New Changes to the Act Test

The ACT is making two fundamental changes to the ACT as a means of better supporting students. The first change consists of modifying the length of the test . The ACT is shortening the test by up to a third, depending on which version students take. The new core test will last just two hours, down from three hours. This will be achieved by including shorter passages in the reading and English sections and reducing the number of questions by 44 overall, giving students more time to answer each question thoughtfully. According to ACT officials, this change is designed to make the test more manageable, helping students perform their best without the fatigue of a longer exam.

The new ACT will also allow students to choose whether to take the science section. The core sections—English, reading, and math—will remain mandatory and will be used for the college-reportable score. The science section, like the writing section, will now be optional. This means students have the option to take just the ACT, the ACT with science, the ACT with writing, or the ACT with both science and writing. 

The Composite score will be the average of the English, reading, and math scores and these scores will still be reported on the familiar 1-36 scale. This is said to be a strong indicator of achievement and college readiness. Students can also choose to take the test online or with paper and pencil, just like before.

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About the Author:

Aubrina Washington Bowens is a writer, educator, and educational consultant devoted to showcasing the true meaning of encouragement while supporting educators and empowering learners.