New ACT Format in 2025: What You Need to Know

The ACT has been a vital component of the college admissions process in the United States for decades. As students face an increasingly flexible and holistic college admissions landscape, the ACT is evolving to better meet their needs. In July 2024, the ACT announced major updates, set to take effect in spring 2025, aimed at providing students with more choice and flexibility, as well as reducing the overall length of the test. These changes will help students better showcase their academic abilities and reduce testing fatigue.

In this article, we’ll explore the changes to the ACT, why they’re happening, and how students can prepare for the updated test.

Understanding the New ACT Format Coming in Spring 2025

The ACT announced two major updates in July 2024, which will take effect for online testing in spring 2025 and for school-day testing in 2026. The changes are focused on providing students with more flexibility and making the test more manageable by reducing its length.

Key Changes to the ACT in 2025

Here are the main changes coming to the ACT starting in spring 2025:

Optional Science and Writing Sections

One of the most significant updates is that the Science section will become optional, aligning it with the Writing section, which has been optional for years. Students now have the flexibility to take the ACT in one of several formats:

• The core ACT (English, Reading, and Math),

• The ACT plus Science,

• The ACT plus Writing, or

• The ACT plus Science and Writing.

This flexibility allows students to choose the version of the test that best suits their strengths and goals. However, it’s important to note that while these sections are optional, many selective universities—especially elite institutions like the Ivy League—are still likely to expect applicants to submit scores for both the Science and Writing sections.

Composite Score Calculation: The ACT composite score will still be based on the average of the three core sections (English, Math, and Reading), with the Science and Writing scores reported separately. The composite and section scores will continue to be reported on the 1-36 scale, which remains unchanged.

A Shorter Test for All Students

Another major change is the shorter test length. Beginning in 2025, the ACT will be up to one-third shorter, depending on the format students choose. The new core ACT (without Science and Writing) will last just two hours, compared to the previous three-hour duration. This reduction is achieved by shortening passages in the English and Reading sections and reducing the number of questions by 44 overall.

This shorter format is designed to make the testing experience more manageable and reduce student fatigue, while still providing colleges with a reliable measure of a student’s academic abilities. Students will have more time to thoughtfully answer each question, improving the overall testing experience.

Expanded Digital Testing Options

In keeping with modern trends, the ACT will continue to offer both paper-based and digital testing. The digital version, which has been growing in popularity, allows for quicker score reporting, a feature that can be particularly helpful for students applying to schools with rolling admissions or early deadlines.

Students opting for the digital version of the ACT will have access to on-screen tools like calculators and time management aids. Familiarity with these tools can give students an edge and help them feel more confident and comfortable on test day.

How to Prepare for the 2025 ACT Changes

As the new ACT format is implemented, students should adjust their preparation strategies to ensure they are ready for the shorter, more flexible test.

Decide Whether to Take the Science and Writing Sections

While both the Science and Writing sections are optional, students aiming for competitive colleges should strongly consider taking them. Elite schools may still expect applicants to submit scores for both sections. The Science section will continue to test data analysis and interpretation skills, while the Writing section requires students to craft well-organized essays on complex topics.

Preparing for these sections can provide students with a critical edge, particularly if they are applying to schools that place a heavy emphasis on well-rounded academic skills.

Focus on Real-World Application

The updated ACT will continue to test critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application of knowledge. This is especially true in the Math section, where students may encounter more real-world problems involving financial literacy or data analysis. English and Reading will also focus on deeper comprehension and the ability to analyze texts.

Students should focus on building these skills through practice questions that emphasize real-world scenarios and interdisciplinary knowledge.

Familiarize Yourself with the Digital Format

If you plan to take the digital version of the ACT, it’s important to practice using the available tools, such as the on-screen calculator and time management features. Digital practice tests can help you get comfortable with the format and reduce any anxiety about navigating the online test environment.

FAQs

What are the major changes to the ACT in 2025?

Starting in spring 2025, the ACT will feature optional Science and Writing sections, a shorter test length, and expanded digital testing options.

How long will the new ACT be?

The core ACT will last two hours, with the test reduced by up to one-third in length depending on whether students choose to take the optional sections.

Are the Science and Writing sections mandatory?

No, both sections will be optional. However, students applying to selective colleges may want to take these sections, as some institutions will still expect them.

Will the ACT composite score calculation change?

No, the composite score will still be the average of the three core sections (English, Math, and Reading). Scores for Science and Writing will be reported separately.

When will the changes take effect?

The new ACT format will be rolled out for online testing in spring 2025 and for school-day testing in spring 2026.

Conclusion

The 2025 ACT updates reflect ACT’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of students and colleges in a rapidly changing educational landscape. With shorter test lengths and the flexibility to choose optional sections, the ACT will allow students to better showcase their strengths and reduce test fatigue. By preparing for these changes, students can perform at their best and submit strong scores for their college applications.