Big changes coming to the ACT Test

HINTON, WV (WVNS) — There are some big changes coming to the ACT Test, the non-profit announced on Monday.

The science portion of the test is being made optional for students.

This means only English, reading, and mathematics remain as core sections that result in a college-reportable score.

David Warvel, Superintendent of Summers County Schools reacts to the change.

“Like anything, like anytime there’s change, you just try to adjust to it as best you can. What we’re gonna continue to do is still teach science like we always have, with state standards, and focus on that,” said Warvel. “We’re not gonna make that an option per se, we’re gonna still teach science, because we don’t know what kids are gonna do after high school.”

Leaders who put the ACT test together say they will also be reducing the test by about one-third, making the testing time just two hours.

The English and reading sections will be shorter.

44 questions from each of the three sections of the test will also be removed.

These changes will begin with national online testing in spring of 2025, then follow with school-day testing in spring 2026.

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