Take the December ACT if you need a score for Regular Decision or a missed fall sitting—and you can still prep through Thanksgiving. Skip it as an Early Decision plan. Those files are already in. December is the last national date of the calendar year, not a magic makeup.
December is a good fit when
- You applied EA/ED and need a better number for RD.
- You missed September or October.
- Winter break can hold a short plan afterward if you might retake in February. Winter break plan.
December is a weak fit when
- You are counting on it for Early Decision. Use July–October: last-chance retake.
- Finals week will erase prep.
- You already sit at every 75th on the list. When to stop.
Practical notes
Register before Thanksgiving if you can. Weather and illness spike. Have a backup date. July is a different seasonal question: should you take the July ACT.
The bottom line
December serves Regular Decision and recovery from a missed fall date. It does not rescue an Early Decision file you already mailed.
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.