Starting Spring 2026 for school-day testing (and September 2025 for national testing), ACT is introducing a redesigned Enhanced ACT format. The goal is clear: make the test shorter, more flexible, and less fatigue-inducing, while still giving colleges reliable academic signals.
One of the biggest updates is that Science is now optional, along with Writing. This change gives students more control—but it also means choosing the right test configuration matters more than ever.
Below is a complete breakdown of the four Enhanced ACT 2026 test options, followed by guidance on how to prepare effectively using official ACT practice tests.
What’s New in the Enhanced ACT 2026?
Before choosing a test option, it’s important to understand what has changed:
- Shorter overall test length
- Fewer total questions
- Science section is optional
- Writing (Essay) remains optional
- Composite score (1–36) is calculated only from English, Math, and Reading
- More time per question (approximately 18% more than the previous ACT)
- Math now has 4 answer choices instead of 5
These updates allow students to focus on strengths, reduce burnout, and test more strategically.
The 4 Enhanced ACT 2026 Test Options Explained
1. Standard ACT (Core Test Only)
This is the shortest and most streamlined version of the Enhanced ACT.
What’s Included
- English
- Math
- Reading
Test Time
- Approximately 2 hours (125 minutes)
Structure
- 131 total questions
- No Science or Writing
Who Should Choose This Option
- Students applying to colleges that do not require Science or Writing
- Students who struggle with test fatigue
- Students who find Science challenging
- Students who want to maximize their Composite Score efficiency
This option allows students to concentrate entirely on the three sections that determine the ACT Composite Score.
2. ACT Plus Science (Optional Science Section)
This option adds Science to the core test.
What’s Included
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science
Test Time
- Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes (165 minutes)
Important Scoring Detail
- The Composite Score still uses only English, Math, and Reading
- Science receives a separate score
- A STEM score (Math + Science) is also reported
Who Should Choose This Option
- Students applying to STEM majors
- Students with strong scientific reasoning and data analysis skills
- Students applying to colleges that prefer or recommend Science scores
Even though Science does not affect the Composite Score, a strong Science or STEM score can significantly strengthen a STEM-focused application.
3. ACT Plus Writing (Optional Essay)
This option includes the ACT Writing section.
What’s Included
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Writing (Essay)
Test Time
- Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes (165 minutes)
Scoring Note
- Writing is scored separately on a 2–12 scale
- It does not impact the Composite Score
Who Should Choose This Option
- Students applying to colleges that require or recommend an essay
- Students who want to demonstrate analytical writing ability
- Students targeting selective or holistic admissions schools
4. ACT Plus Science and Writing (Full Option)
This is the most comprehensive version of the Enhanced ACT.
What’s Included
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science
- Writing
Test Time
- Approximately 3 hours 25 minutes (205 minutes)
Who Should Choose This Option
- Students applying to a mix of STEM and non-STEM programs
- Students targeting highly competitive colleges
- Students who want to keep all options open
This option offers the most complete academic profile but requires strong stamina and preparation.
How to Prepare for the Enhanced ACT 2026 ?
The most effective way to prepare for the Enhanced ACT 2026 is by practicing with official ACT-released tests, specifically ACT Test Forms 25MC1 through 25MC5. These tests are created by ACT and accurately reflect the question design, difficulty progression, timing, and scoring logic of the real exam.
Practicing with official tests is especially important as the Enhanced ACT introduces fewer questions and more time per question. These forms help students develop realistic pacing, recognize common ACT question traps, and build endurance under authentic test conditions. They also provide a reliable baseline to track improvement across multiple attempts.
To make evaluation efficient, these official ACT practice tests can be graded using Socrato’s automated bubble sheet grading. Schools or students can administer the paper-based tests, upload completed bubble sheets, and receive fast, accurate scoring without manual effort. Socrato converts raw responses into section scores, composite scores, STEM scores (when applicable), and detailed skill-level diagnostics, helping students clearly identify strengths and areas for improvement. This approach combines the authenticity of official ACT practice with the insight of modern digital reporting—ideal for preparing strategically for the Enhanced ACT 2026.
Key Takeaways for ACT 2026 Test Takers
- The Enhanced ACT core test is significantly shorter
- Composite Score = English + Math + Reading only
- Science is optional, but valuable for STEM applicants
- Writing is optional and scored separately
- Math questions are more streamlined with four answer choices
- Using official ACT tests with automated grading leads to more accurate preparation
Final Recommendation
The Enhanced ACT 2026 gives students more flexibility than ever—but success depends on choosing the right test option and preparing with the right materials. The best choice is not the longest test, but the one that highlights your strengths and aligns with your college goals.
Pairing the right ACT configuration with official practice tests and detailed diagnostics can reduce stress, improve performance, and ensure your ACT score works in your favor.
