ACT Registration Deadlines 2025: Dates, Fees & How to Register

The ACT is offered seven times a year — typically in February, April, June, July, September, October, and December. Each test has a regular and a late registration window. Missing one doesn’t mean you’re out — but you’ll pay a late fee and risk your preferred test center filling up.

Here’s the expected ACT 2025–2026 schedule (based on ACT.org historical trends):

Note: These dates are projected based on ACT’s official test calendar and usually confirmed mid-November each year on ACT.org.

You can also check out the upcoming SAT test dates if you’re comparing both exams.

Regular vs. Late Registration — What’s the Difference?

Regular registration gets you the best shot at your preferred test center and costs less. Late registration adds about $38 in extra fees and limits test center availability.

In short:

• Register early if you want your first-choice location.
• Late sign-ups still work but can leave you with further test centers or no nearby options.
• Photo upload deadlines come shortly after — don’t miss that part either.

Pro Tip: I’d recommend setting a phone reminder for your test’s regular deadline. Every year on Reddit’s r/ACT, there’s a wave of posts like “Help! Missed my deadline!” — avoid being one of them.

Aim to register during the regular window — you’ll save money and stress.

If you’re preparing close to the deadline, these last-minute SAT tips apply perfectly to ACT students too.

ACT Registration Fees & Cost Breakdown (2025 Update)

Expect to pay around $68 for the ACT (no Writing) and $93 with the Writing section. Late or test date changes cost extra.

Here’s the latest breakdown (based on 2025 fee updates):

Source: ACT.org Fees & Services 2025

In my opinion, the Writing section is worth it only if your target colleges require it (fewer do now). You can double-check via each college’s admissions page or through the Common App.

If you’re registering now, I’d recommend bundling prep with your registration — tools like Magoosh ACT Prep or PrepScholar ACT often offer 10–15% discounts around registration deadlines.

Reader takeaway: Pay attention to fees upfront — avoid paying double later for changes or late sign-up.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register for the ACT in 2025

Go to ACT.org, create an account, pick your date and location, upload a photo, pay, and print your admission ticket.

Here’s the breakdown (simple but easy to miss small details):

1. Visit ACT.org → Click “Register for the ACT.”
2. Create or Log In → You’ll need your email and school info.
3. Choose a Test Date & Location → Earlier = more center options.
4. Upload a Photo → Required before the upload deadline (usually a week after registration).
5. Pay Fees → Use credit card or fee waiver.
6. Print Admission Ticket → You’ll need it on test day.

Common mistake: Students forget to upload their photo in time — and that can void registration. ACT’s system doesn’t let you test without it.

Real example: A Quora student shared that she uploaded her photo two hours late and got moved to standby. Always upload early.

The ACT registration process is simple, but strict — small errors (photo or ID mismatch) can cause major delays.

What Happens If You Miss the ACT Registration Deadline?

Quick Answer: You can still register during the late registration window, but once that closes, your only option is standby testing or waiting for the next date.

Here’s how it works:

• Late registration: Usually extends 10–14 days past the regular deadline.
• Standby testing: Available if space allows, but not guaranteed. You’ll pay the regular + late fee.
• Next test option: The ACT runs every 1–2 months, so missing one isn’t catastrophic.

From Reddit r/ACT: One user mentioned their counselor helped them sign up last-minute through school — always worth checking if your high school test coordinator can intervene.

If you completely miss your date:

• Register for the next one right away.
• Continue studying — momentum matters more than timing.
• Use it as a dry run to refine your prep plan.

Reader takeaway: Missing a deadline isn’t fatal — it’s just expensive and inconvenient. Keep your prep going and lock the next date immediately.

ACT Score Release Dates & What They Mean for College Apps

Quick Answer: Most ACT scores release 10–14 days after the test, except Writing scores, which can take 2–3 weeks longer.

Here’s a general timeline (for 2025 test cycles):

Source: ACT.org 2024–25 data trends; updated annually.

In my opinion: If you’re applying for Early Action or Early Decision, your best test dates are June, July, or September — they align perfectly with college deadlines.

Tip: Use our Weighted GPA Calculator to check how your GPA and ACT align for your target colleges.

Choose test dates that sync with your application timeline — not just convenience.

Prep Smart: Best Time to Register and Start Studying for the ACT

Quick Answer: The best time to register is 2–3 months before your planned test date, giving you enough runway to study consistently without burnout.

What I’ve seen work best (from Reddit/YouTube student testimonials):

• 8-week plans for motivated seniors.
• 3–4 month prep windows for first-time testers.
• Light review for retakers focusing on weak sections.

Best Free & Paid Prep Resources (2025)

• ACT Official Prep Guide (official questions)
• Magoosh ACT Prep – video-based lessons
• PrepScholar ACT – adaptive personalized prep
• r/ACT – free student study threads

In my opinion, prep only feels stressful if you start too late. Block two hours on weekends and one short weekday session — that’s what most students say works best.

Takeaway: Don’t overthink prep. Start small, stay consistent, and use official materials first.

FAQs About ACT Registration 2025

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the ACT isn’t just about test-taking — it’s about timing. Register early, prepare consistently, and use the official tools. Most missed deadlines come down to simple forgetfulness, not lack of ability.

If you plan right, you’ll walk into test day relaxed and confident.
Try our free GPA-to-ACT Score Alignment Tool to see how you stack up before you register.

You can also calculate your GPA instantly using our free GPA Calculator.

Nawab

Nawab, an educator teaching K-12 since 2010, holds an English honors graduate degree and a diploma in elementary education. He has also been blogging for five years, sharing insights for educators and parents.