Should I take the ACT writing section?
When registering for the ACT, students often wonder: Should I take the optional ACT writing section? Since the writing portion of the ACT is not required for everyone, it might seem easy to just skip it and save on the overall ACT test cost. However, whether you choose the ACT with writing or without can impact your college applications in important ways.
Evaluating if you need an ACT writing score comes down to where you’re applying and whether the writing section complements your strengths as a test-taker. For some students, opting for the additional writing test may offer strategic advantages, while for others, the choice of ACT writing vs. no writing is straightforward.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide whether ACT writing is right for you.
Reasons you might want to take the ACT writing section
Some colleges require or recommend it
The first step in deciding whether to take the ACT with Writing or without is to carefully review the admissions policies of each college on your list. Some colleges still require the ACT Writing section as part of their application process, while others may only recommend including the ACT Writing score. Whenever a school suggests or recommends submitting your ACT Writing results, it’s usually wise to treat that recommendation as a requirement, especially if you’re aiming for selective programs or want to maximize your application’s impact. Even if only one school you’re considering asks for the ACT Writing score, having it available ensures you won’t be scrambling to retake the entire ACT test later.
It shows you’re a strong, well-rounded student
Taking the ACT Writing section can help demonstrate that you’re a capable, well-rounded applicant. The writing portion of the ACT allows you to showcase skills that aren’t captured by multiple-choice questions: organizing ideas, developing an argument, and communicating clearly, which are abilities highly valued by admissions offices. Earning a solid ACT Writing score can set you apart, particularly if you’re pursuing competitive majors or colleges that emphasize strong communication skills. Opting for the ACT with Writing shows colleges you’ve taken every opportunity to present your best self.
It keeps your options open
Choosing the ACT with Writing ensures flexibility as your college plans evolve. Even if you think your current list of schools doesn’t require or recommend the writing section, plans can change: you might discover a great new college later that expects an ACT Writing score. If you skip the writing portion now, you could end up needing to retake the whole exam (and pay the additional fee) just to add this section. Taking the ACT with Writing once means you’ll be prepared for any opportunity that arises.
Reasons you might decide to skip it
None of your schools require it
If your college list is finalized and every school on it states the ACT Writing section isn’t required or even recommended, opting for the ACT without writing is a sensible choice. When no admissions office will review your ACT Writing score, there’s little benefit in spending extra time or money on the writing section. Focusing on the regular ACT test can free up your resources for other parts of the application process.
You want to conserve your energy on test day
The ACT is a demanding exam, even without the additional writing portion. Choosing the ACT without writing can help you concentrate your energy on the main sections of the ACT test (Reading, English, and Math) and avoid post-exam fatigue that may affect your overall performance. The ACT takes 125 minutes to complete without the writing section, which adds an additional 40 minutes. Many students find that skipping the optional ACT Writing segment allows them to stay focused for the entire duration of the test.
You’re budget-conscious
Considering financial factors, such as the cost of taking the ACT, is important. The ACT with Writing comes at a higher price ($93) compared to taking the standard ACT without writing ($68). If you want to save money, especially if you’re also budgeting for test prep, application fees, or possible retakes, skipping the writing portion can be a smart way to manage expenses while still meeting college admissions requirements.
Overall, whether you take the ACT Writing depends on your specific situation. If none of your intended colleges require or review an ACT Writing score, and you’re weighing costs and energy levels, taking the regular ACT may make the most sense for you.
How the ACT writing section is scored
The ACT essay is scored separately from the rest of the exam and will not be included in your Composite score. If you opt to include ACT Writing in your test, you will receive a total of five scores for this section: four domain scores reported on a range of 2-12, and a subject-level writing score, which is the average of the domain scores. Results are based on an analytic scoring rubric used to evaluate the essay’s analysis, development of ideas, support for claims, organization, and use of language.
To aim for a high score, you must be confident in your ability to craft a well-constructed essay within a short timeframe, which can be achieved by practicing this section at length. It’s up to you to decide whether you want to devote your ACT preparation to improving your Writing score.
Final thoughts: ACT with Writing or without?
At the end of the day, it comes down to your own goals. If you want maximum flexibility, love writing essays, or have even one school that might care about the writing score, it’s probably worth it. If you’re 100% sure it won’t matter for your applications, or you want to be strategic with your time and energy, skipping it is perfectly fine.
The best advice? Spend five minutes checking the admissions policies for the schools you’re most interested in. A little research now could save you a lot of stress later and make you feel more confident about your decision.
If you’re also wondering whether you should take the optional ACT Science section, be sure to read our post on what you need to consider before making a decision.
