If you are gearing up for the ACT, you are probably wondering: How many times can I actually take this test? Do not worry, you are not the only one asking!
It does not matter if you are trying to boost your score, qualify for scholarships, or are just curious; it is smart to know the rules.
The ACT is a big deal for college admissions, and a little planning can go a long way.
The highest score you can get on the ACT is 36, and many students take the test more than once to try and reach their personal best.
In this post, we will break down how many times you can officially take the ACT and how many times you should. Let’s get started.
What is the Limit on Taking the ACT?
Here is the truth: ACT does not set a strict limit on how many times you can take the test.
That means you are free to retake it as many times as you like while you are eligible, usually through high school and a bit beyond.
The majority of test-takers only sit for the ACT 2 to 3 times before applying to college.
So while the door is open to retake the test many times, the real question is: how many times is smart?
How Many Times Should You Take the ACT?
So while the ACT lets you take the test multiple times, the real secret is not in how many times you take it but in how strategically you approach each one.
Most Students Take it 2–3 Times
This is the sweet spot for most high school students. Taking the ACT two to three times gives you a real chance to improve without feeling overwhelmed.
Your first attempt helps you get used to the test format. The second gives you a chance to boost your score with better prep. If needed, a third try can fine-tune your results.
At this point, many students hit their personal best and feel confident submitting their scores to colleges without burning out or spending too much time retesting.
Some Go for 4–6 Attempts
A few students choose to take the ACT four to six times, especially if they are chasing competitive merit scholarships or applying to colleges that use superscoring (where schools take your highest section scores from different test dates).
Each attempt gives another chance to improve those individual sections, but only if you are actually preparing between tests.
This strategy works best when you are targeting a specific goal and adjusting your study plan based on past results.
Repeating the same prep with no changes? Not so helpful.
What is Superscoring
If you have taken the ACT more than once, here is some good news: Many colleges now superscore the ACT.
That means they do not just look at your scores from a single test date; they take your best section scores from multiple test dates and combine them to create your highest possible composite score.
Let’s say you took the ACT twice. Here’s how your scores compare and how your superscore is calculated:
| Section | Test 1 Score | Test 2 Score | Superscore (Best Score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 28 | 27 | 28 |
| Math | 25 | 29 | 29 |
| Reading | 30 | 28 | 30 |
| Science | 26 | 27 | 27 |
Composite Superscore= (28 + 29 + 30 + 27) ÷ 4 = 28.5, rounded to 29
Why it Matters
- Less Pressure Per Test: When a college superscores, you don’t have to ace every section all at once. It is about progress, not perfection.
- Targeted Prep Between Attempts: Superscoring gives you the freedom to focus on just one or two weaker areas at a time. Maybe you did great in English and Reading, but Math and Science need work.
- Your Best Performance Gets Highlighted: Colleges that superscore look at your highest section scores across all test dates, which means they are seeing you at your best.
ACT Test Dates
Planning your ACT testing schedule is just as important as prepping for the test itself. Here is how to time your attempts wisely, without the stress overload.
The ACT is usually offered seven times a year, with national test dates in the following months:
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February
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April
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June
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July
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September
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October
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December
Registration deadlines are typically about a month before the test, so it is smart to plan ahead!
Best Time to Take the ACT
Timing is everything when it comes to standardized tests. Taking the ACT at the right time gives you room to grow, reduce stress, and stay ahead of application deadlines.
Here is a smart timeline to follow:
First Attempt: Spring of Junior Year
Most students take their first ACT between February and April of their junior year.
Why? By this point, you have usually covered most of the math, reading, and science content in school, so you are well-prepared.
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This early attempt gives you a baseline score.
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It helps identify your strengths and areas to improve.
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You will still have plenty of time to study and retake the test before senior year.
Tip: Even if the score is not what you hoped, do not worry, it is your starting point, not your final result.
Second Attempt: Summer or Early Fall of Senior Year
Your second ACT should ideally be taken during July, September, or October of senior year.
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You’ve had the summer to study and fine-tune your skills.
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You now know exactly which sections need work.
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This timing still keeps you comfortably ahead of college application deadlines (which usually start in November or December).
Tip: With superscoring becoming more common, improving just one or two sections can make a big difference.
Third Attempt (If Needed): Fall of Senior Year
Still feel like you can do better? A third and final attempt in October or December of senior year is totally reasonable, especially if you are:
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Trying to boost your score for a competitive college.
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Applying for scholarships with score cutoffs.
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Just a few points shy of a goal score or merit aid bracket.
Tip: Do not cut it too close. Many colleges have strict score submission deadlines. Check each school’s website to make sure your scores will arrive in time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Taking the ACT more than once is smart, but only if you avoid some common slip-ups. Here is what not to do:
- Retaking the Test Without Changing Your Study Plan
If you take the ACT again without studying differently, don’t expect different results.
Instead, review your score report, find weak spots, and adjust your prep. - Cramming Last-Minute Before Each Test
The ACT covers a lot of material, and last-minute cramming usually leads to stress, not success. Spacing out your prep over a few weeks or months is much more effective. - Taking the ACT Too Many Times
There is no magic number, but after 4–6 tries, most students hit a plateau.
Repeated testing without real improvement can waste time and money. - Letting the ACT Take Over Your Life
Yes, your ACT score matters, but it is not the only thing colleges care about.
Do not let test prep get in the way of your schoolwork, extracurriculars, or your mental health.
Conclusion
The ACT is not just about how many times you take it; it is about how wisely you prepare.
While you can take the test up to 12 times, most students see their best results after 2 to 3 well-planned attempts.
Superscoring, smart prep, and good timing can help you reach your goals without unnecessary stress.
Focus on quality prep, know your colleges’ policies, and give yourself time to improve.
You have got this! Ready to build your ACT game plan? Let’s do it.
