ACT Changes Reflected in Our ACT Test Prep

ACT exam changes are in full swing, and like David Bowie singing “Cha-cha-changes,” we’re here to investigate the transformation that is reinventing the ACT. The much-anticipated ACT exam changes are designed to make your testing experience more efficient and less exhausting. Come along to find out precisely what the changes to ACT test mean for you as a test-taker.

⏰ The Big Shift: Shorter Test, Smarter Focus

Some of the most impactful ACT exam changes are the overall reduction in test duration and the number of questions—a definite win for students! Overall, for the core test, students will be tested on 44 fewer questions and spend 75 fewer minutes on the test. This means you’ll experience a significantly shorter test, allowing you to focus your energy where it counts. The ACT is cutting the fluff to get to the core of what you know faster and more efficiently.

• Less Decision Fatigue: In the math section, the number of answer choices will be reduced from five to four.
• Reduced Mental Fatigue: Reading passages in the reading section will also be shorter.
• Optional Sections: The science ACT test and the ACT optional writing test allow you to choose a testing experience that will highlight your strengths as a student.

Key Takeaway: The ACT is changing to prioritize quality over quantity. The core skills and knowledge tested remain the same.

⏱️ How Long Does an ACT Test Take Now? (Core Sections)

With fewer questions and less time in the testing chair, your pacing skills will become even more crucial. The enhanced ACT should take approx. 2 hours and 5 minutes.

While timing per question is more generous, mastering your pacing is still a non-negotiable skill. That’s why consistent use of an ACT practice test is vital.

🗓️ When Do the ACT Changes Take Effect?

You might be asking, “Is the ACT changing in 2025?” Here is the implementation schedule for ACT test changes 2025 and beyond:

• National Online and Paper Testers: For many, these changes have already occurred.
• State and District Testing: Online and paper changes will be implemented in Spring 2026 at the start of the testing window (February 2026).
• International Testers: Changes will be implemented in Spring 2026.

For more information on composite score calculations and official timing of test release, refer to ACT.org.

💡 New Terminology for Your Test Path

The ACT has introduced new terminology to define different test combinations based on student choices:

• Core: English, Reading, Math
• Core + Science: The traditional four-section test
• Core + Essay: Including the ACT optional writing test
• Core + Science + Essay: The full, expanded test

🛠️ Peterson’s Commitment: Adapting Our ACT Test Prep

At Peterson’s, we are committed to equipping you for success under the new format. Our ACT Test Prep Course has been thoroughly updated to reflect these ACT changes.

• Practice Tests: Peterson’s offers eight practice tests in total (one diagnostic, one final, and six additional practice tests), all updated with the new structure. These include English, Math, Reading, and the optional Science and Writing sections, perfect for an Online ACT Practice Test.
• Updated Content: All material, videos, and interactive content have been updated to reflect the new test structure and timing.

Section-Specific Course Updates:

We believe in you and your ability to tackle these ACT changes! Access our updated ACT Test Prep Course for comprehensive information on scoring breakdown and score enhancement.