ACT Test Day Checklist: Know What to Bring on ACT Test Day?

Going to the Test Center

• Dress in layers to ensure your comfort.
• Arrive by 8:00 am.
• Conduct a practice drive to figure out the route and the departure time needed, ideally on a non-test day, if you are unfamiliar with the location of the testing center.
• You must arrive on time to sit for the exam. Late arrivals will NOT be permitted to enter the test.

During the Test

• You cannot request a test date change after breaking the seal on your test booklet, even if you fail to complete all sections.
• Avoid breaking test center regulations, such as engaging in prohibited conduct. Doing so will result in your answer sheet remaining unscored.
• On the day of the exam, you are required to accept the terms and conditions of the ACT once again.

Taking a Break

A break is scheduled following the second test. Mobile phones and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited during breaks. You are permitted to eat and drink outside the testing room during this time. Prior to the ACT writing test, you have the opportunity to rest and sharpen your pencils.

Finishing Up

• Following the science test, expect a multiple-choice test on an additional subject. This fifth test assists in developing future questions and does not impact your score, so please give it your best effort.
• Examinees taking the standard ACT (without writing) are typically dismissed around 12:35 p.m. Those taking the ACT with writing are generally released around 1:35 p.m.
• If you prefer that your scores are not released, inform the test administration staff before departing. Otherwise, your test will be scored.

Additional Reminders

• Keep in mind that the ACT may visit testing facilities to implement extra security measures, which can include taking examinee photographs during check-in or at other points during test day.
• The ACT maintains a zero-tolerance policy for cheating. Please report any suspicious behavior.

Make sure you do not forget any essential items or bring anything that could hinder your performance. To eliminate any risks, consider packing the evening before so you avoid unpleasant surprises at the testing center. With that in mind, please review this ACT checklist covering what you should bring to the test, as well as what you should NOT bring on test day:

• Your admission ticket

Bring a printed copy of your admission ticket to the testing venue. Without this ticket, your exam results could be delayed. Should you misplace yours, a replacement can be printed directly from your MyACT account.

• A Photo ID

Bring a photo identification document that fulfills ACT requirements:

• You must present a current, valid photo ID issued by the government or your school.
• The student identification must be in the form of a rigid plastic card. Paper or digital formats are NOT accepted.
• Your first and last names must correspond with the details on your ticket, and the item must feature a clear photograph of you.

Candidates who lack a valid government or school-issued photo ID must complete and submit an ACT Student Identification Form (PDF) complete with a photograph. This document requires certification from a school administrator or an independent public notary.

Your ID must satisfy all ACT guidelines to gain entry into the test center.

• Mask

To help prevent the transmission of COVID-19, the ACT mandates that all test participants wear a face covering or mask.

• 2-3 Number 2 Pencils

Bring 2 to 3 number 2 pencils. Look for the number 2 near the eraser to confirm they meet the standard required by the ACT. Reliable erasers are crucial. Highlighters, ink pens, and similar writing instruments are strictly prohibited.

• A Watch

You can manage your schedule using an alarm-free watch, which includes smartwatches and fitness trackers. If an alarm sounds during the exam, you will be dismissed and your test will remain unscored. However, bringing a watch is optional, as the final 5 minutes of each section will be announced.

• An ACT-Approved Calculator (and extra batteries!)

Calculators approved by the ACT are permitted for the mathematics portion. Although you can complete the math section without one, a calculator is a helpful tool for solving problems and checking your work. Inspect your calculator's battery and overall condition prior to the exam, and bring spare batteries just in case.

• Snacks!

Pack a nutritious snack for the 10 to 15 minute break. Choose options that sustain your energy and keep your blood sugar stable. Excellent choices include nuts, granola bars containing fewer than 10 grams of sugar, and fresh apples.

Bring your preferred mints to help stay alert and focused.

• A Jacket or Sweater

Testing rooms are notoriously chilly, and you will be seated for several hours. Dress in layers to adapt to any indoor temperature, ensuring nothing distracts you from your exam.

Be certain you are aware of what items are prohibited on ACT test day. Do not pack these in your bag or keep them on your person, as doing so runs the risk of having your test invalidated.

• Textbooks, language dictionaries, scratch paper, notes, or other reference materials

Bringing outside study aids is strictly forbidden and will be treated as cheating, leading to immediate dismissal and an unscored test.

• Highlighter pens, mechanical pencils, ink pens, colored pens and pencils, or correction fluid, tape, and white-out

Wooden number 2 pencils represent the sole acceptable writing instruments permitted for the ACT.

• Any electronic device aside from a permitted calculator

Hand your electronics to a parent or guardian. Power off your devices and follow the proctor's instructions for them. Proctors generally gather phones using a specific procedure, but you must make certain your phone is neither on your person nor producing any sounds throughout the exam. Failure to do so will result in expulsion from the test room and invalidation of your scores. This regulation covers all communication, internet-enabled, and recording devices.

• Reading material

Carrying it is pointless since you will not have any spare time to consult it.

• Tobacco in any form

This includes electronic cigarettes and various other tobacco items.

• Dinner- This is a useful recommendation for ACT Test Day. Eating a nutritious and satisfying evening meal can influence your psychological state and establish the proper mindset for the test.
• Sleep well- Obtaining adequate rest is essential to prevent dozing off during the test and to ensure optimal cognitive functioning.
• No cramming- You might feel the urge to do last-minute studying to raise your grade. This strategy is ineffective. Cramming creates anxiety and brief study sessions offer little benefit for examinations. Rather, unwind the evening prior to your test and trust the preparation you have already completed.
• Be on time- The ACT begins at 8:30AM, but you need to be in your seat by 8:00AM to allow the proctor to read the directions. The majority of test-takers show up at 7:45AM, making 7:30-7:45AM the best arrival window.

Suggested: ACT Sample Papers for Practice

Organizing your exam day carefully is vital to prevent any avoidable hazards. For your convenience, print these guidelines out and adhere to them strictly. A seamless ACT test day experience is critical for gaining admission to your preferred university. Should you have any questions, consult our Ashiraj counsellors today.