ACT Test Updates: New Policies, Dates, and Format Guide

### The Official Guide to the ACT: Format Updates and Registration Deadlines The ACT has released updated guidelines and schedules for the upcoming testing seasons, introducing significant changes to how students approach the exam. As a primary entrance exam for college admissions, these updates impact how students prepare for English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing sections. This news-style explainer breaks down the official policy from ACT.org to help families navigate the registration process and test day requirements. ### Key Format Changes: Science and Writing Are Now Optional In a shift from previous years, the ACT now consists of four core subject areas, with two sections designated as optional. Notably, the **Science section** has joined the **Writing section** as an optional add-on. Choosing not to take these sections will not affect a student's Composite score. #### Core Sections (Required for Composite Score): * **English (35 Minutes, 50 Questions):** Focuses on the ability to revise and edit short texts and essays across various genres. * **Math (50 Minutes, 45 Questions):** Measures mathematical skills typically acquired through the beginning of grade 12. * **Reading (40 Minutes, 36 Questions):** Assesses close reading skills, logical reasoning, and the integration of information from multiple sources. #### Optional Sections: * **Science (40 Minutes, 40 Questions):** Measures interpretation, analysis, and problem-solving in biology, chemistry, and Earth/space sciences. * **Writing (40 Minutes, 1 Prompt):** Measures writing skills taught in high school English and entry-level college composition courses. ### Upcoming Test Dates and Deadlines Families should be aware of the immediate registration deadlines for the remainder of the year. Please note that late registration requires an additional fee. | Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Score Release (Initial) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **September 19** | August 14 | September 1 | October 6 | | **October 17** | September 11 | September 29 | October 27 | | **December 12** | November 6 | November 29 | December 22 | *Note: No test centers are scheduled in New York for the July test date. All dates for the 2026-2027 cycle are also available via the official MyACT portal.* ### Eligibility and Financial Assistance ACT offers a **Fee Waiver Program** for eligible students. Eligibility is determined based on the student's geographic location and household income. Students can check their qualification status through the official ACT website before registering to ensure they receive any applicable financial support. ### Test Day: What to Bring and What to Expect To ensure a smooth testing experience, ACT has provided a strict checklist for students. Failure to bring required items may result in being turned away from the test center. * **Admission Ticket:** Students must print their ticket from the MyACT portal after successfully uploading a photo. This ticket includes necessary registration info or a launch code. * **Photo ID:** A valid, acceptable photo ID is required for entry. * **Pencils:** Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers. Mechanical pencils and pens are strictly prohibited. * **Testing Device:** For students using the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) format, laptops must be fully charged and accompanied by a charger. * **Calculator:** A permitted calculator may be used for the Math section only. It must be stored when not in use. * **Watch:** A timing device is allowed on the desk for pacing, provided it has no alarm. * **Bilingual Dictionary:** ACT-approved dictionaries are allowed for those who need them but will be inspected by staff. ### Next Steps for Families 1. **Determine Your Strategy:** Decide whether to take the optional Science and Writing sections based on the requirements of the colleges you are targeting. 2. **Request Accommodations:** If a student requires accommodations or English Learner (EL) supports, these must be requested through the official process *before* registration. 3. **Secure a Seat:** Register via MyACT early to avoid late fees and to secure a preferred local test center. 4. **Prepare with Official Tools:** ACT offers both free and paid resources, including practice tests, official subject guides, and the ACT Kaplan Test Prep Suite, to help students build confidence before their scheduled date. --- *Source: [ACT — The ACT Test](https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.html) — automatically synced on 2026-08-31.*