ACT
PREP
GUIDE.

The Enhanced ACT, launched in April 2025, is shorter and more student-friendly. The core test dropped from 215 to 131 questions, test time went from ~3 hours to ~2 hours 5 minutes, Science became optional, and Math now has 4 answer choices instead of 5. You also get more time per question across every section — roughly 57 seconds on average versus 49 seconds on the old test. The composite score is now calculated from 3 sections (English, Math, Reading) unless you opt into Science.

Yes — as of April 2025, the Science section is optional on the Enhanced ACT. Your composite score is calculated from English, Math, and Reading only. However, some colleges may still require or recommend a Science score, especially STEM programs. If you take Science, it’s reported separately and also factored into a STEM score (Math + Science average). Check your target colleges’ requirements before deciding.

All US colleges accept both tests equally. The right choice depends on your strengths. The ACT is linear (same questions for everyone), includes optional Science, uses long reading passages, and tests more geometry and trigonometry. The SAT is adaptive (difficulty adjusts based on performance), has short reading passages, provides a built-in Desmos calculator, and focuses more on algebra. Take a practice test for each and compare your scores — most students have a clear preference.

Each section (English, Math, Reading) is scored on a 1–36 scale. Your composite score is the average of these three section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. If you take the optional Science section, it receives its own 1–36 score reported separately. There is no penalty for wrong answers — always answer every question, even if you’re guessing.

Most students need 8–12 weeks of focused preparation to see significant score improvement. Students aiming for a modest increase (2–3 points) can often achieve it in 4–6 weeks with consistent practice. Students targeting large gains (5+ points) or aiming for 30+ should plan for 3–6 months of structured study. The key factor is consistency — regular practice with review beats cramming every time.

The national average ACT composite is around 19–20. A score of 24+ puts you in roughly the top 25% of test-takers. A 30+ places you in the top 5–7%, competitive for selective universities. A 34+ is in the 99th percentile, competitive for Ivy League and equivalent schools. ‘Good’ depends entirely on your target colleges — research the middle 50% score range for each school on your list.

The ACT without the optional Science section costs $68 (core test only). Adding the Science section costs $93. Late registration adds $36, and standby testing adds $64. Fee waivers are available for eligible students — ask your school counselor. Note: these are 2025–2026 prices and may change. Check act.org for the most current pricing.

Most students take the ACT 2–3 times. Taking it once as a baseline, then studying and retaking is a solid strategy. Diminishing returns typically set in after 3 attempts unless you’ve made significant changes to your preparation between tests. ACT offers superscoring, so colleges that superscore will take your highest section scores across all test dates.

Most students begin ACT prep in the spring of junior year for a fall senior-year test date, but starting earlier gives you more flexibility. Taking the ACT for the first time in the fall or winter of junior year allows time for retakes. Ideally, start structured prep 3–4 months before your target test date. Sophomores who are strong academically can take an early diagnostic to gauge readiness.

Yes — ACT now sends a superscore automatically with your score report. Your superscore is the average of your highest section scores across all test dates. Many colleges accept and even prefer superscores. However, some schools require all scores from a single sitting. Check each college’s policy on their admissions website or Common Data Set.

The ACT permits most graphing calculators, including TI-84 and TI-Nspire (non-CAS). Prohibited calculators include those with CAS (Computer Algebra System) capabilities like the TI-89 and TI-Nspire CAS, calculators with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and phone or tablet calculators. Check ACT’s official calculator policy before test day and practice with the same calculator you’ll use on the exam.

Not exactly easier — but more manageable. You get more time per question (~57 sec vs ~49 sec), fewer total questions (131 vs 215), and the ability to skip Science if it’s not your strength. Math dropped from 5 to 4 answer choices, improving guessing odds from 20% to 25%. The content difficulty is similar, but the pacing pressure is significantly reduced. Students who struggled with time on the old ACT often see the biggest improvement on the Enhanced version.