When you have completed the ACT questions, you will anxiously await your ACT score. This is understandable as you have spent many months studying and preparing for the test day. It is understandable that you are now waiting for the results. This post will help you understand the ACT score release dates for 2024-2025. You will have peace of mind and be preparing the list of colleges that you need to apply.
ACT Score Release Date
There are usually two batches of ACT scores released. The first batch of scores is available within two weeks of the test date. In general, you will get your remaining scores and detailed reports six to eight weeks after you’ve taken the test (including your Writing score). If you haven’t heard from ACT after eight weeks, we will recommend contacting them directly. It’s important to remember that the scores are just one part of your application. Don’t worry, you’ve done the hard work.
Here’s the 2024-2025 ACT score release schedule.
When applying to college, use the table below to track when you should receive your ACT scores. Most regular decision deadlines fall in early January, so plan your test date accordingly.
| National Test Date | Score Reporting Timeframe |
|---|---|
| February 8, 2025 | February 18 – April 4 |
| April 5, 2025 | April 15 – May 30 |
| June 14, 2025 | June 24 – August 8 |
| July 12, 2025 | July 22 – September 5 |
Take the ACT by April 5, 2025, if you’re applying for regular decision.
Take the ACT ASAP if you’re applying for an early decision. You have plenty of time to prepare for the April 5, 2025 test since many early deadlines fall in September and October.
| Test Date | Regular | Late Fee Applies After | Late Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 8, 2025 | January 3 | January 20 | January 31 |
| April 5, 2025 | February 28 | March 16 | March 28 |
| June 14, 2025 | May 9 | May 26 | June 6 |
| July 12, 2025 | June 6 | June 20 | July 4 |
Remember that the July 12, 2025 test date is not available in New York. However, if you’re applying early decision, take the April 5, 2025 ACT to ensure your scores are ready for fall deadlines.
Why ACT Score Can Be Delayed
You may wonder if ACT scores should come out at the same time as the grades are granted automatically. But don’t forget that hundreds of thousands of students take the ACT every month so grading can be delayed. For several reasons, there can be a delay for the ACT. Some reasons such as late test materials, registration discrepancies, irregularities, or unpaid fees may cause delays to the ACT score. These delays are generally resolved within 8 weeks.
Students may check MYACT for updates. They can also directly contact the ACT with questions. Though the ACT aims to release the test scores on the specified date, delays happen. Technical issues or administrative problems are common causes of delays. So, it is important to be aware of potential delays so you can plan accordingly.
The delayed ACT Scores can affect your college application and scholarship chances. Be sure to monitor ACT’s official communications and those of your preferred colleges. Make sure you coordinate with admissions offices about submission deadlines and score update policies.
Understanding the 2024 ACT Score Release Process
You may feel that the score publishing is taking more than usual. However, if you know how they are released then it will ease your anticipation. Delays in ACT scores are more common for the tests in October and February. This is because of the special equating process used in those months. Here is what happened with the scores when you were waiting for them.
- The test sheets are securely shipped to scanning centers after the test day.
- Your tests will be scanned, and the total number of correct answers will be collected and turned into raw scores.
- The raw score will be converted into the traditional 1-36 scale so the scores of each student will be provided with fairness.
- If you took the Writing section, two independent graders review and score your essay.
- After everything is verified, scores are released in batches.
Note that if you have opted for the ACT test dates in February or October, then expect a little longer due to additional score adjustments.
What to Do When ACT Scores Come Out?
Just when you receive the notification, check your ACT score. Check if they are satisfactory enough for you or if you want to take another test. If they are fine with it, then send the additional score reports to colleges right away. If not, then you should prepare for the target scores. Plan your ACT prep time and deadlines first before re-preparing. However, if the deadlines are near then restarting may not be a good idea. Make sure your college focuses on the highest composite score. Take the best score from different sections and create your best composite score. If they do, you don’t have to worry about scoring lower in one section when retaking the ACT.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when ACT scores come out will help you plan your college application strategically. Even with the automatic grading, delays are inevitable. Issues such as technical or high volume can significantly impact the test release date. Your ACT score matters a lot, but it is just a single part of your academic journey. You can use it to get admission to your desired college, but you can also show off your other skills. Stay informed, patient, and strategic with your scores to make the most of your college applications and future opportunities!
