The ACT is rolling out major changes in 2025: the Science section is now optional, and Reading, Math, and English all have fewer questions. The Reading section decreased from 40 to 36 questions; the Math section decreased from 60 to 45 questions; and the English section shortened from 75 questions to 50 questions. In addition, the Math section will offer four answer choices instead of five. The entire exam takes just over two hours for students with regular time to complete, whether they choose to take it online or by hand.
These changes are a relief. The old ACT dragged on for hours, and for students with extended time, it could stretch to nearly five. A test of this length is exhausting which makes it hard for students to perform their best. With fewer questions and less testing time overall, the new ACT feels more manageable and far less overwhelming.
One of the best changes is in the Math section. With only four answer choices instead of five, each problem feels less intimidating. Students will gain confidence from this, and the section will feel less like a guessing game.
Still, not everyone views these changes positively. One student who took the new ACT in September said the proctors struggled with the updated instructions. Since some students took the optional Science section and others did not, it created delays. Senior Emily Borden explained, “The ACT is giving too many options and the proctors don’t know how to handle it.” Her comment raises a real concern: While the new format has its benefits, smoother implementation will be key to ensuring those benefits are felt across the board.