5 Free Official ACT Practice Tests

Starting in 2005, the ACT began releasing an official full-length practice test every year. We’ve been tracking these over the years and have compiled easily accessible download links below.

Because of the scarcity of real ACT questions, these tests are like gold.

When using one of these tests as a diagnostic or full-length practice test, mimic official test conditions as closely as possible. This means printing the test out, strictly timing yourself, and taking it in one sitting. This will ensure you’ll get the most value out of these tests.

Below you’ll find everything to get you going – official practice tests and clear instructions on how to self-administer the test.

Official ACT Practice Tests – Download Links

–> ACT Practice Test #1 (2005-06) – Practice Test 1

–> ACT Practice Test #2 (2007-08) – Practice Test 2

–> ACT Practice Test #3 (2009-10) – Practice Test 3

–> ACT Practice Test #4 (2013-14) – Practice Test 4

–> ACT Practice Test #5 (2015-16) –  Practice Test 5

You’ll notice that there are several years of tests missing. The ACT has a habit of releasing duplicate tests. For example, the 2016-17 and 2017-18 tests are the same as the 2015-16 test. The tests above are the 5 unique tests currently available.

Blank Answer Sheets

The Practice Tests above include blank answer sheets at the end of each document.

Proctoring Instructions

If possible, a parent or 3rd party person should administer the test. Otherwise, the student can easily manage the process himself.

Here is a checklist to guide you through the process:

–> PrepMaven Proctoring Instructions_ACT

5 Tips

1. Set aside an uninterrupted chunk of time – Block off 3 hours and 52 minutes (if you’re doing the Writing section) or 3 hrs and 10 minutes (without Writing section)
2. Print out the test and answer sheets – The printed version will more closely mimic test conditions
3. Time yourself – Make sure to include the appropriate breaks as well (if you’re following our Proctoring Instructions, don’t worry about this)
4. Read the Proctoring Instructions above before you start – The instructions will identify which materials you will need and exactly how to time the different sections, including breaks and 5 minute warnings
5. Carefully review your answers after the test – Careful analysis of EVERY question you answered incorrectly (or were confused about) is important for meaningful score improvements.

Considering the SAT? Check out 8 free official SAT practice tests here.

Not sure which test to take (SAT vs ACT)? Ask yourself these 5 questions to find out.

Not sure WHEN to take the test? We created 9 Sample Testing Schedules to help get you started

Next Steps

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At PrepMaven, our mission is not only to help your child get into a great college but also to put them on the right track for long-term personal and professional success.

Greg Wong and Kevin Wong

Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They were engineering majors at Princeton and had successful careers in strategy consulting and finance. They now apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.