In 2025, students can choose between paper and digital versions of the ACT. While digital testing may expand in the future, the paper ACT still provides clear advantages in pacing, navigation, and problem-solving. For most students, paper remains the smarter choice.

The ACT is more than just a test—it’s a cornerstone of college admissions strategy in 2025. These philosophies explain why colleges weigh it so heavily, how superscoring works, and why smart preparation can open doors to scholarships, selective schools, and long-term opportunities.

Test-optional policies may be widespread, but SAT and ACT scores remain powerful tools in 2025. From selective admissions to scholarships and competitive STEM programs, strong test results can still set you apart. Discover where scores give you an edge this year.

Both the ACT and SAT have undergone major changes heading into 2025, with shorter test lengths, redesigned formats, and more flexible options. But which test is the better choice for you? Here’s how the ACT and SAT compare—and what to consider when deciding which one to take.

With the ACT rolling out a new format in 2025, students need updated strategies to succeed. From a shorter test length to an optional Science section, these changes will impact pacing, scoring, and prep methods. Here’s what you need to know—and how to adapt your study plan for the enhanced ACT.

Starting in 2025, the ACT will offer a new level of flexibility: the Science section is now optional. But should you take it? For STEM-focused students, the Science section can highlight analytical skills and boost applications. For others, skipping it may be the smarter choice. Here’s how to decide—and how Ivy Bound can help you prepare.

In 2024, the ACT announced they would be making a series of “enhancements” to the test in the year to come. These changes go into effect for digital test-takers in April 2025. Students opting for paper tests will see the new version of the ACT beginning in September. School-issued state and district daytime testing will begin offering the updated ACT in spring 2026. 

Staying on top of test updates is the best way to know how to target your study efforts so that you’re as prepared as possible when test day rolls around..

A Guide For High Schools about the best SAT & ACT practices to set their students up for success on tests and during college admissions.

Mark Greenstein of Ivy Bound offers test day hints to Ivy Bound students taking the SAT or ACT.

How should I consider a “School Day” SAT or ACT?

Which route to college is better for my student? ACT? SAT? Both ACT and SAT? Based on your relative strengths and weaknesses, we can help you choose.

The benefit of early SAT preparation has never been higher. Students who get down to the business of college planning well before the usual "crunch time" have a heaping advantage in the college admissions game and will likely have more educational options as they investigate college programs. Traditionally, guidance counselors meet with students in January or February of their 11th grade year (usually after the seniors have finished their January applications). By this time, a large percentage of junior year grades are in, and many students have missed out on taking courses that could burnish their college resumes.

Was your test cancelled? Mark Greenstein explains what you can do next.

Mark Greenstein explains why you should still take the SAT & ACT essays.

Though many colleges are going "optional", a student who CAN post a score that's above the college's median should test. A score that helps you is better than a "no-score", so unless you have a 4.0 (a perfect GPA) a good ACT or SAT is increasing your chances for admission and increasing your PARENTS' chances for scholarship

Students preparing to attend college can often get confused by the test-optional policies at certain college and universities. When a student takes the SAT or ACT, it becomes a question how college admission boards use those scores to determine whether a student is considered a worthy candidate.