The ACT College Test Registration

The ACT college test registration process can be a bit intimidating the first time, but it doesn’t have to be.  Familiarize yourself with the process ahead of time in order to avoid that overwhelmed feeling of drowning in paperwork.

As a high school mathematics teacher for many years, I would watch as students got caught up in frenzy every time the deadline for ACT test registration rolled around.  They would rush to the counselor’s office, grab the packet, and hurriedly fill out the forms so that they could get it to the post office to be postmarked just in time to meet the deadline!

Plan now not to wait until the last minute to register.  Some basic information you need to know about the registration process follows.

Your Options for registration:

You may register online or by using a registration packet.  The cost is the same for each option, and online registration is quicker and easier.  However, there are some circumstances under which you must use the registration packet.  You must use the packet if you:

• need disability accommodations
• need to change your test center or test date
• are testing outside the United States
• are using a state-funded voucher or fee-waiver
• are enrolled in grade 6, 7, 8, or 9
• do not have a Visa or Mastercard

 A third option for registration is by telephone, but only if you have registered for a national test date within the last two years.  There is an additional $10 charge added to the basic fee for this option.

Registration Fees:

The basic fee for the ACT (No Writing) is $29.  The fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $43.  The basic fee includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four colleges.

Requesting Arranged Testing:

You must request arranged testing if:

• you are a homebound or confined student
• there is no testing center within 50 miles
• your religious beliefs prohibit Saturday testing

Additional Fees That May Apply:

There are various additional fees that can apply which include late registration, changing your testing date or testing center, requesting reports be sent to more that four colleges, as well as some other circumstances. 

This is a brief overview of the ACT college test registration process for those who have no extenuating circumstances.  And remember, your high school guidance counselor's office can always provide you with complete information about all standardized tests.

Additional information on ACT college test registration: