DESIGNED FOR YOUR SUCCESS
The new enhanced ACT is built for you -
shorter test, more time per question, and
more flexibility to showcase your strengths.
The #1 taken college admissions test in nearly half of U.S. states.
What’s Better About the Enhanced ACT?
The enhanced ACT is the most streamlined and flexible test ever! It's shorter, smarter, and built to help you succeed.
- You’ll finish faster and feel less rushed thanks to the shortest test times yet — and more time to think through each question.
- It’s a calmer, more focused experience that helps you stay sharp from start to finish.
- The enhanced ACT is designed to reduce pressure, give you more control, and support your college goals — without sacrificing what colleges expect.
What’s Changing, What’s Staying the Same, and Why It Matters
What's Changing | What's Staying the Same | How This Helps You |
---|---|---|
Shorter test — 75 fewer minutes and 44 fewer questions. | Core content and subject areas remain the same. | Less time in the test center, more time back in your day. |
More time per question. | Same skills and knowledge assessed. | You can slow down, think clearly, and do your best. |
Math section now has 4 answer choices instead of 5. | Other sections already had 4 choices. | Keeps things consistent and reduces decision fatigue. |
Shorter reading passages. | Reading section still measures comprehension and analysis. | Helps reduce mental fatigue while keeping the same standards. |
Optional science and writing sections. | Colleges still receive a comprehensive ACT score. | You can choose what to take based on your goals and strengths. |
Both paper and online tests still offered. | Choose the test format that works best for your strengths. | |
Superscoring still supported. ACT score scale (1–36) and benchmarks remain unchanged. | You can build your best Composite score over multiple tests. |
“I feel like [having more time] significantly helped. When I would do practice tests, I was getting on the edge of the time every single time. This time I had time to review almost every section.”
- Noah Clements, 17, North Caldwell, NJ
Ready to Start Prepping?
Is Writing Right for You?
The writing section may be optional, but if writing is a strength or you're still exploring college options, it's worth considering.
- Stand out: A strong writing score showcases your reasoning and communication skills.
- Support your app: It can strengthen your college application, especially if your grades in English classes aren’t as strong.
- Keep doors open: Some schools still require or recommend the ACT writing test.
Thinking About Science?
The science section is now optional, but there are good reasons to keep it on your test.
- Boost your STEM path: A strong science score can make your application stand out for competitive STEM majors.
- Balance your profile: If your science grades aren’t your strongest, a great ACT science score can show your potential.
- Stay flexible: Some colleges may require or prefer a science score — even if it’s not listed upfront. Check your colleges list to make sure you meet specific requirements.
“When I signed up, I was a little nervous, so when I saw that I had the option [whether or not to take science], I loved it because I didn’t have to be forced to take something that I didn’t want to.”
- Brooklyn Dismuke, 11th grade, Dallas, TX
“I just kind of wanted to take science because if I didn’t, it’d be like the same thing as taking the SAT. I want to go into medicine.”
- Addison Barnes, 11th grade, Mansfield, TX
Discover All the Ways to Make it Yours
Whether you’re aiming for a faster finish, more time to think, or a format that fits your strengths, the enhanced ACT is built to meet you where you are. Here’s how the updates come together to create a smarter, more personalized path forward.
Which ACT Options Are Right for You?
I want to... | You should take... | Why it helps... |
---|---|---|
Finish faster and reduce testing fatigue. |
The ACT without optional sections. |
Fewer questions and shorter passages help you stay focused and finish strong. |
Take the test on a computer. |
Online ACT |
Digital testing gives you a modern, screen-and-keyboard testing experience. |
Stick with paper and pencil. |
Paper ACT |
Familiarity counts. The paper ACT offers a classic format well-known to all. |
Apply to competitive STEM majors. |
ACT with the science section. |
Shows your scientific reasoning skills and supports STEM applications. |
Keep all my college options open. |
ACT with science and/or writing sections. |
Some colleges may require or prefer these sections. |
Focus on my strengths and skip what I don’t need. |
ACT without optional sections. |
Optional science and writing let you test in the way that plays to your skills. |
Showcase my writing ability. |
ACT with the writing section. |
Demonstrates your communication and argument-building skills. |
Take control of my test experience. |
The ACT |
The test is more flexible than ever — you decide what works best for you. |