ACT Test Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide

We all know that the ACT Test season has started again for 2021 and 2022! It must be confusing and overwhelming to listen to different procedures by which you can register.

To help you with this and make things smooth as ever we have made a simple blog that explains all the kinds of methods of the application process.Out of all the students, every year, about two million students from more than 130 countries take the exam.

ACT 2021 registration includes not just an online but an offline ACT application method.

If you are from India, the ACT registration price is approximately INR 4,134 ($55) for no writing and $70 (INR 5,261) with writing(this may vary according to the exchange rate).

The ACT Exam Registration procedure takes roughly only 40 minutes and we are gonna go through it, step by step. ACT can be canceled at any moment but do not expect any refund on the money.

So if you don’t want to lose your money but are also confused, head to their website which will give you an option of reminder alert, so that you can take all the time you need but you will be alerted with the updates and deadlines. 

 As we discussed there are many ways in which you can apply, to be exact there are only 3 ways:

• Register Online 
• Registering via mail 
• Registering for Standby Admittance 

Let us dive into each method one by one. Do not forget to keep all your documents (educational, identity proof, and card details) handy before starting.

Once you are sure that you have a steady internet connection and a good reliable browser, we will proceed with methods one and two.

Registering Online for ACT Test

The very first step to do is to finish reading this before you head over to the main website. Do not use a mobile or tablet for this as it may not function properly. While using a desktop make sure to have these versions as your browser:

Chrome: version 18 or higher

Internet Explorer: version 8 or higher

Firefox: version 5 or higher

Safari: version 7 or higher

After you are ready with all these requirements listed above

Create an Account

This is of course for the first-time user, create a new account so that you can go to the next step of registering yourself. Make sure to keep the login details safe because the same account will be used for viewing and reapplying.

Register to Test

Registration takes you to the main page which should be carefully filled with your details.

Complete Profile Selection

Here you will find questions on high school, career aspirations, academic plans, demographic background, and financial assistance needs.

Select the Date

You will be asked to fill in details like school grades, classes, and GPA. After finishing up with those Infos, move on to selecting an apt date to appear for the exam.

Select the College

You can choose to do this step now or later. You will have to select 4 colleges beforehand and apply to them accordingly. If you happen to have more than 4 colleges, you will be asked to make a separate payment.

Choose the Test Centre

Either select your school as an exam center, if not, use your zip code to find centers near your location. The earlier you apply, the greater the chance of getting a place nearby.

Note: Make sure to confirm all the details before you make the payment.

Make Payment

Payment details are as said above, the amount can vary according to the date of application. Credit cards are used for payment.

Upload Photograph

You are required to do this step before the deadline hits. Upload a photo that is taken professionally, have a clear background, and make sure that your face(including ears) is not covered by anything such as sunglasses, hats, huge ornaments, etc.

These details are to be kept in mind while approaching the photographer

• 5MB or less
• 2 x 2
• PEG, JPG, BMP, or PNG format
• Portrait image.

Also read: Top 5 ACT Study Session Tips for More Efficient Preparation

Registering via Mail for ACT Test

Request for a Mail Packet

You will need to get a mail packet for registration. The same mail packet will be given to you through college, school, or via the website. This method might come very handy if you are 13 and below or if you don’t have a credit card.

Fill Up

Fill in all the details, including the examination date and your photograph.

Mail the Paperwork

You can either avail of the test ticket via online or physical format. Make sure to send the paperwork because it may take up to 7 – 10 days for delivery.

Registering for Standby Admittance for ACT

If you missed the usual registration time, you can still register for standby testing. To be admitted to the testing center, you must have a standby ticket before the test day.

This does not ensure you a seat, but you should have a ticket. There might be extra charges for standby admittance.

• Signup
• Choose test center
• Reach early

According to standby admittance, you will be refunded the full amount if you fail to get a seat. but it is always better to arrive early than to miss a seat.

Now you know all the methods of application, doesn’t feel that difficult now, right? If you are still confused about selecting the right date please do continue to read. 

Here are the ACT registration dates along with examination dates and others.

ACT Exam Dates	ACT Test Registration Deadline	Late Registration Deadline Late Fee Applies	Standby Deadline Photo Upload Deadline
December 11, 2021	November 5	November 19	December 3
February 12, 2022	January 7	January 21	February 4
April 2, 2022	February 25	March 11	March 25
June 11, 2022	May 6	May 20	June 3
July 16, 2022	June 17	June 24	July 8

As you can see, most deadlines end approximately 3 weeks before the exam. So make sure to not miss the date. Hope this has made your process a little better than before.

Here is the link for the website: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I register for the ACT test, and what is the deadline for the registration? 

A: To register for the ACT test, you can visit the official ACT website and create an account. Once you have created an account, you can choose a test date and location, and pay the registration fee. The deadline for registration varies depending on the test date, so be sure to check the official ACT website for the specific deadlines.

Q2: What documents do I need to register for the ACT test?

A: When registering for the ACT test, you will need to provide your personal information, including your name, address, and date of birth. You will also need to provide your high school information and test date preferences. Additionally, if you plan to request accommodations for the test, you will need to provide documentation of your disability or condition.

Q3: Can I change my test date or location after registering for the ACT test?

A: Yes, you can change your test date or location after registering for the ACT test. However, you will need to pay a fee to make changes to your registration. The fee varies depending on the type of change and the time of the change. Be sure to check the official ACT website for the specific fees and deadlines.

Q4: How can I request accommodations for the ACT test?

A: To request accommodations for the ACT test, you will need to submit a request for accommodations and provide documentation of your disability or condition. The documentation should include a diagnosis and recommendations for accommodations from a qualified professional, such as a doctor or psychologist. The request for accommodations should be submitted as early as possible, as the process can take several weeks.

Q5: How can I prepare for the ACT test after registering?

A: After registering for the ACT test, there are several ways to prepare. You can purchase ACT prep books, take practice tests, or enroll in an ACT prep course. There are also many online resources available, including videos, study guides, and interactive practice materials. Be sure to practice regularly and focus on your areas of weakness to improve your scores.