High School Math Placement Test Prep
January 31, 2024Understanding Your Child’s Standardized Test Score Report
November 6, 2024The New ACT
The ACT has introduced an updated test! Here’s what we know so far. Check back for additional details as they’re released!
Rollout of the New ACT
The new ACT is available online only right now. Starting in September 2025 the new test will be available in both online and paper and pencil formats (the new test will be available for school-day testing in Spring 2026).
If your child is interested in the online test, we strongly recommend checking local availability.
This calendar view shows which versions of the test will be offered throughout the coming year.
Four Versions of the ACT
In a sort of “choose-your-own-adventure” approach, four iterations of the new ACT are available to students.
- The “core” ACT with English, math, and reading sections
- The core sections plus science
- The core sections plus writing
- The core sections plus science and writing
The content and format of each section is mostly the same as the current test. So, which version should your child choose? Time will tell. We’ll need to wait and see what colleges decide to require or strongly recommend. In these early days, your best bet will be to talk with your guidance counselor at school or an independent college consultant.
Timing of the New Test
The other big change is that the “core” test (English, math, and reading sections) has been shortened by an hour—from the current ACT’s three hours to two hours. The English and reading sections have shorter passages, and 44 fewer questions between the two sections. The intention is to give students more time, a welcome benefit.
Scoring of the New ACT
For the current test, the composite score is the average of the English, math, reading, and science section scores. The composite score for the new test is the average of just the English, math, and reading section scores. If your child takes the science and/or writing sections, those scores will be reported separately from the composite score.
The 1-36 scale remains the same for both section and composite scores.
Comparing the ACT to the SAT
While these changes to the ACT make it more similar to the SAT, there are still significant differences. Take a look at our comparison chart.
Keep an eye on this page for more details as they become available. Give us a call to talk with a tutoring director about the best plan for your child!
