How Long is the ACT Test?
Sailing through classes, joining extracurricular activities, and watching graduation day draw nearer, you’ve completed almost every high school challenge. But one task remains to be completed: the ACT. You can ace that too, with the knowledge of its duration at your fingertips!
College entrance exams, crucial stepping stones to your application, offer two paths: the SAT and the ACT. If you’ve chosen the ACT, you’re probably wondering how many hours you’ll get to spend on the test. In this blog, learn more about the ACT, from test length to question count!
How Long Does the ACT Take?
The ACT is 3 hours long (technically 2 hours and 55 minutes). Including breaks, the exam takes 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Opting for the optional essay (the ACT Plus Writing) extends the test to 3 hours and 40 minutes, or slightly over 4 hours with breaks.
For those who opt out of the writing section, expect to spend just under 3 hours on the test itself, excluding breaks and wait times.
How Long is Each Section of the ACT?
The ACT exam consists of 215 multiple-choice questions, with an additional optional essay. The English section has 75 questions, the Math section has 60 questions, and the Reading and Science sections each have 40 questions.
| Sections | Time | Total Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| English | 45 min | 75 questions |
| Math | 60 min | 60 questions |
| Reading | 35 min | 40 questions |
| Science | 35 minutes | 40 questions |
| Writing (Optional) | 40 minutes | 1 essay |
| Total | 175 minutes (215 minutes with Writing) | 215 questions + 1 Essay |
With 215 questions to answer in 180 minutes on the ACT, you have an average of 52 seconds per question across all sections. While this holds true for most sections, the ACT English section, with its 75 questions in 45 minutes, demands even faster pacing at 36 seconds per question. However, remember that question complexity, your proficiency, and effective time management all play a role in how long each section takes for you.
How Long is the ACT Test with Writing?
Understanding the ACT’s timing might leave you wondering about the impact of the optional essay section. Adding this in means committing to an additional 40 minutes, extending the test from 3 hours to 3 hours and 40 minutes. But there’s a silver lining! After spending those 3 hours solving multiple-choice questions, you’ll have a brief 10-minute break to refresh and refocus before starting with the essay. Students choosing the writing section are typically dismissed around 1:35 p.m., marking the end of their test journey.
The decision to include the writing section depends on your college aspirations. While most colleges, including many top-ranked institutions, don’t require it, some might. Thoroughly research your target schools to ensure none mandate the writing test before opting out.
Read Also: ACT to SAT Score Conversion Chart 2024
Extended Time on the ACT
So, how much longer is the ACT with National Extended Time? You’ll receive 50% more time on each section, translating to:
- 70 minutes for English
- 90 minutes for Math
- 55 minutes each for Reading and Science
If you take the Writing test with extended time, you’ll have 60 minutes to complete one essay. This is a relatively recent update to the ACT’s policy.
Previously, students had five hours total to self-pace through the entire test. However, studies revealed that self-pacing placed an additional burden on students beyond the demands of the test itself. This finding prompted the ACT to modify its policy in 2018.
Read Also: What Are ACT Percentiles and Score Rankings?
What Time Does the ACT Start?
All ACT test-takers, regardless of test format (paper or computer), must report to their test center by 8:00 am. While the test typically begins by 8:30 am after check-in and seating, computer-based ACTs may have different start times, including afternoons.
To be sure, double-check your test ticket after registering for the ACT to confirm your specific test format and start time. And remember, Yocket is here to help you with any additional assistance you may need in your ACT preparation journey.
From the Desk of Yocket
The ACT’s 2 hours and 55 minutes might seem overwhelming at first glance, but it’s crucial to remember that it’s divided into manageable sections. Each section—English, math, reading, and science—has its own allocated time, allowing you to pace yourself and focus on specific skills. Additionally, there are short breaks between sections, giving you a chance to catch your breath and strategize for the next challenge.
Thinking about the test’s length, not as a barrier but as a framework, can be helpful. It allows you to develop a personalized plan for solving each section. For example, if you excel in math but struggle with reading comprehension, you can allocate more time to the latter during practice runs. Understanding the time constraints also helps you prioritize questions within each section, aiming for a strong performance and a good ACT score.
Pacing yourself, staying focused, and utilizing the allocated time effectively are keys to success. By viewing the test duration as a boon rather than a bane, you can approach it with confidence and a clear strategic plan, setting yourself up for a rewarding test experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ACT?
The ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes long, with an optional 40-minute writing test.
How is the ACT scored?
Each section of the ACT is scored from 1 to 36, with a composite score of all four sections. The national average is around 21.
When do I get my ACT results?
About 2 weeks after the ACT test date. You can view them online or request a mailed score report.