Knowing the ACT test dates can be very important for the students preparing for college studies. The test dates information can help you plan for the test and you will have peace of mind for preparation accordingly. Information about the test dates can help create an effective study plan, prevent missing registration deadlines, and avoid paying late fees. Furthermore, keeping these dates marked will let you prepare early so you can achieve the desired score.
You can confidently apply for your favorite college. There are multiple ACT dates available each year so one can choose a date that suits their schedule. Mark your calendar, and take advantage of the set dates to meet your academic goals without the stress of last-minute registration!
ACT Test Dates For 2026
The ACT test is a study curriculum-related exam that aids in assessing the knowledge level that students have obtained from their schools. It acts as the most important aspect for securing admission into four primary U.S Colleges and universities. These dates are helpful for student both U.S. and international students to review and plan their schedules. They can prepare confidently for this important exam.
Following are the test dates for the 2025-26 ACT. You can also check the registration deadlines, late registration deadlines, and estimated score release dates. Registration for the April, June, and July tests is anticipated to open in early December.
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Estimated Score Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 13, 2025 | November 7, 2025 | November 24, 2025 | December 30 |
| February 14, 2026 | January 9, 2026 | January 23, 2026 | March 3 |
| April 11, 2026 | March 6, 2026 | March 24, 2026 | April 21 |
| June 13, 2026 | May 8, 2026 | May 29, 2026 | June 23 |
| July 11, 2026 | June 5, 2026 | June 24, 2026 | July 21 |
Remember that the July test date is unavailable in New York.
What Are The ACT Dates For 2026-27?
You may have missed the regular test registration decline. If this is the scenario then you can still sign up by paying an extra fee for the late deadline. Also, if you didn’t apply for the late registration If you didn’t register for a test day by the late registration deadline, you can take advantage of standby testing for an extra fee. All US territories, including Puerto Rico, will take the tests on those dates. Midnight Central Time is the deadline. You probably have other options if you can’t take the test on Saturday because of religious reasons.
Here is a table based on the information you provided for the 2026-2027 ACT test dates and deadlines:
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Online Score Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 19, 2026 | August 14, 2026 | September 1, 2026 | October 6, 2026 |
| October 17, 2026 | September 11, 2026 | September 29, 2026 | October 27, 2026 |
| December 12, 2026 | November 6, 2026 | November 29, 2026 | December 22, 2026 |
| February 27, 2027 | January 22, 2027 | February 9, 2027 | March 16, 2027 |
| April 10, 2027 | March 5, 2027 | March 23, 2027 | April 20, 2027 |
| June 12, 2027 | May 7, 2027 | May 25, 2027 | June 22, 2027 |
| July 10, 2027 | June 4, 2027 | June 22, 2027 | July 20, 2027 |
How To Register For ACT 2026?
Registering for ACT 2026 is a straightforward procedure. Here are the steps you will need to take to register:
Step 1: Create a MyACT Account
Visit the official website ACT and create a free account on their. This is an essential step for ACT registration. You will get a confirmation email with account details after signing up.
Step 2: Register for the ACT Exam
Now login to your MyACT account to start registration for the ACT 2026. You just need to follow the instructions on the screen such as test type and other preferences. Make sure to add accurate details to avoid any issues later on.
Step 3: Review Instructions and Set Preferences
Now you will need to gather the necessary materials and read the instructions carefully. Select the test type and other settings such as testing accommodations. If you are an international student then certain selections will have already been set based on your location.
Step 4: Select Test Date and Location
Select a test date and location that suits your daily schedule. The deadline for ACT registration is usually around three to four weeks before the test date. So plan according to your preferred option. Don’t select and input details in a rush. Double-check the selection for accuracy as you will have to pay extra to make any changes in the future.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
Once all information is entered, upload your recent photo. Provide education and family details. You can select up to four colleges where you want your ACT score to be assessed. You can also choose how your score should be sent. So before finalizing, review the details and options carefully and submit your application form.
Step 6: Pay the Exam Fee
Once you completed every registration step, pay the fee to complete the registration. The cost for the ACT without writing is USD 186.50, and with the writing section, it’s USD 211.50. Payments can be made online using a credit or debit card.
What Is The Registration Fees For ACT?
The total ACT test fee depends on your selected options. It also depends on whether you have selected the writing test or not. Here’s a table for the ACT registration fees and options:
| Fee | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| The ACT (no writing) | $69.00 | Includes score reports for you, your high school, and up to four colleges (if codes are provided). |
| The ACT with writing | $94.00 | Includes score reports for you, your high school, and up to four colleges (if codes are provided). |
| Test option change | $25.00 | Allows addition or removal of the writing test through the late deadline in MyACT. |
What Are The ACT Cancellation & Late Registration Fee?
If you have missed the registration deadline then you may have to pay for the late registration charges for ACT registration. Those charges will be received on top of the original charges. Also, if you want to cancel the test then you can get a partial refund of the original amount. However, late fees may not be available for refund. Here are the details about cancellation and late registration fees.
| Fee | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Late registration | $38.00 | Applies to registration or test date changes made during the late period for a national test date. |
| Standby testing | $69.00 | Refunded if denied admission or registration was canceled due to no photo provided. |
| Change Fee | $44.00 | Covers making a test date or test center change. |
| Score reports to 5th and 6th colleges | $19.00 | Request online before the test date; refundable on written request if you do not test. |
| Additional Score Reports | $19.00 | Request additional score reports online after registration. |
| Test Information Release (TIR) | $32.00 | If ordered before the test begins. |
| $40.00 | If ordered after the test. | |
| Score Verification (multiple-choice) | $58.00 | For verifying multiple-choice test scores. |
| Score Verification (writing) | $58.00 | For verifying writing test scores. |
| Score Verification (both) | $116.00 | This is to verify both multiple-choice and writing test scores. |
Bottom Line
In other words, ACT test dates for 2025-26 can help the students to prepare better for the test. Aside from preparation, students frequently ask, “How long is the ACT test?” In short, the ACT lasts 2 hours and 55 minutes (175 minutes) without the writing portion, or 3 hours and 35 minutes if you opt for the writing section. Each section is timed individually, typically lasting between 30 to 60 minutes. This post has summed up all the essential information you’ll need for your ACT 2025-26, and even 2027, with guidance from Ivy Test Prep. Make sure to follow the schedule carefully to avoid late fees and extra charges. Make sure to follow the schedule to avoid late payment and paying extra.
