The Upcoming Digital ACT: Everything You Need to Know

A Modernized ACT for the Future

The ACT is evolving to better serve students in the digital age. Beginning in Spring 2025, students will have the option to take the ACT in either digital or traditional paper format. These changes aim to improve accessibility, flexibility, and the overall test-taking experience.

Key Changes in the Digital ACT

  • Digital Testing Option: Available for national test dates starting in Spring 2025.

  • Shortened Test Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes (excluding breaks).

  • Revised Section Timings:

    • English: 35 minutes | 50 questions

    • Math: 50 minutes | 45 questions

    • Reading: 40 minutes | 36 questions

    • Science: 40 minutes | 40 questions (Now optional)

    • Writing: 40 minutes | 1 essay (Optional)

Optional Science Section: Students can now choose whether to include the Science section

Preparing for the Digital ACT

  • Get Comfortable with the Digital Format: Practice using online tools and test simulations.

  • Stay Updated: Follow ACT’s official updates to ensure you’re preparing with the most current information.

Rollout Timeline

  • Spring 2025: Digital testing option becomes available.

  • Fall 2025: New structure applies to both digital and paper formats.

  • Spring 2026: Updates take effect for school-day testing programs.

Benefits of the Digital ACT

  • More Accessibility: Includes screen readers, text-to-speech functionality, and answer masking.

  • Enhanced Testing Experience: Features a built-in calculator for Math and user-friendly digital tools.

  • Flexibility: Students can choose the format that best suits their strengths and test-taking style.