The ACT is a standardized test that is used for college admissions in the United States. It is a multiple-choice test that covers four subject areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The ACT is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors, and it is important to know how long the test takes so that you can plan your time accordingly.

The ACT Test Breakdown
The ACT test is divided into four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Each section is 60 minutes long, and there is a 10-minute break between each section. The total testing time for the ACT is 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Here is a breakdown of the ACT test:
Section | Number of Questions | Time Limit |
---|---|---|
English | 75 | 60 minutes |
Mathematics | 60 | 60 minutes |
Reading | 40 | 60 minutes |
Science | 40 | 60 minutes |
Additional Time for the ACT
In addition to the 3 hours and 30 minutes of testing time, there is also some additional time that is allotted for the ACT. This includes time for:
- Instructions (15 minutes)
- Breaks (10 minutes between each section)
- Check-in (15 minutes)
The total time that you will spend at the ACT test center is approximately 5 hours.
Planning Your Time
It is important to plan your time carefully for the ACT. Each section of the test is timed, so you need to make sure that you are pacing yourself correctly. You should also take advantage of the breaks to rest and clear your head.
Here are some tips for planning your time:
- Read the instructions carefully before starting each section.
- Pace yourself evenly throughout each section.
- Don’t spend too much time on any one question.
- If you don’t know the answer to a question, skip it and come back to it later.
- Take advantage of the breaks to rest and clear your head.
Conclusion
The ACT test is a challenging but important part of the college admissions process. It is important to know how long the test takes so that you can plan your time accordingly. By following the tips above, you can make sure that you are prepared for the ACT and that you perform your best on test day.