The 2025 SAT and ACT Changes: What Parents Need to Know

Standardized testing is changing once again. As schools continue to evolve and more colleges adjust their admissions policies, the SAT and ACT have both made updates that affect students in 2025 and beyond.

For parents, understanding these changes can make a big difference in helping your student prepare effectively and confidently. Here is what you need to know.

1. The SAT Is Fully Digital

The biggest change to the SAT is that it is now taken entirely on a computer or tablet. Paper tests are no longer used in the United States. Students take the test through a secure app called Bluebook, which is provided by the College Board.

While the digital format might sound intimidating at first, many students actually prefer it. The test is shorter, the interface is user friendly, and results come back faster.

Key features of the digital SAT:

• The test takes about two hours instead of three

• It uses a section adaptive format, which adjusts difficulty based on performance

• Students can use a built in calculator throughout the math section

• Questions are more concise and reading passages are shorter

These updates make the test feel more approachable, but they also require a new kind of preparation. Students should practice using the Bluebook app well before test day to get used to the digital layout.

2. Timing and Pacing Feel Different

Since the test is adaptive and shorter, pacing has changed too. Students now answer fewer questions but need to work efficiently within each module.

Many students report that it feels faster but less draining. Practicing with real digital SAT materials is the best way to get comfortable with the rhythm of the test.

3. The ACT Remains Paper Based (for Now)

The ACT will continue to offer its traditional paper version, although digital testing options are slowly expanding. For students who prefer taking tests on paper, the ACT may feel more familiar.

Even so, the ACT is making smaller adjustments to stay relevant. Questions are being reworded to reflect modern contexts, and math and science sections now emphasize real world reasoning.

Key differences to keep in mind:

• The ACT has four sections plus an optional essay

• The pacing is faster, especially in reading and science

• The ACT allows the use of calculators throughout the entire math section

• Scores are based on a 36 point scale, while the SAT uses a 1600 point scale

Both exams remain widely accepted by colleges, so choosing between them should depend on your student’s strengths, comfort, and timing preferences.

4. Test Optional Policies Are Still Common

Many colleges continue to use test optional admissions, but that does not mean scores are unimportant. Strong SAT or ACT results can still give students an advantage for admissions, scholarships, and placement in honors programs.

Encourage your student to view testing as an opportunity rather than a requirement. Even if their dream school is test optional, a solid score can still open doors.

5. How to Choose the Right Test

There is no one size fits all answer. Some students perform better on the SAT because it rewards reasoning and problem solving. Others excel on the ACT because it moves faster and covers a broader range of content.

The best way to decide is to take a full practice test of each and compare results. Look at not only the score but also how your student felt during each exam. Comfort and pacing matter just as much as points.

6. How Tutors and Friends Can Help

Our SAT and ACT prep program is designed around the latest updates for 2025. We help students:

• Get familiar with the digital testing format

• Learn pacing strategies for adaptive sections

• Strengthen weak areas with targeted practice

• Build confidence and reduce test anxiety

We know these exams are changing quickly, but our tutors are always up to date with the newest testing formats and scoring methods. Our goal is to make preparation feel structured, effective, and stress free.

Final Thoughts

The testing landscape may be shifting, but the purpose remains the same. SAT and ACT scores are still valuable tools for demonstrating readiness and earning opportunities.

By understanding the changes and preparing intentionally, your student can walk into test day calm, confident, and ready to perform their best.