need to make any changes later. 
• After you pay the exam price, your registration is complete.

Also, Get to Know What a Good ACT Score is.

ACT Registration Fees

The ACT exam fee depends on the options selected by the students. The cost varies based on whether students choose to include the writing test or not. The table below outlines the overall ACT application fees associated with different options. 

Also, Get to Know How long ACT is?

Why is the ACT Admission Ticket Important?

The ACT Admission Ticket is a mandatory document that you need to take with you when you take your ACT. Once you've registered and chosen your test date, you'll have access to your admission ticket via your MyACT account.

• The ticket includes critical information such as your test date, test center location, and reporting time.
• You need to print the ticket and bring a hard copy to the test center since digital copies on mobile phones are not accepted.
• You will not be permitted into the testing center without the admission ticket. It is proof of your registration and guarantees that you are allocated to the right test center.

In addition, the ticket provides a list of accepted identification requirements and other critical instructions to abide by on test day.

ACT Test Exam Format

The ACT is one of the standardized tests administered in the United States; it measures college readiness in four main areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. It also comprises an optional Writing section, which some colleges may require. It is a timed test meant to test specific skills, which include grammar, problem-solving, comprehension, and scientific reasoning. Familiarity with the ACT Test format and time limits is crucial to prepare effectively and pass on the day of the exam.

Calculate Your ACT Scores in one go with our ACT Score Calculator

ACT Test Preparation

For ACT Test Prep, there has to be a good plan and dedication. One should start with a target score based on average ACT scores from preferred colleges, setting out to aim a little higher for a standout application. That means you will be able to track progress and focus on areas that need improvement through regular practice tests. 

• Set a Target Score: Research the average ACT scores for colleges you're applying to and aim higher to strengthen your application.
• Official Sources Should Be Utilized: Preparation Practice from ACT prep books, online sources, and official practice tests.
• Master Time Management: Practice under timed conditions to improve your pacing and complete each section on time.
• Focus on Improvement Areas: Identify your weak spots from the practice test and spend more time studying those areas.
• Tackle Test Anxiety: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing can help one remain calm and focused during the test.

Attempt Free ACT Practice Test Here to Increase Your Scores!

ACT Test Centers 

The locations of the ACT centers are shown, and they are updated for every test date. Nonetheless, test centers are frequently located in American institutions, universities, and secondary schools. You can enter your zip code or city into the search on the official ACT website to find a specific test facility. ACTs are administered in several well-known venues across the United States, including:

• High Schools (public and private)
• Colleges and Universities (e.g., University of California campuses, Ohio State University)
• Community Colleges
• International Schools for students abroad

For a complete and up-to-date list, always check the official ACT registration site when planning your test.

Also, Get Familiar with Should You Guess on SAT & ACT? before appearing for the SAT and ACT exams. 

Final Thoughts

Definitely, a must for entering college effectively is determining and planning for the ACT test dates in 2025. Several ACT test dates are available throughout the year, which makes them a great opportunity for students to consider the best time to take the ACT, study hard, and then ensure that the school gets the score in due time. The dates set aside for the exam on the calendar are essential, whether it's your first test or a retake. It keeps you focused while preventing last-minute stress.