In a recent announcement, ACT, Inc. revealed major updates to the ACT test format, aiming to make the exam more student-friendly and competitive with the digital SAT. Starting in spring 2025, the ACT will introduce a shorter test and an optional Science section. These changes are initially for the online format, with paper-based tests remaining unchanged.
Key Changes:
Shorter Test Duration: The new ACT will be approximately 2 hours long, compared to the current 3-hour format. This adjustment aligns the ACT more closely with the digital SAT, which is 2 hours and 14 minutes long.
Optional Science Section: The Science section, which has been a core part of the ACT since its inception, will now be optional. Similar to the optional writing section, this change allows students to choose whether to include Science in their test.
Rationale Behind the Changes: Janet Godwin, CEO of ACT, Inc., stated that a need for increased flexibility and a better testing experience for students drives these updates. By making the Science section optional and shortening the test, ACT aims to reduce test fatigue and time pressure, making the exam more manageable for students (ACT).
Implementation Timeline:
Spring 2025: Online testing with the new format begins.
Spring 2026: The new format will be available for school-day testing.
Paper-Based Tests: These will continue under the current format until further notice.
What This Means for Students: The updated ACT will offer a less stressful testing experience, providing more time per question and reducing overall testing time. This change is expected to be particularly beneficial for students who struggle with the current test's pace. The optional Science section will allow students who are not strong in science to focus on their strengths, while those aiming for STEM fields can still showcase their science skills by opting in (ACT).
Stay tuned for more updates as ACT, Inc. continues to refine and implement these changes. For detailed information, visit the ACT official website.
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