Complete Guide to the ACT Exam Syllabus 2025: Topics, Weightage, and Preparation Tips

Latest updates:

The upcoming ACT dates for 2025 are as follows:​

• April 5, 2025: Registration deadline is February 28, with late registration available until March 16. 
• June 14, 2025: Registration deadline is May 9, with late registration available until May 27.​
• July 12, 2025: Registration deadline is June 6, with late registration available until June 20.

​The ACT (American College Test) is a significant assessment for students aspiring to pursue higher education, particularly in the United States. With more Indian learners applying to U.S. universities each year, understanding the ACT exam syllabus for 2025 is critical for structured and confident preparation. 

The exam's main sections are English, Math, and Reading, and the optional include science and writing, with each testing specific skills. The ACT consists of 172 questions (including the optional ones) and has a total time limit of 3 hours 25 minutes. If you opt out of the Science and Writing sections, the duration is reduced to 2 hours 5 minutes. 

In this guide, you’ll explore the ACT exam syllabus for 2025 in-depth, with section-wise topics, weightage, question formats, and smart preparation strategies to help you make the most of your study time.

ACT Exam Syllabus 2025: An Overview

The ACT exam syllabus for 2025 brings several key updates aimed at improving the test-taking experience. With 44 fewer questions than before in all, the exam is now shorter, allowing students to receive their composite score in just 125 minutes — down from 195 minutes.

The ACT now offers more time per question, allowing students to showcase their skills better. Additionally, the number of answer choices in math questions has been reduced from five to four, simplifying decision-making. 

A major update is the option to choose whether to include the Science section, providing greater flexibility based on individual strengths and college requirements. These updates simplify the exam, helping students confidently approach the test.

Here's an overview of the ACT Exam details for 2025:

Component	Details
Total Duration	2 hours 05 minutes  3 hours 25 minutes if taking the Writing and Science section
Sections	3 mandatory sections: English, Math, Reading 2 optional sections: Science and Writing
Total Questions	172 questions: English: 50 questions  Mathematics: 45 questions  Reading: 36 questions  Science: 40 questions Writing: 1 essay
Scoring Range	Composite score and each test score (English, mathematics, reading, science) range from 1 (low) to 36 (high) A single subject-level writing score will be reported on a range of 2-12
Breaks	A 15-minute break after the Math section; A 5-minute break before the Writing section (if applicable)
Registration Fee	ACT (No Science & Writing section): $65 (INR 5.5K) Science Add-On Fee: $4 (INR 342) Writing Add-On Fee: $25 (INR 2.1K)

Note: All income values are in $, with approximate conversions to INR based on exchange rates.

The option to take the ACT with or without science is only available with online testing during the April, June, and July 2025 test dates. Science will be included as part of the testing experience when taking a paper test.

Also Read: ACT Registration 2025: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the Exam

The ACT exam syllabus is structured to evaluate a student's strengths across academic skills, helping colleges make informed admissions decisions. 

Now, let's have a look at a detailed breakdown of the ACT exam syllabus 2025, organized by subject.

ACT Subject-Wise Syllabus Breakdown for 2025

The ACT Exam is designed to evaluate a student's readiness for college by testing their knowledge and skills across three key areas: English, Mathematics, and Reading. 

An optional Science, particularly for US students and Writing section is also available for students who wish to further demonstrate their scientific, writing, and reasoning skills. 

Below is a breakdown of the subjects and other details:

Section	Number of Questions	Key Areas Tested
English	50	Grammar, Usage, Rhetorical Skills
Mathematics	45	Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry
Reading	36	Reading Comprehension, Analysis, Interpretation
Science (Student Choice)	40	Scientific Analysis, Interpretation, Problem-Solving
Writing (Student Choice)	1 essay	Writing Skills, Argument Analysis

Each section assesses a student's preparedness in specific academic areas. The inclusion of an optional Writing section allows students to demonstrate their writing and analytical skills.

Now that you understand the overall syllabus, let’s look at the English section in the next part.

ACT English Section Syllabus

The ACT English test consisting of 50 questions, focuses primarily on Grammar and Usage as well as Rhetorical Skills. It tests your ability to recognize and correct errors in sentence structure, punctuation, and grammar. 

Additionally, it assesses how well you can organize and structure ideas effectively. Key areas to focus on include:

• Grammar and Usage (Subject-verb agreement, Pronouns, Adjectives, Adverbs, etc.)
• Rhetorical Skills (Organization, Style, Clarity)
• Punctuation (Commas, Semicolons, Periods, etc.)
• Sentence Structure (Parallel Structure, Clarity of Expression)

Here’s the topic-wise weightage to help you understand better:

Aspects	Weightage
Production of Writing	(29-32%)
Knowledge of Language	(15-17%)
Conventions of Standard English	(52-55%)

Understanding these areas will allow students to excel in the English section of the ACT, ensuring they can efficiently identify and correct errors while also effectively communicating ideas.

Next, let's start with Mathematics and explore the focus areas you can expect.

ACT Math Section Syllabus

The Mathematics section of the ACT consists of 45 questions and evaluates your understanding of Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. It tests your ability to solve mathematical problems and apply concepts to real-world scenarios. 

Focus areas include:

• Algebra (Linear Equations, Systems of Equations, Polynomials)
• Geometry (Angles, Circles, Coordinate Geometry, Volume)
• Trigonometry (Trigonometric Ratios, Functions, Graphs)
• Statistics and Probability (Data Interpretation, Mean, Median, Mode)

Here’s the topic-wise weightage to help you understand better:

Aspects	Weightage
Preparing for higher math	(57-60%) Number & Quantity (7–10%) Algebra (12–15%) Functions (12–15%) Geometry (12–15%) Statistics & Probability (8–12%)
Integrating essential skills	(40-43%)

Note: Calculators are allowed for all math questions on the ACT.

Optional Tip for Indian Audience: Since ACT Math includes topics covered in Indian boards (CBSE/ICSE), Indian students often perform well in this section with focused practice.

Also Read: ACT Math Tips for Aspirants

Now, let’s move on to the Reading section.

ACT Reading Section Syllabus

The ACT Reading test, which has 36 questions, assesses your ability to interpret and analyze reading material. You will be provided with four reading passages, each followed by a series of questions that evaluate comprehension, critical thinking, and the ability to make inferences based on the material.

Key areas of focus include:

• Comprehension (Identifying main ideas, supporting details)
• Critical Thinking (Understanding implications, evaluating tone)
• Inference (Drawing conclusions, making connections)

Here’s the weightage of key focus to help you understand better:

Topic	Weightage
Key ideas and details	(52-60%)
Craft and structure	(25-30%)
Integration of knowledge and ideas	(13-23%)

Effective preparation for this section requires regular reading practice, as well as honing your ability to analyze and critique texts quickly.

Next, let’s see the concepts tested in the science section.

ACT Science Section Syllabus

The science section, being a student choice with 40 questions, tests your skills in scientific reasoning and data analysis. You'll be tasked with interpreting experiments, understanding scientific data, and analyzing hypotheses.

It’s not a test of specific scientific knowledge but rather your ability to evaluate and apply scientific concepts. Key areas to focus on include:

• Interpreting Data (Graphs, Tables, and Charts)
• Scientific Method (Hypothesis, Experimentation, Conclusion)
• Problem-solving (Applying concepts to new scenarios)

Here’s the weightage of key focus to help you understand better:

Topic	Weightage
Interpretation of data	(40-50%)
Scientific investigation	(20-30%)
Evaluation of Models, inferences, and experimental results	(25-35%)

To succeed, students must become proficient in analyzing scientific data and applying critical thinking to solve complex problems.

At last, here’s what you need to focus on under the writing section.

ACT Writing Section Syllabus (Optional)

The ACT’s Writing test assesses your ability to analyze an issue and present a clear, well-structured argument. You are given a prompt with multiple perspectives on an issue and are required to develop your viewpoint, supporting it with logical reasoning and evidence.

Your essay will be assessed based on how well you:

• Clearly express your viewpoint on the issue and examine how it relates to at least one other perspective
• Develop and back up your ideas with solid reasoning and relevant examples
• Organize your thoughts in a clear and logical manner
• Communicate your ideas effectively using proper written English

While optional, excelling in the Writing section can strengthen your application, especially for schools that prioritize strong writing skills. Students can ensure they are thoroughly prepared for the 2025 ACT Exam by focusing on key areas and using available study resources.

Now that you have a complete understanding of the ACT exam syllabus 2025, let’s discuss the ACT exam pattern for 2025.

What Is the ACT Exam Pattern for 2025?

Starting in April 2025, students taking the ACT online in the U.S. will experience a refined format. The test will be shorter, with the option to exclude the Science section, offering greater flexibility. This change applies to both U.S. and international test-takers. 

The revised format maintains the test’s reliability while providing students with more control over the sections they choose to take.

These changes will also apply to the paper-pencil version from September 2025. The Composite score will focus on English, Math, and Reading, with Science scores reported separately for those who choose to take it.

Below is a breakdown of the enhanced ACT exam syllabus pattern:

Section	Number of Questions	Duration	Mandatory / Optional
English	50	35 minutes	Mandatory
Mathematics	45	50 minutes	Mandatory
Reading	36	40 minutes	Mandatory
Science (Student Choice)	40	40 minutes	Optional (only with online testing during the April, June, and July 2025)
Writing (Student Choice)	1 essay	40 minutes	Optional

Note: The essay is optional but may be required by some universities, especially competitive ones.

Also Read: Cracking the ACT exam pattern.

With the ACT exam pattern, understanding how your score is calculated is essential for setting realistic goals and improving your performance. 

Here's a detailed look at the scoring process!

ACT Exam Scoring System: How Is Your Score Calculated?

Your ACT score plays a crucial role in your college application, but what's considered a “good” score varies depending on your goals and the schools you're applying to.

Though scores change year to year, the standard for a “good” score is determined by the selectivity and academic rigor of the college. For instance, highly competitive Ivy League schools may expect scores in the 30s, while smaller or less competitive institutions might find scores in the mid-20s sufficient.

For context, Harvard University’s average admitted student score is 34, while the University of Massachusetts Boston’s average is 23.

Understanding how your ACT score is calculated is key to preparing effectively for the exam. The ACT uses a complex system to assess a student’s performance across multiple subjects. 

Here’s a breakdown of how your score is determined:

ACT Composite Score

The ACT Composite score is the average of the four section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science). This score ranges from 1 to 36.

Each section is scored separately on a scale of 1 to 36, and the average of these section scores is rounded to the nearest whole number to calculate your Composite score.

For example, if your section scores are:

• English: 30
• Math: 28
• Reading: 32
• Science: 29

Your composite score will be the average of these, i.e., (30 + 28 + 32 + 29) / 4 = 29.75, rounded to 30.

Here’s a quick summary of the ACT composite scores:

Section	Score Range	Weight in Composite
English	1 - 36	25%
Mathematics	1 - 36	25%
Reading	1 - 36	25%
Science (Optional)	1 - 36	25%

ACT Writing Score (Optional)

If you take the writing section, your essay is scored on a scale of 2 to 12 by two trained readers. The writing score is reported separately and does not affect the composite score.

The score breakdown for writing includes the following:

• Ideas and Analysis: How well you analyze and develop the topic.
• Organization and Clarity: How clearly your ideas are organized and expressed.
• Language Use and Conventions: Your ability to use language accurately and effectively.

How Scores Are Calculated?

For the multiple-choice sections, the ACT uses a raw score (the number of correct answers), which is then converted into a scaled score. Scaled Scores account for variations in difficulty between different versions of the ACT, ensuring fairness.

• For example, if you answer 45 questions correctly in the Math section, your raw score might be 45, but depending on the test's difficulty, this will be converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
• The ACT offers two types of score reports:
  1. National Percentile Rank: This compares your score to other test-takers and shows where you stand in the national pool. For instance, a score in the 90th percentile means you scored higher than 90% of test-takers.
  2. Subject Percentiles: This shows how well you performed in each section compared to others.

Thus, ACT’s comprehensive scoring system gives a complete picture of your abilities, allowing colleges to gauge your readiness across several areas of academic strength.

Also Read: How to Send ACT Scores to Colleges?

Effective time management is crucial for success on the ACT, as each section comes with its own set of challenges and time constraints. 

Let’s explore how you can manage your time efficiently during the exam!

Time Management for ACT Exam 2025

​To have sufficient preparation time, effective time management is crucial for achieving a high score on the ACT Exam 2025, given its rigid structure and time constraints. Each section demands strategic planning to maximize performance.​

A study by ACT found that students who prepared for over 20 hours between their first and second ACT attempts saw an average composite score increase of approximately 0.7 points compared to those who prepared for 3-6 hours.

Let’s look at some of the quick time management strategies: 

1. Prioritize Questions by Difficulty

Quickly skim through each section to identify easy, medium, and difficult questions.

• Tackle easy questions first to secure quick points.
• Allocate more time to medium and complex questions, but avoid spending excessive time on any single question.​
• If a question proves challenging, move on and return to it later if time permits.

2. Use Practice Tests Under Timed Conditions

Take full-length, timed ACT practice tests at least once a week. Track your performance, focusing on sections where you struggle with time or accuracy, and work to improve both speed and precision.

This will make you familiar with structure, types of questions, and will allow for quicker comprehension and response during the actual exam. ​

3. Wear a Traditional Watch

Use an analog watch to monitor time discreetly during the exam.​ Regularly check the time to ensure you are adhering to your pacing strategy. ​

4. Allocate Time for Guessing

Since there's no penalty for incorrect answers, ensure you answer every question. Reserve the last 30 seconds of each section to fill in any unanswered questions, even if it means guessing. ​

5. Use the Process of Elimination

For difficult questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers to increase the probability of selecting the correct one.​ This strategy saves time and improves accuracy.

6. Stay Calm and Focused 

Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises before and during the test to manage anxiety. These techniques help you stay focused, control nervousness, and improve time management during the exam.

By implementing these time management strategies, you can approach the ACT Exam 2025 more confidently and efficiently, ultimately enhancing your performance.

Along with these strategies, here are some quick, actionable tips to help you perform at your best!

Tips to Score High on the ACT Exam in 2025

Achieving a high score on the ACT Exam in 2025 demands strategic preparation adapted to the test's unique structure.  Here are some practical, actionable tips to help you enhance your performance:

• Prioritize High-Impact Study Areas: Students often lose points on basic grammar and punctuation. Grasping these can lead to quick gains. Common pitfalls include misplaced modifiers and comma splices. 

Emphasize algebra and geometry, which constitute a substantial portion of the questions. Regular practice with these topics can lead to score improvements.

• Official ACT Resources: Utilize materials developed by the test creators for authentic practice.​ These resources offer nine full-length practice tests and over 400 digital flashcards, providing a comprehensive review aligned with the exam. ​
• Simulate Real Testing Conditions: Completing full-length, weekly practice tests helps build endurance and familiarity with the test's pacing. This approach can reduce anxiety and improve time management on test day. ​
• Develop a Strategic Guessing Strategy: Since there's no penalty for incorrect answers, attempt every question. Use the Process of Elimination (POE) to increase the likelihood of selecting the correct answer. 

For example, if you're unsure about a math question, eliminate incorrect answers first, then narrow down the options, increasing your chances of guessing correctly.

• Maintain Consistent Study Habits: Regular, focused study sessions yield better results than cramming. Establish a study routine that includes regular sessions, balancing all test sections.
• Prioritize Rest and Well-being: Ensure adequate sleep and proper nutrition leading up to the exam. Well-rested individuals tend to have better focus and decision-making abilities during the test.​

By implementing these targeted strategies, you can enhance your ACT preparation, improve performance, and increase confidence on exam day.

Also Read: ACT Tips For Better Grades and a Better Chance to Reach Your Dream College

Next, let’s break down some of the prep struggles for ACT and how you can tackle them effectively.

Common ACT Exam Prep Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Preparing for the ACT is a demanding process, and many students encounter obstacles. Factors such as time management, study habits, and test anxiety can all affect how well you perform on exam day. Overcoming these hurdles requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of the exam's demands. 

Let’s explore some common challenges you may encounter while preparing for the ACT and offer effective ways to overcome them.

1. Overemphasis on Test Preparation at the Expense of Regular Coursework

Focusing too heavily on test prep can lead to neglecting regular academic work, which is crucial for ACT success.​

A study by the University of Chicago found that schools, where teachers dedicated significant time to ACT prep saw slightly lower ACT scores. This suggests that overemphasizing test prep might detract from essential learning. 

• Approach: Balance test preparation with ongoing coursework. Ensure that daily studies reinforce the skills assessed by the ACT, maintaining a comprehensive academic focus.​

2. Balancing ACT Prep with Board Exams or CUET Preparation

Indian students often balance ACT prep with board exams or CUET preparation, making time management critical. For instance, a student preparing for both the ACT and 12th-grade board exams can struggle with allocating time for each.

• Approach: Create a schedule that dedicates specific times to both ACT prep and board exam studies, using overlapping subjects like math for efficient learning.

3. Test Anxiety and Stress

High levels of stress can impair performance, making it difficult to focus and recall information. Test anxiety affects a significant number of students, leading to decreased performance.

• Approach: Employ relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness. Simulate test-day conditions during practice to build familiarity and reduce anxiety on exam day.​

In India, students can also explore mental health apps like Mindhouse or Headspace for stress management and mindfulness exercises.

4. Overreliance on Last-Minute Intensive Test Prep

Cramming or relying solely on intensive test prep sessions can be counterproductive.​ Intensive test prep during class time has been linked to lower ACT scores, possibly due to disrupted regular learning.

• Approach: Integrate test prep into your regular study routine over an extended period. Focus on understanding core concepts rather than memorization.​

5. Inconsistent or Ineffective Study Habits

Without a structured study plan, preparation can be disorganized, leading to gaps in knowledge.​ A lack of structured preparation can result in uneven performance across different ACT sections.​

• Approach: Develop a weekly study schedule that allocates time to each ACT section based on individual strengths and weaknesses. Use trackers to track your time. Incorporate a mix of study methods, including practice tests, review sessions, and group studies. ​

By recognizing these challenges and implementing the suggested approaches, students can enhance their ACT preparation, improving performance and reducing stress.

Now, let’s see how you can prepare effectively for the 2025 ACT.

ACT Exam Preparation Strategy

To prepare effectively for the ACT, build a structured study plan using trusted resources like the official ACT prep guide and online practice tests. 

Focus on using high-quality study materials, such as subject-specific books and interactive lessons, while also incorporating time management strategies during your practice sessions.

Below are key strategies to help you prepare effectively:

Best Books & Online Resources for ACT

Effective preparation requires quality resources. Below are some top books and online courses that can help you prepare efficiently:

• The Official ACT Prep Guide 2025: It includes real test questions and full-length practice tests, making it the most authentic resource from the test makers.
• Official ACT Website: Includes official practice questions, study guides, and the option to take a diagnostic test. You can also access online courses and webinars.

Section-Wise Preparation Tips

Success in the ACT depends on strategic section-wise preparation. Strengthening the subjects with targeted practice ensures a well-rounded performance.

Below are practical section-wise preparation tips:

ACT English Section:

• Study commonly tested grammar rules (e.g., subject-verb agreement, pronouns, and punctuation).
• Practice writing clear, concise sentences.
• Take at least 10 practice tests to get comfortable with the pacing and question types.
• Focus on grammar rules like punctuation, modifiers, and sentence structure. Regularly review your practice test errors to spot recurring patterns and improve accuracy.

ACT Math Section:

• Review core topics like algebra, coordinate geometry, and functions. Memorize essential formulas (e.g., Pythagorean Theorem, slope-intercept form).
• Spend time solving word problems, often requiring applying formulas to real-world situations.
• Practice mental math to speed up simple calculations during the test.
• Take practice tests to focus on timing, aiming for accuracy in solving problems quickly.

ACT Reading Section:

• Read various texts (fiction, non-fiction, social sciences) to become comfortable with different writing styles.
• Focus on finding key ideas quickly and understanding context.
• Practice skimming passages for key ideas and main arguments, focusing on understanding the overall message rather than getting caught up in unfamiliar vocabulary or complex phrases.
• Time yourself to ensure you can complete all questions within the 35-minute time limit.

ACT Science Section:

• Focus on interpreting graphs, charts, and tables, as these are heavily tested.
• Practice analyzing scientific experiments, understanding hypotheses, and drawing conclusions from provided data.
• Get comfortable with scientific reasoning, even if you aren’t familiar with all the specific scientific concepts.
• Take timed practice tests to refine your speed in answering questions.

ACT Writing Section:

• Practice writing essays on a variety of topics, ensuring you can structure your essay logically.
• Focus on building strong arguments and supporting your ideas with evidence.
• Time yourself to complete an essay in 40 minutes, and review your writing for clarity and coherence.
• Familiarize yourself with the scoring rubric to understand what graders are looking for in your essay.

Ultimately, aim to study 10-15 hours per week over 2-3 months. Break this into 4-5 weekly study sessions, dedicating focused time to each section.

By following these strategies, you can approach the ACT with confidence, ensuring you are well-prepared for each section.

How Can upGrad Help You Excel in ACT 2025?

To excel on the ACT, you need a specialized approach that focuses on your strengths and areas for improvement. upGrad’s personalized study plans, expert-led lessons, and practice tests are designed to guide you through every step of your preparation. 

With 1:1 doubt resolution, targeted practice, and detailed progress tracking, upGrad ensures you're fully equipped to achieve your best score in the 2025 ACT exam.

Here’s how upGrad supports your ACT success:

• Expert-Guided Lessons: Learn every section with help from experienced ACT instructors who simplify tricky topics like trigonometry and grammar rules.
• Targeted Concept Building: Strengthen your skills across algebra, reading comprehension, and scientific reasoning through structured lessons and drills.
• Custom Study Plans: Your study schedule is built using mock test insights, so you invest more time in the areas that matter most.
• Realistic Mock Tests: Take full-length ACT-style practice exams with detailed score reports to track your improvement.

Stuck on a problem? Book your one-on-one doubt-resolution sessions with upGrad, clarify difficult concepts with experts, and ensure you're always moving forward in your preparation!