SAT vs. New ACT: What Test-Takers Need to Know About Upcoming Changes
Standardized tests continue to evolve. So, staying informed about changes to the SAT and ACT is essential for students preparing for college admission.
The ACT is undergoing a significant overhaul that will affect tests starting in April 2025, with updates that align it more closely with the SAT. Here’s an in-depth look at what’s changing on the ACT, how it compares to the SAT, and how to decide which test might benefit you.
Key Changes to the ACT in 2025
Beginning in April 2025, ACT will offer a shortened, online format, although students may still opt for the original, longer paper version until September 2025.
1. Updated ACT Format
Duration: Reduced from 3 hours & 15 minutes to 2 hours & 5 minutes without the optional Science Section (and about 9 minutes shorter than the SAT)
Optional Science Section: This change addresses a common challenge for students, particularly those not interested in pursuing STEM majors.
Fewer Questions: The revised ACT will feature a total of 44 fewer questions.
Composite Score: The average of the English, Math, and Reading scores (Science no longer included)
2. Timeline for Changes
April 5, 2025: First administration of the new online format
September 2025: All ACT administrations (online & paper) will reflect the new format.
3. Detailed Section Changes
Each test section will undergo adjustments to question count, timing, and in some cases, question style:
New ACT Test Sections
Tests reasoning more than knowledge, but may include fundamental concepts, such as genetics, making it beneficial for STEM students to take this section
4. New Online Features and Tools
Students opting for the online version will benefit from newly introduced digital tools, designed to support accessibility and ease of use:
Customization Options: Choose color contrast and magnification
Navigation Tools: Line readers, highlighting, and review marks
Digital Calculator: While the ACT has not confirmed the specific calculator, it may offer a Desmos-like option similar to the SAT
5. Score Reporting and Concordance
Score Turnaround: Score reports for both formats will remain on the current timeline, with scores typically available within 2-8 weeks
New Score Structure:
Students who take the optional science section will receive both a Science score and a combined STEM score that averages the Math and Science scores.
Starting in April 2025 for online tests and in September 2025 for all tests, score reports will introduce a revised core composite structure: average of English, Math, and Reading.
The updates to the ACT will likely impact the ACT-SAT concordance, particularly for students who choose not to complete the Science section. Students and parents are encouraged to ask colleges about their preferences for ACT Science scores, especially if they’re applying to competitive STEM programs or highly selective universities, regardless of their choice of major.
SAT or New ACT: Which Test Should You Take?
Determining which test plays to your strengths requires a strategic approach. Here are some steps to help make this decision:
1. Use Concordance Scores for Comparison
If you've taken the PSAT or SAT, consider taking a practice ACT to see how your scores compare using a concordance table.
Alternatively, if you've already taken a practice ACT or Pre-ACT, try a sample SAT for comparison.
2. Consider Test Format Preferences
The ACT’s new online format may appeal to students comfortable with digital tools, while the SAT remains fully digital. Students may still elect to take a paper-based ACT, even with the upcoming changes.
The choice between the SAT and ACT may also depend on the optional science section. STEM students may find the revised ACT’s optional science section advantageous.
3. Test Your Strengths with Sample Sections
For students uncertain about their test preference, it’s helpful to try practice sections of each test. Many students perform equally well on both tests, but for those who demonstrate a clear preference, this can be a useful guide.
4. Stick to the Paper-Based “Classic” ACT
For juniors planning to take the ACT this spring, consider taking the original paper-based version and complete testing by July. This can help avoid potential issues with the new test format and any uncertainties as colleges and testing centers adapt to the changes. For younger students, waiting until colleges and scholarships have determined their preferences for a Science section score may be a smart decision.
Preparing for the New ACT
To help students adjust to the new format, ACT plans to release updated practice tests in early 2025. Familiarizing yourself with the new question formats and digital tools in the online test will be crucial for maximizing your testing performance.
2025 ACT Test Dates:
February 8
April 5 (first online test with changes)
June 14
July 12
September 6 (first paper test with changes)
October 25
December 6
Handling Accommodations and Technical Difficulties
The ACT has streamlined accommodations requests, allowing students to apply through their school counsellor after registering for the exam. Technical difficulties will be managed on-site by moving students to alternate devices, or, if necessary, rescheduling their exams to ensure testing fairness.
College admissions are more competitive than ever; the revised ACT offers students an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in a new format designed to be more flexible and accessible. As you prepare to apply to colleges, stay informed about testing changes, and utilize concordance tools to choose the right test and practice to maximize your potential. For personalized guidance on SAT or ACT preparation, reach out to our experienced team at Score At The Top Learning Centers & Schools. Visit us at scoreatthetop.com to learn more about our tailored test-prep options.
