Latest ACT Test Info: Pattern Changes, Scoring Trends & Key Updates

The ACT Is Evolving — Is Your Preparation Keeping Up?

Most Singapore students prepare for the ACT using the same strategies and materials their seniors used two or three years ago. And for the most part, that works — the core content hasn't changed dramatically.

But beneath the surface, subtle pattern shifts, scoring trend changes, and format updates are quietly reshaping what it takes to score well.

The difference between a 29 and a 32 often comes down to understanding these nuances — the small adjustments in question patterns, the shifting difficulty distributions within sections, and the scoring trends that reveal where points are easiest to gain.

This guide delivers the most current ACT test info available — analysed through the lens of what Singapore students specifically need to know. Not generic news. Not recycled press releases. Actionable intelligence that changes how you prepare.

 

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Section Pattern Changes: What's Shifting in Each Section

English: Rhetorical Questions Are Increasing

Over the past three testing cycles, we've observed a notable shift in the English section's question distribution.

The trend:

What this means for you:

Mastering grammar rules alone used to be enough to score 28+ in English. Now, rhetorical skills questions — which ask about paragraph organisation, sentence relevance, tone consistency, and transition effectiveness — carry slightly more weight.

Specific rhetorical patterns appearing more frequently:

• "Should the writer add this sentence?" questions (testing relevance judgment)

• Paragraph ordering questions (testing logical flow understanding)

• "Which choice best establishes the main idea of the paragraph?" questions

• Introduction and conclusion effectiveness questions

Preparation adjustment: Dedicate 30% of your English preparation to rhetorical skills — not just grammar drilling. Practice evaluating whether sentences belong in paragraphs, whether transitions are logical, and whether conclusions effectively summarise arguments.

 

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Math: Data Interpretation Questions Rising

The ACT Math section has always tested traditional algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. But recent patterns show a growing emphasis on statistics, probability, and data interpretation.

The shift:

What this means for Singapore students:

Your advantage in traditional algebra and geometry remains strong. But statistics and data analysis — areas where Singapore's curriculum provides less intensive coverage — are becoming more important.

Specific patterns to watch:

• Probability questions involving conditional probability

• Standard deviation conceptual questions (not calculation, but understanding what it means)

• Reading and interpreting data from tables within word problems

• Statistical claims evaluation ("Does this data support the conclusion that...?")

Preparation adjustment: Spend targeted time on statistics and probability concepts. You don't need deep mathematical knowledge — understanding what standard deviation, mean, median, and probability represent conceptually is sufficient.

 

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Reading: Paired Passages Becoming Standard

One of the most significant ACT test info updates relates to the Reading section's structure.

The trend:

Recent ACT administrations have increasingly featured paired passages — two shorter passages on related topics that must be analysed both individually and comparatively.

Traditional format: 4 single passages (750 words each), 10 questions per passage

Emerging format: 3 single passages + 1 paired passage set, 10 questions per set

Why this matters tremendously for Singapore students:

Paired passages add a layer of complexity that single passages don't:

• You must understand each passage independently

• You must compare perspectives, arguments, or tones between passages

• Questions ask how the authors would respond to each other's claims

• Time pressure increases because you're processing two texts, not one

Specific paired passage question types:

Preparation adjustment: Seek out paired passage practice materials specifically. The skill of comparing two texts under time pressure needs deliberate training — it doesn't develop naturally from practising single passages.

 

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Science: Conflicting Viewpoints Getting More Complex

The Science section's overall approach remains consistent — data interpretation, research summaries, and conflicting viewpoints. But the Conflicting Viewpoints passages are becoming more sophisticated.

The evolution:

What this means for preparation:

Simple "Scientist 1 says X, Scientist 2 says Y" comprehension is no longer sufficient for top scores. You need to:

• Understand the reasoning behind each viewpoint, not just the position

• Identify where viewpoints overlap and where they diverge

• Predict how each scientist would interpret unfamiliar data

• Connect viewpoints to experimental evidence presented elsewhere in the passage

At Test Prep Online with The Princeton Review Singapore, we've updated our Science section curriculum to include three-viewpoint practice passages and prediction-style questions that reflect these evolving patterns.

 

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Scoring Trends: What the Numbers Reveal

National and International Score Trends

Understanding how scores are trending globally helps you calibrate your own targets and expectations.

US National Average Composite Score Trends:

Source: ACT.org Annual Reports

Key observations:

• National averages have declined slightly over the past four years

• English shows the steepest decline — possibly reflecting reduced grammar instruction in US schools

• Reading remains the highest-scoring section nationally

• Math and Science are relatively stable

What this means for Singapore students:

A declining US national average means your target score becomes relatively more competitive. A 30 composite today places you higher in the percentile rankings than a 30 did in 2021.

Practical impact: Your 30+ target is worth even more in competitive admissions than it was three years ago.

 

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Singapore-Specific Scoring Patterns

Based on aggregated data from coaching centres and student reports, here's how Singapore students typically perform relative to global averages:

The pattern is clear:

• Math is Singapore's massive advantage

• Science is a strong secondary advantage

• English is moderate — good but improvable

• Reading is the bottleneck holding composites back

Strategic conclusion: Every point gained in Reading has disproportionate impact on Singapore students' composites because it's consistently the weakest section. ACT test info analysis confirms this year after year — Reading investment yields the highest ROI.

 

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Score Distribution: Understanding Where You Stand

What Percentage of Students Hit Key Score Thresholds?

Perspective for Singapore students: Scoring 30+ places you among approximately the top 70,000 test-takers globally — out of roughly 1.4 million. That's the top 5–7%.

With Singapore students' average diagnostic scores already at 25–27, a structured preparation program typically bridges the gap to 30+ within 10–12 weeks.

 

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Key Updates to ACT Test Info: Registration and Administration

Update 1: Faster Score Delivery for CBT

Computer-based testing enables faster scoring. International students can now expect:

• Multiple-choice scores: Available within 10 days to 2 weeks (previously 2–3 weeks)

• Writing scores: Available within 3–5 weeks (previously 5–8 weeks)

Implication: You have slightly more flexibility in choosing test dates closer to application deadlines. However, we still recommend a minimum 4-week buffer between test date and application deadline.

Update 2: Enhanced Score Report Analytics

ACT's updated score reports now include:

• Sub-score breakdowns within each section

• College readiness benchmark indicators for English, Math, Reading, and Science

• STEM and ELA composite scores (combinations of relevant sections)

• Progress indicators comparing multiple test attempts

How to use this ACT test info: Don't just look at your composite score. Dive into sub-scores to identify specific topic areas (not just sections) where improvement is needed.

Update 3: Superscoring Continues to Expand

More universities are adopting superscore policies for the ACT. Current estimates suggest:

• ~60% of top-100 US universities now officially superscore the ACT

• Several universities that previously didn't superscore have added the policy in 2024–2025

• The trend is clearly moving toward universal superscoring

Strategic implication: Taking the ACT 2–3 times is now more strategically valuable than ever. Each attempt gives you another chance to peak in different sections, and superscoring combines your best performances.

 

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How Pattern Changes Should Adjust Your Study Plan

Based on all the ACT test info analysed above, here's how to modify your preparation approach for 2026.

Adjustment 1: Increase Rhetorical Skills Practice for English

Old allocation: 70% grammar, 30% rhetorical skills
Updated allocation: 55% grammar, 45% rhetorical skills

Adjustment 2: Add Statistics/Data Analysis to Math Practice

Old allocation: Focus primarily on algebra, geometry, trigonometry
Updated allocation: Include 20–25% statistics and data interpretation practice

Adjustment 3: Incorporate Paired Passage Practice for Reading

Old approach: Practice only with single passages
Updated approach: Include paired passage sets in at least 30% of Reading practice sessions

Adjustment 4: Train Complex Conflicting Viewpoints for Science

Old approach: Simple two-viewpoint comparison practice
Updated approach: Include three-viewpoint passages and prediction-based questions

Adjustment 5: Practice Digitally

Old approach: Paper-based practice tests exclusively
Updated approach: Minimum 50% of practice in digital/CBT format

 

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Real Data Story: How Pattern Awareness Changed Shu Ting's Score

Shu Ting's first attempt (June 2025): 27 composite

Score breakdown:

What her tutor adjusted:

• Added dedicated rhetorical skills training for English

• Introduced statistics concept review for Math

• Incorporated paired passage practice into every Reading session

• Used three-viewpoint Science passages for Conflicting Viewpoints training

Shu Ting's second attempt (October 2025): 32 composite

Shu Ting's reflection: "The content didn't change between my two attempts. My awareness of the PATTERNS changed. Once I knew what types of questions were trending, I practised those specifically. That's what made the difference."

 

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Common Mistakes Students Make by Ignoring Updated ACT Test Info

❌ Using prep books published before 2023. Older materials may not reflect current pattern distributions, especially the increased emphasis on rhetorical skills and statistics.

❌ Ignoring paired passage practice. If you've never practised comparing two passages under time pressure, encountering one on test day is devastating.

❌ Over-preparing for simple grammar at the expense of rhetorical skills. Grammar rules are necessary but no longer sufficient for 30+ English scores.

❌ Assuming Science Conflicting Viewpoints are straightforward. The increasing complexity of multi-viewpoint passages requires dedicated preparation.

❌ Not checking updated score delivery timelines. Faster CBT scoring creates new strategic possibilities — but only if you're aware of them.

❌ Practising exclusively on paper when your test will be digital. Format familiarity matters. Practise how you'll test.

 

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Tutor Pro Tips Based on Latest ACT Test Info

🎯 "Track ACT pattern shifts the way investors track market trends." Small shifts compound over time. The students who notice and adapt to these shifts outperform those who use static preparation approaches.

🎯 "Rhetorical skills questions reward reading like a writer." Don't just read passages for content — read them for structure. Ask yourself: why did the author organise it this way? That mindset answers 80% of rhetorical questions.

🎯 "Statistics questions test understanding, not calculation." You rarely need to calculate standard deviation on the ACT. You need to understand what it means when one dataset has a larger standard deviation than another.

🎯 "For paired passages, read both passages fully before answering ANY questions." Unlike single passages where you can skim and scan, paired passages require comparative understanding that only comes from reading both texts.

🎯 "Use your score report sub-scores to guide preparation." Your composite tells you where you stand. Your sub-scores tell you exactly where to improve.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can I Find the Most Reliable ACT Test Info?

The most authoritative source is act.org — the official ACT website. For Singapore-specific analysis and preparation guidance, consult established test prep providers with documented experience coaching international students.

Has the ACT Test Info on Scoring Changed for 2026?

The 1–36 scoring scale remains unchanged. However, faster score delivery for CBT, enhanced score report analytics, and expanding superscore policies at universities represent meaningful updates to how scores are processed and used.

How Often Does ACT Test Info About Question Patterns Change?

Pattern shifts happen gradually — typically over 2–3 year cycles rather than suddenly between individual test dates. Staying current with annual ACT test info analysis ensures your preparation reflects the latest trends.

Should I Change My Entire Preparation Strategy Based on This ACT Test Info?

No. Core preparation fundamentals remain the same — grammar rules, math formulas, reading speed, data interpretation. Adjust emphasis and distribution based on pattern trends, not your entire approach. Think evolution, not revolution.

Does Updated ACT Test Info Affect Which Sections I Should Prioritise?

Not dramatically. Reading remains the highest-priority section for most Singapore students. However, within each section, the specific question types you emphasise should reflect current patterns — more rhetorical skills in English, more statistics in Math, paired passages in Reading, complex viewpoints in Science.

How Can I Stay Updated on Future ACT Test Info Changes?

Monitor act.org for official announcements. Follow established test prep organisations that publish annual trend analyses. Take diagnostic tests using the most recent official practice materials to experience current patterns firsthand.

Is Older ACT Test Info and Practice Material Still Useful?

Partially. Practice tests from 2020 onward remain valuable for content practice. However, supplementing with the most recent official tests ensures exposure to current pattern distributions. Avoid relying exclusively on materials older than 3 years.

How Does This ACT Test Info Affect My Target Score?

Declining national averages mean your target score is relatively more competitive than in previous years. A 30 composite in 2026 carries greater percentile weight than the same score in 2021 — making your preparation investment even more valuable.

 

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Information Is Preparation's Secret Weapon

Here's what separates strategic students from hardworking-but-uninformed students:

Both study hard. Only one studies smart.

The student who understands current ACT test info — pattern shifts, scoring trends, format changes, and strategic implications — allocates their preparation time where it matters most. They practise the question types that are increasing in frequency. They adapt to the digital format before test day. They leverage superscoring across multiple attempts.

The student who ignores this information works just as hard but aims at yesterday's target.

You now have the latest intelligence. The patterns. The trends. The adjustments. Everything you need to prepare for the ACT as it actually exists in 2026 — not as it existed three years ago.

Use this information. Adjust your approach. And walk into test day knowing you've prepared for the exam that's actually waiting for you.

Knowledge isn't just power. In test prep, knowledge is points. Go collect yours.