An ACT fee waiver lets eligible students take the ACT for free—up to two times—including optional Science and Writing sections, plus free prep resources from ACT. Waivers do not cover late registration, change fees, or standby testing. Get one from your school counselor before you register. Part of how much the ACT costs.
Who qualifies
Eligibility is based on financial need. Common qualifying situations:
- Enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (free or reduced lunch)
- Family income at or below USDA levels for that program
- Foster care or ward of the state
- Homeless or unaccompanied youth
- Receiving certain public assistance programs
Homeschooled students can qualify too—ask a counselor at a local high school or district office. See homeschool ACT registration.
What the waiver covers
- Full ACT registration fee (core test)
- Optional Science and/or Writing add-ons
- Score reports to you, your high school, and up to four colleges
- Up to two fee waivers total (two free test sittings)
- Free access to ACT online prep resources (confirm current offerings on act.org)
What the waiver does not cover
- Late registration fees
- Test date or center change fees
- Standby testing fees
- Additional score reports beyond the four included at registration
Register by the regular deadline to avoid extra charges. Deadlines: ACT test dates.
How to get and use a waiver
- Talk to your school counselor early—waivers are limited per school.
- Counselor confirms eligibility and gives you a waiver code or form.
- During MyACT registration, enter the waiver code instead of paying.
- Register on time and upload your photo by the deadline.
Registration walkthrough: how to register for the ACT.
After the waiver
Fee waiver recipients may also qualify for college application fee waivers. For free and low-cost prep beyond ACT's included resources, see affordable ACT prep resources.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.