ACT Test 2026-27: Dates, Format Changes, and Policies

## New Flexibilities and Formats for the 2026–27 ACT Cycle As the 2026–27 admissions cycle begins, ACT has updated its official testing policies and format to provide students with more flexibility. The most significant change for this cycle involves the core structure of the exam, specifically regarding which subjects impact a student's Composite score. ### The New ACT Format: What’s Required vs. Optional The ACT now consists of four core subject tests, but the Science section has moved from a requirement to an optional add-on. Under the current policy, a student's Composite score is determined only by the English, Mathematics, and Reading sections. * **English (Required):** 35 minutes, 50 questions. Focuses on revising and editing short texts and essays. * **Math (Required):** 50 minutes, 45 questions. Covers skills typically acquired through the beginning of grade 12. * **Reading (Required):** 40 minutes, 36 questions. Measures close reading, logical reasoning, and integration of information. * **Science (Optional Add-On):** 40 minutes, 40 questions. Focuses on interpretation, analysis, and problem-solving in biology, chemistry, and Earth/space sciences. This score does not affect the Composite. * **Writing (Optional Add-On):** 40 minutes, 1 prompt. Measures high school and entry-level college composition skills. This score does not affect the Composite. ### Upcoming Test Dates and Registration Deadlines Families planning for the 2026–27 academic year should note the following primary test dates and their associated deadlines. Note that late registration requires an additional fee. | Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Initial Score Release | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **December 12** | November 6 | November 29 | December 22 | | **February 27** | January 22 | February 9 | March 16 | *Note: For the July test date, no test centers are scheduled to operate in New York.* ### Test Day Requirements: A Checklist for Success To ensure a smooth testing experience, ACT has released a specific checklist of required and permitted items for students. Failure to bring the correct materials may prevent a student from testing. * **Admission Ticket & ID:** Students must print their admission ticket from their MyACT account after uploading a photo. A valid photo ID is also required for entry. * **Pencils:** Students must bring sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers. Mechanical pencils and pens are strictly prohibited. * **Technology:** If a student is participating in "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) testing, they must bring a fully charged laptop and a charger. * **Calculators:** Permitted calculators are allowed for the Mathematics section only. Students should consult the official CAS Calculator FAQ to ensure their device is compliant. * **Timing:** A watch or timing device is allowed to help with pacing, provided it has no alarm and remains on the desk at all times. * **Bilingual Support:** Students using an ACT-approved bilingual dictionary must bring it for inspection by test center staff. ### Accessibility and Fee Waivers ACT continues to offer support for students with different financial and learning needs. Before registering, students should investigate two key areas: 1. **Accommodations:** Students requiring accommodations or English Learner (EL) supports should begin the request process prior to completing their registration. 2. **Fee Waivers:** Eligibility for the ACT Fee Waiver Program is based on location and household income. This program can significantly reduce the costs associated with testing and sending score reports to colleges. ### Next Steps for Families With the transition to a shorter core test and an optional Science section, families should first research whether their target colleges require the Science or Writing portions of the ACT. Once a testing path is chosen, students can utilize free practice tests, sample questions, and study guides available via MyACT. For those seeking more intensive preparation, the ACT offers official prep guides, the ACT Kaplan Test Prep Suite, and virtual or in-person tutoring. --- *Source: [ACT — The ACT Test](https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.html) — automatically synced on 2026-10-19.*