On the day of the test, it’s important that you are prepared. Thus, to help you, use our detailed guide that covers what to bring to ACT and what you can do on the days right before the test to better equip yourself. Also check out what to bring to the ACT test when you arrive, give the test, what to do after with this ACT test day checklist and some most helpful tips for doing your very best on the test.
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Overview of ACT Exam Day
Going to the Test Center
- Dress in layers to ensure your comfort.
- Arrive by 8:00 am.
- Do a practice drive to see how to get there and what time you'll need to leave, preferably on a non-test day, if you’re unsure of the location of the test centre.
- You must arrive on time to take the test. You will NOT be admitted to the test if you are tardy.
During the Test
- You can't seek a test date change after breaking the seal on your test booklet, even if you don't finish all your tests.
- Don't violate test centre rules like partaking in prohibited behaviour. Your answer sheet won't be scored if you do.
- On the test day, you are required to agree to the terms and conditions of ACT again.
Taking a Break
After the second test, a break is scheduled. Cell phones and other electronics are banned during breaks. During the break, you can eat and drink outside the test room. Before the ACT writing test, you can rest and sharpen your pencils.
Finishing Up
- After the science test, expect a multiple-choice test on another subject. The fifth test helps design future questions and won't affect your score, hence do your best.
- Students taking the ACT (no writing) with standard time are excused about 12:35 p.m. Students taking the ACT with writing are normally dismissed about 1:35 p.m.
- If you don't want your scores disclosed, tell the testing staff before leaving. Otherwise, your test will be scored.
Additional Reminders
- Note that the ACT may visit test facilities to execute additional test security procedures, including gathering examinee photos during check-in at other times of test day.
- ACT doesn’t condone cheating. Report suspicious behaviour.
What Should a Student Bring on ACT Test Day?
Nothing that could hinder your test should be forgotten or brought. To avoid taking any risks consider packing the night before to ensure there aren’t any nasty surprises at the testing centre. Now that we have that out of the way, check out this ACT checklist of items of what to bring to ACT test along with what you should NOT bring on the day of the test below:
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Your admission ticket
Take a printout of your admission ticket to the test centre. Without your ticket, your exam scores may be delayed. You can print a replacement ticket from your MyACT account if you lose yours.
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A Photo ID
Bring a photo identification as specified by the ACT:
- You must produce a valid, up-to-date, government or school-issued photo ID.
- The student ID must be in the form of a rigid plastic card. Paper or electronic formats are NOT allowed.
- First and last names must match the ticket. It must be a clear photo of you.
Those without a valid government/school-issued picture ID must submit an ACT Student Identification Form (PDF) with a photo. It must be signed by a school administration or an unrelated public notary.
Your ID must meet ACT's standards to be permitted into the test centre.
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Mask
To stop the spread of COVID-19, the ACT requires all test takers to wear a face covering or mask.
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2-3 Number 2 Pencils
Bring 2-3 #2 pencils. Check for a "2" near the eraser to make sure that's the standard ACT requires. Good erasers are essential. No highlighters, ink pens, etc. are allowed.
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A Watch
You can set your own pace with an alarm-free watch (including smartwatches and fitness bands). If the alarm goes off during the test, you'll be removed and your test won't be scored. However, watches are non-essential. Each section's final 5 minutes will be announced.
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An ACT-Approved Calculator (and extra batteries!)
ACT-approved calculators are allowed for the math section. Although the math section can be answered without a calculator, it's a handy tool for answering questions or inspecting work.Check your calculator's battery and other issues before the test. Bring extra batteries just in case.
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Snacks!
Bring a healthy 10–15-minute break snack. Choose a food that won't make you hungry or lower blood sugar. Healthy snacks include nuts, granola bars with less than 10g of sugar, and apples.
Bring your favourite mints to feel more awake.
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A Jacket or Sweater
The test rooms are notoriously cold, and you'll be seated for hours. Layer your clothes for any temperature. Nothing should distract you from your work.
What Not to Bring on ACT Test Day?
Make sure you know this is not what to bring on ACT test day. Don’t have these in your bag or on your person because otherwise it would be at the risk of not having your test graded.
- Textbooks, language dictionaries, rough paper, notes or other aids
Bringing outside resources to the test is not allowed and will be declared cheating resulting in your dismissal from the test which will not be scored.
- Highlighter pens, mechanical pencils, pens, coloured pens and pencils, or correction fluid/tape/white ink
Wooden Number 2 pencils are the only acceptable writing tool of choice for the ACT.
- Any electronic device, other than a permitted calculator
Give a parent or guardian your electronics. Turn off electronic devices and ask the proctor what to do with them. The proctor will usually collect your phones using a method they designed; however, you must ensure that your phone is not on you and does not make any noise during the test. You'll be removed from the testing room and your answers won't be recorded. This rule applies to all recordable, internet-connected, and communicative devices.
- Reading material
Bringing it wouldn’t even matter as you won’t have time to refer to it anyway.
- Tobacco in any form
This encompasses the use of vapes and other tobacco products.
Last-minute Tips for ACT Test Day
- Dinner- This is a good tip for ACT Test Day. A healthy and filling dinner can affect your mental state and set your exam mood.
- Sleep well- Getting enough sleep is important so you won't fall asleep during the exam and your mind can perform well.
- No cramming- Last-minute studying to boost your score may be tempting. This won't help. Cramming is stressful and short-term studying isn't helpful for tests. Instead, relax the night before your exam and review your hard work.
- Be on time- The ACT starts at 8:30AM, but you must be seated by 8:00AM so the proctor can read the instructions. Most students arrive at 7:45AM, so 7:30-7:45AM is ideal.
Suggested: ACT Sample Papers for Practice
It is important to plan out your test day meticulously, to avoid taking any unnecessary risks. To make things easier for you, take a printout of these instructions and follow them religiously. Ensuring your ACT test day goes smoothly is paramount to your success in getting into the college of your choice. Incase of any queries, speak to our Yocket counsellors today.
