The Enhanced ACT: What Changed and How to Prepare
The enhanced ACT is shorter with fewer questions and an optional science section. Learn the new format, timing, composite score, and how to prepare.
The ACT introduced significant changes in 2025, creating what the organization calls the "enhanced ACT." The test is now shorter, has fewer questions, and makes the science section optional. If you are preparing for the ACT, or deciding between the ACT and SAT, here is what you need to know.
The Key Changes at a Glance
- Shorter test: Total testing time is about 75 minutes shorter than the previous version when comparing the core tests.
- Fewer questions: There are 44 fewer questions overall.
- Science is optional: Students choose whether to take it.
- New composite score: The composite is now based on English, math, and reading only.
- More time per question: Fewer questions means slightly less time pressure.
The Enhanced ACT Format
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| English | 50 | 35 minutes |
| Math | 45 | 50 minutes |
| Reading | 36 | 40 minutes |
| Science (optional) | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Writing (optional) | 1 essay | 40 minutes |
Without the optional sections, the core test takes about two hours. Always confirm the current format and timing on ACT.org before your test date, since details can be updated.
How Scoring Works
Each section is still scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Your composite score is the average of English, math, and reading. If you take science, you receive a separate science score and a STEM score that combines math and science. Composite scores from earlier versions of the ACT remain valid and do not change.
Should You Take the Science Section?
Because science is now optional, you need to decide whether it is worth your time. Consider taking it if:
- You plan to apply to engineering, nursing, pre-med, or other STEM programs.
- Any of your colleges or scholarship programs require or recommend a science score.
- Your state uses the ACT for school accountability and requires it.
- Science is a strength that could make your application stand out.
If none of your colleges require it and it is not a strength, you may choose to skip it and focus your prep on the three core sections. Check every college's testing policy before deciding.
Section-by-Section Preparation
English
The English section tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills like organization and style. Learn the most common rules, such as comma usage, subject-verb agreement, pronoun clarity, and concise wording. When in doubt, the shortest grammatically correct answer is often right.
Math
Math covers pre-algebra through trigonometry, with an emphasis on algebra and functions. Math questions now have four answer choices instead of five. A calculator is allowed, but check the ACT's list of permitted models. Practice mental math and memorize key formulas, since a formula sheet is not provided.
Reading
The reading section includes passages from literary narrative, social science, humanities, and natural science. Practice identifying main ideas, details, and the author's purpose. Some students read the questions first; others skim the passage. Experiment with timed practice to find what works.
Science
Despite its name, the science section focuses on interpreting data, graphs, and experiments rather than memorizing scientific facts. Practice reading tables and figures quickly and identifying trends.
Online vs. Paper
The ACT is offered both online at testing centers and on paper. Availability depends on your test location. Practice in the format you plan to use so the experience feels familiar.
Building a Study Plan
- Take an official full-length practice test to set a baseline.
- Identify your weakest section and question types.
- Study three to five times per week for 45 to 60 minutes.
- Take a timed practice test every two weeks.
- Review every mistake and track patterns.
The Bottom Line
The enhanced ACT is shorter and offers more time per question, which many students find less stressful. Decide early whether you need the science section, use official practice materials, and focus your preparation on English, math, and reading, the three sections that make up your composite score.
This guide is for general educational purposes. Policies, deadlines, and requirements change — always confirm details with the official source or your school. See our disclaimer.
