Most students are familiar with the stan- dardized ACT (American College Test) which most colleges, at minimum heavily rely on, or in some cases even require be- fore submitting an application. The ACT includes basic to advanced questions in four separate categories, English, Math, Read- ing and Science. There is also an optional written essay test that is required by some, but not all colleges. What students might not be aware of is the significant changes ACT made during 2025 that will certainly come as exciting news to those preparing to take the test in the coming months. Promoted as the En- hanced ACT, the new format claims to be the most streamlined and flexible test ever offered to students, claiming to be “shorter, smarter, and built to help you succeed.” The redesigned test is said to be at least 75 minutes shorter than the previ- ous edition, easing test fatigue and while reducing overall pressure. In addition, the math section now provides only four mul- tiple choice answers, down from the pre- vious five. This allows students to make quicker choices by eliminating three, rather than four incorrect answers. The biggest change is the overall number of questions, which has been reduced by 44, making the test shorter while also allow- ing much-needed extra time per question over the old format. Also new is the ability to opt out of the science section of the test, as well as the writing portion. In the past, the writing section has always been optional while science was mandatory. Students wishing to take either the science or written tests will have those scores reported sepa- rately from the other portions of the test. These expanded options allow students to tailor the test to their specific needs or col- lege requirements. The new Enhanced Test was first intro- duced online in April 2025 and further ex- panded to September 2025. State/District testing begins in Spring 2026. The costs for 2026 is $68 for the base test (English, Math, Reading) with add-ons for the Science section ($4) and Writing ($25) making the full test cost around $97. These rates provide for the testing itself, and result reports for you, your school, and up to four colleges. You can request results to be sent to more colleges for an additional charge. Fees and waivers are available for students with financial needs and many states pro- vide free testing as part of their high school assessment. Check with your school for de- tails on costs for your specific situation The ACT website provides a list of the schools in your area that are administering the test, as well as the dates and times. Test dates for 2026 include February 14, April 11, June 13, and July 11. Registration for each of the tests must be completed in ad- vance with deadlines typically about a month prior to the test date. Visit ACT’s website for specific deadlines (ACT.org). Why do so many students stress out about taking the ACT? Well, first of all—it’s a test, and most students dread any test. But this test is pretty important, as the score you make plays a big role in which colleges ac- cept you, and your opportunity for scholar- Tennessee College Guide | 2026 19 Article by The Tennessee College Guide Editorial Staff Feature Articles MoreTime, Questions Major Changes to the Enhanced ACT Test Less
