Introduction

Registering for the ACT is more than just picking a date and clicking “submit.” A small mistake—like choosing the wrong test center or missing a deadline—can cause big headaches later. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step registration process, highlight common pitfalls, and help your child sign up with confidence.

---

Step 1: Choose Your Test Date

1. Visit The ACT’s official website.
2. Review upcoming test dates (typically offered Feb, Apr, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct, Dec).
3. Match the date to your prep timeline and college deadlines (especially early/regular decision dates).
4. Register early to guarantee a spot—especially for popular dates and local test centers.

---

Step 2: Pick a Test Center

• Search for locations near your home or school.
• Consider convenience, transportation, and familiarity.
• Best practice: Choose a backup center in case your first choice fills up.

Avoid this mistake: Don’t wait until the last minute—centers fill fast, especially for spring/fall test dates.

---

Step 3: Register Online

1. Create or log in to your student’s account on ACT.org.
2. Select the test date and center.
3. Provide student details (legal name, date of birth, school info).
4. Add optional services:
   • Writing section (check college requirements!)
   • Test prep materials (review books, additional score reports)

---

Step 4: Provide Supporting Information

• Update current school year and expected graduation year
• If eligible, apply for fee waivers or accommodations—don’t skip this step
• Preview the authorization ticket to ensure no typos (test day chaos results from mistakes)

---

🕒 Step 5: Pay Fees & Watch Deadlines

ACT Component	Fee
ACT test	$65.00
Writing Add-On Fee	$25.00
Science Add-On Fee	$4.00
Late Registration Fee	$38.00
Change Fee	$44.00
Score Reporting	$19 each*

*Send scores to four colleges for free.

Avoid: Missing early registration deadlines—plan for ~5 weeks before test day. Last-minute changes cost extra.

---

Step 6: Print and Review Your Ticket

After payment, ACT.org sends:

• An authorization ticket with your test date, start time, and test center address
• A list of what to bring (ID, #2 pencils, snacks)
• Important reminders (testing rules, ID requirements, calculator models)

Double-check ID matches ticket info exactly to avoid disqualification!

---

Common Registration Mistakes

1. Choosing the wrong test type – forgot the Writing section required by some colleges.
2. Misspelling your name or DOB – your school ID must match your ticket exactly.
3. Late registration mix‑up – adding the Writing section late could lock in a full ACT registration fee.
4. No backup center – popular locations fill fast.
5. Skipping accommodations – you may lose eligibility if you apply late.

---

How I Help You Register Smartly

In my virtual ACT classes, I:

• Walk families through registration step-by-step
• Provide checklists to avoid registration mistakes
• Help set reminders for deadlines
• Fix common errors together (name entry, Writing selection, accommodations)

---

Ready to register without stress?
Join our virtual ACT prep program—get expert help from signup through score day.