What is ACT?

The ACT is one of the most widely recognized college admissions tests, accepted by all U.S. universities and thousands of global institutions. Each year, students worldwide take the ACT to strengthen their college applications, qualify for scholarships, and showcase their readiness for higher education.

The ACT measures skills in English, Math, and Reading with optional Science and Writing sections. It provides colleges with a consistent benchmark that complements high school grades, making it a critical factor in competitive admissions.

The New ACT Structure (Effective 2025)

Section No. of Questions Time Allotted Testing Points
English 50 35 minutes The capacity to make effective revision and editing choices in short passages and essays from different genres.
Math 45 50 minutes Math skills are typically learned in courses through the end of grade 12.
Reading 36 40 minutes The ability to read attentively, reason logically with evidence, and combine information from multiple sources.
Science (Optional) 40 40 minutes The skills of interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving are needed in biology, chemistry, Earth/space sciences, and physics.
Writing (Optional) 1 essay 40 minutes Writing skills were developed in high school English classes and introductory college composition courses. This section is optional.

Key Changes in the New ACT

Key Changes in the New ACT

  • Composite Score: Calculated using English, Math, and Reading only.
  • Shorter Duration: Core ACT now 125 minutes (down from 195 minutes).
  • Fewer Questions: A Total of 44 fewer questions (down from 195 minutes)across sections.
  • Flexibility: Students can opt in/out of Science and Writing depending on college goals.
  • Test Modes: Available in both online and paper-based formats.
  • Superscoring: ACT will continue to report Superscores based on the best section results across attempts.

Unchanged Aspects of ACT

  • ACT Scoring System: ACT is still scored on the 1–36 scale.
  • Scores remain a strong predictor of first-year college success.
  • The ACT continues to be accepted worldwide as a reliable admissions credential.

Scoring Structure

  • Composite Score = Average of English + Math + Reading
  • STEM Score = Math + Science (if Science taken)
  • ELA Score = Composite + Writing (if Writing taken)
  • Field-test questions are unscored but included for test research.
sat-reading
Content Testing Points No. of Questions
Craft and Structure
  • Words in Context
  • Test Structure and Purpose
  • Cross-text Connections
13-15
Information and Ideas
  • Central Ideas and Details
  • Command of Evidence
  • Textual and Quantitative
  • Inferences
11-15
Standard English Conventions
  • Boundaries
  • Form, Structure, and Sense
11-15
Expression of Ideas
  • Rhetorical Synthesis
  • Transitions
8-12

Questions are designed to assess your ability to interpret information, analyze arguments, and apply correct language usage in an academic context.

Mathematics Section

diagram

The Math section measures problem-solving and analytical skills, covering topics such as:

  • Algebra and Advanced Math
  • Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
  • Geometry and Trigonometry

A strong performance in this section demonstrates your readiness to tackle quantitative challenges in college-level courses.

Content Testing Points No. of Questions
Algebra
  • Linear equations in one variable
  • Linear equations in two variables
  • Linear functions
  • Systems of two linear equations in two variables
  • Linear inequalities in one or two variables
13-15
Advanced Math
  • Equivalent expressions
  • Nonlinear equations in one variable and systems of equations in two variables
  • Nonlinear functions
11-15
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
  • Ratios, rates, proportional relationships, and units
  • Percentages
  • One-variable data: distributions and measures of center and spread
  • Two-variable data: models and scatter plots
  • Probability and conditional probability
  • Inference from sample statistics and margin of error
  • Evaluating statistical claims: observational studies and experiments
11-15
Geometry and Trigonometry
  • Area and volume
  • Lines, Angles, and Triangles
  • Right triangles and Trigonometry
  • Circles
8-12

Why the ACT Matters for College Applications

  • Global Acceptance – Recognized by all U.S. colleges and many universities worldwide.
  • Admissions Edge – A strong ACT score sets students apart in competitive applicant pools.
  • Scholarships – Higher ACT scores open doors to merit-based aid, helping families reduce tuition costs.
  • Flexibility – Students can tailor their test by opting into Science and Writing if relevant to their future goals.
  • Multiple Test Dates – Available several times a year internationally, giving students the chance to retake and improve.

ACT Scores

Start with the Diagnostic Test

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Upcoming ACT test dates

Subject Test Date Registration Deadline Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation,
and Late Registration**
ACT Test 2025 Oct 17, 2025 Sep 19, 2025 Oct 03, 2025
ACT Test 2025 Dec 12, 2025 Nov 14, 2025 Nov 28, 2025
ACT Test 2026 Feb 06, 2026 Jan 09, 2026 Jan 23, 2026
ACT Test 2026 Apr 10, 2026 Mar 13, 2026 Mar 27, 2026
ACT Test 2026 Jun 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 May 29, 2026
ACT Test 2026 Jul 10, 2026 Jun 12, 2026 Jun 26, 2026

Frequently asked Questions

What is the new ACT structure in 2025?

The ACT is now 125 minutes long, with the Composite Score based on English, Math, and Reading only. Science and Writing are optional.

Is the ACT harder than the SAT?

Neither test is objectively harder. The best pick depends on the student’s strengths. The ACT is now shorter and offers optional Science; the SAT has a different (adaptive) format. Diagnostic testing will determine the better fit. Know more

How many times can I take the ACT?

There’s no limit; however, taking more than 4 attempts is not recommended. Most learners take it twice for the best score, and Tutela’s program covers 2 attempts.

What is a good ACT score?

The average global score is ~21. Top universities look for 32+, while Ivy League admits often score between 34–35.

Do colleges prefer SAT or ACT?

No preference. Both are equally accepted. Students should choose based on their strengths.

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