At competitive high schools like Stuyvesant in New York City, it’s common for students to excel on standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT. With the ACT recently announcing changes to its test structure and score breakdown for 2025, it’s essential to understand how these updates may impact test-takers.
So, how does ACT work?
The ACT has traditionally consisted of four sections—English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science—each scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with a composite score reflecting the average.
While the details of the 2025 changes are still emerging, updates like these are typically designed to better align the test with current educational standards and college readiness benchmarks.
Optional Science Section
The ACT has allowed for the science section to no longer be mandated in a composite score breakdown and has shifted it to an optional model. The new ACT Composite scores will now be calculated using just the EMR (English, Math, and Reading) Sections. The science section, along with the writing section, can be added depending on the student’s request.
This grants students the flexibility to choose which sections reflect their competencies best. For instance, if a student is applying for an engineering degree, it would benefit them to take the ACT with the science section to showcase their talents in STEM.
Score Breakdown
Because the Science section is no longer part of the composite score, the ACT has divided up scores to either be ELA or STEM.
Students who choose to take:
- the science section will receive a STEM score (Math + Science)
- the writing section will receive an ELA score (English + Reading + Writing)
- both Science and Writing will receive both STEM and ELA scores
All students who test for the ACT will receive their Composite Exam score regardless of which section they choose to add. Individual science & STEM scores will continue to be reported for students who choose to take the science section but not included in Composite score calculations
Shorter Exam Time
Initially what was a 3 hours and 15 minute exam, the ACT has now been reduced to a 2 hour and 5 minute exam (without counting the science section) The mandated section times have each been reduced to
- English: 75 Q / 45 Min -> 50 Q / 35 Min
- Math: 60 Q / 60 Min -> 45 Q / 50 Min
- Reading: 40 Q / 35 Min -> 36 Q / 40 Min
This means that the student experiences more time per question.
For those who decide to take the science section, the change is listed as follows:
- Science: 40 Q / 35 min -> 40 Q / 40 Min
The essay portion remains the same with 1 Writing prompt taking 40 minutes.
Sectional changes
The Math section shifted from a 5 answer choice model to a 4 choice answer model. Additionally, English and Reading sections have shorter passages alongside their questions.
ACT vs SAT?
With a shorter test and the removal of a mandatory science section, the test has become similar to SAT Structure. However, there are still key differences that may impact a student’s choice to take one exam over the other.
- Paper option available: digital testing is not mandatory and students can choose to take a written test on paper
- The ACT remains a streamlined, non adaptive exam, meaning that the content of questions will not increase in difficulty as the SAT does.
- Tailored testing experience: For students who lean more verbally or mathematically, the ACT is a chance to emphasize their testing strengths more without emphasizing their weaknesses.
What does this mean for us?
At Kent Prep, students begin their PSAT preparation at the start of 8th grade. This early start helps them build a strong foundation in content knowledge and develop an advanced understanding of the subject matter. Mastering fundamental skills in reading, grammar, and math—which may not be taught until 10th grade in some high schools—is crucial for achieving top scores, such as a 1500+ on the SAT or a 35+ on the ACT.
Once students have mastered the necessary skills, the next step is determining which test—the SAT or ACT—best suits their strengths. While both exams cover similar content, they differ in format and structure.
With the upcoming changes to the ACT, we will provide students with opportunities to take practice tests, allowing them to assess which exam aligns better with their abilities and test-taking style. By this stage, students will have developed the awareness and confidence needed to approach either test strategically, maximizing their scores while saving valuable time and energy. This ensures they achieve their personal best, positioning them for success in the college admissions process.
If you would like to speak with a Kent Prep consultant about exam preparation, please fill out the inquiry form. We offer complimentary teleconferences for parents worldwide, providing personalized consultations available from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.