- The ACT, along with the SAT, has long been a critical benchmark, in gauging a student’s readiness for higher academics. With the introduction of the enhanced ACT in April of this year, a series of updates aim to better reflect the evolving educational landscape and college expectations. Here’s what you need to know about these changes and what they mean for students.
What’s New?
The enhanced ACT isn’t a complete overhaul, but rather a series of updates designed to improve fairness, relevance, and accessibility.Digital Testing Options
The ACT is now available in a fully digital format at many testing center which will allow for faster score reporting, a more intuitive testing experience (with tools like highlighting, flagging, and a built-in calculator), and greater accessibility for students with disabilities.
Updated Content and Questions
The ACT has refined question types to reflect more modern classroom standards and to emphasize real-world applications. Expect:
More integrated reasoning across subjects.
Contextual questions that connect everyday scenarios.
Reduced emphasis on obscure vocabulary.Optional Science Section (Writing is still optional as well)
The Science section is now optional and will require an additional fee for students who still choose to include it. For those students, their Science score will be a stand-alone score and will not be factored into their composite. There are still 40 questions but now students will have 40 minutes as opposed to the previous 35 minutes.
Fewer Questions / More Time per Question
English has gone from 75 questions in 45 minutes to 50 questions in 35 minutes.
Math has gone from 60 questions in 60 minutes to 45 questions in 50 minutes.
Reading has gone from 40 questions in 35 minutes to 36 questions in 40 minutesHow to Best Prepare for the Enhanced ACT
Familiarize yourself with the digital platform using ACT’s free online practice tools.
Practice the new question formats.
Take multiple practice tests to improve time management and build confidence.Final Thoughts
This test is still new so we are unsure how the various college admissions offices across the country are going to treat it. For that reason, we are recommending that all students still include the Science section.Many students may prefer to stick to what they know. If that is the case, the June 14th and July 12th test dates will be your last opportunity to take the old test on paper only. Beginning in September, 2025 only the new format will be offered. But, at that time, students will be able to choose the paper or digital format.
As always, Best of Luck!
Contact us Today for a Free Consultation:
859-935-1398
859-935-1398