Wondering how long is the ACT Test and how much time you’ll be spending in the exam room? The ACT Exam is a major milestone for college-bound students across the U.S., and knowing what to expect can help ease those test-day jitters. The entire test, without breaks, takes 2 hours and 55 minutes, but if you're doing the optional Writing section, get ready for a total of 3 hours and 35 minutes. Each section—English, Math, Reading, and Science—has a time limit on it, so time management will be a huge part of your strategy. Let's get down to business. Let's break down the timing for each section and what you can expect on test day!

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Did You Know Facts About How Long is the ACT Exam?

• Almost a Movie Marathon: The ACT runs 2 hours and 55 minutes—add the optional essay, and you’re clocking in at 3 hours 35 minutes!
• Speed Test: You get just 36 seconds per question on the English section—better think fast!
• Math Marathon: The Math section is the longest at 60 minutes, but with 60 questions, that’s only 1 minute per problem.
• Science, but Make It Quick: The Science section is 35 minutes—that’s less time than a typical TV show episode!
• Break Time is Short: You get just one 10-minute break after Math—use it wisely to recharge!

How Long is the ACT?

Though officially 2 hours and 55 minutes, the ACT lasts 3 hours. The exam takes three hours and thirty minutes to finish, including breaks. The ACT Plus Writing, an optional essay-based test, lasts for three hours and forty minutes, or slightly more than four hours when breaks are taken. However, the overall time was increased to almost three and a half hours due to the ten-minute break in between Math and Reading and the initial paperwork completion period. There is a 45-minute segment in English. There is a 60-minute math segment. Additionally, each of the reading and science portions lasts 35 minutes. Students who choose to participate in the optional writing component at the conclusion will stay for an extra forty minutes, with a five-minute break in between.

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What Time does ACT Start?

Test takers must arrive at their test center by 8:00 am. Testing begins after students are checked in and seated, usually by 8:30 am. Remember that if you are taking the test on the computer, you may be testing at different times, including in the afternoon. Be sure to download your ACT Admission Ticket after you register for the ACT. Students taking the ACT Test (without writing) normally finish around 12:35 pm, and students who also take the writing section normally finish around 1:35 pm. We recommend a 7:45 am arrival at the latest.

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ACT Test Times & Sections

How long is each section of the ACT? Great question! Each section of the ACT is unique in both length and the number of questions, designed to measure key skills that are essential for success in college and learned throughout high school. The test features a total of 215 questions plus 1 optional essay. Here’s the breakdown: the English section leads with 75 questions, followed by 60 questions in Math. Both the Reading and Science sections have 40 questions each. Each part challenges different skill sets, so knowing how much time you have per section can help you manage the clock and perform your best on test day!

NOTE: In Spring 2025 for national test dates and Sprint 2026 for school day test dates, the Science section will also become optional.

Is the ACT as long as the SAT?

Trying to decide between the ACT Exam and SAT Exam? One big question students ask is, “Is the ACT as long as the SAT?” The answer: they’re pretty close, but there’s a slight difference. How long is the ACT with Writing? The ACT runs 3 hours and 35 minutes if you include the optional Writing section. On the other hand, the SAT takes 3 hours without the Essay, and 3 hours and 50 minutes if you add the (now less common) optional Essay. So, while the ACT is shorter overall, it moves at a faster pace, giving you less time per question. Whether you prefer speed (ACT) or a little more breathing room (SAT), knowing the timing can help you choose the test that’s right for you!

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What You Need to Know on the ACT Test Day?

Test day is here—are you ready to conquer the ACT? From what to bring to how to manage your time, there’s a lot to keep in mind. First off, don’t forget your admission ticket, a valid photo ID, #2 pencils, and an approved calculator. You’ll also want snacks and water for your break to keep your energy up. Now, about timing—how long is the ACT Test with extended time? If you qualify for accommodations, the test can stretch up to 5 hours, giving you 50% more time per section. Whether you’re taking the standard or extended version, pacing yourself and staying calm is key. Show up early, take deep breaths, and crush it!

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Conclusion

The ACT is a demanding exam that takes a minimum of three hours to complete. For the majority of students, the ACT's scheduling is the biggest barrier, and mastering the timing of the test begins with knowing its intricacies. The next stage is to apply the knowledge I've given in this piece to your practice after you've grasped it. You can make study plans now that you are aware of how lengthy the ACT is, both with and without the writing test and with extra time. Recall that the ACT is a race—not a sprint. Develop your stamina and concentration with practice exams, customized study plans, and timetables. At first, the speed at which things are happening may seem overwhelming, but with practice, you can master the ACT exam and raise your score.