What’s Changing for the ACT: Key Updates You Need to Know
Big changes are coming to the ACT, starting in 2025! These updates are designed to make the test more flexible and manageable for students, while still maintaining its role as a key measure of college readiness. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes.
1. Shorter Test Time and Fewer Questions
Beginning in 2025, the ACT will have a shorter duration—about 2 hours and 5 minutes, down from the current 2 hours and 55 minutes (excluding optional sections). The number of questions will also be reduced by 44 across the English, Math, and Reading sections.
The best part? You’ll get more time per question, making the test feel less rushed and giving you a better chance to showcase your skills.
2. Optional Science Section
Starting in April 2025, the Science section will become optional, similar to the current Writing section. If you’re aiming for a STEM major or career, you’ll still want to take it. Otherwise, you can skip it and focus on the sections most relevant to your goals.
3. Updated Composite Scoring
The new Composite score will only include the English, Math, and Reading sections, each scored on the traditional 1-36 scale.
- If you choose to take the Science section, your report will include a separate Science score and an additional STEM score, which averages your Math and Science scores.
4. Implementation Timeline
- April 2025: Students testing online will see these changes first.
- September 2025: All ACT tests—online and paper—will use the updated format.
- Spring 2026: Schools and districts administering the ACT will fully adopt the changes.
5. Preparation Resources
ACT is rolling out updated prep materials, including full-length practice tests, by early 2025. Until then, current study resources are still valuable, as the test’s core content and skills won’t change significantly.
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