Yes, students can absolutely still take the ACT Optional Science section, though its status has changed significantly with the recent ACT enhancements. This article provides a clear explanation of the current state of the ACT Science section and the practical steps for taking it.
The New ACT Format: Understanding the Change #
The ACT exam is undergoing major structural changes. Starting from April 2025 for students in the United States and September 2025 for international test-takers, the traditional four-section ACT structure is being revamped. Under the new format, only three sections remain mandatory: English, Math, and Reading. The Science section, which was previously a core component of the ACT, has been reclassified as an optional section.
This represents a fundamental shift in the ACT’s structure. For decades, the Science section was an inseparable part of the ACT experience. Now, students have a choice about whether to include this section in their testing journey.
Yes, Students Can Still Take the ACT Science Section #
Despite its new optional status, the ACT Science section remains fully available to all students who wish to take it. The simple answer is yes – any student who wants to take the Science section can still do so. The difference is that now you need to actively choose this option during registration rather than having it automatically included.
Registration Process for the Optional ACT Science Section #
Taking the ACT Science section requires a deliberate choice during the registration process. Here’s how to register for it:
- Begin the standard ACT registration process on the official ACT website
- Complete your personal information and select your test date
- When you reach the section about “Optional Test Components,” look for the Science section option
- Select the checkbox or option to add the Science section to your exam
- Note that this selection will add an additional fee of $4 for national test-takers
- Complete the rest of your registration and payment
The registration interface makes it clear when you’re adding the optional Science section. The additional $4 fee is relatively minimal compared to the base test fee, making it an accessible option for most students.
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What Happens on Test Day When Taking the Optional Science Section? #
The test day experience has been restructured to accommodate the new optional sections. Here’s what to expect if you’ve registered for the Science section:
- You’ll arrive at the test center at the designated time
- All students will first take the three mandatory sections (English, Math, and Reading)
- After these three sections are completed, students who didn’t register for any optional sections will be dismissed from the testing room
- If you registered for the Science section, you’ll remain seated
- Testing administrators will provide a short break for remaining students to stretch and refresh
- After this brief break, you’ll return to your seat
- Proctors will then distribute and administer the Science section
- You’ll complete the 40-minute Science section
- After completion, you’ll be dismissed from the testing center
This new structure creates a more flexible testing day. Students taking only the mandatory sections will finish earlier, while those taking the Science section will have a short break before continuing with their additional testing component.
Format and Structure of the Optional Science Section #
The optional Science section in the enhanced ACT maintains much of its traditional format:
- It contains 40 questions to be completed in 40 minutes
- This creates a precise ratio of one minute per question
- The content follows the familiar ACT Science format with data representation, research summaries, and conflicting viewpoints
- Questions test your ability to interpret scientific data and reasoning, not your scientific knowledge
Scoring of the Optional Science Section #
The scoring mechanism for the Science section remains consistent with past versions:
- The Science section is scored on the standard ACT scale of 1-36 in one-point increments
- Your score report will clearly indicate your performance on this optional section
- An important distinction: your Science score will NOT be included in your ACT composite score under the new enhancement model
- The composite score will be calculated solely from the three mandatory sections (English, Math, and Reading)
This represents a significant change from the traditional ACT, where the composite was an average of all four sections including Science.
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Summary: The Process for Taking the ACT Science Section #
To summarize the process for taking the ACT Science section under the new format:
- Decide: Determine whether you want to take the optional Science section
- Register: Select the Science section option during ACT registration and pay the additional $4 fee
- Test Day: Take the three mandatory sections, remain in the testing room during the dismissal of other students, take a short break, and then complete the Science section
- Scoring: Receive a separate 1-36 score for your Science section performance (not included in your composite score)
Conclusion #
While the ACT Science section has transitioned from mandatory to optional, it remains fully accessible to all students who wish to take it. The process for including it in your ACT testing experience is straightforward – simply select it during registration, pay the small additional fee, and stay for the extra testing time on exam day.
The key takeaway is that the Science section still exists as part of the ACT ecosystem. It has just moved from being an automatic component to one that requires an active choice. Students who want to take it can do so with minimal additional cost and a clear process on test day.
For students with specific questions about the Science section registration process, the official ACT website provides detailed information, or you can contact ACT customer service directly for clarification about any aspect of the optional Science section.
FAQ about Registering for the ACT Optional Science Section #
- Is the ACT Science section completely eliminated from the ACT?
No, the ACT Science section still exists but has been reclassified as an optional section starting April 2025 for US test-takers and September 2025 for international students. - How much extra does it cost to take the optional ACT Science section?
Taking the optional ACT Science section costs an additional $4 for national test-takers, which is added to your base ACT registration fee. - What happens if I decide not to take the ACT Optional Science section?
If you don’t register for the Science section, you’ll be dismissed from the testing center after completing the three mandatory sections (English, Math, and Reading). - How many questions are on the ACT Optional Science section and how much time is allowed?
The ACT Optional Science section contains 40 questions to be completed in 40 minutes, maintaining the one-minute-per-question pace of the traditional format. - Will my ACT Science score be included in my composite score?
No, under the new ACT format, scores from the optional Science section will NOT be included in your composite score, which will be calculated solely from the three mandatory sections. - Can I change my mind about taking the ACT Science section after I’ve registered?
You should check the ACT website for their specific policy on changes, but generally, the decision to take optional sections must be made during initial registration, with limited options for changes afterward.
