Big Changes Coming to the ACT.
What’s Changing in the ACT Test?
It’s getting shorter and going digital… but the rollout timetable is a bit confusing.
How the New ACT Format Will Impact Test-Takers
The current three-hour, paper-based ACT will be available up to and including the July 12, 2025 test date.
The revamped ACT will be pared down to just over two hours, and the science section (an extra 40 minutes) will be optional. Scoring will continue to be based on a 36-point scale and will be the average of either the three or four sections that a student chooses to take.
All the subject sections will remain the same: English, reading, and math. Science will join writing as an optional section.
There will be 44 fewer questions, and the number of answer choices per question in math will be reduced from five to four.
The new online version will start to be made available at some test centers for the April 5, 2025 test date. The ACT says the online version will not be adaptive. Test centers will provide the computers: you will not be able to use your own device.
The new format will be instituted across the board for the September test date. Students will have the option of taking the test digitally or on paper. Regardless of format, the content will be the same. Here’s a link to the ACT website where you can see what the new digital questions will look like.
The decision-making process about testing gets a bit more confusing:
Go test-optional or not?
SAT or ACT?
If it’s ACT, current format or new format?
If it's a new format, digital or paper?
Include the science section or not?
I am here to help you navigate this tricky, ever-changing environment. As I always remind my families and students, I am a stress reducer and not a stress inducer! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to have a discussion.
