Announced on July 15, high school students across the nation will experience an altered ACT format that will allow test takers to select an exam layout that suits their preferences.

As of April 2025, test takers can choose whether they want to take the test on paper or online.

Previously, the reading, math and science sections of the ACT were required, with the writing portion of the test being optional. With the new ACT format, test takers can decide to take the ACT with or without the science section.

The length of the English and reading sections have been reduced by 44 questions, with 2 hours to be completed. The science ACT will take 125 minutes to be finished. The math portion of the ACT will be 45 questions long, with the time reduced from 60 to 50 minutes.

The ACT is a widely used entrance exam that assesses a student’s knowledge in core subjects such as reading and math. The majority of colleges often require the ACT or SAT, which are interchangeable for admission. The exam will continue to be scored on a 1-36 scale and used as a reliable source for college admissions.