Upcoming Changes to the ACT: What You Need to Know

The ACT is undergoing some significant changes, what they call “enhancements.” Here's a breakdown:

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• Online Testing: Starting in April 2025, the new, shorter ACT will be offered in an online format. The current paper version will still be available until September 2025. Switching formts requires an additional fee.

• Optional Science Section: The Science section will become optional, similar to the Writing section. 

• Shorter Math Section: The Math section will be shortened by 10 minutes and 15 questions. However, the last 15 problems will continue to be more challenging.

• Shorter English Section: The English section will also be shorter, with 50 questions instead of 75.

• More Time for Reading: The Reading section will have the same number of questions but students will be given 5 minutes more.

• New Scoring: For tests taken before September 2025, the English, Math, and Reading scores will be averaged to calculate a composite score. A STEM score will also be calculated based on the Math and Science scores (if the Science section is taken).

Key Takeaways for Students:

• Consider Your Strengths: If math is not your strength, you may want to consider taking the SAT instead, as the ACT's Math section contains some more advanced questions.

• Practice Online: If you plan to take the ACT online, be sure to practice using the online testing format.

Additional Tips:

• Use Free Official ACT Prep Materials: The best way to prepare for the ACT is to use official ACT practice tests and study guides. https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/free-act-test-prep.html

• The ACT website is a great resource for staying up-to-date on the latest changes. https://www.act.org/content/act/en/k12-educators-and-administrators/administrator-newsletter.html

• Accommodations: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/accommodations.html

  
  

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