ACT Changes Coming Spring 2025
It was only a matter of time. The ACT is introducing some major changes starting in Spring 2025 in response to College Board's new Digital SAT. Here’s what you need to know:
Shorter Exam
Starting Spring 2025: The ACT will have a shorter online version.
Duration: The new ACT will be about 2 hours long, with 44 fewer questions compared to the current version.
Optional Science Test
The Science Test will now be optional. Students can choose from these options:
The ACT (core exam)
The ACT plus Science
The ACT plus Writing
The ACT plus Science and Writing
The Composite score will now include only Reading, English, and Math, not Science.
Paper vs. Online Versions
The paper version of the ACT will still be available, but it’s unclear if these changes will apply to it.
Making the Test More Manageable
The ACT claims these changes aim to make the test more manageable for students.
Our Thoughts
With these changes, the ACT and SAT are becoming more similar in length and structure.
Over the past year, many of the families and students we have consulted with have opted to go with the SAT over the ACT primarily because the Digital SAT had been shorter than the ACT. With this new shorter ACT, the exam length should be less of a consideration when deciding between the two exams.
If you would like personalized guidance for your self or your student in choosing the exam best for you, schedule a consult with one of our Expert Directors today.
Comments