In keeping with its legacy of innovation, ACT has made some changes that will be implemented in April 2025. The ACT is a comprehensive college readiness test that includes a STEM score that is based on the high school syllabus. Students aspiring to be placed in highly competitive colleges to study STEM subjects choose to take this test, and a high score makes them eligible for scholarships.
Let us look at the fundamental modifications and what it means for students.
Format
In February 2024, ACT started offering an online testing option at select locations nationwide. ACT provides two testing formats: paper and pencil and online testing. This means students can improve their performance and confidence by taking the ACT in the most comfortable style. The online alternative provides extra accessibility features such as screen reader assistance, text-to-speech functionality, zoom, and response masking, providing equitable access. ACT Online Testing | A New Option for Taking the ACT Test
Focus on Flexibility
The test is now more flexible since it allows students to select whether or not to take the science component. English, reading, and math are the fundamental elements of the ACT that provide a college-reportable score. Science, like writing, will be provided as a supplementary section. This means that students can take either,
- The ACT
- The ACT plus science
- The ACT plus writing or
- The ACT plus science and writing
Students can use this flexibility to focus on their strengths and demonstrate their abilities to the fullest. The composite score will be calculated by averaging the English, reading, and math scores. The composite and section scores will continue to be reported on the same 1-36 scale.
A shorter test
A major change is the reduced length of the test by up to one-third, depending on which version of the test students take. The new core test will last just two hours, compared to three hours for the current test. The test will now include:
- Shorter passages in the reading and English sections.
- Fewer questions in each section – 44 fewer questions in all. Students must understand that the flip side of this is that small mistakes have a greater effect on the score.
This change has been made to make tests more manageable for students without being intimidated. Composite and section scores will continue to be reported on the same 1-36 scale. Both of these changes, along with other enhancements to modernize the test, will roll out starting with National online testing in spring 2025 and then for school-day testing in spring 2026.
In conclusion, these changes in the ACT are in sync with their mission of being student-centric. ACT continues to stay committed to providing reliable, accessible solutions ensuring every learner has the opportunity to succeed.
