Looking for info on 2025–2026 ACT test dates? Knowing the correct ACT test dates is crucial for a solid test-taking plan. Though you might be tempted to go ahead and register for the next possible test date, what you should really be doing is finding a date that works well for you and your schedule.
In this guide, we offer an overview of upcoming ACT test dates, registration deadlines, and score release dates. We also give you tips on how to choose an ACT test date and go over which test dates work best for juniors, seniors, and more.
ACT Test Dates and Deadlines for 2025–2026
ACT test dates are generally held on Saturdays, but students may be eligible for alternate testing dates if they have religious exemptions or require special test accommodations.
Below, you’ll find two key tables:
- One for the remaining ACT test dates for the 2024–2025 school year
- One for the newly released ACT dates for the 2025–2026 academic year
ACT Test Dates 2024–2025
These dates have been confirmed by ACT, Inc., and include official registration deadlines and projected score release windows.
| Test Date | Normal Deadline | Late Deadline | Score Release Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 5, 2025 | February 28, 2025 | March 16, 2025 | April 15 – May 30, 2025 |
| June 14, 2025 | May 9, 2025 | May 27, 2025 | June 24 – August 8, 2025 |
| July 12, 2025* | June 6, 2025 | June 20, 2025 | July 22 – September 5, 2025 |
ACT Test Dates 2025–2026
Confirmed by ACT, Inc., these dates include expected registration deadlines and projected score release windows based on historical timelines.
| Test Date | Normal Deadline | Late Deadline | Score Release Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 6, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | August 19, 2025 | September 16 – October 31, 2025 |
| October 18, 2025 | September 12, 2025 | September 30, 2025 | October 28 – December 12, 2025 |
| December 13, 2025 | November 7, 2025 | November 24, 2025 | December 23, 2025 – January 7, 2026 |
| February 14, 2026 | January 7, 2026 | January 21, 2026 | February 25 – April 11, 2026 |
| April 11, 2026 | March 6, 2026 | March 24, 2026 | April 21 – June 29, 2026 |
| June 13, 2026 | May 8, 2026 | May 27, 2026 | June 23 – August 7, 2026 |
| July 11, 2026* | June 5, 2026 | June 24, 2026 | July 21 – September 4, 2026 |
How Long Does It Take to Get ACT Scores?
ACT scores typically become available 2 to 8 weeks after your test date:
- If you take the ACT without Writing, you’ll usually receive your full score report within 2 weeks.
- If you take the ACT with Writing, expect a delay of about 4 weeks, as the essay portion takes longer to grade.
Remember, colleges you designated to receive scores won’t get the official report until all sections, including the essay (if applicable), have been scored.
ACT Test Date Trends & Planning Tips
Key Patterns:
- Fall (Sept-Dec): Tests are clustered to give seniors more chances before college deadlines.
- Spring (Feb-June): Spread out to give juniors ample time to prep and retake.
Back-to-Back Tests: Risky Move
Because score release windows often overlap with the next registration deadlines, it can be tempting to book back-to-back tests. However, this can be risky:
- You may not have time to review your score or improve weaknesses before retaking.
- You may waste a test date that could’ve been more productive with additional prep time.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead, Score Higher
Understanding the 2025–2026 ACT test dates is only the first step. What truly matters is building a smart, personalized prep timeline around those dates. Rushing into the next available test without preparation often leads to missed potential, while a thoughtful plan with ample study time can boost your score significantly—especially when aligned with college application goals.
At Ascend Now, we partner with families to craft strategic, individualized ACT prep journeys. Our expert tutors work 1-on-1 with students to identify strengths, close learning gaps, and raise confidence before each test. Whether your child is preparing for their first ACT or a crucial retake, we ensure they walk in with clarity and walk out with results.
