The ACT announced in the latter part of 2019 that they will start allowing students to retake individual sections of the ACT beginning October to help improve their score. This opportunity will be beneficial for students that are going to be eligible to test after this goes into effect, but not for those that are currently seniors or already graduated. This is an adjustment for all, and although those that will be able to take advantage of this change agree that it is for the better, there are some that are in opposition after the announcement. Being able to now retake sections of the ACT that individuals desire to increase their score in is inevitably going to be something that will affect more than just test takers.

The college-readiness test is comprised of 4 sections: subpart I which is English at a duration of 45 minutes for 75 questions, subpart II which is Math at a duration of 60 minutes for 60 questions, subpart III at a duration of 35 minutes for 40 questions, and the fourth and final subpart which is mathematics at a duration of 35 minutes for 40 questions. Upon completion of the ACT, test takers have to wait up to 8 weeks to receive their composite scores back. These composites come from the total of all 4 scores attained on each subpart which are then averaged. Students are now questioning this process of scoring after the new rule goes into effect. Will colleges change their requirements for scholarships? Will a 28 still the magic number that most try and meet as their goal? Many believe that the game will change after this new method of testing is introduced, but until Fall 2020 students will test as normal while their anticipation continues to grow. 

There are a few stipulations that need to be understood before one thinks that they will be able to take part in this change. First off, an additional fee will be asked of students who want to retake their desired subpart. This will not matter, however, before they have taken the test at least one time in full. This is to ensure they are familiar with the material that is being presented on the ACT and to give them the opportunity to have 4 subpart scores to pick from when choosing which one they wish to retake and improve. There is hope that students will be able to benefit from this change and as we all want to see ACT testing standards be made easier, this is unfortunately not the outcome that it is bringing. 

Mary Michael Pontzer, ACT’s Vice President, stated, “the changes are meant to better serve students and spare them unnecessary time taking tests.” Once October arrives students that have intentions to take further tests will be able to experience the change and the truth will then be revealed. Whether students will find themselves testing more effectively after this is put into place or not will be for each individual to decide. Regardless, the ACT will continue to stand as the focal point of all tests so understand this and the change could be in your favor.