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Discover the major changes coming to the ACT college admissions test in 2024. Learn about the shorter test format, optional science section, fewer questions, and how these updates compare to the SAT. Stay informed on how these modifications could impact your college application process.
Big Changes Announced for the ACT College Admissions Test: What’s Different?
The ACT college admissions test, a critical component for many students applying to universities in the United States, is set to undergo significant changes. The ACT organization announced this week that the test will be shortened for some test-takers starting as early as next year. These changes include fewer questions and a reduction in test duration by up to an hour from the typical three-hour length. This article will delve into the specifics of these modifications, the reasons behind them, and the potential impact on students and colleges.
Key Modifications to the ACT
The ACT is renowned for its comprehensive evaluation of students’ readiness for college through sections in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science, along with an optional Writing section. However, starting next year, the test will be streamlined significantly:
Shortened Reading Passages
One of the most notable changes is the reduction in the length of reading passages. Traditionally, the reading section has been known for its lengthy and sometimes challenging passages, which test students’ comprehension and analytical skills. The new format will feature shorter passages, making the section less time-consuming and potentially less daunting for students.
Fewer Questions
To further reduce the overall test duration, the number of questions in the reading and English sections will be cut by 44. This reduction will help in decreasing the length of the exam, providing a less strenuous testing experience. The streamlined format aims to maintain the test’s integrity while making it more accessible and less exhausting for test-takers.
Optional Science Section
Perhaps the most significant change is the optional nature of the Science section. Previously a mandatory component, the Science section has been challenging for many students. The decision to make it optional aligns the ACT more closely with the preferences and strengths of individual students, allowing them to focus on areas where they feel most confident.
Context and Comparison with SAT
These changes come in the wake of the pandemic, which has significantly altered the landscape of standardized testing. The SAT, ACT’s main competitor, underwent a major overhaul a few months ago. The College Board, which administers the SAT, shortened its test to two hours and transitioned to a fully online format. This move towards a shorter and more digital exam reflects broader trends in standardized testing aimed at increasing accessibility and reducing stress for students.
Test-Optional Policies
The pandemic also accelerated the adoption of test-optional policies across many universities. Currently, more than 80% of four-year colleges in the U.S. have made submission of ACT or SAT scores optional. This shift questions the long-standing reliance on standardized tests as a primary measure of student ability and readiness for college. Despite this, some selective institutions have reverted to requiring these test scores, indicating a complex and evolving landscape.
Reactions and Implications
Student and Educator Perspectives
The response to the ACT’s announced changes has been mixed. Alyssa Coburn, Chief Learning Officer for the Illinois test prep company Nurturing Wisdom Tutoring, noted that many students find the Science section intimidating. Making it optional could alleviate some of the stress associated with the test, potentially leading to better performance in the remaining sections.
College Admissions Impact
The changes also raise questions about how colleges will perceive the new ACT format. Harry Feder, Executive Director of The National Center for Fair & Open Testing, expressed concerns about the value of the ACT’s test scores in their new, shorter format. The center, which has been critical of the testing industry, believes that the modifications could undermine the test’s credibility.
On the other hand, Michael J. Petrilli, President of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, a conservative think tank, argues that standardized tests remain reliable indicators of student success. He suggests that the ACT’s changes are a strategic move to maintain its competitiveness against the SAT. The rivalry between these two major tests is long-standing, and the recent changes reflect an ongoing effort to adapt to evolving educational environments and student needs.
For-Profit Transition
The announcement of these changes comes shortly after the ACT organization revealed plans to transition to for-profit status following an acquisition by a private equity firm. This decision has sparked debate, with some observers concerned that a for-profit model may not align with the ACT’s mission to support students. However, ACT’s CEO, Godwin, has defended the move as essential for expanding the organization’s reach and resources.
The Future of Standardized Testing
The modifications to the ACT are part of a broader trend of re-evaluating the role and format of standardized tests in college admissions. The pandemic has accelerated changes that might have taken longer to implement otherwise, leading to a rethinking of how student abilities are measured and evaluated.
User-Friendly Testing Experience
The shift towards shorter, more focused tests aims to create a more user-friendly experience for students. By reducing the length and complexity of the test, the ACT hopes to make the exam more accessible without compromising on its ability to assess student readiness for college. This approach reflects an understanding that the testing experience itself can significantly impact student performance and wellbeing.
Digital Transformation
As seen with the SAT’s transition to an entirely online format, the future of standardized testing is likely to become increasingly digital. This move not only makes the administration of tests more efficient but also aligns with the technological advancements and digital literacy of today’s students. The ACT’s decision to allow students to choose between online and in-person formats provides flexibility and caters to diverse preferences.
Emphasis on Holistic Admissions
With the rise of test-optional policies, colleges and universities are placing greater emphasis on holistic admissions processes. This approach considers a wide range of factors, including high school GPA, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. The changes to the ACT and SAT reflect this broader trend towards a more comprehensive evaluation of student potential and fit for college.
Conclusion
The announced changes to the ACT college admissions test mark a significant shift in the standardized testing landscape. By shortening the test, reducing the number of questions, and making the Science section optional, the ACT aims to provide a more manageable and less intimidating experience for students. These modifications come at a time when the role of standardized tests in college admissions is being critically examined, and they reflect broader trends towards flexibility, accessibility, and holistic evaluation.
As colleges and universities adapt to these changes, students will need to stay informed and consider how the new test formats align with their strengths and application strategies. Whether these modifications will enhance the value and relevance of standardized tests in the long run remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly represent a step towards a more student-friendly testing environment.
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