The Enhanced ACT Has Arrived: Insights from the April 2025 Launch
Learn what changed with the April 2025 ACT launch, how students were affected, and how to best prepare for the new digital, streamlined format.
In our previous post, we outlined the forthcoming changes to the ACT rolling out this year. Now that the first administration of the enhanced ACT has taken place in April (via computer-based testing; remember, the paper exam doesn’t change until September!), we have valuable insights into how these changes are impacting students.
Here's an updated overview based on the latest developments.
Key Changes Implemented
As of April 2025, students opting for the digital ACT experienced several significant modifications:
Shortened Test Duration: The test now comprises 171 questions, reduced from 215, decreasing the total testing time to approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes.
Optional Science Section: Students can choose whether to include the Science section. If taken, the Science score is reported separately and, along with the Math score, contributes to a new STEM score.
Revised Composite Scoring: The Composite score is now calculated based on English, Math, and Reading sections only.
Digital Testing Format: The enhanced ACT is available in a digital format at select testing centers, offering tools like on-screen calculators and highlighting features.
These changes aim to provide a more flexible and streamlined testing experience for students.
Observations from the First Administration
The inaugural digital ACT in April brought to light a few logistical and technical challenges, as well as content changes:
Logistical Issues: Some students reported being switched from the digital to the paper version of the test shortly before the exam date, leading to confusion and stress.
Technical Glitches: Test-takers encountered issues such as malfunctioning laptops, freezing proctor applications, and delays when transitioning between sections. Despite these hurdles, the majority of students were able to complete their exams.
Content Changes: English, Reading, and Science were reportedly all identical in structure and content to previous ACT material, but Math seemed to skew harder earlier on. (For instance, students reported seeing linear regression, advanced 3-D geometry, and ellipses – topics that tend to crop up only every few exams on the paper ACT.)
Section-Specific Updates
English: The section now features 50 questions over 35 minutes, with shorter passages and clearer question stems, enhancing readability and comprehension.
Math: Reduced to 45 questions in 50 minutes, the Math section now offers four answer choices instead of five, simplifying decision-making.
Reading: Comprising 36 questions over 40 minutes, this section provides more time per question, allowing for deeper analysis of passages.
Science: Now optional, the Science section consists of 40 questions in 40 minutes. It emphasizes data interpretation and scientific reasoning, with at least one passage focusing on engineering or design topics.
Implications for Students and Families
Preparation Strategies: With the revised format, students should focus their preparation on the core sections contributing to the Composite score. For those opting to take the Science section, targeted practice in data analysis and scientific reasoning is advisable.
Pro Tip: Research your college list to ensure that ACT Science scores will not need to be submitted with your application. We anticipate most schools following Yale University’s lead here but this change is too new to tell.
College Admissions Considerations: While the Science section is optional, students aiming for STEM fields or applying to colleges that value science proficiency should strongly consider taking this section of the exa and including it in their application materials. When evaluating one applicant with a demonstrated proficiency in science reasoning (via ACT Science scores) against an applicant with no such demonstration, admissions officers will default to the applicant with more data.
Choosing Between Digital and Paper Formats: The digital format offers conveniences like interactive tools and potentially quicker results. However, students should assess their comfort level with on-screen testing versus traditional paper formats to determine the best fit for their test-taking style.
Pro Tip: Remember, the paper version of the ACT will feature the new “enhancements” come September 2025, so there are still two administrations (June and July) left to take the ACT in its traditional format.
How North Avenue Education Can Support You
At North Avenue Education, we're dedicated to helping students navigate these changes confidently. Our offerings include:
Customized ACT Tutoring: Personalized one-on-one sessions focusing on the updated ACT structure and content.
Group ACT Classes: Collaborative learning environments that address the new test format and strategies.
ACT Practice Tests: Access to practice materials reflecting the 2025 ACT changes, aiding in familiarity and confidence.
Standardized Testing Guidance: Expert advice on how the new ACT format may impact your college application process. Book a consult today!
Final Thoughts
The 2025 enhancements to the ACT are designed to provide a more streamlined and flexible testing experience. By understanding these changes and adjusting your preparation accordingly, you can approach the ACT with confidence. Remember, thorough preparation and strategic planning are key to achieving your best score.!
