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Understanding the Evolving ACT: A Guide to the New Test Format

October 2025

The ACT underwent significant changes in 2025, offering a more streamlined and flexible experience for students. These updates, which began with the online test in April 2025 and extended to the paper-based version in September 2025, are designed to better align the exam with modern educational needs. The most notable changes include the science section becoming optional and a new method for calculating the composite score.

The Optional Science Section

Perhaps the most dramatic shift is the change in the science section's status. Previously a mandatory component of the ACT, the science section is now optional, similar to the writing section. This change provides students with more control over their testing experience, allowing them to tailor the exam to their academic strengths and college aspirations.

For students who choose to take the science section, it will be administered after the core test (English, math, and reading). The score for the science section will be reported separately on the score report and will not be factored into the main ACT composite score. Additionally, a "STEM score," which is a combination of the math and science scores, will also be included on the report for students who take both sections.

While the science section is optional, many students, particularly those planning to pursue a major in a STEM field, are still strongly encouraged to take it. Colleges may still recommend or even require the submission of a science score for certain programs. Students must research the specific requirements of the universities they plan to apply to.

The New Composite Score Calculation

With the science section no longer a mandatory part of the core exam, the calculation for the ACT composite score has been revised. The composite score, which remains on the familiar 1-36 scale, is now based solely on the scores from the three required sections:

• English
• Math
• Reading

The new composite score is calculated as the average of these three section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. This is a departure from the previous method, which averaged all four section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science).

It's important to note that scores from tests taken before these changes went into effect are not being recalculated. This means that an older composite score, which included the science section, will remain valid and unchanged.

What Else Is Changing?

In addition to the changes to the science section and composite score, the new ACT is also shorter. The total number of questions has been reduced, and students are given more time per question. This aims to reduce test-taking fatigue and allow students to better demonstrate their knowledge. The math section has also been adjusted, with the number of answer choices reduced from five to four.

These changes are part of a broader trend in standardized testing, reflecting a desire to offer greater flexibility and a more focused assessment. For students navigating the college application process, it's essential to understand these updates to make informed decisions about test preparation and which version of the ACT best suits their individual needs.