Hey guys, I'm planning to take the ACT soon. How many hours does the test usually take when you factor in the breaks and everything?
Hello! The ACT test has four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. You will be given the following times to work on each section:
- English: 45 minutes
- Math: 60 minutes
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Science: 35 minutes
In total, you will have 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete the non-writing sections of the ACT. There is one 10-minute break after the Math section, so the total non-writing testing time, including the break, is 3 hours and 5 minutes.
If you decide to take the optional ACT Writing test (which is an additional 40-minute essay), your total testing time will then come up to 3 hours and 45 minutes, including the 10-minute break. There is also a 5-minute break before the optional Writing test.
Keep in mind that this doesn't take into account the time spent on check-in procedures, reading the instructions, and filling out answer documents. You should expect to be at the testing center for about 4 to 5 hours. Good luck on your ACT!
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