The ACT is a race against the clock. With just under three hours to tackle 215 questions across four sections, time management is key to acing the test. In this guide, we’ll not only break down exactly how long each section of the ACT takes but also share expert strategies to help you make the most of every minute. From mastering the format to pacing yourself through each question, these tips will help you stay focused, stay sharp, and maximize your score—so you can do more with less time. Let’s dive in!
How long is the ACT test time?
The ACT test lasts for a total of 2 hours and 55 minutes without the optional writing section. If you choose to take the optional writing section, the total test time is extended to 3 hours and 35 minutes. Additionally, there are short breaks between sections.
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
| English | 75 | 45 minutes |
| Mathematics | 60 | 60 minutes |
| Reading | 40 | 35 minutes |
| Science | 40 | 35 minutes |
| Total (without writing) | 215 | 2 hours 55 minutes |
| Writing (optional) | 1 essay | 40 minutes |
| Total (with writing) | 215 + 1 essay | 3 hours 35 minutes |
Additional breaks:
- A 15-minute break is given after the Math section.
- If taking the Writing section, a 5-minute break is provided before it begins.
On the test day, please try to arrive early at the test center and no later than 8:00 a.m. If you accidentally come late, there is a chance you may not be admitted.
The test runs until 12:35 p.m., and if you have chosen to write the essay, you will usually finish around 1:35 p.m.
Expert Tips to Ace Your ACT
Get ready for the ACT with expert tips to help you manage your time, tackle each section smartly, and stay calm on test day. These strategies will boost your confidence and set you up for success.
Related: How to Study for the ACT
Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format:
Knowing the structure of the test (sections, number of questions, time limits) helps in planning your time better.
Practice with Timed Tests:
Regularly take full-length, timed practice tests to build your stamina and get used to the pacing of the actual exam.
Use a Watch:
Wear a watch (without a calculator) to keep track of time during the test. Make sure you know how much time you have for each section.
Learn to Move On:
If you’re stuck on a question, make a quick educated guess, mark it, and move on. You can always come back to it if time allows.
Pace Yourself:
Know the time per question for each section. For example, in the English section, you have about 36 seconds per question, while in the Math section, you have about 60 seconds per question.
Section-Specific Tips
Master each part of the ACT with these tailored strategies for every section. These section-specific tips will help you focus on the right approach to maximize your score.
English Section (45 minutes, 75 questions)
Quickly skim the passage to get a gist of it, then answer the questions. Focus on common grammatical errors, which are often easier to spot and quicker to fix.
Math Section (60 minutes, 60 questions)
Memorize key formulas and concepts to save time. Use your calculator for complex calculations but rely on mental math for simpler ones to save time. Answer easier questions first to secure quick points before tackling harder ones.
| NOTE ABOUT CALCULATORS: The ACT prohibits calculators with built-in or downloaded computer algebra system functionality, including Texas Instruments models starting with TI-89 or TI-92 (except TI-Nspire non-CAS) Hewlett-Packard models like HP Prime and those starting with HP 40G, HP 49G, or HP 50G Casio models such as fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400) and those starting with CFX-9970G. Other banned devices include handheld computers, electronic writing pads (except Sharp EL 9600), calculators in cell phones, and those with QWERTY keys. Permitted calculators must have documents and programs removed, paper tape removed, sound turned off, infrared ports covered, and power cords removed. In computer-based testing, on-screen calculators may be available, but external calculators cannot connect to the test device. |
Reading Section (35 minutes, 40 questions)
Annotate or underline key points as you read the passages to make answering questions quicker. Don’t spend too much time reading the passage in detail. Refer back to it for specific questions.
Science Section (35 minutes, 40 questions)
Pay attention to graphs, tables, and charts. Questions often rely on interpreting this data. Focus on the actual data and questions rather than the detailed background information, which can be time-consuming.
Test Day Tips
Arrive at the test center early to avoid any last-minute stress. Ensure you have everything you need (admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, eraser, approved calculator, watch). Maintain a calm and focused mindset throughout the test. Stress can waste valuable time.
Related: Overcoming Test Anxiety: 8 Helpful Tips to Mentally Prepare for the SAT / ACT
During the Break
Use the break to stretch, hydrate, and refocus. Clear your mind and prepare for the next sections.
Conclusion
The ACT is all about balancing speed with accuracy. With a clear understanding of the test’s timing and sections, paired with the expert tips we’ve covered, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the exam confidently. Stay calm, pace yourself, and keep practicing. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll perform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Each portion of the ACT is as follows: English – 45 minutes, Math – 60 minutes, Reading – 35 minutes, Science – 35 minutes, and Writing – 40 minutes.
The English and Writing sections are nearly identical on both tests. The main differences are in Math and Science: the SAT’s Math section is almost 50% of the test, covers fewer topics, and can be trickier. In contrast, the ACT’s Math section is about 25% of the test, covers more topics, and is more straightforward but challenging. Additionally, the ACT includes a Science section, which the SAT does not, and some students may find it difficult.
A 17 is a below average score, as the national average is around 20-21.
The ACT with writing is 3 hours and 35 minutes long, including the 40-minute writing section.
The PreACT lasts for 2 hours and 10 minutes, including breaks, plus an additional hour for pretest activities.
The ACT test with extended time is typically 5 hours, or 5 hours and 45 minutes if you’re taking the ACT with writing.
The Digital ACT is approximately the same length as the paper test, about 2 hours and 55 minutes without writing, and 3 hours and 35 minutes with writing.
The reading section on the ACT is 35 minutes long.
The ACT without writing is 2 hours and 55 minutes long.
