The ACT Plus Writing is available on all national test dates, on two international test dates, and for special and arranged testing during designated two-week testing windows.
Some colleges require the Writing Test; others do not. Most colleges will accept scores from the Writing Test even if they do not require it.
You should decide whether to take the Writing Test based on the requirements of the institutions to which you are applying. Check directly with the institutions you are considering to find out their requirements, or ask your high school counselor which test option you should take.
What does it cost?
The 2007–2008 basic fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $44.50. This includes score reports for up to four college choices for which a valid code is listed as part of registration. The basic fee for the ACT if you don't take the Writing Test is $30.00 ($14.50 less).
The $14.50 Writing Test fee is refundable on request, if you are absent on test day or drop the Writing Test before testing begins.