Hey friends! I'm registered to take the ACT soon, and I was wondering what time the exam usually starts and ends? I want to make sure I plan my day accordingly and have enough energy for the whole test. Thanks!
Hi! The doors of the testing center for the ACT typically open at 7:45 am, and testing starts around 8:30 am. The total duration of the test, including the breaks, is around 4 hours if you're taking the No Writing version, and around 4 hours and 50 minutes if you're taking the Writing version.
Here's a rough breakdown of the timeline:
- Doors open at 7:45 am
- Testing starts at 8:30 am
- English section: 45 minutes
- Math section: 60 minutes
- 15-minute break
- Reading section: 35 minutes
- Science section: 35 minutes
- 5-minute break (only for those taking the Writing section)
- Writing section (optional): 40 minutes
So, if you're taking the No Writing version, you can expect to finish around 12:30 pm. If you're taking the Writing version, you should be finished around 1:20 pm. Keep in mind that these times might vary slightly depending on the test center and how quickly they get things started, so be prepared to be flexible. But I definitely wouldn't plan anything major for just after the test, as you don't want to be stressed if there are any delays getting started.
Good luck on your ACT!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.