All About the New ACT: Key Changes You Need to Know
On July 15th, 2024, the ACT organization announced significant changes to its structure, design, and timing. For students preparing for the ACT in the coming years, these changes will have a meaningful impact on how the test is administered and how it is approached. Below, we explore the key updates to the ACT, which include changes in test length, pacing, and the introduction of an optional science section, along with a shift to more flexible test-taking formats.
1. Shorter Test Duration: A More Streamlined Exam
Perhaps the most noticeable change is the reduced length of the ACT. Previously, the ACT was a 3-hour test consisting of 215 questions across four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. However, the new format significantly shortens the test duration. Without the science section, the ACT will now consist of only 131 questions and take approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete. This shortened exam is designed to alleviate some of the pressure of long test durations and better reflect students’ abilities in a more time-efficient manner.
For students opting to take the science section, the test duration will be extended to 2 hours and 45 minutes, with a total of 171 questions. This change reflects a careful balance between testing student knowledge and ensuring that the exam remains manageable within the allotted time.
2. More Manageable Pacing for Students
The pacing of the ACT has long been a concern for many test-takers. The older version of the ACT was known for its rapid pace, leaving some students feeling rushed and stressed as they moved through the sections. Under the new format, the test will place less emphasis on strict timing, offering students a more reasonable pace. While speed will still be an important factor, the reduced number of questions and the overall shorter test time will give students the opportunity to think more critically and answer each question with greater focus and clarity.
3. Optional Science Section: Greater Flexibility for Students
One of the most notable changes to the new ACT is the optional nature of the science section. In the previous version of the test, science was a required component, challenging students to not only demonstrate their science knowledge but also their ability to interpret data and scientific information under time pressure. In response to feedback from both students and educators, the new version of the ACT gives students the choice to opt out of the science section entirely.
Now, students will have the flexibility to choose between two different versions of the exam: one that includes all four sections (Math, Reading, English, and Science), or one that excludes the science section, consisting of just Math, Reading, and English. This change allows students to tailor the exam to their strengths and preferences, potentially reducing stress for those who feel less confident in science.
4. Flexible Test-Taking Options: Paper or Online
Another key change is the increased flexibility in how the test is taken. In the past, students were limited to the traditional paper version of the ACT. However, starting in 2024, students will have the option to choose between taking the ACT on paper or online.
This dual-format option opens the door to a more personalized testing experience, allowing students to choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
The new ACT format offers a host of changes designed to make the testing experience more manageable, flexible, and student-friendly. With a shorter test duration, more reasonable pacing, and the introduction of an optional science section, the revised ACT promises to be a more tailored experience for students. Additionally, the option to take the test either on paper or online offers a level of convenience and accessibility previously unavailable.
As the test continues to evolve, it is crucial for students to stay informed about these changes and how they may affect their preparation. By understanding the new format and planning accordingly, students will be better equipped to approach the ACT with confidence and ease. Whether you choose to include the science section or opt for the online format, the new ACT aims to create a more balanced and less stressful testing environment, helping students demonstrate their academic potential in the most effective way possible.
