Testing Information

ACT-WHAT TO EXPECT ON TEST DAY

THINGS TO BRING WITH  YOU  

Printed admission ticket and photo ID

Approved Calculator

Two number 2 pencils

Water and snack foods

THINGS TO LEAVE AT HOME

Cell Phones

Non-approved calculator

Highlighters and colored pens

Books, pamphlets, dictionaries, and other prohibited materials

TEST-DAY SCHEDULE

Planning ahead for the ACT exam is a must.  A detailed itinerary for your test day (beginning with the night before) will allow you to alleviate stress and head into the exam with confidence.  We've included a model schedule below to help you plan for your ACT exam.

The Night Before:

A good night's rest is essential before you take the ACT.  Sufficient sleep is linked to focus, energy, stamina, and cognitive abilities.  Ideally, you will have studied for weeks leading up to the testing ate and you won't have to cram the night before your exam.  Be confident in your exam prep and relax the evening before your exam.

 DO

Go to bed at a reasonable time

Set at least one alarm

Relax, possibly take a shower to calm your nerves.

Get everything organized the night before

DON'T

Stay up late

Take sleeping aids

Study for the exam

 Wait until the morning to get organized

The Morning of the Test:

If you've organized everything (i.e. clothing, car keys, and directions to the testing center) the night before your ACT exam, the morning of your test should be relaxing.  Double-check all of your testing equipment before you leave the house.  Eat a good, well-balanced meal that won't upset your stomach and limit your coffee intake, since caffeine can cause added anxiety. Show up to the test center no later than 8 a.m.

 DO

Get up at a reasonable hour

Double-check your exam materials

Eat a healthy breakfast and limit you caffeine

Relax and leave the house without enough time to arrive at the testing center a few minutes early

DON'T

Get up too early

Leave the house without ensuring your materials are in working order

Eat of drink anything you don't normally consume

Cram or leave the house without sufficient travel time to reach the test center by 8 a.m.

Upon Arrival:

Plan to arrive at the test site by 8 a.m. at the latest.  Once you arrive, present your admission ticket and (if applicable) ask where you can store your bags.  Wait to be seated by a test supervisor.  The test will begin between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.  The test supervisor will give verbal instructions once it's time to get started.

After the Test:

Congratulations!  Now don't overthink your performance-you won't know how well you did until your scores are released.  Follow the ACT coordinator's instructions, pack up your belongings and head home (or out to celebrate).  Be sure to check your ACT account in the days following your exam to see if your scores have been posted for the ACT or if you think there might be an error or discrepancy with your results.