Changes to the ACT: What You Need to Know

As high school students prepare for the ACT, parents may notice several important changes to the exam format starting in 2025. Understanding these updates can help students make strategic decisions about how and when to take the test. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and what it means for your student.

Key Updates to the ACT

1. Shorter Test Duration
   Starting in April 2025, the ACT will only take 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete, a significant reduction in time. There are now 44 fewer questions, giving students a bit more time for each one. Previously, students had about 49 seconds per question. Now, they’ll have 22% more time per question, making it easier to focus on each one.

2. Optional Science Section
   The science section, which was previously a core part of the ACT, will now be optional. Students can choose to take it if they feel it strengthens their score profile. For those who may struggle with science or find it unnecessary for their academic path, this flexibility is a major benefit.

3. Score Scale Remains the Same
   Even with these changes, the ACT scoring will remain on a 1-36 scale, maintaining consistency for colleges and scholarship programs that rely on this familiar range.

Timeline for Changes

• April 2025:
  The digital version of the ACT will be the new, shorter format starting in April, May, and June. However, the paper/pencil version in these months will follow the older, longer format.
  If students want to superscore their results by combining scores from previous tests, they should take the paper/pencil version to maintain comparability.

September 2025:
Both the digital and paper/pencil versions of the ACT will be fully aligned in the shorter format, giving students the same experience regardless of how they take the test.

Desmos Calculator is a required part of the ACT

Impact on Students and Schools

1. Device Availability for Digital Testing
   Students taking the digital version of the test will not be allowed to use personal devices. This means schools will need to ensure adequate devices for all students taking the ACT, which could create logistical challenges for some districts.

2. Potential for Higher Scores
   The increased time per question may lead to a rise in scores, as students have more time to carefully answer each one. While this is positive for students, it could lead colleges to reevaluate the weight they give ACT scores. Some colleges may start to favor the SAT if ACT scores begin to appear inflated.

3. New Tools to Master: Desmos Calculator
   The ACT’s digital version includes access to the Desmos online calculator, a powerful tool for solving complex math problems. We recommend students familiarize themselves with this calculator before test day. Here are some helpful resources to get started:

• Video Tutorial: Desmos Graphing Calculator Tutorial

• Getting Started Guide: Desmos Help Center

Supporting Your Student

With these updates to the ACT, encourage your student to:

• Plan Their Testing Schedule: Choosing between the digital and paper versions in spring 2025.

• Practice on the Desmos Calculator: Familiarity with this tool can give students a boost in the math section.

• Consider the Science Section: If science isn’t their strong suit, skipping it might help them focus on maximizing other sections of the test.

Staying informed about these changes will empower both you and your student to navigate the ACT with confidence. As the test evolves, these updates are designed to make the ACT a bit more approachable, with less stress and more focus on thoughtful responses.