ACT Practice Tests
Access free official ACT practice tests to prepare for US college admissions. All papers link directly to ACT.org's official website.
* All papers link directly to official examination board websites
Important: ACT Format Changes for 2025
The Enhanced ACT is now live for digital test-takers (April 2025) and will be the standard for paper-and-pencil tests from September 2025.
- Science section is now optional
- Shorter test with fewer questions per section
- Mathematics questions have 4 answer choices (instead of 5)
- Legacy ACT practice papers remain excellent preparation for the Enhanced format
ACT Test Formats
Legacy ACT
Traditional format for paper and digital tests before 2025
Enhanced ACT
New format: Digital from April 2025, Paper from September 2025
Available ACT Practice Tests
| Test | Year | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
ACT Practice Test 2
|
N/A | |
|
Preparing for the ACT Guide
|
N/A | |
|
ACT Official Practice Test 2024
Year: 2024
|
2024 | |
|
ACT Practice Test - Form 2176
Year: 2023
|
2023 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ACT and how does it differ from the SAT?
The ACT (American College Testing) is an alternative to the SAT for US college admissions. Traditionally it includes a Science section (now optional in the Enhanced ACT) and an optional Writing section. The ACT tends to be more straightforward but faster-paced than the SAT. Both are equally accepted by US universities.
What is the Enhanced ACT?
The Enhanced ACT is the new format introduced in 2025. Key changes include: shorter test duration, fewer questions per section, Science section becomes optional, and Mathematics questions have 4 answer choices instead of 5. The Enhanced ACT is designed to reduce test fatigue while maintaining validity.
When does the Enhanced ACT start?
The Enhanced ACT launched for digital test-takers in April 2025. For paper-and-pencil testing, the Enhanced ACT format begins in September 2025. All tests from September 2025 onwards will use the Enhanced format.
What is the format of the ACT?
Legacy ACT (2024 & prior): English (45 mins, 75 Qs), Math (60 mins, 60 Qs), Reading (35 mins, 40 Qs), Science (35 mins, 40 Qs). Enhanced ACT (2025+): English (35 mins, 50 Qs), Math (50 mins, 45 Qs with 4 choices), Reading (40 mins, 36 Qs), Science optional (40 mins, 40 Qs). Both formats have optional Writing (40 mins).
What is a good ACT score?
ACT scores range from 1 to 36. For Ivy League and top-20 universities, competitive scores are typically 33+. For top-50 universities, 30+ is generally strong. The national average is around 20-21.
Should I take the ACT or the SAT?
Both are equally accepted. The ACT may suit you better if you're strong in science (though now optional), prefer more straightforward questions, and work quickly. The SAT may suit you if you prefer more time per question and are strong in vocabulary and data analysis. Take practice tests for both to decide.
When should Hong Kong students take the ACT?
The ACT is offered several times per year internationally. Popular dates are September, October, and December for Regular Decision applicants. For Early Decision/Action, take it by October. Plan to take it at least twice if possible.
Related Resources
SAT Practice Tests
Alternative to the ACT
Ivy League Guide
Admission requirements and tips
US University Admissions
Professional application support
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