The ACT Exam’s New Pattern: What You Need to Know for 2025 and Beyond!!
- Parnika
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
For decades, the ACT exam has been a key part of the college admissions journey in the United States. But starting in 2025, some big changes are on the horizon! These updates are all about making the test smarter, shorter, and fairer—helping you showcase your strengths without getting overwhelmed. So, what’s actually changing?
A Shorter, Smarter ACT
No more 3-hour marathon sessions! The ACT’s core sections—English, Math, and Reading—will now take just about two hours to complete. English and Reading passages will be shorter, and there’ll be fewer questions overall. The idea? Reduce fatigue so you can stay sharp and focused—and show your best self on test day.
Science is Now Optional
Another change that might make students breathe easier: the Science section is now optional! If you feel confident in your science skills, you can still choose to take this section and earn a separate Science score, as well as a STEM composite score (if you also take Math). But if science isn’t your strong suit, you can focus entirely on English, Math, and Reading, which now form the core of your Composite score.
Way to Calculate Scores
Previously, your Composite ACT score included Science. Now, it’s just English, Math, and Reading—keeping things simpler and fairer. Optional sections like Science or Writing will still earn separate scores, so colleges can still see your broader strengths if you choose to include them.
Super scoring with a Core Focus
Super scoring, where your best scores from different test attempts are combined into a “super” Composite score, has become more streamlined too. Super scoring will only use the English, Math, and Reading sections—helping you highlight your strongest areas and giving you the best shot at impressing colleges.
Flexibility in How You Test
You’ll also have more choices about how to take the ACT. Online testing is available at select centers for those who prefer typing and faster score results, while traditional paper testing remains an option. Both formats cost the same, and accommodations are provided for everyone who needs them.
Timeline for These Changes
April 2025: These updates kick off for online tests during National test dates.
September 2025: All Saturday tests, whether online or on paper, will use the new pattern.
Spring 2026: Schools and districts will also have access to these new features.
How to Prepare for the New ACT?
Here’s the good news, you have time to prepare! Start by getting familiar with the updated format. Try out practice questions with shorter passages and fewer questions, so you’re comfortable with the new style. And think early about whether you want to take the optional sections—it’ll help you tailor your prep and keep stress low!
Conclusion
These changes are all about helping you feel more at ease and letting your real strengths shine through. Remember: the ACT isn’t just a test—it’s a chance to show who you are and what you’ve worked for. We know and understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we are here for you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.
Feel free to reach out to us at Hello Study Global.
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