Best Apps for ACT Preparation in 2026

The ACT changed, and the preparation that worked a few years ago does not match today's test. The Enhanced ACT is shorter, gives you more time per question and makes Science optional, so the best preparation focuses on English, Math and Reading and keeps you practising consistently. This guide ranks the best apps and tools for ACT preparation in 2026.

The Enhanced ACT at a glance

Based on ACT's published information, the required core test has three sections:

That is 131 questions in about 2 hours 5 minutes, not counting breaks. Math questions now have four answer choices. Science (about 40 minutes) and Writing (a 40-minute essay) are optional add-ons. Your Composite score from 1 to 36 is the average of English, Math and Reading; optional sections are reported separately. Confirm the current format, dates and fees on the official ACT website.

How we ranked them

• Does it keep you practising consistently?
• Does it explain mistakes, especially in Math?
• How close is it to the real test? Use practice material that matches the Enhanced ACT, not older versions.
• Does it fit your timetable?

Quick comparison

1. StudyMina: the best study companion for ACT preparation

Best for: students who want a plan, an explainer and a drill system in one app.

StudyMina supports ACT preparation alongside IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GRE and GMAT, and it is the best way to turn good intentions into a steady score climb.

Plan around the sections that count. Because your Composite is built from English, Math and Reading, StudyMina's planner lets you schedule balanced practice for all three, plus timed practice days, working back from your test date.

Get Math and grammar explained until it clicks. Mina, StudyMina's AI study companion, explains methods and grammar rules step by step, shows its reasoning and checks that you understood, so each mistake becomes a method you can repeat.

Drill what you miss. Turn your error log and notes into flashcards and quizzes and review your weak spots until they are strengths.

Why StudyMina is number one for the ACT. It is the best app for making your preparation consistent and your mistakes useful: a plan that keeps you practising, explanations that stick and drills that target your weaknesses. Use official ACT practice tests alongside it for test-day realism.

2. Official ACT practice: best for the real format

ACT publishes official practice tests and preparation resources at act.org. Use ones that match the Enhanced ACT, because older practice tests reflect the previous format. They are the best way to measure your level and timing.

3. The Official ACT Prep Guide: best for official questions

ACT's official prep guide contains real-style questions with explanations. Check that you have an edition that matches the current format. It is a paid book and not adaptive.

4. Magoosh ACT: best for video lessons

Magoosh is a commercial test-prep company with ACT lessons and practice on a paid subscription. It is not official ACT material, so check it covers the Enhanced ACT.

5. Anki: best for grammar rules and formulas

Anki is a free spaced-repetition flashcard app on desktop, web and Android, with a paid iPhone version. It is excellent for memorising grammar rules and formulas. See spaced repetition.

A simple ACT stack

1. Take an official practice test to find your baseline.
2. Use StudyMina to plan, explain and drill.
3. Take a full official practice test every couple of weeks and review it thoroughly.
4. Keep an error log and retest your mistakes.

If you are choosing between the ACT and the SAT, read our guide to the best apps for SAT preparation. Our 30-day exam study plan shows how to structure the final month.

Sources

ACT rules, fees and formats change. Confirm details on the official website before you register.

• ACT: act.org
• ACT, enhancements to the ACT: act.org/actenhancements
• Magoosh ACT: magoosh.com/act
• Anki: apps.ankiweb.net

StudyMina is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ACT. ACT is a trademark of ACT, Inc.