Official ACT 2026-27 Guide: Dates, Format & Registration

# ACT Official Update: Navigating the 2026–27 Testing Cycle As the 2026–27 admissions cycle begins, ACT has released updated guidelines for students, parents, and educators. This year marks a significant shift in how the test is structured, offering students more flexibility in how they demonstrate college readiness. From registration deadlines to the new status of the Science section, here is the official breakdown of what you need to know for the upcoming testing year. ## Key Test Dates and Deadlines Staying ahead of registration deadlines is critical to avoiding late fees and ensuring a seat at a preferred test center. For the fall and winter sessions, ACT has confirmed the following schedule: * **September 19 Test Date** * Registration Deadline: August 14 * Late Registration Deadline: September 1 * Initial Score Release: October 6 * **October 17 Test Date** * Registration Deadline: September 11 * Late Registration Deadline: September 29 * Initial Score Release: October 27 * **December 12 Test Date** * Registration Deadline: November 6 * Late Registration Deadline: November 29 * Initial Score Release: December 22 Note that a late fee applies to all registrations made after the primary deadline. Furthermore, students in New York should be aware that no test centers are scheduled in the state for the July test date. ## The New ACT Format: What is Optional? The most notable update for the 2026–27 cycle is the reclassification of the Science section. The ACT now consists of two core required sections and two optional add-ons. ### The Core Sections (Required) 1. **English (35 Minutes, 50 Questions):** Focuses on the ability to revise and edit short texts and essays across various genres. 2. **Math (50 Minutes, 45 Questions):** Measures mathematical skills typically acquired through the beginning of grade 12. 3. **Reading (40 Minutes, 36 Questions):** Assesses close reading skills, logical reasoning, and the ability to integrate information from multiple sources. ### The Optional Sections * **Science (40 Minutes, 40 Questions):** This is now an **optional add-on**. It measures interpretation, analysis, and problem-solving in biology, chemistry, and Earth and space sciences. Choosing not to take the Science section will not affect your Composite score. * **Writing (40 Minutes, 1 Prompt):** This remains an optional add-on that measures high school-level writing skills and entry-level college composition readiness. ## Test Day Requirements and BYOD ACT has modernized the testing experience by supporting **Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)** for online testing. If you choose this format, you must bring a fully charged laptop and a charger to the center. Regardless of the format, all students must bring: * **Admission Ticket:** Printed from MyACT after a photo has been successfully uploaded. * **Photo ID:** A valid, acceptable form of identification. * **Pencils:** Sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers (mechanical pencils and pens are strictly prohibited). * **Calculator:** A permitted calculator is allowed for the math section only. Students may also bring a watch (no alarms allowed) and an ACT-approved bilingual dictionary if they have requested English Learner supports. Snacks are permitted but must be consumed outside the testing room during breaks. ## Financial Aid and Support To ensure the exam is accessible, the ACT Fee Waiver Program is available for students based on location and household income. Additionally, students requiring accommodations or English Learner (EL) supports should begin the request process through their school before registering for a specific test date. ## Next Steps for Families 1. **Check College Requirements:** Before opting out of the Science or Writing sections, verify if your target universities require them for admission or placement. 2. **Register Early:** Log in to MyACT to secure your date. You can sign up for registration reminders via email or text to stay informed of upcoming deadlines. 3. **Utilize Prep Tools:** ACT provides both free and paid resources, including practice tests, official subject guides, and the ACT Kaplan Test Prep Suite, to help students build confidence before test day. --- *Source: [ACT — The ACT Test](https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.html) — automatically synced on 2026-09-06.*