ACT 2026 Changes: What You Need to Know

The New ACT Format at a Glance

The enhanced ACT reduces the total question count from 215 to 171 (or just 131 if you skip the now-optional Science section). Core test time drops from 175 minutes to 125 minutes without Science.

Students now get roughly 18% more time per question — about 9 extra seconds on each item. That may not sound like a lot, but for a time-pressured test like the ACT it is a game changer.

• English: 50 questions in 35 min (was 75 in 45 min)
• Math: 45 questions in 50 min (was 60 in 60 min)
• Reading: 36 questions in 40 min (was 40 in 35 min, so more time)
• Science: 40 questions in 40 min (was 35 min), now OPTIONAL

Science Is Now Optional — Should You Take It?

Starting with the enhanced ACT, the Science section no longer counts toward your Composite score, even if you take it. Your Composite is now the average of English, Math, and Reading only.

However, many colleges still want to see a Science score — especially STEM-focused programs. If you are applying to engineering, pre-med, or natural science programs, taking Science is strongly recommended.

Because the Composite leaves Science out, your Science score cannot raise or lower it. It is still reported separately, together with a STEM score, to the colleges that receive your scores.

New Superscoring Rules

ACT now calculates an official superscore across all your test dates. The Composite on your superscore uses only English, Math, and Reading: your highest score in each of them from any sitting.

Scores from the old format and the new enhanced format CAN be combined for superscoring. So if you took the ACT before the changes, those section scores still count.

Many colleges accept the ACT superscore, so each full retake is a chance to raise your weakest section without risking your best scores.

ACT Test Dates & Registration Deadlines (2026-2027)

The ACT is offered on seven national test dates in the 2026-2027 school year. The regular registration deadline is about five weeks before each test date.

Late registration costs an extra $42 and closes about two and a half weeks before the test. After the late deadline, standby testing may still be possible but is not guaranteed.

• September 19, 2026 (register by August 14; late deadline September 1)
• October 17, 2026 (register by September 11; late deadline September 29)
• December 12, 2026 (register by November 6; late deadline November 29)
• February 27, 2027 (register by January 22; late deadline February 9)
• April 10, 2027 (register by March 5; late deadline March 23)
• June 12, 2027 (register by May 7; late deadline May 25)
• July 10, 2027 (register by June 4; late deadline June 22; first July date with New York centers)

How to Prepare for the New ACT

The enhanced format rewards strategic preparation more than ever. With fewer questions and more time, accuracy matters more than speed. Shift your practice from "answer as fast as possible" to "get every question right."

Use EntrenAU's free practice tests to simulate the new format. Focus on your weakest section first, so each retake can raise one section at a time instead of cramming everything at once.

Build a 6-8 week study plan. Weeks 1-2: diagnostic and content review. Weeks 3-5: targeted practice on weak areas. Weeks 6-8: full-length practice tests under timed conditions.