The ACT has undergone its most significant transformation in years, and students planning to take the test need to understand these changes to prepare effectively. With the July 2025 ACT marking the end of the current format, September 2025 will introduce a streamlined version that promises to be more focused and student-friendly.
The New ACT Format at a Glance
The redesigned ACT features fewer questions and adjusted timing across all sections:
Core Sections (Required):
- English: 50 questions in 35 minutes
- Math: 45 questions in 50 minutes
- Reading: 36 questions in 40 minutes
Optional Section:
- Science: 40 questions in 40 minutes
The total testing time for the core sections is now just 2 hours and 5 minutes, compared to the previous 2 hours and 55 minutes when science was mandatory. However, there’s an important trade-off: the ACT has eliminated the 10-minute break that previously came after the multiple-choice sections.
This creates a mixed impact on test-taking stamina. While the shorter overall duration should reduce cumulative fatigue, students must now maintain concentration for over two hours straight without any official break time. This change requires a shift in mental preparation and pacing strategies, as students can no longer rely on that mid-test reset to recharge and refocus.
Key Changes That Matter
Fewer Questions, Better Focus
The ACT’s decision to reduce question counts across all sections reflects a shift toward quality over quantity. Students will have slightly more time per question in most sections, potentially allowing for more thoughtful responses and reduced time pressure. This change should particularly benefit students who previously struggled with pacing.
Science Section Becomes Optional
Perhaps the most significant change is making the Science section optional. This decision reflects several important considerations:
Why This Matters:
- Students can focus their preparation time on three core areas instead of four
- Test anxiety may decrease for students who traditionally struggled with science reasoning
- Students not pursuing STEM fields have more flexibility in their testing approach
The Strategic Decision: While the Science section is now optional, students should carefully consider whether to include it based on their college and career goals. The section tests scientific reasoning and data interpretation skills rather than specific science knowledge, making it valuable for demonstrating analytical thinking abilities.
The New Composite Score Structure
The composite score calculation has been simplified to reflect the optional nature of the Science section:
New Composite Score = Average of English, Math, and Reading sections only
The Science section, when taken, receives its own separate score that doesn’t factor into the composite.
Should You Take the Science Section?
Take the Science Section If:
- You’re planning to major in STEM fields
- Your target colleges specifically request or recommend Science scores
- You’re applying for STEM-related scholarships or programs
- You perform well on data interpretation and analytical reasoning tasks
- You want to demonstrate the broadest possible skill set
Consider Skipping If:
- You’re pursuing non-STEM majors and your target colleges don’t emphasize Science scores
- You consistently struggle with the Science section and it negatively impacts your overall test experience
- You want to focus your preparation energy on maximizing your composite score
- Time constraints limit your ability to prepare adequately for all four sections
Preparation Strategy Adjustments
For All Students:
- Practice with the new timing: Adjust your pacing strategies for the revised question counts and time limits
- Decide early on Science: Make your Science section decision before beginning intensive preparation
- Focus on fundamentals: With fewer questions per section, each one carries more weight
For STEM-Focused Students:
- Definitely include Science: The section remains crucial for demonstrating scientific reasoning abilities
- Strengthen Math preparation: With increased emphasis on quantitative skills, ensure strong performance in this area
- Connect concepts: Look for relationships between Math and Science section content in your preparation
Impact on College Admissions
Colleges are adapting their evaluation processes to accommodate the new ACT structure:
- Composite Score Standards: Admissions offices are recalibrating their ACT score expectations based on the three-section composite
- Science Score Consideration: Institutions will develop policies for how they weigh separate Science scores
- Flexibility: Most colleges will accept either format during the transition period
Making the Most of These Changes
The new ACT format presents opportunities for strategic test-taking:
- Reduced Test Fatigue: Shorter testing time should help maintain concentration and performance
- Focused Preparation: Students can allocate study time more efficiently based on their section choices
- Multiple Attempts: With less time commitment per test, students may be more willing to retake for score improvement
- Personalized Approach: The optional Science section allows for more customized testing strategies
The redesigned ACT represents a thoughtful response to student feedback and changing educational needs. By reducing question counts, adjusting timing, and making Science optional, the test becomes more accessible while maintaining its role as a reliable measure of college readiness.
Success on the new ACT will depend on understanding these changes and adapting preparation strategies accordingly. Whether you choose to include the Science section or focus on the core three areas, the key is developing a preparation plan that aligns with your academic goals and target colleges’ expectations.
As always, consistent practice, strategic preparation, and understanding the test format will be your best tools for achieving your target score on the new and improved ACT. Get Smarter Prep has a flexible ACT Course that suits student’s busy schedule and has already adapted its curriculum to the September changes. To achieve the most customized ACT prep, our Private Tutors provide personalized plans and expert guidance for students to achieve their goal scores.