I'm a high school junior and I've decided to take the ACT as well. I am trying to get a better feel of the testing duration to reinforce my pacing. Could anyone let me know the total length of the test? And does the time allotted depend on whether or not you're taking the Writing section? I appreciate all the help!
The ACT test duration boils down to two scenarios - those who opted to take the Writing section (also known as the ACT Plus Writing), and those who chose to take the ACT without the Writing section.
When it comes to the ACT without Writing, it's approximately 2 hours, 55 minutes. Here's the breakdown:
- English: 45 minutes
- Math: 60 minutes
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Science: 35 minutes
If you chose to take the ACT Plus Writing, it's approximately 3 hours, 35 minutes as the Writing section requires an extra 40 minutes:
- English: 45 minutes
- Math: 60 minutes
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Science: 35 minutes
- Writing: 40 minutes
Depending on the test center, there may also be a short break mid-way through the test, which is approximately 10-15 minutes long. This break typically occurs after the Math section.
Hope this insight helps with your pacing practice! Best of luck on your ACT exam.
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.