The ACT is undergoing one of the biggest overhauls in its history. Beginning in Spring 2026, all school‑day ACT administrations will use the redesigned, shorter format with fewer questions and more time per item. These changes affect pacing, preparation, and how students should plan their testing strategy.

Whether you’re a college applicant or a parent helping your student prepare, understanding the new ACT format is essential for building a smart admissions plan.

🕒 What’s Changing in the ACT Format?

The ACT began rolling out its redesigned format in 2025, and by Spring 2026, all school‑day tests will use the new structure.

Key changes include:

✂️ Shorter Test, Fewer Questions

The ACT has reduced the total number of questions across all core sections. For example, English dropped from 75 to 50 questions, and Math from 60 to 45.

⏳ More Time Per Question

Students now get about 18% more time per question, or roughly 9 extra seconds per item.

This reduces time pressure — but the remaining questions tend to be more challenging because many easier items were removed.

Key reductions

Total questions drop from 215 to 171 (or 131 if you skip the now‑optional science section).

🔬 Science Section Becomes Optional

Beginning with the enhanced format, Science is no longer required for the composite score. The composite now includes only English, Math, and Reading.

Science remains available as an optional section, similar to Writing.

💻 Digital Testing Expansion

The ACT now offers:

•    Online testing nationwide
•    Bring‑your‑own‑device (BYOD) options
•    Continued availability of paper testing through 2026

Digital testing began in 2025 and becomes standard for school‑day testing in 2026.

🎯 How These Changes Affect Test‑Taking Strategy

The redesigned ACT requires a shift in how students prepare.

1. Accuracy Matters More Than Speed

With fewer questions and more time per item, rushing is no longer the winning strategy. Students must focus on:

•    Careful reading
•    Avoiding careless errors
•    Mastering harder question types

2. Updated Practice Materials Are Essential

Because the ACT removed many easier questions, older prep books and tests may not reflect the new difficulty level. Students should use materials aligned with the 2025–2026 format.

3. Decide Whether to Take the Science Section

STEM‑bound students should still take Science, even though it’s optional. Skipping it may limit:

•    STEM scholarship opportunities
•    STEM‑major competitiveness
•    Eligibility for certain state‑reported scores (e.g., STEM score requirements)

4. Practice on a Screen

With digital testing expanding, students should practice:

•    On the device they plan to bring
•    With an online calculator (e.g., Desmos, which is embedded in the online test)

5. Plan Test Dates Strategically

Because the ACT is shorter and more flexible, students may benefit from:

•    Testing earlier in junior year
•    Taking multiple attempts to adjust to the new format

🚀 Final Thoughts

The 2026 ACT changes are designed to reduce fatigue, modernize the exam, and give students more flexibility — but they also introduce new strategic challenges. Understanding the new format early will help students prepare effectively and avoid surprises on test day.

🎓 Need Expert Guidance on the New ACT?

The redesigned ACT requires a fresh approach to prep, timing, and college admissions strategy. AdmissionsConsultants can help you navigate these changes with personalized guidance tailored to your student’s goals.

👉 Call us at 1.800.809.0800 or click the “Book a Meeting” link below!