The ACT Test is Changing in April 2025: What You Need to Know
Starting in April 2025, major changes are coming to the ACT test, and students need to be prepared. The new format introduces a shorter test duration, a digital option, and an optional science section. These updates are designed to make the test more flexible and accessible while maintaining its role as a key college admissions exam. If you’re planning to take the ACT in the coming years, here’s everything you need to know about these changes and how to prepare effectively.
A Shorter ACT Test
One of the biggest updates is the reduced testing time. The new ACT will be two hours and five minutes long, compared to the current three-hour format. This change will help students stay more focused and reduce testing fatigue, ultimately leading to better performance. The science section, which has traditionally been a core component, will now be optional. This means students can choose whether or not to include it, depending on their strengths and college application requirements.
ACT Goes Digital
Starting in spring 2025, students will have the option to take the ACT test online. While the traditional paper-and-pencil format will still be available, the digital version comes with several advantages, including:
- Faster score reporting
- Enhanced accessibility features like screen reader support and text-to-speech functionality
- A streamlined testing experience
For students taking the ACT on school-day testing dates, the digital option will be available in spring 2026. If you’re comfortable with digital tests, this could be a great opportunity to take advantage of modern testing technology.
Optional Science Section: What It Means for You
With the science section becoming optional, students will need to decide whether to include it based on their college goals. Here’s what you should consider:
- If you’re applying to STEM-related programs, taking the science section may strengthen your application.
- If science isn’t your strong suit, opting out can save time and allow you to focus on English, reading, and math.
- The composite ACT score will now be based only on English, math, and reading, with the science score reported separately.
Who Will Experience the Changes First?
These updates will roll out in two phases:
- April 2025: Online test takers will be the first to experience the new format.
- Spring 2026: School-day testing will transition to the updated version.
How to Prepare for the New ACT Format
With these changes, it’s more important than ever to prepare strategically. Here’s how:
- Practice with New ACT Prep Materials – ACT has released new test prep resources, including a full-length practice test, to help students familiarize themselves with the updated format.
- Consider Whether to Take the Science Section – If science is a strong subject for you, taking the optional section could enhance your score report.
- Get Comfortable with Digital Testing – If you choose the online format, practice using digital test-taking tools to ensure a smooth experience on test day.
- Improve Time Management Skills – With a shorter test duration, efficient time management will be key to maximizing your score.
Why These Changes Matter
The ACT remains one of the most widely used college admissions tests, and these updates aim to create a more adaptable and student-friendly experience. With a shorter test, digital options, and an optional science section, students now have more flexibility to tailor their test experience based on their strengths and college goals.
Final Thoughts
If you’re preparing for the ACT in 2025 or beyond, understanding these changes is crucial. Whether you opt for the digital format or stick to paper-based testing, and whether you include the science section or not, the key to success is preparation.
At C2 Education Carrollton, we’re here to help students navigate these changes with expert ACT prep programs. Contact us today to start preparing for the new ACT format and boost your college admissions chances!
