The Benefits of Taking ACT Science in 2026
The fourth ACT test section becomes optional in the “enhanced” ACT this fall, yet there’s still value in taking it for scholarships and admissions. Learn why our expert ACT science tutor prep believes you should tackle this pivotal section.
One of the most significant changes in the new Enhanced ACT, launching September 2025, is the ACT Science optional status. Rather than being required, ACT Science becomes entirely optional, much like the Writing section change in 2005. As a result, students can now customize their test by choosing whether to include ACT Science optional, Writing, both sections, or neither. The core composite (EMR) score will now only reflect English, Math, and Reading results. The ACT Science optional section will continue to use the traditional 1–36 scale but will instead be reported as a separate, standalone score, no longer factored into your overall composite.
Consider this scenario: a student earning a 29 in English, a 30 in Math, a 31 in Reading, and a 32 in Science currently receives a composite score of 31 – an average of the four section scores rounded up or down as needed. However, starting this September, with ACT Science now optional, this same performance would lead to a composite score of 30 (from just English, Math, and Reading), along with a distinct ACT Science optional score of 32 reported separately.
Does this mean you should avoid or skip the ACT Science optional section since it no longer counts towards your composite? Based on our experience and understanding of the college admissions landscape, we advise including ACT Science on your test to maximize your opportunities.
Why ACT Writing Doesn’t Matter – But ACT Science Does
Unlike ACT Science, the ACT Writing section is almost entirely irrelevant to college admissions. A few universities might use it to waive an introductory writing course, but few (if any) weigh it in the decision process. Preparing for Writing is time-consuming and adds little value to an application, so we confidently advise students to skip it.
But the Science section is different. Despite the ACT’s reclassification, a strong Science score still carries weight in admissions and scholarships. Based on early data from university surveys and outreach, it’s clear that many colleges will continue to use – or even prioritize – this section when reviewing applicants.
What Colleges Are Saying About the Science Section
Will ACT Science scores be required for Fall 2026 admission?
50.7% Send or Don’t Send
19.7% Science Recommended
10.8% Science Required
13.9% No Policy Yet
4.9% Science Not Considered
Of the 223 universities surveyed, fewer than 5% indicated they would ignore the Science section. In contrast, nearly 30% said it would be required or strongly recommended. Some, like Yale and Dartmouth, specify that students submitting ACT scores must send all four sections. Northeastern, among others, will manually calculate a full composite using all four scores – including Science.
Several STEM-focused schools have expressed strong preferences for seeing Science results, especially for applicants to technical majors. While not yet finalizing a policy, Carnegie Mellon said it expects to see Science scores from STEM applicants. Oklahoma State and Gonzaga both recommended that students include Science to “cover all bases,” since institutional policies – and a student’s own college list – can shift over time.
A clear trend is emerging: even schools still deciding are leaning toward including Science in some capacity. Many schools use software like Slate to superscore or parse data, and most allow self-reported scores. However, the infrastructure is already in place to use Science as a valuable data point – regardless of how ACT frames it.
What If You Don’t Include It?
Skipping Science might seem like a smart way to streamline your test day. But for most students, that shortcut is meretricious. Students who omit the section now may find themselves scrambling to re-test later if a college updates its requirements or their application strategy shifts. Jumping back into ACT prep after months away, and amidst a busy school calendar, is much more complex than preparing for the Science test the first time around.
And this is not just about admissions. Some schools use ACT Science scores to determine merit-based scholarships. Others use it for honors program placement or course registration. Leaving it out could mean leaving money – or opportunities – on the table.
Our Overall Recommendation
If you’re preparing for the ACT, take the ACT Science section – even if you’re focused on ACT Math or already using an ACT Math practice test as part of your study routine. While the ACT Science section is sometimes considered optional, including it in your testing portfolio demonstrates strong scientific reasoning, builds your preparation for future STEM coursework, and highlights your readiness for academic challenges. Beyond just your composite score, a solid performance in ACT Science can give you an edge in admissions, especially when applying to a wide range of colleges or keeping your options open. It is a practical, low-risk strategy to avoid unnecessary obstacles later.
The main exception to this recommendation applies to students who meet all of the following criteria:
Intend to focus their undergraduate studies solely on the humanities,
Have confirmed that none of their target institutions require or recommend submitting an ACT Science score,
And have found through practice exams that their Science results consistently fall below their composite English, Math, and Reading (EMR) scores.
Since you have limited opportunities to take the ACT while your academic skills are at their peak, maximizing each sitting is wise. Don’t miss out on earning those extra points by treating the ACT Science section as optional – use trusted ACT Science tips and preparation resources to make every section, including ACT Math and Science, count.
Still Not Going to Take ACT Science?
If you skip the ACT Science section, prioritize enhancing your performance in the other primary ACT subjects to maximize your overall ACT score. Students opting not to take or emphasize the ACT Science section can implement a strategic study plan focused on ACT English practice, ACT Math, ACT Reading, and (if applicable) ACT Writing. Because the ACT Science section may not be mandatory for all schools, concentrating your preparation on these essential sections – and using tools like an ACT practice test PDF for targeted prep – can increase your composite score effectiveness.
For those reallocating their test prep time, focusing on ACT English practice tests and ACT math practice tests should be your top priority. English and Math are pivotal in determining your composite ACT score and will benefit significantly from consistent, targeted preparation. Although working with ACT Reading practice tests will provide valuable support, it may be reasonable to spend slightly more time on Math and English, given their broader impact on scoring.
Overall, here’s what we recommend:
Use reputable prep resources and digital platforms to simulate real exam conditions; for example, a North Avenue ACT Prep Class provides three full-length ACT practice tests – including guided coverage of every section—with comprehensive instruction. These classes are excellent for students aiming to strengthen their cumulative ACT scores and enjoy the benefits of collaborative learning.
Review well-structured guides that outline practical ACT English tips regarding punctuation rules, grammar, and rhetorical skills to ensure top performance in the English section. Likewise, applying ACT reading tips helps you efficiently manage timing, hone main idea detection, and accurately interpret author intent.
Practice with realistic ACT math questions by leveraging an ACT math practice test to build familiarity with subject areas like algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Working through timed scenarios closely mimics actual test day conditions and gives you an extra edge in developing strong problem-solving skills.
While you may decrease emphasis on ACT Science practice and omit direct ACT Science tips if the section is not essential for your admissions goals, consistently engaging in regular ACT English practice, math drills, and reading exercises is key to high achievement. Integrate varied practice resources – including downloadable ACT practice test PDF files— – and use every ACT English practice test and ACT reading practice to reinforce your learning strategies for optimal results.
In Conclusion
As testing requirements shift, understanding whether the ACT includes the ACT Science section—and determining whether the ACT Science is optional or necessary for your college list—is an increasingly important strategic step. For students targeting schools or programs that value strong ACT Science scores, integrated use of ACT practice test PDF materials and regular ACT Science practice is crucial for optimal performance. Diving into high-quality ACT Science practice tools, reliable study guides, and focused preparation enhances exam readiness for those committed to including the science portion of the ACT.
Conversely, some students may benefit from treating the ACT Science section as optional and dedicating energy to the core sections, such as preparing with ACT reading practice resources or targeted math review. Aligning your approach with your personal strengths allows for a more streamlined and effective study plan.
To make the most informed decision, students should strictly check the ACT score policies of prospective colleges and intended majors at the outset of their application process. Whether you incorporate ACT Science practice or focus solely on other sections supported by ACT practice test PDF resources, strong results across the ACT’s main areas will boost your college application and academic prospects.
Need help navigating the new Enhanced ACT?
ACT success begins with targeted support and expert guidance in every section—including ACT Math, ACT Science, and ACT Reading. At North Avenue, our experienced 1-on-1 ACT tutors help students at all skill levels tackle ACT Math problems, master ACT Science strategies, and elevate scores with practical ACT English practice tests and ACT Reading practice techniques. We create a personalized plan that covers each exam component, offering ACT Science tips, focused ACT Math practice tests, and downloadable ACT practice test PDFs to reinforce your learning.
Start a customized ACT tutoring session with a North Avenue specialist today to boost your performance in all ACT sections, or book a free consultation to discuss personalized support options – including ACT Science practice or ACT Reading tips – to help you achieve your highest potential ACT score.
