How the ACT works
| Section | Questions | Minutes | Optional? |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 50 | 35 | No |
| Mathematics | 45 | 50 | No |
| Reading | 36 | 40 | No |
| Science | 40 | 40 | Yes |
| Writing | 1 essay | 40 | Yes |
Each multiple-choice section and the composite is scored 1 to 36. For tests taken since September 2025 the composite is the average of English, Math and Reading rounded to the nearest whole number. A student who takes Science also gets a Science score and a STEM score, and the optional Writing test gives its own scores. Each multiple-choice section includes unlabeled field-test questions that do not count.
How to prepare with Tutix today
- Start a class and name the subject. Type the test and section, for example ACT Math or ACT English. The wizard suggests what the classes should cover, and you can edit it.
- Attach your syllabus or your own notes if you have them, so the tutor teaches the topics your course actually lists.
- Choose a tutor and a rhythm. Seven tutor personalities; a fixed weekly time, week by week, or start whenever you like.
- Join the class. You talk, the tutor teaches on a shared whiteboard and slides, and reads what you write while you are still in class.
- Read the recap. After each class you see what was covered and what is next, and the next class starts from there.
The ACT is fast: Math is 45 questions in 50 minutes. A class teaches a skill and then has you work questions on it, so speed can grow with accuracy.
Ready-made programs exist today for AP and IGCSE, drawn side by side on the Programs page; for the ACT, the tutor builds the classes from your own syllabus or notes.
SparkAI tutor
Example
ACT · Mathematics · Solving equations
If 2(x − 3) = 14, what is the value of x?
The 2 multiplies everything inside the bracket, not just the first term. The quickest way: divide both sides by 2 first.
A sample written to show how a class sounds. The scores show how the exam would credit each answer. Not a real learner.
Dates
As of October 21, 2026, the next ACT national dates are December 12, 2026, February 27, 2027, April 10, 2027 and June 12, 2027. Registration closes about two weeks before each, and ACT publishes any change. See SAT vs ACT for the table and how to choose.
What it costs
You can start on the Free plan: 45 live class minutes a month (about one class of the default length), no card needed. Pro is $15 a month for 6 hours of live class time, and Pro+ is $30 for 15 hours.
| Plan | Price | Live class time a month | Works out to | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | 45 min | about one class | No card needed |
| Pro | $15 a month | 360 min (6 hours) | $2.50 an hour | $150 a year if paid yearly |
| Pro+ | $30 a month | 900 min (15 hours) | $2 an hour | $300 a year if paid yearly |
| Pico | No monthly fee | Pay as you go | $3 an hour ($0.05 a minute) | Paid from a wallet you top up |
The hourly figure is the plan's price divided by the live class hours it includes, when you use them all. Live class time is the tutor teaching you; other limits (study items, messages, uploads) are on the pricing page.
Questions people ask
Does Tutix have an ACT program?
Not a ready-made one. You can start ACT classes today by naming the section; the tutor teaches the skills live and reads your work.
Is Science still on the ACT?
It is optional now. The composite is the average of English, Math and Reading for tests taken from September 2025.
How long is the ACT?
125 minutes for English, Math and Reading and 165 minutes with the optional Science test, plus 40 minutes if you add the Writing test.
What is the ACT score range?
Each multiple-choice section and the composite are scored 1 to 36.
Is Tutix affiliated with ACT?
No. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, Tutix.
Sources
- ACT exam sections and structure, ACT (accessed October 21, 2026)
- The ACT test overview, ACT (accessed October 21, 2026)
- ACT user handbook, 2026-2027, ACT (September 2026)
- ACT registration, ACT (accessed October 21, 2026)
Keep reading
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site. Cambridge IGCSE® and Cambridge International AS & A Level are trademarks of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site.
