The ACT reduced the total test length.

• Old ACT: about 3 hours

• New ACT core test: about 2 hours 5 minutes

The test removed about 44 questions and reduced total testing time by around 75 minutes.

Why this matters

• Less fatigue

• Faster test experience

• Easier to maintain focus

2. More Time Per Question

Even though the test is shorter, students now get more time per question.

Example of new timing:

This gives students more thinking time and less pressure compared to the older ACT format.

3. Science Section Is Now Optional

One of the biggest changes:

• Science no longer required

• Students choose whether to take it

If you take science:

• You receive a Science score

• You also get a STEM score (Math + Science)

But science does NOT affect the composite score anymore.

Composite score now uses only:

• English

• Math

• Reading

4. New Composite Score Calculation

The ACT composite score (1–36) is now calculated from:

• English

• Math

• Reading

Science is separate unless schools specifically want it.

Example:

Composite = Average of these three

5. Online Testing Is Now Available

Students can now take the ACT:

• Online (computer)

• Paper test

Some locations even allow Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) testing.

6. When These Changes Started

Implementation timeline:

7. Field Test Questions Added

The ACT now includes experimental questions inside the test.

Important:

• These do NOT count toward your score

• Students cannot identify them

This helps ACT test future questions.

8. Why ACT Made These Changes

ACT made updates because:

• Students complained about long test time

• SAT moved to digital format

• Colleges wanted more flexible testing

Changes aim to make the test:

• Less stressful

• More flexible

• Easier to complete.

Quick Comparison: Old vs New ACT

✅ Simple conclusion:
The new ACT is shorter, more flexible, and gives students more time per question, with science becoming optional.