Latest Update: Starting 2025, ACT has expanded its international computer-based test centers, enabling faster score reporting for global applicants.
The ACT Exam 2025 is a globally recognized test for undergraduate admissions, accepted by over 1,800 U.S. colleges and 225+ universities worldwide. Indian students increasingly prefer it as an alternative to theSAT. In 2025, ACT introduced shorter durations and fewer questions for a smoother testing experience.
This guide covers everything about the ACT: eligibility criteria, exam structure, subject-wise syllabus, preparation tips, upcoming test dates, registration process, centers in India, scoring system, sending scores to colleges, and a comparison with the SAT to help you choose the right test.
What is the ACT Exam?
The ACT (American College Testing) is a globally accepted standardized test used primarily for undergraduate admissions in the U.S. It evaluates academic readiness in English, Math, Reading, and Science, along with an optional Writing section.
The ACT is a globally accepted standardized test used primarily for undergraduate admissions. It is administered by ACT, Inc. and is widely accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the United States and over 225 institutions globally, including some in Canada, Australia, and the UK.
The exam is designed to measure a student's knowledge and skills across core high school subjects, with an emphasis on what they've learned in school rather than abstract reasoning.
With the introduction of digital test formats and changes in test duration in 2025, the ACT has become even more accessible and student-friendly. The exam is not only used for college admissions, but also for scholarship eligibility, academic counseling, and college course placement.
Why Students Take the ACT:
It’s accepted by every U.S. college and many global universities.
Suitable for students aiming for STEM-heavy or science-focused programs (due to the Science section).
Often preferred by Indian students seeking a straightforward, subject-based test structure.
Offers both online and paper-based formats.
Allows students to choose which scores to send to colleges.
Key Highlights:
Feature
Details
Exam Name
ACT (American College Testing)
Conducting Body
ACT, Inc.
Mode
Online and Paper-Based
Frequency
7 times a year in the U.S.; 5 times internationally
The ACT exam does not have strict eligibility conditions set by its conducting body, ACT, Inc. It is an open exam, and any student can register regardless of age, nationality, or academic background.
However, there are several practical guidelines and institutional preferences that students—especially international applicants—should be aware of before attempting the ACT.
In most cases, students attempt the ACT in Grade 11 or 12, as the exam content aligns closely with the U.S. high school curriculum. For Indian and other international students, a good understanding of English, Mathematics, and Science subjects is essential to perform well.
General ACT Eligibility Guidelines:
No Minimum Age Requirement: Students of any age can take the ACT. However, it's commonly taken by students aged 13 to 19.
Recommended Grade Level: Typically attempted by students in 11th or 12th grade, when they're preparing for college admissions.
Nationality: Open to both U.S. and international applicants. Indian students are eligible to apply.
Academic Qualification: No minimum qualification is required, but students should ideally have studied high school-level English, Math, and Science.
Number of Attempts: No restriction on the number of attempts. Students can retake the ACT up to 12 times (recommended: 2–3).
Institution-Specific Requirements: Some universities may require specific subject test scores or recommend the optional Writing test—check before registering.
Important Notes for Indian Students:
Ensure your passport or Aadhaar card is accepted as valid ID at your test center.
If you're applying to U.S. colleges that require or recommend the optional Writing section, make sure to include it while registering.
Always check the university-specific ACT requirements, especially for competitive or Ivy League colleges.
The ACT exam tests key academic skills across four core sections English, Math, Reading, and Science with an optional Writing test. Each section has fixed timing, a set number of questions, and focuses on evaluating high school-level proficiency.
ACT 2025 Exam Structure at a Glance:
Section
No. of Questions
Time Limit
Skills Tested
English
75
45 minutes
Grammar, sentence structure, punctuation
Math
60
60 minutes
Algebra, geometry, basic trigonometry
Reading
40
35 minutes
Reading comprehension, inference, reasoning
Science
40
35 minutes
Data analysis, experimental evaluation
Writing (Optional)
1 Essay
40 minutes
Argument development, clarity, coherence
Quick Facts:
The composite ACT score ranges from 1 to 36, averaged across the four main sections.
The Writing score is reported separately and does not affect the composite score.
Students can choose between paper-based or computer-based formats depending on availability in their country.
Should You Opt for the Optional ACT Writing Section?
The optional Writing section isn't mandatory for all colleges but can strengthen applications where essays are valued. Knowing whether to take it depends on your target universities’ requirements and your writing skills.
Pros of Choosing the ACT Writing Test:
Required or recommended by some selective colleges
Highlights your written communication and critical thinking skills
Useful for scholarship and honors program consideration
Cons to Consider:
Not needed by most universities
Adds to the exam fee and prep time
Tip: Always verify if your target colleges need the ACT Writing section—if not required, you may skip it to save time and cost.
ACT Exam Syllabus
Understanding the ACT syllabus is essential for strategic preparation. Each section targets specific academic skills commonly taught in high school and assessed through standardized formats that test both subject knowledge and critical thinking.
English Section: Topics and Concepts Assessed in the ACT Exam
The English section tests a student's grasp of standard written English, focusing on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills across short passages.
Key Concepts:
Grammar & usage
Sentence structure and clarity
Style and strategy
Punctuation and organization
Logical flow and coherence
Math Section: Core Topics and Percentage Breakdown
The Math section evaluates problem-solving abilities in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Topic
Weightage
Pre-Algebra
20–25%
Elementary Algebra
15–20%
Intermediate Algebra
15–20%
Coordinate Geometry
15–20%
Plane Geometry
10–15%
Trigonometry
5–10%
Reading Section: Passage Types and Analytical Focus
This section measures comprehension and reasoning based on short texts from different fields, checking how well students extract meaning, infer tone, and understand the author's purpose.
Passage Categories:
Literary Narrative
Humanities
Social Sciences
Natural Sciences
Skills Tested:
Identifying main ideas and supporting details
Drawing inferences
Recognizing author’s intent and tone
Comparing viewpoints across passages
Science Section: Format, Passage Types, and Reasoning Skills
The science section focuses on interpreting scientific data and understanding experimental tools. It doesn't test prior science knowledge but requires familiarity with reading charts and evaluating studies.
Question Formats:
Data representation (charts, graphs, tables)
Scientific summaries (methods, results)
Conflicting viewpoints (comparison of hypotheses)
Key Skills:
Critical evaluation of information
Identifying trends and variables
Drawing scientific conclusions
Writing Section: Essay Expectations and Evaluation Criteria
The optional Writing section assesses a student's ability to formulate and support arguments, using evidence and structure. The task typically involves analyzing different perspectives on a given issue.
Staying informed about ACT test dates helps international students register on time and prepare strategically. The ACT is offered multiple times annually, and early planning ensures access to preferred test centers and slots.
Upcoming ACT International Test Dates (2025)
Test Date
Registration Deadline
Late Registration
June 14, 2025
May 16, 2025
May 23, 2025
July 12, 2025
June 13, 2025
June 20, 2025
September 13, 2025
August 15, 2025
August 22, 2025
October 18, 2025
September 19, 2025
September 26, 2025
December 13, 2025
November 14, 2025
November 21, 2025
Note: ACT releases international test schedules in phases. Dates beyond July 2025 are based on past trends and will be officially confirmed on act.org in the upcoming months.
Tip: Book your slot early to avoid last-minute technical or center-related issues, especially if you're targeting early admissions.
The ACT registration process is entirely online and designed for ease. To avoid delays or errors, students should keep key details ready—like a recent photograph, preferred test dates, and credit/debit card information for payment.
Step-by-Step Registration Process:
Visit the official ACT website: Go to www.act.org.
Create an ACT student account: If you don’t have one, sign up with your personal details.
Choose your test date: Select the most convenient date and test center for you.
Decide on the Writing section: Choose whether to take the optional Writing section (essay).
Upload a recent photo: Ensure the photo meets ACT’s guidelines (passport-style).
Pay the registration fee: Complete payment via credit/debit card or other options available.
Receive confirmation: You will receive an email confirmation with test details.
ACT Exam Registration Fees (2025)
The ACT exam offers different fee structures based on the services selected. Below are the standard fees and additional charges for 2025:
Service Type
Fee (USD)
ACT (without Writing)
$181.50
ACT (with Writing)
$206.50
Additional Score Reports
$18.00 each
Late Registration
$36.00
Standby Testing
$53.00
Changes to Registration
$30.00
Note: Be sure to review the fees carefully, as international students may also incur additional charges based on location and the mode of test delivery.
ACT test centers are available in key cities across India. It's crucial to register early, as spots fill up quickly, especially for popular test dates. In 2025, the availability of computer-based testing is increasing, offering faster results and more flexibility.
Major ACT Test Centers in India
ACT test centers are strategically located in major metropolitan cities. Below are the cities where you can take the ACT exam:
New Delhi
Mumbai
Bangalore
Hyderabad
Chennai
Kolkata
Pune
Note: These cities are home to multiple test centers, so you will typically find one near you. However, the number of available slots may vary depending on the test date and demand.
Looking for more ACT test centers in India?
Check out the complete list of test centers and available dates for 2024-2025 here: A list of ACT Test Centres in India. Secure your spot today and plan ahead!
Computer-Based Testing in India
ACT is expanding computer-based testing (CBT) options across major cities in India. CBT provides quicker result turnaround and is more flexible in terms of scheduling. The shift to computer-based testing also eliminates paper-related delays, making the testing experience more efficient.
Cities Offering CBT: Major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai have started offering computer-based test centers.
Benefits of CBT: Faster results (2–3 weeks after the exam), flexible scheduling, and a more streamlined test-taking experience.
Tips for Booking Your Test Center:
Book Early: Test slots fill up fast, especially in high-demand cities. Secure your spot early, particularly for popular test dates in the spring and fall.
Check Center Availability: Some cities may have limited CBT options, so always check the available testing mode when selecting your center.
Consider Proximity: Choose a test center that is easily accessible to avoid travel-related stress on the day of the exam.
Stay Updated: Regularly visit the official ACT website to keep track of any new test centers or updates on CBT availability in your city.
ACT Exam Scoring System
The ACT uses a 1–36 scale for each section, and the composite score is the average of all four sections. The Writing section is scored separately on a 2–12 scale.
Key Points:
Section Scores: 1–36 for English, Math, Reading, and Science
Composite Score: Average of the 4 section scores
Writing Score: 2–12 (separate from composite)
Superscoring: Best scores across multiple attempts are averaged
What is a good ACT score?
33–36: Ivy League & top-tier universities
28–32: Competitive public universities
22–27: Mid-tier colleges
Understanding the ACT exam's structure, registration, and scoring system will help you prepare effectively and maximize your chances of success in securing a spot at your desired university.
Sending ACT scores is simple through your ACT account. You can send up to four reports for free during registration or pay for additional reports. Be mindful of delivery times and superscoring policies to optimize your score submissions.
Steps to Send Your ACT Scores:
Log into Your ACT Account on ACT.org.
Select Up to 4 Free Reports when registering for the exam.
Request Additional Reports for $18 each.
Confirm Your Selections and pay for any extra reports.
Score Delivery Times:
Online Scores: Results are available within 2 weeks after your exam date. You can share these results directly with colleges once they're released.
Hard Copy Scores (International): Delivery of official score reports to international addresses typically takes 4–6 weeks. Be sure to plan accordingly if you're applying for specific deadlines.
Superscoring:
Superscoring allows many U.S. colleges to combine your best individual section scores from multiple test attempts. This helps you present your highest possible composite score, boosting your chances of admission and showcasing your strongest areas of performance.
ACT Preparation Tips
Achieving success on the ACT requires a strategic approach that combines understanding the test structure, practicing regularly, and managing your time effectively. A focused study plan will help you improve in weak areas and ensure you're well-prepared for test day.
Key Preparation Tips:
Understand the Structure and Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the ACT format, sections, question types, and time limits. This will reduce surprises on exam day and help you manage your time effectively during the test.
Use Official ACT Prep Materials: Official study guides and practice tests give you an authentic idea of the test. They align closely with the real exam, so using them will ensure you're practicing with relevant material.
Take Timed Mock Tests: Simulate real test conditions by taking timed practice exams. This helps you get comfortable with the pressure of completing sections within the time limits and builds stamina.
Focus on Weak Areas: After identifying your weak points, allocate extra time to those areas. Regular review of challenging topics ensures steady improvement.
Start Prep Early (3–6 months in advance): Consistent, spaced-out study over a period of time is more effective than cramming. Starting early gives you the time to address each section thoroughly and avoid last-minute stress.
ACT vs SAT: A Comprehensive Comparison to Help You Choose
While both the ACT and SAT are used for college admissions, they have key differences in structure, content, and focus. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right test based on your strengths and preferences.
Key Differences Between ACT and SAT:
Feature
ACT
SAT
Sections
4 required sections + 1 optional (Writing)
2 required sections + 1 optional (Essay, discontinued in 2021)
Duration
2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing)
2 hours 14 minutes (Digital SAT)
Math
Includes a Math section with a calculator and one without
One section with calculator usage only
Science
Included, focused on scientific reasoning and data interpretation
Not included; focuses on math, reading, and writing
Essay
Optional (Writing section, not required by most schools)
Discontinued (was optional, but no longer a part of the exam)
Superscore
Widely accepted by most colleges
Accepted by many schools, though not as common as ACT's
Scoring System
Scored on a scale of 1-36 per section, with a composite score
Scored on a scale of 400-1600 (sum of two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math)
Tips for Choosing the Right Test:
Choose the ACT if you prefer direct, question-based assessments, are comfortable with science, and want to showcase your broad academic abilities across subjects.
Opt for the SAT if you prefer a shorter test with more focus on reading, math, and writing, and are more comfortable with no science section.
Conclusion
The ACT is more than just a test. It is your stepping stone to study at top universities in the U.S. and around the world. With clear planning, focused preparation, and consistent practice, you can tackle each section with confidence and achieve a score that reflects your true potential. Remember, every small improvement in your practice adds up on test day.
Preparing for the ACT may seem challenging, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it achievable. Understand the syllabus, take mock tests, identify your weak areas, and use official study material to stay on track. By approaching the exam strategically, you can reduce stress and perform at your best.
upGrad can guide you through every stage of your ACT journey. Our experts provide personalized tips, resources, and strategies to help you excel. Book a 1:1 free counselling session with upGrad experts and start your path to top universities today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ACT registration fees for 2025 in INR?
The standard ACT fee in 2025 is $181.50 (INR 15,200) without Writing and $206.50 (INR 17,300) with Writing. Extra score reports cost $18 (INR 1,500) each. Late registration adds $36 (INR 3,000), and standby testing is $53 (INR 4,400).
How many times can Indian students take the ACT?
There is no limit on ACT attempts. Most Indian students take it 2–3 times in Grades 11–12 to improve scores. The test is offered seven times yearly in the U.S. and five times internationally, allowing flexibility to retake for a better composite score.
What is the ACT Writing section and is it required?
The optional Writing section evaluates essay skills, argument clarity, and evidence usage. Some U.S. colleges recommend it, while most do not. Taking it can strengthen scholarship or honors applications, but students not required to submit it may save time and registration fees by skipping this section.
How is the ACT scored and what is a good score?
Each ACT section scores 1–36, with a composite average of the four sections. Writing is scored separately (2–12). Scores 33–36 are top-tier, 28–32 are competitive, and 22–27 are mid-tier. Superscoring lets students combine best section scores from multiple attempts.
What are the key subjects tested on the ACT?
The ACT tests English, Math, Reading, Science, and optional Writing. English covers grammar and sentence structure, Math includes algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, Reading focuses on comprehension, and Science tests data analysis and reasoning. Writing assesses essay composition and argument clarity.
When are ACT test dates for international students in 2025?
International ACT dates for 2025 include June 14, July 12, September 13, October 18, and December 13. Registration deadlines are usually 4–6 weeks prior. Booking early ensures preferred centers and availability, especially in high-demand cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
Which Indian cities offer ACT exam centers?
Major ACT centers in India are in New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and Pune. Most cities have multiple centers. Computer-based testing is expanding in these locations, offering faster results, flexible scheduling, and easier registration for international students.
Can Indian students take the ACT online or only paper-based?
Both options are available. Paper-based tests follow traditional formats, while computer-based testing (CBT) is growing in India. CBT offers faster results (≈2–3 weeks), flexible scheduling, and a streamlined experience. Students should select the mode based on center availability and personal preference.
How much does sending additional ACT scores cost in INR?
Up to four score reports can be sent free during registration. Additional reports cost $18 each (≈ ₹1,500). International delivery can take 4–6 weeks. Planning in advance ensures colleges receive scores on time, avoiding last-minute delays, especially for early admissions or scholarship applications.
What is the difference between ACT and SAT for Indian students?
ACT includes English, Math, Reading, Science, and optional Writing, with 2hr 55min duration. SAT focuses on Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing, no Science section, and a shorter duration. Students comfortable with subject-based questions and Science reasoning often prefer the ACT.
What prep tips improve ACT performance for Indian students?
Start preparation 3–6 months in advance, focusing on weak areas. Use official ACT prep materials, take timed mock tests, and practice English, Math, Reading, and Science skills. Regular review, structured study schedules, and understanding question formats significantly boost scores.
How do Indian students send ACT scores to U.S. colleges?
Scores are sent through the ACT account. Students select up to four free reports at registration; additional reports cost $18 (INR 1,500). Results are online in 2 weeks, and superscoring allows combining the best section scores from multiple attempts to present the strongest application.
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