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..

Many colleges make the award automatic based on a combination of SAT (or ACT) and GPA. Merit-based scholarships range from $500 to $200,000. Our students seeking scholarships report an average award exceeding $70,000 over four years.

As you might have heard, many students are disappointed with their June SAT scores. Students who answered more questions correctly on this SAT compared to a previous exam saw very minor score improvements. Our founder, Mark Greenstein, offers advice to these students to combat their surprisingly low test scores.

TEST OPTIONAL AND TEST BLIND HAVE TWO DIFFERENT MEANINGS:

Test Blind: colleges wont see test scores at all.

Test Optional: Students who withhold scores are still included for consideration but with one less credential

We have always promoted efficiency – more learning in less time! We understand that most student schedules are overcrowded with schoolwork, extracurricular activities and other obligations. There is no time to be wasted

When you score poorly on the SAT the first time, it can be very disappointing. However, depending on when you took the exam, there could be time for a retake. If you’re a high school junior, should you sign up for the next SAT or look ahead to future ACT dates? We offer three tips to help you make this decision. First, what are the key differences between the two tests?

Aren’t you glad you graduated when colleges didn’t require a “resume”, or scrutinize what you did with every month of your summer vacation? We who attended high school in the 1990s and earlier didn’t face the same time pressures as the kids who will graduate this decade.

If interested in the financial side, AT MOST a great PSAT score gets you $2500 from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Some higher awards exist from outside groups, but you need to first be a member of that group (minority, or employee’s child).

By contrast, if you concentrate on the SAT, you are in line for $50,000 or more in merit-based money.