ACT
The ACT is a college admissions test covering English, Math, Reading, and Science. Writing (essay) is optional.
Total score | 1–36 points (average of four section scores) |
Total testing time | 2 hours 55 min (without writing) / 3 hours 35 min (with writing) |
Adaptive? | No — difficulty does not change based on performance |
Calculator | Calculators allowed on all math questions (4-function, scientific, or graphing; check prohibited list) |
Sections and timing
Section | Questions & time | Content covered |
|---|---|---|
English | 75 questions in 45 min (36 sec/question) | Grammar & usage, punctuation, sentence structure, strategy, organization, style |
Math | 60 questions in 60 min (60 sec/question) | Pre-algebra, elementary and intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, trigonometry |
Reading | 40 questions in 35 min (52.5 sec/question) | Reading comprehension — what is directly stated or implied |
Science | 40 questions in 35 min (52.5 sec/question) | Data representation, research summaries, conflicting viewpoints |
Writing (optional) | 1 essay in 40 min | Analyzing a complex issue from multiple perspectives |
Scoring
Each of the four multiple-choice sections receives a raw score converted to a scaled score of 1–36.
The ACT composite score is the average of the four section scores.
No points lost for incorrect answers.
Essay (if taken) is scored separately on a scale of 2–12 per domain (Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, Language Use and Conventions), then converted to a 1–36 score.
Experimental questions
Some test-takers receive an additional 20-minute experimental section after the Science section (only for students not taking the essay). It is not scored, but students will not know which section it is — treat every section as if it counts.
FAQs
How often can students take the test?
As often as they want. Typically offered 7 times per year: February, April, June, July, September, October, December.
How long does it take to get scores back?
Multiple choice: normally within 2 weeks, but up to 8 weeks. Writing scores: about 2 weeks after MC scores.
Do scores expire?
No.
Is there a reference sheet?
No.
Zinkerz Syllabus: Link to be added.