A new, shorter ACT will debut nationally on September 6th. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and what it means for future test-takers.
At A Glance
The new ACT will be 2 hours and 5 minutes long (without breaks) and the Science section will be optional. Students can still take the existing, 3-hour paper-based test through the July 12th ACT. The new test was offered digitally at select locations in April. Beginning in September, the new, shorter format will apply to both the paper-based and digital tests.
What is changing?
- Shorter Test: The new ACT will be 125 minutes long (as opposed to the current 195 minute test) and have 44 fewer questions.
- New Composite Score: The new ACT composite score will range from 1-36 and is the average of the English, Math and Reading scores.
- Optional Science Section: The Science section will become optional. If added, students will receive a science score and a STEM score (the average of the Math and Science scores).
Test Format Breakdown
| Current ACT | New ACT | |
| Test Length | 2 hrs, 55 mins (without break) | 2 hrs, 5 mins (without breaks) |
| Breaks | One 15-minute break after the Math section. | Short breaks between sections |
| Section Breakdown |
Four sections: (Option to add Writing) |
Three sections: (Option to add Science and/or Writing) |
| Composite/Section Scores |
Students receive four scores ranging from 1-36: English, Math, Reading and Science. A separate score is given for the optional Writing section. The Composite score ranges from 1-36 and is the average of the English, Math, Reading and Science section scores. |
Students receive three scores ranging from 1-36: English, Math and Reading. A separate score is given for the optional Science and Writing section. The Composite score ranges from 1-36 and is the average of the English, Math and Reading section scores. |
Timing and Number of Questions per Section
| Current ACT | New ACT | |
| English Section | 45 minutes / 75 questions | 35 minutes / 50 questions |
| Math Section |
60 minutes / 60 questions |
50 minutes / 45 questions |
| Reading Section |
35 minutes / 40 questions |
40 minutes / 36 questions |
| Science Section |
35 minutes / 40 questions |
Optional |
| Writing Section |
Optional |
Optional |
What is staying the same?
- The core concepts of the ACT will remain unchanged.
- The Composite and section scores will continue to range from 1 to 36.
- Scores from tests taken before the introduction of the new Composite score will not be affected.
Preparing for the New ACT
- Carnegie Prep Practice ACTs: We are excited to announce the launch of our own practice tests for the new ACT! These are available in person and on demand. Every student’s first practice ACT is free. Click here for more information.
- Official ACT Practice Tests: The ACT has released four new paper-based practice tests in its Official ACT Prep Guide 2025-2026 – known as the Red Book. One of these practice tests is also available in a digital form.
ACT registration for the 2025-26 test dates will open in July.
How We Can Help
As these changes take effect, students should stay informed and plan their test preparation accordingly. Deciding whether to take the ACT digitally or on paper, with or without the science section, will be key to making the most of these new options. We are here to help you make the right choice! Our teachers and tutors are excited for the new ACT and eager to help students reach their optimal score.
