Big Changes to the ACT Exam (Everyone’s Talking About It)

A Shorter Test: Less Time, Less Stress

First up, the ACT will be cut down to just over two hours, including breaks. That’s shorter than your average superhero movie. This time reduction is achieved by shrinking the number of questions and using more concise passages in the Reading and English sections. So, no more feeling like you need a camping permit for the testing center.

New Total Time:

Just over two hours, including breaks.

Question Reductions:

Total questions will drop from 215 to 171. That’s 44 fewer questions to tackle in all.

The ACT’s CEO, Janet Goodwin, swears that this will not affect the validity & reliability of the exam, but we’ll see if it turns out to be true (or not).

Optional Science Section: To Science or Not to Science

The Science section is going optional. Yes, you read that right. Now you can choose between the core ACT (English, Math, and Reading) or the ACT Plus Science. This means if you’re not a fan of interpreting graphs and data tables, you can skip it. It’s like being offered dessert but knowing you’re already full. However, word is spreading that top colleges or programs like Engineering will almost certainly require the Science section so keep this in mind as you apply to colleges.

Core ACT:

English, Math, and Reading.

ACT Plus Science:

Includes an optional Science section. More fun if you enjoy analyzing scientific data.

New Scoring: Simpler and Smarter

The new Composite score will come from the English, Math, and Reading sections alone. The Science section will still give a sub-score for those who opt-in, but it won’t impact your main score. Think of it like those extra toppings on your sundae—not necessary, but nice if you want them. The score has traditionally been affected greatly by the variance in the Science section, so this will be a stabilizing factor for all students who do not take this section in the future.

Composite Score:

Based on English, Math, and Reading.

Optional Sub-Score:

Science section score provided separately for those who take it.

Rollout Timeline: Mark Your Calendars

The revamped ACT will roll out in spring 2025. But hold your horses, school-day testers! You’ll see the new format starting spring 2026. Until then, it’s the same old ACT—so keep those #2 pencils sharp.

Spring 2025:

New format available for traditional test dates.

Spring 2026:

New format for school-day testing.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Change

These updates aim to make the ACT more manageable and student-friendly, potentially reducing the stress associated with this crucial test. While these changes aim to reduce test anxiety and streamline the experience, they also reflect the evolving landscape of college admissions. The ACT and the new digital SAT have always been in competition with each other, and this move by the ACT reflects this direct competition.

Whether you’re thrilled or apprehensive, remember: every challenge is just an opportunity in disguise.

Happy testing, everyone! Contact us with any questions or if you need help with test prep. We got your back.