#1: False: “The ACT Is Now 100% Digital”
Not true. The headlines made it sound like paper testing was dead, but that’s not the case. For now, students can still choose between paper-and-pencil and the digital format. The rollout of the Enhanced ACT in April 2025 was digital-only, but starting in September, both versions will be offered. The digital option will become more common, but the old-school booklet and bubble sheet aren’t disappearing anytime soon.
#2 : Nope, not true: “The New ACT Is Easier”
Here’s where the myth gets legs: the Enhanced ACT is indeed shorter and offers more breathing room per question. But that doesn’t automatically make it easier.
- Time Saved: About 75 minutes shorter overall.
- Fewer Questions: Down by about 44 questions total.
- Time Per Question: Increased by roughly 20–30%, so students feel less rushed.
Sounds great, right? Here’s the catch: with fewer questions, every mistake counts more. There’s no extra padding; each wrong answer has a bigger impact on your score. And the content is still tough — no curveballs taken off the field.
#3: Also Not True: “The Science Section Doesn’t Matter Anymore”
The ACT made headlines when it announced that Science is now optional and no longer factored into the composite score. But optional doesn’t mean irrelevant, or you should skip it.
Many colleges still want to see it. Others may value a high Science score as proof of STEM readiness. Still other colleges aren’t sure what to do with this new option. For students applying to selective programs, skipping the section could raise questions. Strategy matters: if Science is your strength, it’s an opportunity, not a free pass to omit the section.
#4 Well, Not Exactly: “The Content Has Been Completely Overhauled”
Despite the hype, the ACT didn’t make a big change to their playbook. The fundamentals remain the same: grammar rules, reading comprehension, algebra, higher-level math, and reasoning. What changed is the emphasis and distribution:
- Math: About 80% high school topics (algebra II, geometry, trig) and 20% foundational skills (fractions, ratios, basic algebra).
- English & Reading: Fewer questions, but the mix of grammar, rhetoric, and comprehension hasn’t changed.
- Science: Same charts, graphs, and data reasoning — just no longer baked into the composite score.
In other words: the same test, just re-edited.
#5 Nope, this is a Rumor: “Paper Tests Are Gone After 2025”
Starting in September 2025, the paper ACT will still be around — it’ll just match the new streamlined format. ACT has no plans to completely scrap paper in the U.S. (too many schools and districts still rely on it). Internationally, digital will dominate, but domestically, students will still have options.
Here’s the Truth - Ignore the noise. Prep for the real test, not the rumors.
The “new ACT” is shorter, more flexible, and designed to feel more modern — but don’t let all the talk about this updated test fool you. It isn’t magically easier, it isn’t radically different, and it isn’t all digital. Your best score still hinges on smart prep, careful pacing, and a rock-solid strategy.
