Exciting changes are coming to the ACT, and high school students targeting US universities need to be prepared. The ACT will now be shorter, and the science section will be optional. These updates aim to make the test-taking process more manageable while still assessing the academic skills students need for university success.
1. A Shorter Test
The ACT will now take less time to complete. The new format is designed to reduce test fatigue and help students stay sharp throughout the exam. While the test is getting shorter, students will still need to practice pacing to ensure they can manage their time effectively during each section.
2. The Science Section Is Optional
The ACT’s science section has always been a distinctive feature of the exam, focusing on interpreting data, graphs, and experiments rather than testing specific scientific knowledge. Now, this section is optional.
• Students planning to pursue STEM majors or applying to universities that value scientific reasoning should still plan to take this section.
• Students whose goals lie outside STEM fields can skip the science section and focus their energy on the remaining sections: English, Math, and Reading.
For students who take the science section, remember that it doesn’t require memorizing scientific concepts. Success depends on strong analytical skills, so practicing data interpretation is key.
3. No Section Adaptivity
Unlike the SAT, the ACT will not feature section adaptivity. On the SAT, questions can become harder or easier depending on your performance in previous sections. The ACT will retain its traditional format, meaning all test-takers receive the same difficulty level throughout the exam. This consistency can make the ACT feel more predictable for students.
4. How to Adapt to the Changes
The shorter test and optional science section bring new opportunities for students to tailor their approach.
• Take practice tests based on the new format to get comfortable with the shorter timing and adjust your pacing.
• Decide early whether you’ll take the science section based on your post-secondary and career goals.
• Focus on strengthening core skills in English, Math, and Reading, as these remain the foundation of the ACT.
5. Why These Changes Matter
These updates are designed to better meet the needs of today’s students. The shorter test reduces stress and fatigue, while the optional science section allows students to customize the test to align with their strengths and future plans.
The ACT will still require preparation and strategy, but these changes make it more accessible and flexible. As new details emerge and updated practice materials become available, students should take advantage of those resources to prepare effectively, get comfortable with the new format, and build a strategy that works for them.
