How Long Is the ACT? Guide to ACT Length

Questioning how long the ACT time frame is?

Good call.

Most standardized tests take students around 2 to 3 hours to complete. The ACT takes longer than most students expect, and many don’t realize just how much time they spend at the testing center. Whether you’re taking the standard ACT or the ACT plus writing, you need to be prepared for the whole test-taking experience.

In this breakdown, I’ll walk you through exactly how long the test takes and what to expect.

Key Takeaways

• Standard ACT Timing: The ACT without writing takes 2 hours and 55 minutes.
• Expect Extra Time: Check-in, breaks, and dismissal make the day longer.
• No Guessing Penalty: Always answer all the questions to maximize your score.
• Practice Improves Pacing: Taking practice exams helps you develop timing and focus during the actual test.
• Test Update Coming: The ACT is changing in September 2025, with fewer questions and optional science sections.

Total ACT Test Length

If you skip the optional writing section, the actual exam is 2 hours and 55 minutes long. Most students don’t realize that test day is longer than just the testing time. When you add breaks and check-ins, you’re easily there for over 3 hours. If you choose to take the optional science or writing sections, the total test time is approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes.

That’s why prep courses and full-length practice exams are helpful; they let you feel what it’s like to sit through a lengthy test like this.

ACT Sections and End Times

The ACT now has fewer questions, more time per question, and science will be optional.

Section Timing

• English Section: 35 min, 75 questions
• Math Section: 45 min, 50 questions
• Reading Section: 40 min, 35 questions
• Science Section (Optional): 40 min, 40 questions
• Writing Section(Optional): 40 min, one essay

Finish Times

• Paper (No Writing): 12:35 p.m.
• Paper (With Writing): 1:35 p.m.
• Online (No Science/Writing): 11:15 a.m.
• Online (One Optional): 12:15 p.m.
• Online (Both): 1:00 p.m.

Note: The new Enhanced ACT format applies to all tests.

How Long Are ACT Breaks?

You’ll get one 10-minute break after the math section. If you’re taking the optional essay portion, you’ll get a 5-minute break before that starts.

Don’t waste time during your breaks. Use them to stretch, snack, and reset your brain. Students taking the ACT for the first time often forget how draining it can be to take back-to-back timed tests.

If you qualify for extended time or other accommodations, your schedule will be adjusted, and you’ll typically receive additional break time as well. Just make sure that’s approved ahead of time.

Tips for Managing Time on Test Day

Time pressure is real on the ACT. With just 36 seconds per question on English and 60 seconds per question on Math, even strong students can run out of time. Here are some proven strategies I recommend specifically for the ACT:

• Start with the easiest passages in Reading. You don’t have to go in order. If science fiction throws you off, skip it and tackle the social science or humanities first.
• Bubble in chunks. In the English and Math sections, save time by bubbling your answers after every page or passage (not one by one). Just don’t wait until the very end—it’s risky.
• Use “plug and play” on Math. If a problem has answer choices, plug them in. Start with the middle one (usually C or D) to eliminate faster.
• Mark your 5-minute warning strategy. In every section, know what you’ll do when there’s 5 minutes left—usually jumping ahead to scan for easier or faster questions you skipped.
• Avoid the “black hole” question. If you find yourself staring too long at one question, star it and move on. Spending 2 minutes stuck can cost you 4 easier points later.
• Use the break to reset your brain. If you’re taking the optional Writing section, use the break to stretch, hydrate, and recenter. Don’t just sit and scroll.

Building stamina through prep courses and practice exams is extremely helpful. You’ll get used to the ACT’s pace and learn how to stay focused even during the longer subject areas like math or reading. Prep providers like UWorld are a great way to hone your test-taking skills, with features like unlimited customizable practice tests.

Final Thoughts

How long is the ACT? The short answer: between 2 hours and 55 minutes and 3 hours and 35 minutes, depending on whether you take the optional writing.

But the full truth? It feels even longer.

Plan your test day around the full experience: prep ahead, pack your admission ticket, and know how many hours you’ll be there. Use practice tests to build up your focus and avoid wasting time on the real thing.

Whether you’re going for a perfect ACT score or just trying to improve weak areas, knowing the test format and time limits gives you a better idea of how to prepare. And that’s what leads to smarter testing and better results.

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