ACT Changes in 2025: New Format, Scoring & Study Tips
What Changed on the ACT in 2025?
A new format designed for clarity and speed
In April 2025, the ACT exam underwent several important updates aimed at improving the testing experience. The structure remains familiar in many ways, but the layout, timing, and question organization have been fine-tuned. These changes are designed to reduce confusion, make pacing more intuitive, and ensure students can focus on demonstrating what they know—not figuring out test mechanics.
Here’s a quick overview of what’s new:
The test booklet now clearly separates each test with color-coded tabs.
The instructions have been simplified to save time.
Some tests include newly organized question clusters for better flow.
Break times and test transitions are more clearly labeled.
These updates reflect a broader trend toward student-centered exam design—without changing the core skills being assessed.
What Changed in the ACT Exam Format in 2025?
Overview of the New Test Structure
The ACT underwent a major update in April 2025, marking its first significant structural change in over a decade. While the core subject areas remain the same—English, Math, Reading, and Science—the order and pacing of the tests have changed. The new ACT now begins with the Reading Test, followed by English, Math, and then Science. This revised order is designed to test critical thinking earlier in the exam when students are fresher.
The optional Writing Test remains unchanged and is still offered at the end for students who choose to include it.
Is the 2025 ACT Digital or Paper-Based?
Test Format Options Based on Location
As of 2025, the ACT is offered in both digital and paper-based formats, depending on where and how students take the exam. Most U.S. national test centers continue to offer the paper-based ACT, but many school-day administrations and international testing locations now use the digital version.
Both formats feature the same content, structure, and scoring—but test-day logistics may differ slightly. For example, students taking the digital ACT will complete the test on a computer or tablet provided at the testing site, and should be familiar with on-screen navigation and tools like highlighting and answer flagging.
Students should check with their registration location in advance to confirm which format they’ll receive and prepare accordingly.
How Many Questions Are on the ACT and How Much Time Do You Get?
Test-by-Test Breakdown
As of April 2025, the ACT has transitioned to a digital-first format for most students nationwide. This updated version is designed to be shorter and more streamlined, with fewer questions and reduced time limits. However, the core subject areas remain the same, and students are still tested on Reading, English, Math, Science, and the optional Writing Test. The new structure means students need to work efficiently while maintaining accuracy under tighter time conditions.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the number of questions and time limits for each ACT test:
| Test | Number of Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 36 (includes 9 experimental) | 40 minutes |
| English | 50 (includes 10 experimental) | 35 minutes |
| Math | 45 (includes 4 experimental) | 50 minutes |
| Science (Optional) | 40 (includes 6 experimental) | 40 minutes |
| Writing (Optional) | 1 Essay (includes 1 experimental task) | 40 minutes |
Table Created by: Presidio Education®, 2025.
ACT Scoring: What Students and Parents Need to Know
How the ACT Is Scored
Unlike the SAT’s two-test scoring system, the ACT provides four individual test scores—Reading, English, Math, and Science—each ranging from 1 to 36. These four scores are averaged to calculate your composite score, which also ranges from 1 to 36.
Each subject area is scored independently, giving colleges a detailed view of a student's academic strengths. For example, a student may score higher in Math and Science but lower in English and Reading, which can signal specific aptitudes depending on the college or major.
There is no penalty for wrong answers, so students should always make an educated guess if unsure. However, speed and endurance matter: every test is strictly timed, and students must quickly transition from one topic to the next.
What About the Writing Test?
The optional ACT Writing Test (Essay) is scored separately on a scale of 2–12 and does not affect your composite score. While many colleges have made this test optional, certain competitive programs or scholarships may still expect or recommend students to submit Writing scores. Check the admissions requirements for each college to determine if it’s necessary.
ACT Test-by-Test Strategies
Reading
Since the Reading Test now appears first on the ACT, students need to arrive mentally alert and focused. The test includes four long passages with 10 questions each, covering fiction, humanities, social science, and natural science.
Strategy tip: Practice active reading by underlining key ideas and summarizing each paragraph mentally. Don’t dwell on tricky questions—move quickly and return later if time allows.
English
This test examines grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. Students review five passages and must revise under time pressure.
Strategy tip: Focus on common grammar rules like subject-verb agreement, pronoun clarity, and comma usage. Most questions can be answered correctly by eliminating wordy or awkward choices.
Math
Covers pre-algebra through basic trigonometry, with a heavy emphasis on algebra and geometry. Students cannot use a calculator on all questions, so mental math speed helps.
Strategy tip: Memorize key formulas and practice solving without a calculator when possible. Skip and flag hard questions to avoid wasting time early on.
Science
The Science Test assesses data interpretation, experimental design, and scientific reasoning—not specific science knowledge. It includes graphs, tables, and short readings.
Strategy tip: Skim the passage first, then dive into the charts and questions. Prioritize easier passages first and use process of elimination when unsure.
Optional Writing
The essay presents a social issue with three perspectives. Students write a structured response that evaluates all three and presents their own view.
Strategy tip: Follow a clear structure: intro, body paragraphs for each viewpoint, your own opinion, and a conclusion. Use examples from history, current events, or personal experience.
Ready to Boost Your ACT Score?
Personalized 1-on-1 Support from Expert Tutors
The new ACT format may seem intimidating at first, but with the right strategy and support, students can feel confident and prepared on test day. At Presidio Education®, we specialize in 1-on-1 ACT prep that’s personalized, efficient, and results-driven. Whether you're aiming for a top-tier score or trying to balance school and test prep, our experienced tutors help students tackle each test with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or book your first private ACT lesson. Let’s turn your goals into results.
