Decoding the New ACT: Major Changes, Optional Science, and What You Need to Know
Significant changes are coming to the ACT test in 2025. Designed with feedback from students and educators, these updates aim for a more flexible, less stressful testing experience. This guide covers everything you need to know about what is changing, what is staying the same, and how it affects you.
When is the ACT Changing? (Timeline)
The latest changes to the ACT go into effect at different times depending on where and how test-takers plan to take the exam. Here is a breakdown of the rollout:
Infographic 1: ACT 2025 Rollout Timeline
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April 2025
Enhancements launch for ACT National Online (Saturday tests). Optional Science available online.
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September 2025
Enhancements launch for all ACT National Saturday tests (Online and Paper). Optional Science available for both.
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Spring 2026
Enhanced options become available for School and District testing.
When will the new ACT test registration become available?
Registration is currently open for the April, June, and July 2025 ACT test dates. Students can choose to test on paper for these dates or they can choose to test online. If testing online, they will see the enhancements and will have the option to test with or without science.
The 2025 ACT redesign cuts test time, drops the required Science section, and adds new score options. Here is what changed and how to prepare for it.
What Are the Core Changes to the ACT in 2025?
The 2025 ACT introduces several major updates. The most significant change is that the Science section becomes optional. This shift, along with other adjustments, gives you more control over your test experience. These changes are part of the broader update often called The New ACT 2025 And Beyond for the Digital ACT, reflecting a move toward greater flexibility and a more student-friendly format.
Here is a quick look at what is changing and what is staying the same.
What Is Changing
- Shorter overall test time
- Fewer total questions
- Longer time per question
- Four required sections (English, Math, Reading; Science is optional)
- Optional Science section (separate score)
- New composite score options
- Optional STEM score
What Stays the Same
- 1-36 score scale
- Content and skills tested
- Linear format (not adaptive)
- Multiple-choice questions
- Optional Writing (essay) section
- Online and paper testing options
Why Is the ACT Changing?
You're not sure what the new ACT actually looks like. Take a free full practice test with the optional Science section and shorter format. No card needed.
Start 1-day free trial →The ACT is changing to better meet the needs of students and educators. The goal is to reduce test fatigue and provide a more focused assessment of college readiness. By making Science optional, the ACT lets you tailor the test to your strengths and the requirements of your target colleges. This change also aligns the ACT more closely with the flexibility offered by other tests, such as the Digital SAT.
New ACT Test Structure and Timing
The new ACT structure is more streamlined. The core test consists of three required sections: English, Math, and Reading. The Science section is now optional, and the Writing (essay) section remains optional as well. This new format is a key feature of the 2025 ACT redesign.
Infographic 2: New ACT Test Structure
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 75 | 45 minutes | Required |
| Math | 60 | 60 minutes | Required |
| Reading | 40 | 35 minutes | Required |
| Science | 40 | 35 minutes | Optional |
| Writing (Essay) | 1 prompt | 40 minutes | Optional |
Core Test (without Science or Writing):
- Total Questions: 175
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Full Test (with Science, without Writing):
- Total Questions: 215
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Full Test (with Science and Writing):
- Total Questions: 216
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
How Does This Compare to the Old ACT?
The old ACT had a total of 215 questions and took 2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing). The new core test (without Science) is shorter by 35 minutes and has 40 fewer questions. This reduction in length is a direct response to student feedback about test fatigue.
The Optional Science Section: What You Need to Know
The biggest change in the 2025 ACT is that the Science section is now optional. This does not mean the Science section is gone. It means you can choose whether to take it based on your college plans and strengths.
How Does the Optional Science Section Work?
When you register for the ACT, you choose whether to take the test with or without the Science section. If you choose to take it, your Science score is reported separately. It is not included in your core composite score unless you choose to have it included.
How Will the Composite Score Work?
The new composite score options give you more flexibility. Here is how it works:
Infographic 3: New ACT Score Options
You receive a core composite score based on English, Math, and Reading. If you take the Science section, you also receive a Science score and a STEM score (average of Math and Science). Colleges see all scores you choose to send.
Should You Take the Science Section?
This depends on your goals. If you are applying to a competitive STEM program, taking the Science section can strengthen your application. If your target schools do not require it, you can skip it and focus your preparation on the core sections. Check the requirements of the colleges on your list to make the best decision.
Other Key Enhancements in the 2025 ACT
Beyond the optional Science section, the 2025 ACT includes several other improvements. These changes are designed to make the test more student-friendly and less stressful. For students preparing for the 2025 ACT, these updates mean a more manageable testing experience.
Infographic 4: Section Enhancements
📖 English Section
- Shorter passages
- More time per question
- Focus on core writing skills
🧮 Math Section
See which question types are costing you points
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- Fewer questions (60 instead of 75)
- More time per question
- Same content coverage
📚 Reading Section
- Shorter passages
- More time per question
- Same skill focus
🧪 Science Section (Optional)
- Shorter passages
- More time per question
- Same skill focus
Each section now gives you more time per question. This change alone can reduce anxiety and help you show your true abilities. The shorter passages also mean less reading fatigue, so you can maintain focus throughout the test.
ACT Test Versions: Which One Is Right for You?
With the new changes, there are now several versions of the ACT you can take. Choosing the right one depends on your goals and testing preferences. Understanding these options helps you make a smart choice.
Infographic 5: ACT Test Versions
ACT (Core)
English, Math, Reading
2 hours 20 minutes
ACT + Science
English, Math, Reading, Science
2 hours 55 minutes
ACT + Writing
English, Math, Reading, Writing
3 hours 0 minutes
ACT + Science + Writing
English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing
3 hours 35 minutes
Most students will choose between the core ACT and the ACT with Science. If you are unsure, start with the core test. You can always take the Science section on a later test date if needed.
How to Prepare for the 2025 ACT
Preparing for the new ACT requires a focused strategy. The core skills tested have not changed, but the format is different. Here are practical steps to get ready for the new ACT.
1. Know Your Goal
Decide which version of the test you will take. Check the requirements of your target colleges. This tells you whether you need the Science section or the Writing section.
2. Focus on the Core
The English, Math, and Reading sections are the foundation of your score. Spend most of your preparation time on these sections. Use official ACT practice materials and take full-length practice tests.
3. Use the Right Tools
For the digital version of the test, practice with the official online platform. This helps you get comfortable with the interface, navigation, and timing. For the paper version, practice with printed tests.
4. Build Your Stamina
Even though the test is shorter, you still need to maintain focus for over two hours. Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build your mental endurance.
5. Review Your Mistakes
After each practice test, review every question you got wrong. Understand why you missed it and how to avoid the same mistake next time. This is the most effective way to improve your score.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 ACT
Will the ACT still be scored on a 1-36 scale?
Yes. The core composite score (English, Math, Reading) will still be on the 1-36 scale. The Science section and STEM score will also be on the 1-36 scale.
Do colleges require the Science section?
It depends on the college. Some competitive STEM programs may recommend or require it. Most colleges will accept the core composite score. Check the admissions requirements for each school on your list.
Can I take the Science section later if I skip it now?
Yes. You can take the ACT with the Science section on a future test date. Your scores from different test dates can be combined using score choice, depending on the college's policy.
Is the ACT becoming a digital-only test?
No. The ACT will continue to offer both online and paper testing options. You can choose the format that works best for you.
How does the new ACT compare to the Digital SAT?
Both tests are becoming more flexible. The Digital SAT is fully adaptive and shorter. The new ACT is linear (not adaptive) and offers optional sections. The choice between them depends on your strengths and preferences. These changes are part of a broader trend in college admissions testing, often discussed in the context of the shift toward more flexible college admissions testing.
Key Takeaway
The 2025 ACT changes are designed to give you more control and reduce stress. By understanding the new structure and planning your preparation, you can approach the test with confidence. Focus on the core sections, use official practice materials, and choose the test version that aligns with your college goals.
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References and Further Reading
- Official ACT Test PreparationSupports: The 2025 ACT introduces several major updates. The most significant change is that the Science section becomes optional.- Official Test Publisher: Directly from the official test publisher, confirming the Science section becomes optional in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the 2025 ACT changes take effect?
Enhancements launch for ACT National Online in April 2025, for all National Saturday tests (online and paper) in September 2025, and for School and District testing in Spring 2026.
What is the new ACT test structure in 2025?
The core test has three required sections: English (75 questions, 45 min), Math (60 questions, 60 min), Reading (40 questions, 35 min). Science (40 questions, 35 min) and Writing (1 prompt, 40 min) are optional.
Is the Science section still required on the 2025 ACT?
No, the Science section becomes optional starting in 2025. Students can choose to take it or not.
What stays the same on the 2025 ACT?
The 1-36 score scale, content and skills tested, linear (non-adaptive) format, multiple-choice questions, optional Writing essay, and both online and paper testing options remain unchanged.
Why is the ACT changing in 2025?
The changes aim to reduce test fatigue, provide a more focused assessment of college readiness, and offer greater flexibility by making Science optional, aligning with the Digital SAT.