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Enhanced ACT vs. Digital SAT 2025: What Students Need to Know Now
- Sapneil Parikh
- Aug 18
- 3 min read
In 2025, major updates to both the ACT and SAT are reshaping how students approach college admissions. With the Enhanced ACT launching in April and the Digital SAT already in place since 2024, understanding the differences between these two college entrance exams is more important than ever.
If you're preparing for college, here's what you need to know about these redesigned standardized tests, their formats, and how they impact your test prep strategy.
What Is the Enhanced ACT in 2025?
The ACT test format is getting a serious upgrade. Beginning in April 2025, the Enhanced ACT will debut as a more streamlined and flexible version of the traditional exam.
Key Features of the New ACT Format:
Online and Paper Options:
Digital version rolls out nationally in April 2025
Paper-and-pencil version adopts changes starting in September 2025
Shorter Structure:
Focused on three core sections: English, Math, and Reading
The Science section becomes optional, a big shift in ACT content
ACT Scoring Changes:
Composite score is now an average of English, Math, and Reading
If taken, the optional Science score is reported separately and doesn’t affect the composite
Availability Timeline:
National test dates adopt the Enhanced ACT starting in spring 2025
School-day ACT testing updates by spring 2026
Inside the Digital SAT 2025 Format
The Digital SAT, fully launched in 2024, is a streamlined, adaptive version of the old paper test—designed to offer a more modern and personalized experience.
Key Digital SAT Features:
Fully Computer-Based:
The entire test is taken digitally
Total test time is about 2 hours
Multistage Adaptive Design:
Questions adjust in difficulty based on previous responses
Helps reduce student stress and personalize the experience
Content Breakdown:
Only two sections:
Reading and Writing (combined)
Math
Each section contains two modules with varied difficulty levels
SAT Scoring Format:
Uses the familiar 1600-point scale
Combines scores from Reading/Writing and Math
This adaptive SAT format is one of the most significant shifts in the history of the exam.
Digital SAT vs. Enhanced ACT: What’s the Difference?
If you're comparing SAT vs. ACT for 2025, here’s a snapshot of how they stack up:
ACT vs. SAT: Which Is Right for You in 2025?
Still unsure whether to take the Enhanced ACT or the Digital SAT? Consider your strengths and preferences:
Prefer traditional test formats? The ACT is less adaptive and offers a paper version.
Good at science? Take advantage of the optional Science section on the ACT.
Want a faster, adaptive test experience? The SAT may be a better fit with its multistage adaptive design.
Strong in reading and math, but not science? The SAT’s two-section focus might play to your strengths.
And remember, many colleges still accept either test for admissions, and some remain test-optional. But submitting strong scores can improve your chances, especially for competitive programs and scholarships.
Final Testing Tips for Students in 2025
Take both practice tests: Identify which format you're more comfortable with.
Focus on preparation: Use official tools from ACT.org and College Board for the most accurate practice.
Check college requirements: Some colleges may prefer one test over the other or recommend the Science section on the ACT.
Keep up with changes: Both tests are evolving, so monitor official websites for testing policy updates.
Whether you choose the Digital SAT or the Enhanced ACT, your goal is the same: show colleges you're ready. Pick the test that plays to your strengths, prep smart, and go in with confidence.
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