ACT
ACT registration
Booking an international ACT step by step. This guide is part of our full ACT guide.
Fees and booking
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 2 hours 5 minutes core (longer with optional sections) |
| Fee | US$69 plus international fee, about US$180 to US$200 in total |
| Results | 2 to 8 weeks |
| Validity | No official expiry; most universities accept 5 years |
| Formats | Online at international centres |
How to register
- Create an ACT account
- Choose an international test date and centre
- Pay the fee including the international surcharge
- Practise with the free official ACT practice test
- Receive scores online; send reports to universities
Questions
ACT or SAT?
US universities accept both equally. Try a practice test of each; students who like faster pacing and science data often prefer the ACT.
Is the Science section still required?
From 2025 it is optional on the enhanced ACT; check whether your universities want it.
How is the ACT scored?
Each section is scored 1 to 36 and the composite is the average.
Is the ACT accepted outside the US?
Yes by some universities in Canada, the UK, Australia and Europe, mainly for US-curriculum applicants.
How many times can I take the ACT?
Up to 12 times.