ACT Exam (2025-2026): Exam Dates | Maths Syllabus | Free Study Guide
American College Testing (ACT) is a national standardized test that serves as a measurement of aptitude and critical thinking. It is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make decisions. It is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test administered by ACT.

The purpose of the ACT is to measure high school student readiness for college and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. College admission officers will review standardized test scores alongside your high school GPA, the classes you took in high school, a letter of recommendation from a teacher or mentors, extracurricular activities, and an admission interview.
ACT Exam Key Information
The ACT is administered seven times annually in the United States, its territories, Puerto Rico, and Canada—specifically in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July. However, the July test date is not available in New York State. In other international locations, the ACT is offered five times a year: in September, October, December, April, and June. The exam is typically held on Saturdays, but alternative testing dates are available for individuals with verified religious commitments.
ACT Exam Dates: 2025–2026
The below table mentions all the upcoming ACT exam dates:
| Test Date | Regular Registration Deadline | Late Fee Applies After | Late Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 5, 2025 | February 28, 2025 | March 16, 2025 | March 28, 2025 |
| June 14, 2025 | May 9, 2025 | May 27, 2025 | June 6, 2025 |
| July 12, 2025* | June 6, 2025 | June 20, 2025 | July 4, 2025 |
| September 6, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | August 19, 2025 | August 29, 2025 |
| October 18, 2025 | September 12, 2025 | September 30, 2025 | October 10, 2025 |
| December 13, 2025 | November 7, 2025 | November 24, 2025 | December 5, 2025 |
| February 14, 2026 | January 7, 2026 | January 21, 2026 | February 6, 2026 |
| April 11, 2026 | March 6, 2026 | March 24, 2026 | April 3, 2026 |
| June 13, 2026 | May 8, 2026 | May 27, 2026 | June 5, 2026 |
| July 11, 2026* | June 5, 2026 | June 24, 2026 | — |
ACT Overview
The table below shows the duration, cost, and other details about the exam.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| ACT Duration | 2 Hours, 55 Minutes (+40 Minutes if taking the optional Writing section) |
| ACT Sections | - English - Math - Reading - Science - Writing (optional) |
| Cost (U.S.) | - Without Writing: $50.50 - With Writing: $67.00 |
| Cost (Non-U.S.) | - Without Writing: $150.00 - With Writing: $166.50 |
| Maximum Score | 36 |
| Average Score | 21 |
Exam Pattern For ACT (2025-2026)
The exam pattern for ACT this year and next year is given below:
Section | Number of Question | Time allotted | Score range |
|---|---|---|---|
English | 75 | 45 Minutes | 1 - 36 |
Mathematics | 60 | 60 Minutes | 1 - 36 |
Reading | 40 | 35 Minutes | 1 - 36 |
Science | 40 | 35 Minutes | 1 - 36 |
Writing (optional) | Essay | 40 Minutes | 2 - 12 |
- Total Questions: 215 (excluding the essay)
- Total Duration:
- Without Writing: 2 hours 55 minutes
- With Writing: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Composite Score Range: 1 – 36
ACT Maths Topic & Syllabus
This syllabus covers essential mathematical concepts, including algebra, geometry, Trigonometry, and problem-solving techniques, to enhance analytical and quantitative reasoning skills:
Pre -Algebra
- Number
- Divisibility
- Percentage
- Fraction
- Square Root
- Ratio
- Mean, Median, and Mode
- Prime Numbers
- Multiples
- Probability
- Exponents
Elementary Algebra
- Quadratic Equation
- Substitution
- Simplifying Algebraic Expression
- Linear Equation
- Inequalities
- Multiplying Binomials