The enhanced ACT is shorter and gives more time per question, and Science no longer pulls the Composite down—but the remaining items are still college-ready work, and a 30 is still a 30. Easier pacing is not the same as an easier scale. Compare yourself to today's testers, not to a 2023 paper.
More seconds per question
English dropped from 75 items in 45 minutes to 50 in 35. Math went from 60 in 60 to 45 in 50, with four answer choices. Reading is 36 questions in 40 minutes and no longer uses paired passages. Those clocks are less brutal. Details: time per question, how long is the ACT.
Fewer items, same skills
ACT removed some items that added little information. The remaining grammar, algebra, and reading tasks still reward accuracy under time. Students who were already accurate but slow often gain. Students who guessed through content holes do not suddenly know comma rules.
Science left the Composite
If Science was your lowest section, your Composite can look higher without that fourth number. If Science was your highest, you lost a boost unless a college still wants the STEM score. Is Science optional. Engineering and Science.
Scores are equated
ACT equates forms so that a 28 is meant to mean similar achievement across dates. Do not assume a 2026 30 is "cheaper" than a 2024 30. Colleges know which version you took. Prep for the test in front of you: best ACT prep 2026.
The bottom line
The enhanced ACT is kinder on the clock and lets you drop Science from the average. It is not a different, easier curriculum. Train the current format and ignore internet claims that "everyone gets a 32 now." Same section scores, two Composites: legacy vs enhanced Composite.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.