Understanding the 2025 ACT Changes

The ACT (American College Testing) exam is one of the standardized tests widely used for college admissions in the United States. Over the years, there have been various changes made to adapt to the evolving educational landscape and the needs of students. This year will introduce some of the biggest changes to date, and it is essential for students, educators, and parents to understand these changes and their implications.

The ACT currently assesses students’ readiness for college through 4 main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional Writing section. Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the composite score being the average of the four main sections.

What’s new/changing?

1. Digital transition. Perhaps one of the most significant changes to the ACT this year is the transition from paper-based testing to a digital format. The purpose is to streamline the testing process, making it more efficient and accessible. The digital ACT will also allow for faster scoring and more flexible test dates. There are new features in the digital format such as a built-in calculator, and students can expect a more interactive experience as well.
2. Test structure and content updates. The ACT has made general updates to its content to better align with current high school curricula and college readiness standards. This includes a focus on real-world problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the integration of technology in the Math and Science sections.
3. The science section is now optional. As with the Writing section, students can now take the ACT National test with or without the Science section. State and District customers will choose whether to include the Science section with the ACT test for their students.
4. Enhanced writing section. The optional Writing section has changes in its scoring criteria, focusing more on the organization and development of ideas rather than just grammar and mechanics.
5. Section flexibility. Students can now choose the order in which they take the sections of the test, providing more control over their testing experience. It is also possible to retake specific sections of the test through the ACT Superscore option. This allows students to combine their best scores from different test dates for each section to create a new composite score. When students apply to college, they can choose which scores to send. If they have multiple test dates, the ACT can send the highest composite score or individual section scores. (Many colleges have adopted superscoring, but check each institution’s policies regarding how they consider ACT scores.)
6. Shorter Test. The English, Reading, and Math sections will take around two hours to complete—an hour shorter than before. There will also be 44 fewer questions and a reduced number of answer choices in Math questions from five to four. (The 1-36 composite score scale will remain the same despite the new criteria, with no changes to ACT benchmarks or state-specific achievement standards.)
7. Increased emphasis on social and emotional learning. The ACT is beginning to incorporate aspects of social and emotional learning into its assessments. This includes understanding students’ emotional and social competencies and acknowledging that these skills are crucial for success in college and beyond.
8. Practice resources. The ACT has expanded its practice resources, offering more tools and materials online to help students prepare effectively for the test.

What are the important dates for the new ACT rollout?

April 2025: The new ACT changes will be available for the national digital test only.

September 2025: Both paper national testing and international digital testing will include new changes, and the updated composite score will be implemented.

February 2026: All states and districts that administer the ACT will transition to the new, shorter test.

The classic ACT will remain an option for some time—even after the rollout of the new ACT.

What do these changes mean for students?

The new ACT changes bring both challenges and opportunities. Students should familiarize themselves with the new digital format and practice using online resources. It’s very important to stay updated on specific testing policies, especially concerning flexible testing options and superscoring.

Test preparation strategies may also need to be adjusted since there is a greater emphasis on real-world applications and critical thinking with the new ACT. Students should consider engaging in more comprehensive study methods—including group discussions, practice tests in digital formats, and real-life applications of math and science concepts.

At Moxie College Counseling, we understand that standardized tests are always changing. We stay on top of these changes and help our clients develop effective test plans. Feel free to contact us regarding any questions you have or to schedule a consultation. Our team of expert college counselors is excited to assist you every step of the way!