ACT Exam Overhauled: Shorter Duration, Optional Science Section

Starting in spring 2025, the ACT will reduce its length and make the science section optional, aiming to enhance student performance and reduce fatigue.

The core test duration will drop from three hours to two, with 44 fewer questions.
Students can choose to take the ACT with or without the science section, alongside existing optional writing.
The changes follow similar updates to the SAT, which also shortened its test and went fully digital.
ACT scores have been declining, with the class of 2023 averaging 19.5 out of 36, down from 19.8 in 2022.
The new format aims to provide more time per question, potentially boosting student scores.