The ACT has long been known for its four core sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. But starting this year, a major change has come to the ACT lineup: the Science section is now optional. Instead of contributing to your composite score, it will be available as an add-on for a small extra fee and reported separately on your score report. This change is part of ACT’s broader push toward flexibility and personalization, allowing students to shape how their academic strengths are presented. For many students, this news brings a wave of relief—after all, science can feel intimidating. But before you celebrate or skip over this section completely, we’ll walk you through the key changes, who should still take the Science section, and how to prepare effectively if you choose to include it in your ACT.
What’s Changing?
The ACT composite score will now be calculated using just English, Math, and Reading. Science, while still available, is no longer required. However, colleges will still be able to see your Science and STEM scores if you choose to take the section and submit it. This may sound like good news for students who dread science, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. Many selective colleges and STEM programs are still likely to consider Science scores as part of their admissions review, especially for applicants interested in fields like engineering, biology, or pre-med. So while the section won’t officially “count” toward your overall ACT score, it could still carry weight in your application. That means deciding whether to take it should be a strategic choice, not just a matter of convenience.
Should You Still Take the ACT Science Section?
As you consider whether or not to take the ACT Science section, here are some key factors to help you decide:
- College Requirements. Before anything else, check with the colleges you’re applying to. While most schools will not require the ACT Science section now that it’s optional, some may still recommend or require it, especially for STEM majors or competitive programs. Be sure to look at admissions websites or contact admissions offices directly to clarify.
- Your Strengths as a Test-Taker. If you’re strong in interpreting graphs, reading charts, spotting patterns, and working with data, the Science section could be a hidden advantage. Many students actually do better on ACT Science than they expect, especially those who are visually inclined or have strong critical thinking skills. If you’ve taken practice ACTs and consistently score well in Science and your Science score is pulling up your overall composite, then it may be worth keeping this section in your test lineup.
- Time and Test Fatigue. Removing the Science section shortens the test by about 35 minutes. If you struggle with test fatigue or time management, skipping it could help you focus more energy on the other three core sections. Just be sure that skipping it doesn’t hurt your college applications.
What’s Actually Tested on ACT Science?
Despite the name, the Science section is not a test of science knowledge. You won’t be quizzed on cell structures or chemical formulas. Instead, the section focuses on how well you can:
- Interpret data from charts and graphs
- Analyze experimental designs
- Evaluate conflicting scientific viewpoints
Everything you need to answer the questions is provided in the passage itself. So even if you haven’t taken advanced science classes, students with strong reading and reasoning skills can still excel. In fact, many educators suggest thinking of this section more like a critical thinking and data interpretation exercise than a science quiz.
How Should You Prepare?
Success on the ACT Science section comes down to strategy. Top scorers learn to work efficiently, especially under time pressure (you’ll only have 35 minutes to get through 40 questions). Focus on building your ability to scan visuals quickly, identify the main point of an experiment or argument, and eliminate obviously wrong answers. Many questions can be answered by simply understanding a trend in a graph or the setup of a basic experiment (e.g variables and control groups). Timed practice is key. As you build familiarity with the format, you’ll also improve your pacing, a skill that is critical for this particular test.
Here is a simple and effective test prep routine if you decide to include the ACT Science in your testing plan:
- Practice 1–2 passages per day during the week to build familiarity and accuracy.
- Take one full Science section each weekend under timed conditions to simulate test day.
- Review missed questions carefully, and identify whether your errors are related to data interpretation, experiment analysis, or conflicting viewpoints.
As your confidence and speed improve, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of this section, transforming it into a strength rather than a stressor.
How A+ Can Help
The ACT Science section may no longer be required, but for many students, it’s still worth taking. It’s an efficient way to demonstrate critical thinking, data literacy, and analytical skills, which are qualities that are highly valued, especially in STEM fields. Before you decide to skip it, ask yourself: Could this section actually help me stand out? If the answer is “yes”—or even “maybe”—it’s worth putting in the time to prepare. After all, in a competitive admissions landscape, every edge counts. Whatever you decide, our expert tutors personalized ACT prep tutoring that will help you maximize your potential. Reach out today for one-on-one support, practice resources, and smart strategies that can boost your score and your confidence.
At A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, our practices are based on the latest developments in educational theory and research. We have an excellent team of tutors who can help you with standardized testing, executive functioning, or achievement in any other school subject. If you want to find out more about our services, contact us here.
0 Comments