x

Juniors, get started now for the best results!

clayborneUpdated

Navigating Standardized Testing in 2025: SAT vs. New ACT and the Rise of the CLT

Written By: Scott Webster - College Admissions Director

Navigating Standardized Testing in 2025: SAT vs. New ACT and the Rise of the CLT

As the landscape of standardized testing continues to evolve, students and parents must stay informed about the significant changes to the ACT, the SAT, and the growing popularity of alternative exams like the Classic Learning Test (CLT). With new formats, test structures, and optional components, understanding these updates is crucial to making an informed decision about which test to take.

Key Differences Between the SAT and the New ACT

Both the SAT and the ACT have undergone changes to better align with modern testing needs and student preferences. However, they still differ in several key areas, including structure, scoring, and testing options.

1. The ACT’s Major Overhaul in 2025

Starting in April 2025, the ACT will introduce a number of significant changes that will impact students’ test-taking strategies:

  • Shortened Test Duration: The test will be reduced from 3 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 5 minutes, making it about 9 minutes shorter than the SAT.
  • Optional Science Section: Students will have the option to skip the Science section, with the composite score now being based solely on the English, Math, and Reading sections.
  • Fewer Questions: The number of questions has been reduced by 44 overall, allowing students more time per question across all sections.
    • English: Reduced to 50 questions (from 75), with an increase of 6 seconds per question.
    • Math: Reduced to 45 questions (from 60), with 4 answer choices instead of 5.
  • Digital Testing Options: While the ACT will offer an online format, students can still opt for the paper version until September 2025.
  • Score Reporting Changes: The updated ACT will exclude Science from the composite score but still report Science and STEM scores separately.
  • New Online Tools: The digital version will include accessibility features such as color contrast settings, line readers, and a digital calculator.

2. The SAT’s New Digital Format

The SAT transitioned to a fully digital format in 2024, making it more streamlined and user-friendly than its traditional paper-based predecessor. Some key features of the digital SAT include:

  • Shorter Test Time: The SAT is now 2 hours and 14 minutes, slightly longer than the new ACT.
  • Adaptive Format: The digital SAT is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of later questions adjusts based on a student’s performance in earlier sections.
  • Built-in Graphing Calculator: Desmos is now available throughout the Math section, making calculations easier.
  • Shorter Reading Passages: The passages are now brief, with one question per passage, which benefits students who struggle with long reading sections.
  • More Time Per Question: The SAT offers approximately 67% more time per question than the traditional ACT.

3. Choosing Between the SAT and ACT

To decide between the two tests, students should consider the following factors:

Factor SAT ACT (2025)
Test Length 2 hours 14 minutes 2 hours 5 minutes
Science Section Integrated across sections Optional, scored separately
Format Digital only Digital and paper (until Sept 2025)
Math Emphasis 50% of total score 33.3% of total score
Time Per Question More time per question Faster pacing required
Calculator Use Built-in graphing calculator allowed Optional digital calculator

 

Selecting the best-fit standardized test is crucial for college admissions. Consider these key factors to determine whether the SAT or ACT is right for you. (note that these recommendations will likely evolve as we learn more about the specific composition of the new ACT after April 2025)

1. Reading Comprehension

  • Choose the SAT if you prefer shorter passages with single questions and need more time to analyze the text.
  • Choose the ACT if you can handle longer passages with multiple questions faster.

2. Math Skills

  • Choose the SAT if you’re stronger in algebra and data analysis and prefer having a formula reference sheet and a built-in graphing calculator.
  • Choose the ACT if you’re comfortable with a broader range of math topics (geometry, trigonometry) and can recall formulas quickly.

3. Science and Data Interpretation

  • Choose the SAT if you prefer science concepts integrated across sections focusing on logical reasoning.
  • Choose the ACT if you want a dedicated (optional) Science section and enjoy analyzing charts, graphs, and experiments.

4. Test Format and Timing

  • Choose the SAT if you prefer a fully digital, adaptive test with more time per question.
  • Choose the ACT if you want the flexibility between paper and digital formats (until Sept 2025) and can handle a faster-paced test.

5. Personal Preferences

  • If you experience test anxiety, the SAT’s structured format may be less stressful.
  • If you prefer quick decision-making, the ACT’s fast pace might suit you better.
  • Take practice tests for both to see which test feels more intuitive.

 

The Rise of the Classic Learning Test (CLT)

In addition to the SAT and ACT, the Classical Learning Test (CLT) is gaining popularity, particularly in Florida, where some universities have begun accepting CLT scores as an alternative to traditional standardized tests.

The CLT assesses students’ critical thinking and analysis skills through reading and reasoning, drawing inspiration from classical texts. Some reasons why students may consider the CLT include:

  • Focus on Classical Education: The test emphasizes literature, philosophy, and historical texts, making it appealing to students in classical education programs.
  • Shorter Test Format: The CLT takes approximately two hours, offering a concise and focused assessment.
  • Growing Acceptance: Colleges in states like Florida are increasingly recognizing the CLT, providing students with more choices beyond the SAT and ACT.

How to Prepare for Standardized Testing in 2025

To navigate the evolving testing landscape, students should consider the following preparation strategies:

  1. Try Both Tests: Taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT can help identify which format aligns better with a student’s strengths.
  2. Stay Updated on Changes: As colleges continue to adjust their admissions policies, it’s important to monitor how schools are responding to the new ACT and digital SAT formats.
  3. Consider Test-Optional Policies: While many schools remain test-optional, strong scores can enhance applications and open doors to scholarships and honors programs.
  4. Plan for Test Timing: With the ACT changes taking effect in April 2025, students should decide whether to take the older version early or wait for the new format.

Conclusion

The standardized testing landscape is evolving rapidly, and students must weigh their options carefully. Whether opting for the SAT, the updated ACT, or exploring alternatives like the CLT, staying informed and preparing strategically will help students maximize their potential.

At Clayborne, our team of experienced educators offers tailored test preparation programs to help students achieve their highest potential. Whether you’re preparing for the SAT, ACT, or CLT, we provide expert guidance and resources to ensure you feel confident and prepared on test day. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey to college success.

 

Sources:

  1. The ACT Test: Changes and Enhancements
    Source: ACT
  2. The Classic Learning Test (CLT)
    Source: CLT Exam
  3. The ACT Is Changing: Here’s What to Know
    Source: U.S. News
  4. Major ACT Changes Announced for 2025
    Source: Achievable Blog

©2025 Clayborne Education. All Rights Reserved.