If your student is planning to take the ACT this year, fall is one of the most important times to create a plan. Upcoming national test dates for 2025-2026 are:

October 18
December 13
February 14
April 11

The timing of these exams means October is the ideal point for juniors to get serious about prep and for seniors to make one last push. Here’s why:

1. October Is the Reset Button
The October test is often the first official attempt for juniors. Even if they’ve taken a practice test, October provides a baseline score under real testing conditions. That score can guide study strategy for the rest of the year.

2. December Is the Sweet Spot
For students who start preparing now, December is the perfect target. There’s enough time to learn strategies, review content, and take practice exams. Seniors can still use this date for Regular Decision deadlines, while juniors gain valuable experience with a full prep cycle.

3. February Extends the Window
Students who aren’t satisfied in December can retest in February, often with significant gains. Colleges accept February scores for most Regular Decision applications, and juniors benefit from an early spring retake before the heavier load of AP tests and finals.

4. Why Start in October?
Cramming a week or two before the exam rarely produces meaningful score jumps. Real improvement comes from steady practice over six to eight weeks. That’s why October is the best month to begin. Students can target December with confidence and keep February in their back pocket.

How Class 101 Can Help
Our next ACT Prep Package begins October 26, perfectly timed for students aiming at the December exam. We’ll walk through proven strategies, provide practice under test-like conditions, and help students approach the ACT with confidence.

Ready to get started? Schedule your free consultation today.