Practice ACT Proctoring Instructions

Official ACT Practice Tests are like gold.

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

Not sure how to take the test? Follow the simple instructions below:

Who Should Proctor?

Ideally, a parent or friend  should proctor the test.  Otherwise, the student can self-proctor.

Before The Test:

• Print out a diagnostic test or use one of the tests from the Official ACT Book.
• Print out an answer sheets and essay answer sheets
• Set aside 3 hours and 50 minutes of uninterrupted time.

Testing Instructions:

• Proctor will provide student with test and answer sheets.
  • The student may not start until you tell them to start

Section 1 – English

• Set timer for 45 minutes
• Tell student to start on Section 1

Section 2 – Math

• Set timer for 60 minutes
• Tell student to start on Section 2

Break – 10 minutes

Section 3 – Reading

• Set timer for 35 minutes
• Tell student to start on Section 3

Section 4 – Science

• Set timer for 35 minutes
• Tell student to start on Section 4

Break – 5 minutes

Section 5 – Essay

• Set timer for 40 minutes
• Tell student to start on the essay

Additional Notes

• The student must work within each section of the test only for the time allotted
• The student may not go back to a section once that section has ended
• The student may not go ahead to a new section if the student finishes a section early

Considering the SAT as well? Check out SAT proctoring instructions 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

Greg Wong and Kevin Wong

Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They are Princeton engineering graduates with over 20 years of education experience. They apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation and test prep process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.