The new "Core" ACT has been shortened and simplified. The test now features three core sections:

English: 50 questions, 35 minutes

Math: 45 questions, 50 minutes

Reading: 36 questions, 40 minutes

The Science section (40 questions in 40 minutes) will no longer be mandatory but is available as an optional component of the ACT. The Writing section (essay) will continue to be optional and consist of one question with 40 minutes for completion.

With the reduction in the total number of questions—44 fewer than the previous paper-based version—students will have more time to focus on each question. These changes aim to help students with pacing, but they will also require adjustments to test preparation.

The new Science section will focus on engineering and design topics, shifting from traditional science-based questions. Previously a standard section, it will become optional and no longer contribute to the composite ACT score. Instead, it will be scored separately, and students will have the option to skip it entirely. However, students applying to STEM programs or specific colleges are encouraged to still take the science section, as some schools might require it for admission or scholarship purposes.

Digital testing become the primary format for the ACT starting in April 2025. However, students will still have the option to take the test using paper and pencil until July 2025. This flexibility allows you to choose the format that best suits your comfort and test-taking style.

The online version offers several benefits:

Enhanced Accessibility
The digital format will include features like screen readers, text-to-speech functionality, zoom, and answer masking, improving accessibility for students with disabilities.

Aligned Test Prep
Many test prep resources, including free online practice exams, are designed to simulate the experience of taking the test on a computer, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the online format before test day.

Test Day Enhancements
Students who have taken online versions of standardized tests have reported smoother pacing, better efficiency, and improved essay writing when using the digital format.

Choice
Students can choose between digital or paper-based testing, depending on what feels most comfortable (until July 2025).

The cost of the ACT for both domestic and international students in 2025 varies based on the test options selected. The basic registration fee for the ACT test is $65 for domestic students, while international students face a higher base fee of $120. If students take the optional Writing (Essay) section, domestic students will pay an additional $25, and international students will pay $35. The science section, available only with online testing in April, June, and July 2025, costs $4 for both domestic and international students.

Additional fees apply for services such as late registration ($38), standby testing ($69), and changes to test details, such as test form or test center changes ($44). These fees are consistent for both domestic and international students. The pricing also includes report delivery to the student, their high school, and up to four colleges. Always check the ACT website for the most up-to-date pricing and fee structure.

What devices are supported?
The ACT will provide test centers with Chromebooks or Windows desktops/laptops for online testing. Personal devices cannot be used. Support for Apple devices may be available in the future.

Can I switch formats?
Yes, students can change from online to paper (or vice versa) until the late registration deadline. However, changes cannot be made at the test center on test day.

Can I take the test from home?
No, the online ACT must be taken at an official test center using the provided devices.

Can I use accommodations?
Yes, the online version will include built-in accessibility features, and students can request additional accommodations if needed.

How do I prepare for online testing?
ACT provides online prep tools that simulate the experience of taking the exam on a computer. It is also recommended to review tutorials on the online testing platform well ahead of test day.

In addition to their general test prep resources, the ACT has released digital practice questions, and students will have access to one full-length digital practice test in April 2025. Additionally, there are many online resources to help you familiarize yourself with the test format and strengthen your skills. For example, Khan Academy offers free SAT prep, which can help you improve your general test-taking strategies and strengthen your understanding of the content matter.

The updated ACT scoring structure means that superscoring—taking the best section scores from multiple test dates—will play a bigger role. The new composite score will exclude the science section, so colleges will need time to determine how to interpret these revised scores. This could affect your admission chances, so staying informed about how your target schools plan to evaluate the new ACT format is important.

Students should stay informed about how their target schools plan to evaluate the new ACT format, especially regarding superscoring and whether the science section is required for admission.

With these major changes to the ACT, students should take the following steps to ensure they are prepared:

Stay Informed
Regularly check ACT updates about registration, test format options, and college requirements.

Start Early
Begin preparing now, and make use of online test prep tools to simulate the digital test environment.

Consult Colleges
Verify whether your target schools require the science section and how they will handle the new ACT scores.

Consider Format
Think about which format (digital or paper) will work best for you, as each may offer different benefits depending on your personal preferences and study habits.

The changes to the ACT in 2025 bring a more flexible, accessible, and streamlined test, but they also require students to adjust their preparation strategies. With the ACT becoming digital and various new features in place, the future of college admissions testing is evolving. By preparing early and utilizing available resources, you can perform your best on test day.

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