I'm taking the ACT soon, and I was wondering: how long is the test, and when does it typically end? I'm trying to make some plans afterward, so any info would be helpful!
The ACT exam consists of four sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) and has an optional Writing section. Here's a breakdown of the timing for each section:
1. English: 45 minutes
2. Math: 60 minutes
3. Reading: 35 minutes
4. Science: 35 minutes
If you're not taking the Writing section, the total testing time is 2 hours and 55 minutes. With breaks included, the test will run for around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Most ACT testing centers start the exam at 8:00 AM, so if you're not taking the Writing section, you can expect to finish around 11:30 AM.
If you are taking the Writing section, you'll have an additional 40 minutes for the essay, plus a 5-minute break before the essay starts. This makes the total testing time 3 hours and 35 minutes. With breaks included, the test will run for a little over 4 hours. In this case, you can anticipate finishing around 12:00 PM.
Keep in mind that these times are approximate and can vary slightly based on the specific testing center, the time it takes for instructions, and any unexpected delays. To be safe, leave a buffer of 30 minutes to an hour beyond the estimated end time for any planned activities you may have after the test. Good luck on your ACT!
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